On Tuesday, mid-term elections will be under way and candidates that make the cut will be on the November ballot. The May primary is important for us to get the best possible candidates to represent us as a community and as a state.

As expressed by Abraham Lincoln, one of our most important national ideals is “government of the people, by the people, for the people.” This is covered in our nation’s founding documents from the Declaration of Independence’s assurance that governments get their powers from the consent of the governed. This is signified in the opening words of the Preamble to the U.S. Constitution, “We the People.”

The very foundation of government by the people is the right to vote. It is each and every one’s responsibility and duty to vote and have your opinion heard. This is your chance to pick the best candidate for each race. A central theme of American history is striving to establish and protect every citizen’s right to vote.

This year, not only do we have important local races, but we also have a United States Senate seat open for North Carolina. This office will play a vital role in the direction that our nation will take in the future years, on North Carolina’s behalf.

Much of the struggle on voting rights began decades ago. This struggle continues and a citizen’s right to cast a ballot remains at risk today.

As we approach the 50^th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, the 2014 Law Day Theme, American Democracy and the Rule of Law: Why Every Vote Matters, calls on every American to reflect on the importance of a citizen’s right to vote and the challenges we still face in ensuring that all Americans have the opportunity to participate in our democracy.

It is equally important to have your voice heard in the local races as well. Several seats are open locally, including Sheriff and Board of Commissioners. These positions will play a vital role in the future of our county.

Be sure to participate on Tuesday and exercise your civic duty.