What matters to voters is what counts

What matters to voters? 

As the primary election on Tuesday draws near, we ask that most basic of questions. The answers, generally, are not surprising. 

People are usually most concerned about the economy and why wouldn't they be? That almost always tops every list when it comes to what’s on the mind of those who live, work and play in a community.  If the economy is humming along, people are most often satisfied with who’s in office. If inflation is high, if gas prices are up, if the cost of groceries is rising, that tends to catch the attention of citizens, and they will want to see if someone new can do something about it.

But that’s not all. Property taxes and education are right there near the top when it comes to what is on people's minds, as are housing prices, healthcare and crime. Growth, the continual arrival of newcomers and worries about what that means, the cultural changes it could bring, is another worry for locals. In an area like this, which is desirable for many reasons, growth is inevitable. But it doesn't mean change will be negative.

Nationally, one survey had immigration, abortion, and climate change as key issues for voters. 

By now, most in North Idaho have had their mailboxes filled with political flyers. You have seen advertisements in The Press. Candidates want to get their campaign messages to you. They will say they want to preserve your way of life. They want safe schools. Low property taxes. Sound infrastructure. Responsible growth. Local values. They will say they want to reduce government intrusion in your life, cut spending and fight for freedom. They will say they will be a voice of the people. 

And all of that may very well be true. People who seek office do so because they believe they can improve things. While some of the elected positions pay very well and offer generous benefits, we don’t think that is what prompts people to ask for your vote. The majority, if not all, want the best for the place they call home. 

But, of course, not everyone agrees on what is best for North Idaho. 

That’s why we urge residents to take time to read up on the candidates. Be sure to let them know what you want. Find out where they stand, what they say, how they have voted on issues if they are in office. 

Don’t go to your polling site and just vote for familiar names. Don't ask your neighbor who to vote for. There is a chance a candidate you don’t know could very well represent the values you hold dear.

Voters have a vision. They know what matters to them. They know what they want.

If they don't, they should, because the future of North Idaho rests with them.