Up North Progressive

Voter turnout during primary elections are notoriously low. This year’s primary election is expected to be no different, but that’s just what the Republicans in Michigan are counting on. Democrats and independents need to vote for some very important reasons.

First, you don’t have to belong to a political party to vote. When you arrive at your voting precinct location you will be asked if you want to vote Democratic Party or Republican. Now this is important for Democrats and Independents voters. Some of you may have received postcard mailers or emails from Republican candidates asking you to vote for them in the primary because they are facing challengers. Many of these people are being challenged by tea party candidates and they hope you will help them out with their own Thad Cochran strategy. Don’t do it. Vote Democratic ticket, and here’s why. Some Democratic races have primaries too, and you need to vote for the Democratic candidates, not waste your vote helping out Republicans. The tea party is the Republican Party’s problem so let the Republicans deal with it.

Northern Michigan state legislature districts with Democratic challengers are the 100th, 104th, 105th and the 106th. State Senate districts with Democratic primaries are the 37th and 38th. If you live in these districts it’s important for you to vote on August 5th and support the candidate of your choice.

Another important issue on the August 5 ballot is Proposal 14-1. This proposal wants to eliminate an important tax cities, townships, and school districts rely on to pay for things like your police and fire departments and replace it with … The wording of this proposal is confusing. It’s also on the August 5 ballot instead of the November 4 ballot because of the typical low turnout for primary elections. The Republicans believe this way the ballot issue has a better chance of passing. This is another reason why you need to get out and vote on Tuesday.

Republicans love it when Democrats stay home because it’s one of the few ways they win elections. Don’t help out the Republicans on Tuesday, August 5. Get out and vote for your Democratic candidates, and vote NO on proposal 14-1.