Every vote counts
Have you marked your calendar to go vote in the run-off election on Tues., July 15?
That’s a question bearing heavily on the minds of four local politicians whose campaigns were extended six weeks when no one in their races received a majority vote in the June 3 Primary Election.
Incumbent Randy Vest and political newcomer Tommy Halbrooks are matched in a race for the Republican nomination for Morgan County Commissioner, District 2, and political newcomer Sharon Maxwell and Morgan County School Board member Carolyn Wallace are seeking the GOP nod for Morgan County License Commissioner. The ballot also lists candidates for three state offices as well as a Statewide Constitutional Amendment…
All four local candidates express concern about diminished voter interest and what impact it could have on voter turnout for the run-off. in a news story published elsewhere in this edition.
Their concern is justified based on past results of municipal and party primary run-off elections. Once the grand hoopla of campaigning is over, voters have a tendency to push the undecided races to the side and ignore going back for the run-off. It’s doubtful that would happen if the presidency of the nation were at stake.
The fact is local elected officials have much more to say about our daily lives than the president, a senator or a member of Congress.
It’s the county commission that provides funding for law enforcement, road maintenance and recreational facilities for people residing outside of the municipalities. In addition, it’s their political power combined with that of municipal officials that helps grows jobs and build a healthy economy.
As automobile, boat and trailer owners, we have to transact business with the license office at least once a year. Timely, efficient and courteous service is something we desire and expect
If you have any double about the importance of your vote, consider what happened in Falkville’s Municipal Election on Aug. 28, 2012. Two candidates for a town council seat each polled 144 votes. Thus, the race had to be decided in a run-off election six weeks later.
Don’t forget to go to the polls and cast your ballot again on July 15.