With the 2020 election behind us, it’s easy to lose sight of the fact that 2021, 2022 and 2023 also are election years for state, county and municipal offices, along with Congress in 2022.
We learned in 2020 that the decisions and actions of governors, state legislatures and judiciaries, county commissioners, mayors, city councils, judges, sheriffs and school boards have just as much, and even more, influence over our lives than anyone in Washington.
I was pleased to see historically high levels of voter turnout and engagement across the political spectrum in 2020, despite the contentiousness from all sides. But that turnout and engagement shouldn’t end with the last election.
So write, call and email your elected officials to express your needs, concerns, approval and disapproval. Research candidates for office thoroughly. Volunteer for candidates you support. You may even consider running for office yourself.
And remember to vote in these elections. If you haven’t registered to vote, do it right away. After all, your lives might just depend on it.
Bryce Walat
McCandless