Get informed and vote Tuesday

More than likely, you’ve heard a lot of numbers during this campaign season. From unemployment figures to deficit estimates to how much a 1-cent tax could cost you — we’ve all been bombarded with statistics as Nov. 6 approaches.

But here’s one more statistic to consider in these final days before Election Day.

The last time we had an election in Park County, only about half the voters showed up.

Out of 13,419 registered voters in Park County, just 6,941 — or 51.7 percent — cast ballots in the Aug. 21 primary.

Even among registered Republicans — who effectively decided several important races that day — turnout was just 59.8 percent.

Now, a few months later, Park County voters must again make critical decisions about future leaders and taxes.

Your vote matters, whether you’re Republican, Democrat, unaffiliated or somewhere in between.

If you haven’t registered to vote, you can register on Election Day. If you’re unsure who to vote for, there’s still time to get informed.

As one option, the Tribune is offering an online election edition at www.powelltribune.com, where you can find information about candidates in local races.

Some of the most contested races locally involve education. Nine candidates are seeking three open seats on the Powell school board, and each race is contested for the Northwest College board. We’re impressed by the quality of candidates you have to choose from, and it’s important that you make an informed decision when you vote.

On Tuesday night, you can follow live results of the election online at blog.powelltribune.com. The Tribune will provide real time updates and analysis starting around 7 p.m. as ballots are tallied at the Park County Courthouse.

One of the great privileges we have as American citizens is our right to vote. You’re the only one who can take that privilege away. As President Franklin D. Roosevelt said, “Nobody will ever deprive the American people of the right to vote except the American people themselves, and the only way they could do this is by not voting.”

Especially in local races, your vote makes a difference. Show up Nov. 6 and vote.