Election season

It's an election year. Though campaigning, particularly in the Republican presidential primary, started months ago, the start of the new year means campaigns at all levels of government will soon be in high gear.

Redistricting has played a major role in this election cycle. Some candidates had planned to run in districts that now have new boundary lines. Redistricting has also led others to verbally declare their candidacy or say they are considering a run for office. In the weeks and months ahead, voters will have an opportunity to question these candidates and learn their positions on key issues.

As we prepare for the primary and general elections, we'd like to remind you, our readers, about the Southeast Missourian policy for letters to the editor and Paid Election Letters.

During the last election cycle the Southeast Missourian started a new feature called Paid Election Letters. Before this, individuals were not allowed to submit a letter to the editor endorsing or commenting on a candidate. During the 2010 elections, Paid Election Letters were popular with many of you, and we encourage you to consider the forum again this year. For the full policy see the bottom of this page or visit semissourian.com/forms/letter.

Here are a few important election related dates to note for this year:

* Jan. 11: Last day to register to vote for the February presidential preference primary.

* Jan. 17: Last day for a candidate to file for the April general municipal election.

* Feb. 7: Presidential preference primary.

* Feb. 28: First day for a candidate to file for the August primary election.

* March 7: Last day to register to vote for the April general municipal election.

* March 27: Last day for a candidate to file for the August primary election.

* April 3: General municipal election.

* July 11: Last day to register to vote for the August primary election.

* Aug. 7: Primary election.

* Oct. 10: Last day to register to vote for the November general election.

* Nov. 6: General election.

Elections are a central component to our democracy, and our right to vote is something we should not take lightly. We encourage you to register to vote and consider writing letters on issues and candidates as we head toward this year's elections.