Tom Hanks Will 'Spank You Right On The Butt' If You Don't Vote!

My fellow Americans: We have reached the 30-day mark ahead of the 2012 presidential election! There has been a flurry of political activity recently following the first debate between President Obama and former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney, and here at MTV News, we aim to keep that momentum moving with the official kick-off of our Power of 12 countdown to Election Day on November 6.

From now through the first week in November, we'll be bringing you coverage that revolves around the impending election and the importance of making your voice heard by casting your vote. Today's message comes straight from celebrated actor/director/producer/likable everyman Tom Hanks.

When MTV News caught up with the Oscar winner recently, we asked him to offer our MTV audience a few motivating words of wisdom on the importance of voting this year. Unsurprisingly, Hanks did not disappoint and might have even created a future campaign slogan for himself in the process.

"If you don't vote this year, I am going to come to your house and I'm gonna spank you right on the butt," Hanks said with intensity. "Do you understand me? Nothing is more important. If you don't vote — that's right, if you don't vote — Hanks is coming to your house to spank you on the butt."

"Some people might like that," wife Rita Wilson chimed in.

"If they like it, they still gotta vote," Hanks said.

You heard it here first, ladies and gentleman: Get thee to the polls November 6 or else. #SpanksFromHanks — the man is not kidding around.

Stick with MTV's Power of 12 for our countdown to Election Day on November 6!