Vote Tuesday to make a difference

Out of the more than 55,000 registered voters in Columbia County, little more than a third are expected to cast ballots Tuesday in the 2002 General Election.

That is a real shame. As much as we brag about how great our county is, only a handful of citizens will perform their full duties by helping to select our communitys leaders.

The challenge is to beat the predictions. Not only should every registered voter show up to vote for local candidates, but Columbia Countians, in large numbers, can wield great influence on Georgias leadership, too. The margin of victory in any of the tight statewide races could easily be swung with a high turnout here.

Columbia County is the best in Georgia. Its citizens should flex their electoral muscles simply by showing up on Tuesday to vote.

Remember, too, that this election is Georgias first with the new touch-screen voting machines. For those who havent taken advantage of the many education sessions around town, there will be elections workers on hand Tuesday to lend a hand when needed. Long lines would be a good sign!