PLAINS - With the 2012 election season underway, candidates running for office are starting to head out onto the campaign trail.

The Political Action Committee (PAC) in Sanders County hosted a “Meet and Greet” at the Sanders County Fairgrounds Pavilion in Plains. 18 candidates made an appearance during the event and set up shop to discuss their policies with those who came by.

According to their official statement, the Sanders County PAC was established by political activists who support conservative activities in Sanders County. The PAC also exists to educate Sanders County voters so they are aware of what each candidate had to offer. John Gallaher is the Chairman while Glen Magera is the Vice Chairman.

Plains resident Pat Bursell was at the event to volunteer with her husband Dennis, who was taking pictures. Pat joined the group in February and has been working to get people aware of the upcoming election and the candidates involved.

“One of our goals is to educate the public,” said Bursell. “That’s why we are doing this today.”

In addition to meeting candidates, those who stopped by were provided light refreshments and had a chance to win a drawing for a door prize.

The Sanders County PAC had around 20 volunteers including young adults from the Plains Alliance Youth Group and those who will be voting in their first election this November. According to Bursell, voting in your first election is a major event. It’s also important that people continue to vote each year.

“I took an active part in this and I wanted to encourage people to vote,” said Bursell.