Why should I vote?
Every vote is important, especially for a municipal election like this one. The candidates who win will make decisions that directly affect the daily life of Johnson County residents. Municipal leaders have the power to make laws and regulations, spend tax dollars and make investments. They also affect community growth and land use because they decide on major projects and infrastructure improvements. This time only voters who live in a city or town can cast a vote, as no county- or statewide offices are on the ballot.
Can I cross party lines?
Yes. Indiana is one of six states that have partially open primaries. That means a voter can select a Democratic or Republican ballot regardless of party affiliation.
The only complication is, if you wish to be a Democratic or Republican candidate in a future election, Indiana code requires that your two most recent ballot selections be for the party of your candidacy. A candidate must also be certified as a member of that party. Failure to comply with these rules opens the candidate to challenges by any voter from either party and could limit service opportunities.
If you wish to be a member of the Democratic or Republican party or serve as a precinct committeeperson, officer or delegate, the Indiana Democratic and Republican parties require that your most recent vote at a primary election was for that party.
Where can I find reliable information?
To vote wisely, it’s important to take time to learn about the candidates on our ballot. Several Johnson County organizations make it easy to learn about the candidates. The Daily Journal has collected information about candidates on their “Elections” page at dailyjournal.net/local/elections/. Aspire Johnson County and The League of Woman Voters both sent out candidate questionnaires that can be read at aspirejohnsoncounty.com/election-2023 and Vote411.org.
Before you vote consider these things: What does the candidate value; What policies will the candidate support or oppose; Does the candidate put the collective interest before politics, party or personal gain; Is the candidate qualified for the position?
Where and when can I vote?
The Johnson County Election Division makes it easy for registered voters to vote. Johnson County voters may vote at any of the 18 vote centers on 11 days between April 17 and May 2. To view the map and list of dates, visit Elections/Johnson County, Indiana and click on 2023 Primary Vote Center Locations. To vote, you must show your valid Indiana driver’s license or identification card.
What’s the bottom line?
Only one in 10 people voted in the 2022 primary election. The Johnson County Election Summary Report shows that 14,072 people voted but 115,213 were registered to vote. Let’s change these statistics in the 2023 primary election. Voting is your right, privilege and obligation. Voting is one way to cherish and preserve our democracy at the local level. Every vote counts. Exercise your right to vote. Make your voice heard!
The League of Women Voters’ mission is to empower voters and defend democracy. All League-sponsored work is strictly nonpartisan. We are committed to diversity, equity and inclusion in all League activities. We provide facts and encourage people to be informed and actively participate in all levels of government. All people are welcome to attend LWVJC meetings. Join us for our next meeting at 5:30 p.m. on May 20 at the Clark Pleasant Library, 350 Clearwater Blvd, Whiteland.
LWVJC members Karen Lunsford and Mary Kooi wrote this column. To learn more about LWVJC, visit lwvjcin.org. Send comments to [email protected].
