Editorial: Thank you local candidates; may we now vote for character over party

On this Election Day, preceded by a constant barrage of partisan clamor and contention from the presidential and national political races, the editorial board of The Daily Courier would like to pause to thank our local candidates.

In contrast to many state and national races which are filled with mudslinging, by and large the races within our local communities and county have been civil. For the most part, the candidates have shown respect toward one another, which in turn shows respect for us, the voters.

In our many published Q&As the local candidates placed substance over spectacle and addressed issues rather than spend their time attacking their opponents or spreading lies. This is refreshing and a victory for our community no matter who wins the open seats. There is enough dirty play taking place out there; it is reassuring that our local candidates chose the high roads.

We also thank them for stepping up to make a difference. The local candidates may be from different parties, have different leadership or communication styles, or varied experience and knowledge, but we believe the majority of our candidates in this general election are good people with good intentions. We believe they love this community and sincerely want what’s best for its future.

Yes, there are a small number of lawbreaking citizens who have been stealing or defacing some local signs, or acting childish or hateful on social media, but they are few and their behavior is condemned by the quad-city area electorate. Their actions disrespect our country, the voting process and the freedoms they themselves enjoy. Those who show such behavior are in our opinion unAmerican, no matter what they tell themselves in an attempt to justify their criminal deeds.

We also thank the voters of Yavapai County who understand the importance of participating in the election process. You tolerate the television ads, the campaign signs, the countless flyers in your mailbox, emails and radio spots, understanding that it’s all part of the process — a process that may not be perfect, but represents a freedom that many countries today still do not have. But it only remains viable when voters play their part. As Thomas Jefferson put it, “We do not have government by the majority. We have government by the majority who participate.”

With the belief that there are good, honest and qualified candidates in all our local races — from both sides of the aisle — we encourage our readers to choose character and experience over party. Take a second look at the stories and Q&As we’ve published this election cycle, read the election guide, and go to the polls informed. You can find our election coverage on our website at dCourier.com/elections.

If you have voted already, thank you. No matter what clanking sounds we have heard about voting by mail, it’s served Arizona well for past elections and we’re confident it will be safe and accurate for this year’s process.

Once this is over let’s support our local candidates and move forward to make good things happen for our community and its residents.


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