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On Tuesday, the state will hold its first major test for many candidates when the primary election will be held to slim individual contests to two candidates.

It’s an important milestone for candidates and for the people that support them as the races become more competitive. Candidate’s positions become much more focused and the questions they will be asked by constitutes much sharper as they look to get a better feel for those running.

For some, there will be familiar stances as they run for another term in hopes of continuing their work and for others they will be fresh and blank slates. Unknowns.

For all those reasons, the primary election has an important place in the electoral process and is worthy of your time to cast your vote.

Traditionally, the primary election has not boasted turnout numbers like the general election, however, it still represents a need for voter involvement and engagement. The act of voting in the primary will not occupy much of your time, but it still remains your voice in how our city, our counties and how our state will approach the future.

Locally, there are three total primaries — Austin City Council Ward 1, Ward 3 and mayor and we strongly advocate, if you haven’t already, to use your right and take part in the primary and ensure that you have a say.

The old adage is that it’s hard to complain when you don’t take part and being a part of something like this is laying a stake in our area’s future.

For more information on primary voting, visit the Mower County’s website at: https://www.co.mower.mn.us/1603/2024-State-Primary-Election