Elections belong to us all so get out and vote
Each four-year cycle presidential candidates from the two major parties will raise the stakes with their claim “this is the most consequential election of our lifetime.”
Voters know there is a grain of truth to that and certainly our nation today is facing challenges with border security, the impact of inflation and global conflict. As we look to cast our ballots we need to evaluate candidates and who might best address those concerns. The presidential election is set for Nov. 5 and voters have the option of casting ballots early or waiting until election day. Either way we encourage participation.
The presidential race is the headline grabber, but there is also many other races down ballot that may have as much, or even more consequence, on farmers and ranchers as they go about their business.
This election cycle the entire U.S. House of Representatives is up and some states will have contentious Senate races. Many states in the High Plains will have races for state House and Senate seats. County commissioners, sheriffs, election clerks and district attorneys might also be on the ballot. A case in point is a ballot initiative in Denver, Colorado, that in essence asks voters whether a lamb processing plant can stay open.
We encourage voters to do their own research. Some organizations provide recommendations that can be helpful in learning more about how candidates stand on certain issues. Taking time to meet candidates face-to-face provides an opportunity to get an up-close view.
Many other issues also need to be addressed by candidates at all levels including taxation rates, how tax dollars are spent and how to provide oversight. How land is able to be developed and regulations that pertain to it are important matters. In rural areas where the crime rate is on the rise voters need to know what a candidate’s policies will be address it. Quality of life remains the anchor of rural communities and candidates need to know where people stand.
We also need to look for candidates who are willing to make a compromise when necessary because our Founding Fathers in their wisdom wanted the system to work for the benefit of all, not for a select few.
We know that fall is a busy season for rural families. Fall harvest, working livestock, planting wheat, school activities are among the highest priority “to-do” list. This is one time in the year where election preparation is also on the “to-do” list. The ability for all of us to enjoy our way of life comes from those who served and sometimes paid the ultimate price so that we can—and must—have a smooth election process.
As we look at the process, we need to be thankful for counties and states and have confidence in election integrity. Those officials take their duties seriously and they know that certifying results at all levels is paramount to democracy in action.
Elections are about all of us and only you can determine who can best deliver results. Don’t leave it to your neighbor or special interests to do your due diligence.
Dave Bergmeier can be reached at 620-227-1822 or [email protected].
