With the unofficial results in from the primary election, one number stood out in the election office as a disappointment: the total turnout.

Just 8.969 registered voters took part in the election, whether by mail, in person early or on voting day. That’s 3,397 less than two years ago. While that primary was obviously boosted by the Hageman-Cheney race that had national appeal, the races voted on up to 7 p.m. Tuesday are at least as impactful locally, if not more so.

There were so many important races up for grabs locally, from state House and Senate to Park County Commission and municipal races across the county.

For those who voted, thank you for doing one of your most important civic duties. For those who didn’t, why not? This state makes it quite easy (far too easy in some people’s estimation) to vote. If you’re already a registered voter the process is quite seamless most of the time, and quite quick most of the time in most locations on Tuesday, due in part to the low turnout.

I know we’re all busy, but I firmly believe just about everybody has the time, if they want to make it, to vote. Heck, the federal government requires employers to make time on Election Day for employees to vote. Here at the Powell Tribune, ownership extended paid time off to all employees plus reminded and encouraged them to vote days prior.

It’s that important.

Those who were voted in will now be making decisions that will impact us all going forward, whether in Cheyenne, the Park County Courthouse or city hall. If you’re not pleased with how they vote but you didn’t take the time to do so, remember that feeling and, this November, vote.