Learn about candidates for office

In the last several weeks, The Graphic Printing Company’s staff has covered various political events involving both Republicans and Democrats.

We have listened to speeches and round tables. We have watched politicians and hopefuls — local, state and federal — chat with area residents. And there is more to come.

Through all of those events, we’re reminded of one important fact: You need to vote.

Who should you vote for?

That’s a question for each individual to answer on their own. Though, we do have some advice on how to make those decisions:

•If you have the chance to do so, go and meet a candidate in person. This is easier for your local candidates, but the last month has also offered area residents opportunities to listen to and meet candidates for the U.S. Senate, U.S. House of Representatives and governor of Indiana. Take advantage of these opportunities.

•Decide what issues are most important to you. (We’d suggest looking at the issues that can most directly impact the quality of your life and the lives of your friends and neighbors, but everyone has their own criteria.) Maybe your key concern is the economy. Maybe it’s immigration. Maybe it’s the quality of your roads. Everyone has different priorities. Know yours.

•Look at records and experience. What have the candidates done? What is their background? There may be differences in what they say at campaign events and how they have voted on issues in the past.

•Read. Read your newspaper. Read both news and opinion pieces. Read a variety of them. Visit candidate websites. Read them too. 

•Ask questions. If you’re unsure or unclear about a candidate’s stance or how they would go about enacting one policy or another, ask. Some politicians have talking points without much detail about how they would get something done. Be willing to probe for details. They are where the substance lies.

There is about a month left until early voting begins. If you haven’t done any of the above, there’s still time.

Get out there and learn about the candidates.

Voting is of the utmost importance. Even more important is making sure to educate yourself about the candidates before you cast your ballot. — R.C.