With less than 24 hours until polls open, most District residents are caught in a curious spot. Bombarded with ads from both sides of the Potomac, we’re highly aware that a battle for control of Congress is taking place, and yet are powerless to take up arms.

With average turnout in non-presidential election years hovering around 40%, we can’t help but have a little ire for those in Maryland and Virginia who could weigh in on Tuesday, but decide not to.

That’s why WTOP’s report that immigrant cab drivers are offering free rides to the polls in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties is a cheerful reminder that some people still cherish voting rights. Over 200 cabbies from the African and Latino immigrant communities will pick up those who can’t afford to get to their polling places between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. tomorrow.

The programs, co-ordinated by CASA de Maryland and the African Resource Center, say not only will new voters benefit but also immigrant drivers who haven’t yet obtained their citizenship. If they can’t vote, at least they can help others who can. Interested riders should contact these organizations in advance.

Many new Americans hold voting with a reverence long since lost to others. Some participants in the program have fled countries where a free and fair election is elusive. An Ethiopian immigrant told WTOP about his decision to give free rides. “Nobody is forcing me to. That’s why I’m so excited.”

Until the day when the District’s voice is counted in Congress, it’s nice to know some people don’t take the political process, however flawed, for granted.