My mother used to tell me that voting was wrong, as we partake of the sins of those whom we vote for. I tended to believe her, until I studied it out for myself. It is clear from Ellen White’s writings that we are to vote. Specifically, we are to vote to uplift the morals of society, and not to vote for party politics.
Here is a short quote from Ellen White’s diary of 1859 regarding the question of voting:
[Battle Creek,] Sunday, March 6, 1859
Had an interview with Martha Byington. Cut out a dress. We were perplexed; took it all to pieces and made it over. Spent the afternoon with [Mary] Loughborough; attended meeting in the eve. Had quite a free, interesting meeting. After it was time to close, the subject of voting was considered and dwelt upon. James first talked, then Brother Andrews talked and it was thought by them best to give their influence in favor of right and against wrong. They think it right to vote in favor of temperance men being in office in our city, instead of—by their silence—running the risk of having men of non-temperance put in office. Brother Hewitt told his experience of a few days, and is settled that it is right to cast his vote. Brother Hart talked well.
Brother Lyon opposed. No other objected to voting, but Brother Kellogg begins to feel that it is right. Pleasant feelings exist among all the brethren. Oh, that they may all act in the fear of God. Men of intemperance have been in the office today, in a flattering manner expressing their approbation of the course of Sabbathkeepers in not voting, and expressing hope that they will stick to their course and, like the Quakers, not cast their vote. Satan and his evil angels are busy at this time and he has a work upon the earth. May Satan be disappointed, is my prayer.
[Battle Creek,] Monday, March 7, 1859
It is rainy today. It looks very gloomy without, but if the Sun of righteousness shines in my heart all is well and no outward appearance and gloom can make me sad. Today the votes are cast for town officers.
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Let’s disappoint Satan, and use our influence in favor of right like liberty and freedom, and against wrongs like abortion and same-sex marriage.
