Mayor’s Corner
Election season is upon us and is heating up to cross the finish line. I would like to make a few comments, especially related to our local and county elections because local government issues can have the biggest impact on our daily life. Also, we may personally know the candidates running for office. Voting in our great country is not a privilege, it is a sacred right granted by our founding fathers and vigorously defended ever since.
Along with the right to vote, I believe our citizens have voter responsibilities as well. Those responsibilities include educating yourself on the candidates. There are many ways to research a candidate to understand their qualifications, their positions on issues, and to get a feel for their character and leadership capabilities. First and foremost is to meet and talk to the candidates in person. Most of them offer such opportunities by walking neighborhoods, meet and greet sessions, and other public forums. There are debates and media, including newspaper, internet and social media. So I encourage you to take some time to fulfil this responsibility to get to know the candidates. Not only will this help you make an informed decision, but it benefits the candidates when they listen to the voters to understand their concerns, making them potentially more informed and better leaders.
Another important responsibility we have is to be civil and respectful throughout the season. Unfortunately the country seems to be going down the path of increased political divisiveness. Wimberley is one community and to ensure that it continues to be is up to each of you. Everyone doesn’t have to agree with the opinions and political views of everyone else. Diversity of opinion and healthy debate are what help make our country great. However, at the end of the day, we all have more in common than we have differences.
Lastly, I want to thank each candidate who has stepped forward to run for public office. Campaigning is a sacrifice and a lot of hard work. The only reason that they do it is because they care and want to serve. So please be respectful of all candidates, whether or not you are supporting them – because when the campaign is over, they will still be our friends and neighbors.
Every vote counts – here in Wimberley we have seen elections won by only a few votes. So please exercise your right to vote. Early voting begins on October 22nd and Election Day is November 6th.