This past November, Marquette students turned out in a major way to cast their vote for governor and two statewide ballot measures. For many freshmen, it was their first opportunity to exercise this democratic freedom. For upperclassmen, it was reminiscent of the fall 2004 election, which also saw a great deal of involvement throughout the campaign.

Well, it is time to get those voting muscles ready because, my friends, another statewide election is almost upon us. On April 3, residents throughout the state will have the opportunity to choose the next justice for the state's Supreme Court. While this may not sound nearly as glamorous as voting for a governor or on a clause in our state's constitution, this still has much at stake.

The term of a state Supreme Court Justice is 10 years, so whoever is elected will be around for quite a while. The race itself is also nonpartisan, which tends to make things even more interesting. Most important of all is that this court has the last say on issues involving our state's constitution. Were you passionate about the amendment that was passed this fall banning civil unions and gay marriage? Regardless of your position, you should have that same passion for the Supreme Court race. This court will decide how that amendment is interpreted.

Throughout the fall both sides said that no one really knew what the amendment's passage would mean, that it was all up to the Court. Now, we have the opportunity to directly influence the court, and we must seize the opportunity to do so.

Generally, only about 20 percent of eligible voters vote in spring and state Supreme Court elections. This is disappointing, especially considering how important the court and its decisions are. Make sure you do your part to increase that statistic this April and rock the vote.

Cotton is a senior in the College of Arts & Sciences.