Gearing up for elections

Love it or hate it (and so many of us hate it), the presidential election has captured the attention of our nation.

As one candidate tries to Trump or Bern the other, our social media feeds blow up with the latest absurdity or scandal sparked by any of the candidates. We can't open a newspaper, turn on a television or listen to the radio without getting the latest play-by-play and color commentary of the political wrestling match. Super Tuesday next week will be a big day as the GOP continues to whittle away its field. In Missouri, the presidential primary is March 15. And there's still a long, long way to go after that.

As we cling or retch to the drama of the important presidential election, let's not lose sight of choices emerging locally. It's a busy time for local races.

Municipal elections take place April 5, and there are several hotly contested school board and city board races. There are also several tax issues on the ballot for various districts and municipalities. We have already reported on several of these races, and have uploaded sample ballots to semissourian.com/election.

Last week, candidates began filing for countywide offices for the Aug. 2 primary election. Several big races have already emerged, including races for sheriff in Cape Girardeau and Scott County, and for county commission in Cape and Scott counties. Those interested in running for county office may file by March 29.

And incumbent congressman Jason Smith has drawn competition for the 8th Congressional seat. Todd Mahn of De Soto and Phillip S. Smith of Gatewood both filed for the federal post. There will be several races for state offices, as well.

The August primary races will transition into the Nov. 8 general election, which will be a huge day for local and national elections.

As we watch the presidential made-for-TV race play out before us, it can be easy to lose sight of the prestigious and important roles that all elected officeholders fulfill. We respect and admire those who are willing to step outside their comfort zone and run for office. In the overwhelming majority of local races, candidates run on their own merits and stick to the issues without slinging mud. And most of them take their roles seriously once they are elected.

As we move forward, please keep your eye on the local and state races. The Southeast Missourian will have coverage of these races as we move through the election cycles. We encourage you to vote, and we hope you will make your choices based on being informed about the candidates and issues.