So Many Candidates: 10 Steps to Making Informed Choices

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When you get your ballot, you’ll find candidates running for numerous local, state and national positions. Not sure whom to vote for? Here is a 10-step process to help you choose candidates:

1. Read your ballot to learn who is running for office in your area. All candidates are listed on your ballot, and most file statements in the Voters’ Guide.

2. Do you support the status quo? Then lean toward incumbent candidates.

3. Do you want a change in direction? Then consider challengers over incumbents.

4. Do you or your friends know any of the candidates personally? Compare notes and rate their character: reliability, stability, ability, integrity, honesty, etc.

5. Study campaign materials such as state and county voter guides, advertisements, mailers and websites. Attend candidate forums online or in person.

6. For incumbents who want to stay in office, what is his or her track record? Did he keep his campaign promises? Are things better or worse?

7. What is his or her track record in the private sector? Are they known to get things done?

8. When possible, ask candidates, “Why should I vote for you?” If they give you a blank stare or say something like “Because I’m a good person,” then look elsewhere!

9. When a challenger runs against the status quo say, “Great! What three things will change if you get elected and can convince a majority to vote with you?” If the candidate can’t get specific, ask them to get back to you when they can. Don’t hold your breath.

10. Get a sense of the candidate’s political philosophy. Do they believe that more freedom and less government leads to better living? Or that less freedom and bigger government will solve our societal problems? Or do they believe in saying whatever it takes to get elected?

Finally, you won’t find “None of the above” on the ballot. However, you can skip voting for an office if you don’t know anything about any of the candidates. It’s not your fault if candidates fail to campaign. Otherwise, choose the best candidate, mark your ballot, and drop them off at your local courthouse or county clerk drop box. Then call five friends and five relatives and encourage them to vote. This election is that important!

Richard Emmons is the Publisher and Editor of the Oregon Eagle.

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