So, it is officially election season. The special election for the bond issue at Geary and the school board at Canton was Tuesday. Filing was last week for other offices from governor on down.
Already vacant lots and highways and byways are filling up with the familiar ‘Vote for Joe’ signs. One candidate in Blaine County has already had signs stolen or removed. Another candidate was upfront that their child was responsible for removing one of those signs. The candidate addressed the problem head-on, apologized, and reprimanded the child.
Good on her. She could have kept her mouth shut and let it blow by. But I know her (well, I know both candidates) and I know the child. I would not have wanted to be that kid when this came to light.
But he’s better for it and has a better understanding. And the community is better for this exposure and because it has candidates that will react like this, taking the high road. I wish the national stage would take note.
There is a long time until November. Some of the candidates also contribute columns to this paper. We won’t print those columns again until after election day. Maybe I am a little overboard with giving equal time to all candidates, but I would far rather err on the side of caution than to be accused – rightly or wrong- of favoritism.
There will be a few exceptions. When a candidate is coming to our town – as one will in a few weeks – there will be a story, just as there is a story when a sitting elected official comes for a visit.
It might help keep the summer lively. And I know we are all going to get sick and tired of the political ads in the mailbox and on television.
Please, please, please try to look beyond the hype and find out what each candidate thinks, supports, wants to do.
Call or email some campaign offices. They are full of bright, eager young people who can help find the answers to where the candidate stands on the issues that concern you personally.
Most importantly, though, make sure you get out and vote. Check your registration well before hand – just stop by the Blaine County Election Board in the basement of the courthouse and they will be glad to assist you. There is no question too silly. Believe me, I have tried, but they keep me straight. And if they can line me out, there is little they cannot accomplish.
But for the love of Pete, go vote. It is what our nation is based on, what so many have fought to preserve. And it makes a difference, especially in small towns where an election can be won or lost on just two or three votes. It is here we can have big impact, if we will only exercise our rights.