Filing week is over and it looks to be a wild ride for this election season. People who habitually vote for the Republican or the Democrat in the race without thoughtfulness will be challenged as we have many of each, and other parties as well. Former Republicans and others filed as independent Democrats — a sign folks are looking at both major parties with jaded eyes.
This is an important election for us locally, so I plead with every voter to research before they vote. Check out CVTV, Right2BHeard, League of Women Voters. Attend or watch replays of forums and debates. A lot of work? Yes. That is what is needed for a democracy to be successful. Hooray for vote-by-mail.
We deserve representatives in all offices, especially local ones, who match our values and will work for us. It is not always the one with name recognition, or in a party you are used to voting for. Beware those who attack others to lift themselves, who spew vague info with no independent factual backing. Look for those who are thoughtful, accessible, who understand our issues and will show up and work hard.