Voting is a civic duty we should all take more seriously

Overall, voter turnout in Adams County fluctuates wildly depending upon the nature of the election.

For instance, one of the best voter participations on record in recent years was the November 2012 General Election when 75.76 percent of voters sent in their ballot.

The 2012 primary election, when the county’s new superior court judge was elected, went a bit differently. Only 45.9 percent of registered voters participated. A meager voter turnout should never be the case.

Preservation of a democracy relies on the participation of its citizens.

We are all fortunate to have the opportunity to vote the way we see fit. The right to vote isn’t about getting our way. Rather, it is an opportunity to exercise our freedom while participating as part of a collective voice of the people.

Whether for or against the Ritzville School District’s limited general obligation bond to construct an all-weather track, you must be aware of how narrow the vote margin was. The bond was failing until a small handful of votes were added to the mix.

Every vote counts. The school district’s bond was positive proof.

Believe it or not, there is a real chance your lone vote could sway a decision. There’s no place for apathy when it comes to voting. If you are registered to vote, you should consider it a right and more importantly a duty to cast your vote.

The Aug. 6 primary election carries with it a number of decisions that will have financial impacts on taxpayers.

The agencies seeking voter support for these measures have viable reasons why they feel voters should vote in favor.

How you choose to vote on the levies for the Lind, Ritzville or Washtucna, or the hospital district’s bond election to construct a hospital, isn’t the most important thing. What matters is that you exercise your right to vote.

The beauty of the system is that your vote is private and confidential. You’re able to vote the way that suits you, without fear of reprisal.

There’s no good reason to avoid casting your ballot. It’s your civic duty, one you should respectfully complete.

— Stephen McFadden