Yes, the primary season this year has been a real lesson in civics.  Distinctions between the  myriad forms of primaries have been explained in the media to the benefit of all of us.  The youth vote (18-29) turnout is approaching the senior vote (over 55) turnout, which could have an interesting impact on platforms and media messages.  

I was surprised to find that we did not have a record turnout in our area.  In Montgomery County, over 46% of the registered voters cast ballots. In Greene County, a little over 49% did. There were more absentee ballots now that there is no limitation on access to that ballot.  More people are registered, leading us to prioritize future efforts on encouraging updating one’s registration and going to vote.  

Voters are interested in the candidate’s positions.  The Dayton Daily News did a good job of presenting positions and contrasting political ads this spring.  The Voters Guide will be out next fall, as usual, but we intend to supplement that with the candidate interviews on cable, additional interviews through a university, using “streaming” on our website of candidate positions/interviews and targeted programs on health and environmental positions of the candidates.  There will be something for everyone to do! 

You will find information for our May Annual Meeting in this Voter.  The program people and Nominating Committee have worked hard to pull things together.  Kudo’s to them!  Join us at the Town Hall Meeting in April and the Annual Meeting in May!

 Sharon