It’s that time again. Two years after the last presidential election and two more until the next. This midterm election is as important as a presidential election. In 2018 we will decide the majority in both the House and the Senate. Voting for the representatives we send to St. Paul and Washington is the best way we can make certain that our voices are heard. Sadly these midterm elections have a lower voter turnout than elections during presidential years. The number of people who vote in the primaries, which decides who is on the ballot for the general election in November, is even lower. Participating in the process of democracy, from the primaries through the general election is important. As voters, we steer the direction our nation goes. This year our primary in Minnesota is on Aug. 14. If you cannot make it to the polls that day you can cast your ballot early through Aug. 13. All that you need to do is visit the county auditor’s office in the courthouse. No matter who you vote for or what your party affiliation is, your voice matters. Exercise your right to vote this summer by participating in the primary.

Ben Seavey

Albert Lea