Municipal Elections

As a local journalist, one of the most common topics I cover is politics. From mayor to alderman to county collector, I have come to know the ins and outs of local politics through the unbiased eye of a journalist. In many ways, this has been beneficial. Before, I had no idea who my representatives were. Now, the mayor and I are on a first-name basis, and the Board of Aldermen members know who I am when I walk into a meeting. Sure- this is probably because I have a big ol' camera hanging around my neck and I take notes on everything they say- but still. It's actually kind of cool to be involved in local politics.

So often in the national news, our President, Congress, and national officials make headlines. However, I have found that in my life, local politics makes much more of an impact on my daily life. The Board of Alderman votes on registering my pets and community events, and the School Board approves what is taught to our community's children. In covering the events of local politics, I find that I actually care more about what happens in my community. Because I know these people and get to hear all of the drama surrounding our little city, I get to have an informed opinion and become a more educated voter.

Tomorrow is our municipal election day, and I am actually excited to go to the elementary school down the street to cast my votes. I've gotten to meet most of the candidates, and I am confident in my decisions because I am personally aware of the issues and platforms of each candidate.

If you are a registered voter and considering skipping your local elections- I'd encourage you to go to a local meeting or read a few articles in your local paper. You might find that you actually are interested in casting your vote on something important happening in your community- big or small.