Primary turnout is often below 20%. That means a small group of voters decides who everyone else gets to choose from in November. When you sit it out, someone else makes that call for you. And that silence adds up – across every issue you care about.
If you usually skip primaries, you’re not alone – but you’re also handing your vote to whoever does show up. The system may feel broken. The candidates may feel uninspiring. But elections don’t pause for apathy. Someone is making decisions about your life either way.
This election is not abstract. The people on your ballot will take office in January and make decisions that affect you for years. There are no ballot measures this primary – just candidates.
For first-time and young voters: this is where your vote carries the most weight. Lower turnout means your voice counts more here than in almost any other election. The people elected now will shape AI policy, housing costs, student debt and climate decisions for years to come.
Need to check your registration or learn about the candidates? Visit Vote411.org. It takes two minutes. June 30 is the last day to vote. Ballots have already been mailed. If you’re unaffiliated, your envelope contains two ballots – one Democratic, one Republican. Fill out only one, sign it and return it. Don’t return by mail after June 22; use a drop box or bring it to the County Clerk’s office at 679 Turner Dr.
Silence has consequences. Your vote matters.
La Plata Board of Directors Tara Kiene, Liz Mora, Adrea Bogle, Mady Miraglia, Darleen Koontz, Eileen Maddox, Jan Phillips and Wendy Pollak
Durango