See red in next Tuesday's election

"GOTV" is shorthand for "get out the vote" in political circles. But today, I'm talking about going out to vote!

I frequently hear "I always vote in the 'important' elections" or "I always vote in the presidential election" -- which is great -- but many people fail to vote in some of the most important elections: the primaries! The primary election this year will be held on July 15, with early voting this week.

Historically, voter turnout for the primary election is significantly lower than in the general election. Since most Columbia County races are decided in the Republican Primary in July, that means a small percentage of voters decide who leads our county.

This year is no exception. The July 15 Republican ballot will decide the following races: 3rd District Columbia County Commission; Georgia House District 117; Georgia House District 118.

Since there is no Democratic opponent for these seats, the candidate that wins the primary vote on July 15 will be the commissioner or state representative in January. Additionally, the primary will decide the Republican nominee for the 10th Congressional District race in November, and a nonpartisan special election in Commission District 4 will elect the new county commissioner for that district.

Yes, the November general election is very important to our country, but the July 15 Republican Primary is equally important for Columbia County. The decisions made on July 15 will change the face of our county commission and will decide who will speak for Columbia County in the state legislature.

This year, let your voice be heard. Go out to vote July 15 -- and when you do, vote red! Vote Republican!

Debbie McCord

Chairman, Columbia County Republican Party

Evans