Most people think the election that matters most happens in November. That’s when the signs go up, the ads run nonstop, and turnout peaks. But the truth is, the most important decisions are often made long before that—in primary elections.

Primaries are where we decide not just who wins, but who is even worthy of representing us.

Why Primaries Matter More Than You Think

In many districts, especially those that lean heavily toward one party, the primary effectively is the election. By the time the general election arrives, the outcome is often predictable.

That means if you skip the primary, you may be skipping your most meaningful opportunity to shape the future of your community.

Primaries are where:

• Values are clarified
• Records are examined
• Character is tested
• And voters—not parties or outside interests—have the strongest voice

It’s Not Just About Party—It’s About People

It’s easy to walk into a primary and vote based on party label, name recognition, or a familiar face. But leadership is more than a label.

The right candidate:

• Demonstrates integrity when no one is watching
• Communicates clearly and listens with intent
• Has the courage to make difficult decisions—not just popular ones
• Understands that public service is about responsibility, not status

This is where your experience, your judgment, and your willingness to look deeper matter most.

The Responsibility of an Informed Voter

Choosing the right candidate requires more than a quick glance at a ballot. It asks something of us.

It asks us to:

• Do the research
• Ask questions
• Attend forums or community events
• Look at how a candidate treats people—not just what they promise

As I often say in coaching, “What’s another way of looking at it?” That question applies here too. Go beyond the surface. Look for alignment with your values and the needs of your community.

Leadership Is a Reflection of the Voters

We often hold elected officials accountable—and we should. But there’s another layer of accountability that starts earlier.

We choose who gets the opportunity to lead.

If we want better leadership, we must be more intentional in how we select it.

Primaries are not just a procedural step in the election process—they are a proving ground. A place where communities decide what kind of leadership they will accept, and what they will not.

Final Thought

If you want your voice to matter, don’t wait for the final act. Show up at the beginning.

Because strong communities aren’t built on passive choices—they’re built on informed ones.

And leadership worth following is chosen, not assumed.