It is midterm election time again and we, the voting public, are asked to select among the lawmakers seeking another term. 

Some have already decided how they will vote, others are not quite certain and listen to others for advice and finally we have the voter who comes up with the age-old excuse for not voting: “my single vote won’t make any difference.”

Taking these in order, I simply say the following. I caution the voter who is already committed to keep an open mind. To the undecided voter, I say, do your own research and listen carefully to nonpartisan news. And to the nonvoter, I would remind him that he belongs to a large group of others with similar excuses. 

We will all be inundated with countless political ads, both negative and supportive of the candidate. The amount of money spent by Super Pacs, financial institutions and special interests is beyond comprehension. 

This campaign debacle has nothing to do with good government. Rather, it is a financial struggle to determine who will control Congress or the state legislatures.

The U.S. Supreme Court has made this unlimited campaign financing possible by its recent Citizens United decision. Records show that the Republican Party has a much larger source of wealthy contributors from corporations and individuals. It is beginning to appear that it is only a matter of time before all branches of government will be under control of the Republican Party. We have seen this in action and it’s scary.

The voters hold the upper hand though. We have the votes to keep a balanced group in office that will allow civil discourse and one that solves issues in all the electorate. I believe that is what the candidate pledges as he or she is sworn in. 

So remember a few simple rules, keep an open mind, do your own research and for good Governments sakes be sure to vote. Everyone’s vote counts and it does make a difference.

Erling Landsverk
King