Engagement matters, even in uncontested races

In local elections, our votes matter more than ever. Our ballots decide who directly influences our schools and communities. Yet, when voters try to learn about candidates, whose decisions can be quite significant in our lives, crucial information can be hard to find in races considered “non-competitive.”

Even when a candidate is running unopposed, voters deserve to know where they stand on key issues. Residents should have opportunities to ask questions and understand how candidates plan to serve the community. These conversations also help ensure incumbents remain responsive to the people they represent.

Town halls, debates, panels, and interviews are often nonexistent in uncontested races. Accountability shouldn’t depend on whether a race is competitive. I understand organizing these events takes time and coordination, but an informed community is always worth the effort.

Voters can still learn about candidates through websites, social media, direct outreach, or word of mouth; however, those opportunities don’t replace the transparency and connection that come from public forums. Some candidates have taken the initiative to host their own one-on-one events, such as “Coffee with a Candidate” or going live on social media, but unopposed candidates shouldn’t have to shoulder that responsibility. Not every candidate has the time, support, or resources to organize independently.

When candidates have more opportunities to engage with the community, civic participation increases, and voters can make informed decisions and form thoughtful opinions about the people representing them.

Angelica Vannatta

Marion