It appears voters will have a lot of choices when they step into the voting booth this fall, and that's good news at a time of heavy issues.
Whether it's at the national level, state, city, school, township, or conservation supervisor, there are crucial issues that need attention, and having more candidates in the races is sure to bring that attention.
In years when candidates run mostly unopposed, we miss an opportunity to debate lingering issues and raise new ones. No one in the coffee shops or at the dinner table has much to say in politics in a year when there aren't many choices.
But this year, hearty competition in the races will draw the notice of voters.
And we need that discussion. Whether it's the economy or gas prices on the national stage, budget priorities at the Legislature, or unfunded mandates and dwindling budgets at more local levels, we need to have a frank discussion with each other about planning for the next 20 years, appropriate levels of taxation, reducing waste, and setting priorities.
ADVERTISEMENT
Certainly, with more candidates in the races, more attention will be paid to those crucial issues.
Most filing periods are still open, or haven't even started yet, so if you've been considering a run for any office, this year may be a good time to join the discussion and debate.
