Choosing The Right Candidate

This season of elections, campaigning and formulating opinions on issues is upon us. We all have a very important duty to perform in the August 24^th primary and the November 2^nd general election. That being to exercise our responsibility and vote the best candidate into elected office.

The choices are many and the reasons for supporting one or the other varied. Everyone has the right to choose based on his or her own criteria. I suggest the following as a simple method to help you in the decision making process. Study the candidates history of involvement in their community and with the position he or she is seeking and ask yourself the following:

Do you feel they have a good working knowledge of the tasks that will be placed before them?

Do you feel they demonstrate an understanding of the current issues that they will face and any background in these areas?

Do you feel they have an awareness of the others involved with the issues? A good working relationship with our neighbors and partners and with their peers can really help in providing the depth of knowledge required to cast a vote on many of today’s complex issues.

Who is this person asking for your “Vote“? Are they connected with your community and in what ways? Why are they best qualified? Have you ever seen or heard of them prior to campaign season?

What’s their background and why are they running for this office? There are as many reason as there are candidates. Make sure you fully understand their reasons for seeking elected office. Who are their supporters, friends and what will influence their positions?

Lastly, are they committed to the time and study to be an effective leader?

Many elected positions only require attending a meeting or two a month. Limited participation results in limited results. Full commitment to the issue and constant study is needed.