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Highlands Today

Election Fever Is High, But Most Folks Are Sick Of It

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: November 2, 2008

Early voting is hectic in every state where the practice is allowed. Highlands County is no exception. It's impressive to see so many people taking time out of their day to cast a ballot for what might be the most important presidential vote in modern history. We hope that trend continues through Election Day on Tuesday.

It's clear that Americans feel strongly about this election. That's impressive because for a while it has seemed as if Americans were doubtful about the effects of their votes. Close elections in the last decade have proven that every vote counts.

Some Sen. John McCain voters are feeling blue these days because almost all polls show he is trailing Sen. Barack Obama in too many states. According to an Associated Press story, some are sitting out this year, thinking that it just doesn't matter if they vote. They are very wrong.

This election isn't over. A lot of the voters Obama is counting on are young people and new voters. Historically they get cranked up about political race but the number of these folks actually voting often is disappointingly low. We believe this year is different, but no one knows until polls close Tuesday.

Our local races hold a lot of interest as well, and the excitement over the presidential race will draw even more voters than normal. The sheriff's race is a great one to watch. Two very good candidates are vying for this seat and we don't believe it will be a landslide for Benton as it was in her first race for sheriff. Grimming is too good of a candidate and he has a lot of support.

County commission races are difficult to call because there is no polling. Clearly there are favorites, but an upset isn't out of the realm of possibility. The same goes with the clerk of courts race.

These days are exciting, but most of us are ready for Tuesday to come and go. Too much campaigning and the same old tired talking points are boring a lot of people. And "robo-calls," those annoying recorded messages that flood our homes, should be outlawed in future elections.

Let's enjoy a couple of more days of this and then move on. All of us, even the candidates, deserve a break.

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