Here’s your chance.

Don’t like the way the sheriff’s office is run? Clerk’s office? County government? State legislature?

Now you have an opportunity.

Beginning last Monday, filing opened for those wishing to seek political office throughout North Carolina. From U.S. Senate to the local county commission, offices are available for those wishing to throw their hat in the political ring.

Politicians often get a bad rap. It’s easy to sit back and say “I can do a better job than that” where there’s no way to disprove what is being said. They’re easy to take pot shot at because they’re the elected leaders.

Well, now those wishing to put their money where their mouth is can do exactly that. They can go down to the local board of elections office, pay a filing fee and put their name on the ballot for May’s primary.

Already, there have been a number of people who have done just that. Instead of sitting back complaining, they are offering their ideas of change. That should be encouraged.

We want options. We want to be able to choose who our leaders are and we can only do that when there are people who are willing to put their names on a ballot and let the electorate choose.

We encourage all those who want to serve to go and file. Let the people have a choice and then let them decide.