As the political battle ensues, citizens are assuming their positions on this ideological front. Instead of which candidate is best suited for the job, the American political system is shaping to be another version of the National Football League. Everyone has their own team they stick to, even during the ups and downs. Although you think you are the ultimate fan, this property is not the refreshing cascade of liquid courage that you hold in your hands before a football game. This battle is to decide the face of your country — the person you trust the most to withhold the nuclear launch codes.

While we tuned our televisions to the presidential debates or scroll through the aftermath on Facebook and Twitter, we as voting citizens need to take a more objective view. Committing ourselves to one party, no matter the situation, projects a shield of ignorance to the many flaws that every side has.

Our first president, George Washington, warned us about many potential issues of political parties. His farewell address sparked concern with the rush for power by each party. Each party would want to out do the other, such as a team would go for a championship. A "win" in the election means that your side has taken over for the next four years, however everyone that you battled still resides in the same country, therefore you create a subservient class and divide within your own nation. 

Instead of committing yourself to either side, actually pay attention to what is being said. Analyze the positions and stances of each candidate on various key issues. Write out a pros and cons list if that will help you make your decision. However, stop with the back and forth on who is more crooked. We get it, everyone has their suspicious ways. Sure it is important, however instead of bashing someone for something unknown, we should look through the trees to the end of the forest, so we can accurately make a conscious decision on who is better suited for the job.

Try not to feel pressured by friends or family. Everyone has their own opinions. When you are listening to political news, seek out what issues you find the most important, as these should guide your decision making process. If you find yourself going back and forth between candidates and find the choice to vote difficult, fight through it because this election, along with all presidential elections, is important. Giving up because the choice is hard and not voting will not do anyone any justice. 

People have the power to go out and vote to make an impact. Make your voice count. If you find your viewpoints fall more toward Hillary Clinton, Donald Trump, Gary Johnson or Jill Stein that's fine, just don't tune out to the action, because as we have seen in this election so far, people change their viewpoints. 

Even if you think you have your mind made up, continue to evaluate and analyze until you find yourself in the voting booth — ballot in hand. 

As the winner is announced, don't be too discouraged. The amber waves of grains to the heroes proved in liberating strife will still continue on as the country moves forward — regardless of the victor.  

The State News Editorial Board is made up of the Editor-in-chief Jake Allen, Managing Editor Cameron Macko, Diversity Representative Alexea Hankin, Staff Representative Stephen Olschanski, City Editor Josh Bender, Campus Editor Rachel Fradette, Sports Editor Casey Harrison, Features Editor Connor Clark and Copy Chief Casey Holland. City Editor Josh Bender did not sit in on this editorial board meeting.