With all the divisive issues going on in the state of Louisiana, it’s essential for Washington Parish residents to get out today and vote for our next leaders.

According to Louisiana Secretary of State Tim Schedler’s office, only 38.5 percent of registered voters statewide participated in the Oct. 24 primary election. Schedler’s office predicted 41-42 percent of registered voters will cast a ballot today in the runoff.  That is unacceptable.

From issues such as Common Core to abortion, voters must choose the best candidates that coincide with their personal values.

Today’s election can go a long way toward doing something about those issues. Voters must take a long, hard look at each candidate to make certain what each candidate stands for that is in the best interest of Louisiana citizens.

Regarding Washington Parish, the race to replace out-going State Senator Ben Nevers is up for grabs between Franklinton Republican Beth Mizell and Bogalusa Democrat Mickey Murphy.

In the race for governor, voters must decide whether Democrat John Bel Edwards or Republican David Vitter is the better choice to replace Bobby Jindal. Their stances on Common Core, abortion and other issues are pretty clear.

Republican Billy Nungesser and Democrat Melvin “Kip” Holden are the two choices for lieutenant governor, while Republicans Buddy Caldwell and Jeff Landry duke it out for Attorney General. Caldwell is the incumbent.

Local voters have seen Kathy Edmonston often in Washington Parish in her bid for the BESE Board District 6 seat. The Gonzalez resident is in the runoff against Baton Rouge resident Jason Engen.
Some parish voters will also decide a Parish Council seat. District 7 incumbent Aubrey Posey, of Franklinton, is opposed by Mount Hermon’s David Anthony.

We need to elect the candidates who will have the interests of Washington Parish at heart.