Your vote does make a difference

Dear fellow Idahoans:

The political season is up and running and it is going to get even more heated as it gets closer to November.

I want to talk to you about your right and obligation to vote.

No matter which political side you like to claim, it is your right to privately vote your conscience.

You do NOT have to vote a straight ticket in the general election.

You do NOT have to vote on each and every issue.

But if you want to have a voice, you DO have to vote.

It is disturbing to me when I hear people say that their vote doesn't matter. Yes, the presidential election is based on the Electoral College. However, your local representatives are elected on YOUR votes. Please, do not confuse national politics with state politics.

We, the people, vote for others to represent our best interest at the capitol in Boise. It can be a daunting task to find the right person for the job. They should be able to understand our needs and be willing to work with EVERYONE to find the best solutions to our issues.

I am just as tired as you are with the partisan bickering that has gone on. We need to tell our representatives to act like adults and get their job done. If they don't, we should fire them!

In November, we have the chance to decide who we will keep and who we will let go.

So, even though you are getting weary with politics, please pay attention and vote. It is our schools, jobs, roads, water, energy, mineral rights, property taxes and so much more at stake. You are an Idaho citizen and have a responsibility to get involved.

I want to thank all the men and women in our armed forces for keeping us safe. Bless you for all you do.

-- Darlene Madsen