“History repeats itself, but in such cunning disguise that we never detect the resemblance until the damage is done.”

These words by Sydney Harris identify one of the dangers America is facing right now.

We have become stuck in a rut of criticizing our leaders without taking steps to activate change. As we near the end of election season,

let’s be the change we want to see. Rather than maintaining a cycle of low voter turnout followed by years of complaining,

every person should exercise his or her right to vote. Our past situation does not need to define us;

let’s take advantage of this opportunity to affect our leadership and,

as a result, help direct the future of our country. I’m Mac Hammond, and this is the Winner’s Minute.