Editorials

Time for residents to do their civic duty and vote

TBO.com
Published: August 12, 2012

What does it say about us as a society when we are allowed to govern ourselves by electing representatives but only a fraction of us choose to do so? It's depressing to think about it, and we hope voters have opted to cast a ballot on Tuesday.

As of last week, few Highlands County voters were taking advantage of early voting opportunities for primary elections and for other seats that will be decided on Tuesday.

The good news is that plenty of quality candidates are out there for consideration. Good, honest, hardworking local folks are stepping up, wanting to serve the public. Many of those people will fall short but they deserve respect for all the work and effort they've given to run for office. It's much harder work than most people realize.

Too many people have no idea how much work goes into being a public official. From the highest levels to local boards, it's hard work. Anyone who thinks members of Congress have it made is misinformed. They work constantly, with every interest group pulling them from every side. Even when Congress is not in session they are meeting constituents, making speeches and usually on the run. Their salary is nothing compared to the work they do and the responsibilities they hold.

On the local level, our best representatives put in much more time than just the meetings they attend. An effective elected official does his or her homework. Walking into meetings without background on the issues being discussed wastes everyone's time and is the first sign of a representative that needs to be replaced.

So many local candidates are well qualified to hold office. Strong education, time spent in other public-service positions and being important parts of our communities all combine to make a good elected official. Of course, common sense and critical thinking skills are what's needed most.

The vast majority of people running in Highlands County have proven they will do the work if elected. Now they need voters to turn out and do their jobs as informed citizens picking the best candidates.

Let's hope this poor voter turnout trend turns around Tuesday.