July 30, 2014

To the Editor:

How said it is that, generally, only 20 percent of the qualified voters in Riley County participate in primary elections. Primary elections are so important – they determine the choice of candidates you will have to select from in November’s general election.

Independent voters not now affiliated with the Republican or Democratic parties have the option to declare a party affiliation at their polling place on the day they vote. In Kansas, a voter must belong to one of the two parties to be able to vote in the primary.

Once the results of the primary election are certified at the end of August, a person may declare a different party or return to being an independent simply by visiting the County Clerk’s office in the Courthouse.

So simple. So important. Please make yourself heard Aug. 5.

Joan Strickler