Calaveras Enterprise

Know your party before you vote




With the increased attention to the 2018 elections and the importance of each and every vote, the number of registered voters is on the increase. People are familiar with the two major parties, the Democrats and Republicans. There are more than a dozen lesser-known parties, including the Modern Whig Party, American Solidarity Party, Green Party, Libertarian Party, Peace and Freedom and the Justice Party.

One of the most misunderstood political organizations is the American Independent Party. Numbers of people not wanting to identify with a particular party often register as an AIP (American Independent Party) voter, thinking that makes them an “independent” voter. Do some homework and find out what the AIP really stands for. If you want to be “independent,” you need to choose “no party preference” (NPP).

Be an informed voter. Research the candidates, know the issues and take the opportunity to attend candidate forums. You can also volunteer with campaigns, talk with your friends, neighbors and family, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. The last day to register or reregister is May 21. Mail-in ballots will be sent out on May 7. All vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked by election day (June 5) and received by June 8. Election day is June 5.

Candy Strubbe

Valley Springs

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