You’ve heard it a million times in a thousand different ways, but it bears repeating: Every American citizen of voting age should exercise their patriotic right and duty to VOTE on Tuesday, November 5^th (or sooner, through early voting, which has already opened in many states).

This will be the first election in which my older son can cast his ballot. It’s also the first time my daughter has the opportunity to vote for a woman for President – and only the second time I’ve had that chance. It will undoubtedly be a historic election.

And the outcome matters in so many vital ways. This election will bring our country together or fragment us further. It will have repercussions for the U.S.’s standing on the global stage, the reproductive rights of women, and our economy. Regardless of your politics or perspectives, this is not an election to leave up to chance. Every vote counts, and every single voter should make their voice heard.

Personally, I am inspired by Kamala Harris’ optimism and sense of joy. I’m hopeful about what it could mean to reunite this great country around shared ideals. I want my children to thrive in a nation that is good and just and strong, that respects facts and the rule of law, that treats others with respect, that is rooted in deep moral values and kindness and justice and health equity and intellectual curiosity.

But I’m not here to tell you who to vote for, just as I wouldn’t tell you what religion to practice, what college to attend, or which team to root for in the World Series. I have opinions about all of these – but they are just that, my opinions. (I am proud of my Jewish heritage, remain loyal to the Yale Bulldogs, and am rooting shamelessly for the New York Yankees.)

What I hope more than anything this year is to see record voter turnout. I hope everyone shows up at the polls to support their chosen candidates in local and national races. I want the election outcome to reflect the true will of the American people. So, fulfill your civic duty, do your part to protect democracy, and vote to shape the future of our communities and our country.