The Gazette Editorial Board

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For the past several months — especially since the national conventions that wrapped up in early September — this page has been filled with a wide variety of voices talking about candidates and election issues.

As should be the case in a section devoted to viewpoints on topics important to our readers. It should never be dominated by one category of political persuasion or ideology.

The Gazette archives show more than 300 letters published in the past couple of months with about 80 percent related to candidates or issues in this election. Virtually all were written by Eastern Iowans. Many others also wanted their opinions printed but couldn’t be accommodated in the available space. We applaud such interest and effort.

The fierce presidential race between incumbent Barack Obama and challenger Mitt Romney fueled many passionate letters. Understandable, especially with the unprecedented amounts of media attention and paid political advertising we saw in this campaign.

Yet as important as the presidential race is, the outcomes of congressional, statehouse and local contests are just as significant or more so when you consider the potential impact on our daily lives. These “lesser” races involve the folks who actually produce the legislation and public policy decisions that affect Americans.

There also are major local issues to consider, such as the Johnson County Justice Center proposal. And those with statewide implications, such as the retention vote on Iowa’s judges. Also on your ballot are more-parochial offices, such as county boards of supervisors and soil and water conservation districts, among others.

Each of us votes one ballot, but many levels of governance are at stake. Today’s election is where your voice, your opinions, your hopes and priorities for the future, are registered. Make today count and, if you haven’t done so already, cast your vote.

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