My letter to the editor that was published in the Appleton Post-Crescent on 08/11/12, shortly before the Primary Election that my wife ran in.  Diana Lawrence ran for State Assembly.

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Voting is about knowing the candidates and helping to elect the candidate that you believe is most like you or who will best represent your interests.

The primary election on Aug. 14 is one of your opportunities to help shape our government. Because elections are often decided by just a few votes your participation is very important.

Although people are more likely to vote in a November general election than in a primary election, it is a mistake to believe that primary elections are not as important. Primary elections allow political parties to reduce their slates of candidates by letting the public make the decisions. Although the result is still a candidate of the party, it will be a candidate selected by the public and not by the party. This results in better representation of the people.

A century ago, prior to Robert “Fighting Bob” La Follette helping reform primary elections, candidates were selected by caucuses and conventions rather than by a direct vote by electors. You have the power.

Elections often involve yard signs, mail, phone calls, marketing and media. Your job is to wade through this and make your own decisions. Better marketing and media are indicative of better financing but this does not reliably indicate the better candidate. You must do the research to discover all the candidates and select the one who will best represent you. Read their literature and visit their websites, and then make your choice.

Politicians are expected to make good voting decisions, and always vote. Citizens have the same responsibilities with elections.

Wisconsin values champions at the Olympics, in football, and other athletic venues. We are envied by the world for our freedoms and election rights. We should strive to be champions in the election booth.