The League of Women Voters believes that democratic government depends upon the informed and active participation of its citizens. Therefore, we encourage all voters to become informed about the candidates running for office in the Aug. 19 primary election.

All non-partisan judicial positions, Supreme Court Justices, Court of Appeals Judge and Kitsap Superior Court Judge, could be elected in the primary if one candidate receives more than 50 percent of the votes. If one candidate in the non-partisan Superintendent of Public Instruction election receives more than 50, only that candidate will appear on the November ballot. In the 2004 primary election, only 52 percent of the registered voters in Kitsap County voted. We need to do better this year.

If more than two candidates are running for partisan positions, the top two candidates with the most votes, regardless of party affiliation, will proceed to the November general election. The contests where this will apply are Kitsap County Commissioner District 2, U.S. 6th Congressional District Representative, 35th Legislative District Representatives and six state offices. This is the first time the “top two” primary election will be held in our state.

All registered voters should read the Voters’ Pamphlet, attend candidate forums and contact the candidates with questions. Ballots will be mailed out July 30. Be informed, and then vote in the Aug. 19 primary.

ELLEN FISHER

President, League of Women Voters of Kitsap

Bainbridge Island