Editor:
A primary election in June? Isnt it usually held in August?
Not anymore.
The date was changed in response to a new federal law (the MOVE ACT: Military and Overseas Voter Empowerment) that requires ballots go to military and overseas voters 45 days before the general election. This change is intended to help absentee voters participate in elections who are either in the military or are U.S. citizens living abroad.
All registered voters affiliated with the major political parties in Colorado (American Constitution, Democratic & Republican) will be casting their vote by June 26 for candidates they want to represent them in the November General Election. If you want to vote in the primary, you must declare a political affiliation. The last day to do so was May 25.
Thanks to all in Montezuma County who are collaborating, presenting forums and Meet and Greet events to help us to understand our local primary candidates better. Their events are bringing together interested voters to discuss issues, problem definition and possible solutions. Folks are talking with opponents and discovering commonality.
Especially is appreciated the collaboration of the Cortez Journal and KSJD radio for conducting candidate interviews. From Monday, June 4 through Friday, June 8 KSJD, radio is airing pre-recorded questions and answers with local Republican candidates between 8:30 and 9:30 am. The Journal will print answers in the Thursday and Saturday papers.
Various organizations are holding forums that are announced in the Journal. Meet and Greet meetings are being held at public locations and in homes to engage discussion between candidates and interested voters. All are encouraging local voter participation in the 2012 election process.
The League of Women Voters of Montezuma County is not holding candidate forums for the primary elections, but plans to hold a general election candidate forum, Saturday, Oct. 6 at 1 p.m. In addition, the League will be presenting several informational sessions on 2012 ballot issues which, as we know can become complicated in Colorado. Those ballot issues will be not be fully determined until late summer. However, stay turned; the League wants local groups to schedule League presentations soon.
Know for what you are voting.
Jodi Foran and Lou Burkett
Co-presidents
League of Women Voters
of Montezuma County
Via email