Make a choice. Republican or Democrat. That’s what ballots are telling voters across Kitsap County as the September primary election nears. But even those who fall into either camp must be a bit miffed about the ballot — not as angry as those who don’t see themselves as donkeys or elephants — but unhappy nonetheless.

In protecting candidates from Republican and Democrat “sabotage” votes in the primary, we have essentially reduced everyone’s ability to choose our elected representatives.

If you’re a Democrat, you can’t vote in the Kitsap County Assessor’s race. If you’re a Republican, you can’t select who will be the next Kitsap County Sheriff. While it is absurd that such offices are even partisan to begin with (who really cares if these folks subscribe to one political philosophy or another after all?) what is even more trying is that they are essentially no longer truly representing their entire constituency.

Property taxes and law enforcement, at last check, are not bipartisan. When, then, are votes concerning who ultimately is in charge of them for the entire county?

This is an antiquated system and if voters are going to be subjected to labeling themselves R or D, it makes sense that such elected officials no longer be forced to declare one party or another. In doing so, such non-political candidates could still face the music in or November.

Judges don’t declare. Why should the assessor? Or sheriff? Or treasurer?

If voters are going to be boxed in like this, these candidates shouldn’t be. Or vice versa.

Having both forcibly wearing the R or D tag in such instances serves no one.

Not the parties, not the candidates and most importantly, not the voters.

While our shortsightedness has cost us dearly in two major elections here in Kitsap County, hopefully it will spark some change at a higher level so elections can get back to what they’re supposed to do — represent the will of the people.