EDITORIAL: Show up and take action — vote

Published 10:15 am Saturday, October 13, 2018

All across the state, record and near-record numbers of absentee ballots have been issued in several counties and Georgia recently shattered its all-time voter registration record, signaling a large voter turnout for the upcoming general election. That means the political ads will soon ramp up as we get closer to Election Day. But you don’t have to wait until Tuesday, Nov. 6 to cast your ballot. 

If you haven’t already requested a ballot by absentee, you can vote before November. Early in-person voting runs Oct. 15 through Nov. 2 and polls will also be open Saturday, Oct. 27. 

Now is the time to learn more about the candidates, study the ballot and make informed decisions about the future of our political landscape. Don’t forget that there are also five constitutional amendments to be decided by voters on this year’s ballot. That’s a lot to consider, and the outcomes will no doubt be impactful. 

Although there is only one local race, the District 10 Congressional seat, there are still some very important posts to be decided beyond who will sit in the governor’s office come January. Don’t forget that locally, voters must also determine the fate of several transportation projects as they decide on the 1-cent transportation sales tax (TSPLOST)

We mustn’t lose site of these other races. They are all significant and all are worthy of our close attention — and our action. Take action by turning out and having your say at the polls. 

Early voting begins Monday in Hearing Room 104 at the Baldwin County Courthouse. Remember that you can still request an absentee ballot — applications are available at sos.ga.gov/elections. 

Absentee ballots can be mailed out through Friday, Nov. 2. 

As candidates make their final push via the airwaves, the web and in person in these last few weeks before Election Day, take a few moments to contemplate the potential impact of this election and the decisions we as voters are poised to make. Brush up on the issues, review the ballot and see where the candidates stand. Most importantly — vote and help decide which direction we take from this point forward. 

Don’t leave the issues to be decided up to chance.