On May 4, voters throughout this region will have the opportunity to go to the polls and shape the future of their county, state and nation.

While many of the candidates on the May ballot will not automatically win the November election as they have in years past, it is important that voters choose the right people to represent their part in the general election.

Bertie County has two primary races – one Democratic and one Republican – for the office of Sheriff.

Several other counties have the opportunity to choose from among two or three candidates to represent one party or the other in the general election.

The primary is a big deal.

What can you do about it? Several things.

To begin with, become educated about the candidates. Some of the candidates are smart, educated and well-qualified. Others may very well be less so.

Learn what candidates stand for. Find out if they believe in the same core values you do. Find out if they will vote the way you want them to if they are elected.

When you find a candidate that has your values, discard the information about their incumbency, race, creed or religion and vote for the person who you believe would truly represent you.

Secondly, encourage your friends and family to do the same. Don’t tell them who to vote for, but share your knowledge and research. Let them know why you made the decision you did.

Finally, go out and vote. Exercise your rights and go and cast your ballot.

If we all do our part, the best and brightest can represent us in the nation’s capital, in Raleigh and in our respective county seats.