Storch: The Importance of Being an Informed Voter
The mid-term elections play a critical role in shaping West Virginia's future, particularly in local races that directly affect various communities across the state. While presidential elections most often dominate headlines and conversations, mid-term election cycles determine who serves on county commissions, school boards, in the West Virginia Legislature, and on city councils for municipalities with elections this cycle. These offices influence decisions that touch daily life, from road maintenance and public safety to education policy and economic development. Participation in these elections is essential, but participation alone is not enough. Every West Virginia constituent must also take the time to research candidates so their votes reflect informed judgment rather than habit or assumption. It is one’s duty to be knowledgeable about whom they are giving their vote. West Virginia’s local governments carry significant responsibility in a largely rural state with diverse regional needs. County commissions oversee budgets, emergency services, and infrastructure in areas where resources are often limited. School boards make decisions that affect class sizes, curriculum choices, and the recruitment and retention of teachers. Municipal leaders guide planning and development in cities and towns working to balance growth with preservation of community character. State legislators elected during mid-term cycles write laws that govern energy policy, healthcare access, workforce development, and taxation. These decisions shape not only the present but also the long-term direction of the Mountain State. Mid-term elections in West Virginia often experience lower voter turnout than in presidential years. This reality gives outsized influence to a smaller number of voters, leading to local races being decided by narrow margins. A handful of votes can determine who represents an entire county or district. This dynamic makes informed voting even more important. When fewer people participate, the responsibility carried by each individual voter increases. A well-researched vote can help ensure that elected officials truly reflect the priorities and values of their communities and what those communities value. Local races in West Virginia also tend to receive limited media coverage. So many communities no longer have daily newspapers, and regional outlets may not have the capacity to provide the in-depth reporting on every local race. Television and radio coverage often focuses on statewide or national races, leaving school board or county commission candidates largely unknown to the public. It often is not cost-effective for candidates to campaign using these large-reaching media, especially in local races. This lack of coverage creates an information gap that voters must fill on their own. Relying solely on a candidate’s name recognition, party affiliation, or campaign signage does not provide a complete picture of how that individual will govern. Not even a little bit! Researching candidates running for the various offices in West Virginia requires effort, but it is both possible and necessary. Voters can review candidate filings and statements published by the Secretary of State or county clerks. Meet-the-candidate nights are a great opportunity to see and speak with the candidate. It is a great way to see how the candidate handles themselves. Community forums, debates, and town halls offer opportunities to hear candidates discuss local issues in their own words. Social media pages and campaign websites often outline priorities and experience. Conversations with neighbors, educators, business owners, and civic leaders can also provide valuable insight into a candidate’s reputation and engagement within the community. This kind of research helps voters move beyond slogans to understand a candidate’s record, values, and approach to problem-solving. Anyone can fake it for one of these, so if the constituents put in the time to attend more than one, the candidates’ true motivation and personality will emerge. Informed voting is especially important in a state facing complex challenges and opportunities. West Virginia continues to navigate economic transition, population changes, infrastructure needs, and public health concerns. Local leaders play a central role in addressing these issues in practical ways. A county commission decision can affect broadband expansion. A school board vote can influence workforce readiness. A state delegate’s position can shape how the state balances economic growth with environmental stewardship. Voters who understand where candidates stand on these issues are better equipped to choose leaders who will advocate effectively for their communities. They are better prepared to vote for the candidate who will carry their voice and carry it well. It was always my honor to receive anyone’s vote. I took that to heart, and it made me a better representative. Now, it makes me a better constituent and an informed constituent. I cannot say thank you enough for trusting me to represent you. Civic responsibility does not end once a ballot is cast. Researching candidates also strengthens accountability after the election. Voters who understand why they supported a particular individual are more likely to follow that official’s actions in office and speak up when concerns arise. This engagement fosters a healthier democratic culture in which elected officials know their constituents are paying attention. West Virginia’s close-knit communities are well-suited to this kind of accountability, where relationships and trust still matter deeply in public life. Mid-term elections offer West Virginians a powerful opportunity to shape their local and state governments. These elections determine who will make decisions about schools, roads, public safety, and economic development. Participation is vital, but informed participation is what truly strengthens democracy. Constituents who take the time to research candidates help ensure that leadership reflects the needs and values of the people being served. West Virginia’s future depends not only on showing up at the polls but also on doing the work necessary to cast thoughtful and informed votes. Read the full article
