This week, the Municipal elections were held in Israel, and this year was the first time I was old enough to vote. The municipal elections are being held every 5 years, and every resident over the age of 17 can vote in his or her hometown, unlike the elections for the Israeli parliament (The Knesset) – which are being held every four years, and you have to be 18 and up to have the right to vote.

The elections were held on Tuesday, October 30th, and for the first time ever Israel was on a day of rest in order to give every citizen the option and the time to go and vote. In my hometown, Gedera, there were three candidates for city mayor—the current city mayor, and two other candidates.

I went to the ballot with my family, which was located in the high school I attend. I felt great responsibility. Before the elections, me and my friends discussed who should get our vote, and I even attended meeting that each candidate held in which they shared their vision for the city. It was very important to me to choose a candidate who will improve our city, open new places for young people to hang out at, and lower the taxes for the residents. After voting, me and my family spent the rest of the day at the beach together.

I went to vote because I think it’s important for young people to be able to influence the place they live. I’m responsible on a team of Madrichim at my youth movement, Maccabi Tzair, and I voted for a candidate which I know that supports the continuance of our Movement in the city and its growth.

Photo taken from Brookings.