EDITORIAL

Of primary concern

Posted 8/2/22

There are few things more exciting than state primary season — right?

Sarcasm aside, with the state primary only a little over a month away, we thought it prudent to at least provide the …

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EDITORIAL

Of primary concern

Posted

There are few things more exciting than state primary season — right?

Sarcasm aside, with the state primary only a little over a month away, we thought it prudent to at least provide the essential information regarding the first political contest since the 2020 general election.

There are a slew of important races that you should be aware of, and which we will be covering in greater detail as the race marches on. In Rhode Island, often times the winner of the primary might as well mean the winner of a general election race, so it is important to get to know who is on the ballot and what they stand for.

Important dates to keep in mind include:

State Primary — Tuesday, Sept. 13

The deadline to register to vote — Aug. 14;

The deadline to change your affiliation — Aug. 15;

The deadline to request a mail-in ballot — Aug. 23;

Early voting timeline — Aug. 24 to Sept. 12. Early voting takes place at City Hall in Warwick on Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; at the Peter T. Pastore, Jr. Youth Center in Cranston, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Johnston’s early voting hours have yet to be determined.

The race for state offices like Governor and Lt. Governor have a bounty of interest and competition, so voters should try to learn about the candidate they feel is best for the job. Whoever emerges from the Republican side of the aisle will have an uphill battle against the chosen Democrat.

State representatives, city council and school committee positions are also at stake during the primary, which have the most tangible day-to-day impact on your life through their actions. After all, when a pothole swallows up your new compact SUV on Post Road, it’s not the Governor that you appear before to make a claim for damages. Research your local candidates, engage with fellow voters, and participate in the kind of small democracy that really matters.

We know, arguing on Twitter about national politics is just simply more entertaining, but the people before you on the upcoming primary ballot will be representing your local communities in matters big and small. Do your part as a citizen and show up.

editorial, primary

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