Our View

Early voting, which began Monday across the state, was

instituted in an effort to increase voter turnout and give people

with scheduling conflicts or time constraints on Nov. 2 other

opportunities to vote.

Although early voting is a great opportunity, voters should not

feel as though they have to vote early. There are still 14 days

left until Election Day, and a lot can happen in those 14 days.

There is always the chance of important, last-minute

developments in campaigns. People who have the time should take the

next two weeks to hear the extent of candidates’ platforms and

introduce themselves to races and candidates who have been less

prominent, rather than rushing to the polls just because they can.

Since you have two weeks, why not take the time to explore every

resource and opportunity available to you before you cast your

ballot?

In an election where the responsibility of voting has been

strongly emphasized, all voters should remember the weight that

each tally on their ballot holds. While certain issues and races

rightfully take prominence over others, it is important to keep in

mind that you will also be asked to vote on other items that have

received less attention. Things like the reinstatement of judges

tend to be overshadowed by bigger issues, but they can still have a

large effect on your world. Whether or not you have the time and

motivation to research every item on the ballot this year, keep in

mind that each mark you make on or before Nov. 2 counts.