Except perhaps for the Republican race for governor, the Aug. 1 primary election doesn't generate much of a "wow factor" that will attract voters to polling sites across Marion County next Tuesday. A pack of seven candidates, led by our own State Sen. Jim Barnett and conservative darling Ken Canfield, are vying to be the GOP's alpha male in an attempt to chase down Democrat incumbent Kathleen Sebelius this November. Republicans also have choices to consider for state school board.
Primary elections frequently are not glamorous events, but they are important nonetheless because the democratic process is important. The price asked of us to preserve our system of government is to participate regardless of interest level. Increasingly, office holders are being a chosen by a shrinking electorate. Our apathy will catch up with us one day-if it hasn't already.
Make the effort to know your candidates and exercise your right to vote. If nothing else, it's our duty to do so. -DR
