Fall has arrived; our silly season will remain through election day. Wake up Las Crucens - electioneering has begun and chaff will become overwhelming. The Mayor, Districts 1, 2, 4 and a presiding judge are at stake. What's good for Las Cruces residents? All of them.
One’s faith and circumstances affect thinking. We have many faiths in Las Cruces and untold variations in thought amongst us’ which can affect political thinking but not necessarily address all citizen needs. We are Christians, Jews, Muslim’s, Buddhists, Unitarians, Atheists and others. We are a community in which voter turnout is declining. This must change is necessary for a better future. Only 13,200 registered city residents voted in 2014 - 22 percent. Is the US House of Representatives a model we want to see in our City Council? There are frightening questions about some candidates.
There are questions we citizens should ask all candidates: E.g: How will you represent both your district and/or the wider Las Cruces community? Is there more than just “...good for business...” in a candidates position. What is a candidate’s view of religion in government. Do you view Las Cruces as a community which stands for all? A thinking candidate will address both business improvements and the needs of residents - many of whom are the poor and middle class, seniors, disabled and children. There is a wide range of candidate ideas, both general and specific. We citizens must shift through the chaff and find the useful nuggets.
Registration is not a formality. It is important you vote on November 3 or during early voting. Get out and do it. Explain to your friends municipal voting’s importance this year. The more of us who vote, the better for our community. Without voting your views may not be represented.
Editor's note: Registration for the Las Cruces fall election ends Tuesday, October 6