WS Chronicle

Voters voting at polling place

December always has been a hectic month. Americans celebrate several holidays, start looking at their tax obligations before the end of the year and begin to think about New Year’s resolutions, among other things.

This December should also include a time to begin looking at the 2016 election cycle.

The Forsyth County Elections Board is working to be ready for the March 15 primary, with all the changes that have been mandated from the state of North Carolina. So far, voters must remember to bring approved photo IDs and remember the days they can vote early have been shortened, according to a 2013 law. The law is being challenged by several organizations, so those changes could be reversed for March 15.

Also, voters must remember that the primaries will be March 15 instead of in May, again, thanks to North Carolina lawmakers. That means filing periods for candidates came earlier, ending on Monday, Dec. 21. Voters will have a shorter time to compare candidates and gain information from their campaigns.

Winston-Salem voters must remember that the seats in all eight wards on the City Council are open as well as the mayoral seat. A 2011 law changed the election cycle for our City Council members.

Also, a  Connect NC bond issue will be on the ballot. It provides money for Winston-Salem State University and other local projects.

Then there are the state elections, with top positions such as governor, lieutenant governor and attorney general open. Nine  black candidates will be vying for various positions, such as one for governor, three for lieutenant governor and one for U.S. Senate. Take time to start looking at these people vying to lead us.

Primaries will be held to help choose the president of the United States. The race for president already has been getting a lot of attention.

Now is the time to start thinking of what we want in our government officials, then start determining which candidates will come close to what we want.

The important thing to remember is to register to vote, if you have not already done so. There are several statewide and local efforts to register voters. Also, the county boards of elections are ready to take your applications, and the Department of Motor Vehicles also registers people to vote.

Time is moving fast. 2016 is one week away. Make a New Year’s resolution to be an informed voter in 2016 and actually vote.