I was talking with my wife before the return started coming in tonight, and I mentioned to her that I will never understand why North Carolina always votes for the Republican nominee for President, but then votes a Democrat into the Governor’s Mansion. Now, an exception could very easily be made this year, but the rule usually sticks. I half-jokingly said, “I bet the voters of Lee County reject the sales tax increase, but on the same ballot re-elect the school board members that made it their platform to pass the sales tax increase.”
Well, I should have played the lottery tonight… (unfortunately, I pay my “stupid tax” in other ways during the fiscal year). Lee County voters overwhelmingly voted against even more taxation in this time of economic uncertainty, and also re-elected all 3 incumbents that filed for re-election. The only incumbent that was not re-elected was a late entry write-in candidate (and he probably would have been re-elected if his Chairman had talked him into it earlier).
So the question should be asked: “Why do we vote incumbents back into office, but reject their prime objective of the campaign?” Is this some sort of second chance? A shot over the bow? A chance for all three candidates to take a mulligan on the same hole?
Now, I admit, I hardly ever vote an incumbent back in office. Most times the reason is the opposition is just a worse choice. Some times though… its that the candidate was able to deliver on a majority of the goals he was elected to achieve. This time, however, I voted for an incumbent based on his ability to lead his board. He exhibited unrelenting leadership in guiding the board to their goal. While I disagree with him on this issue (the sales tax), I do agree with him on many other issues, so I would take him on my team any day.
What it comes down to is that primaries can split an organized party into many factions, sometimes just two (Exhibit A-current bloodbath heading for Denver). But, you have got to get back together with your “like-minded” brethren before November. Otherwise, you might as well just give the other guys the keys to the castle.
Addendum: I still do not condone voting a straight party ticket. Look at each individual candidate independently (especially judicial candidates). Try and avoid looking at endorsements. Bill Horner said in his blog today that he had one candidate that even asked him NOT to endorse him. Please look at the issues that concern you and your loved ones. And, always follow the golden rule: “Stay away from one-issue candidates”. Right, Bill Graham?
