the most important thing I'll do this year

Published on: 11/4/2012

This will be my first presidential election as chief inspector. It certainly could be one of the most important things I've ever done. The same could be said about voting. You're not only voting for the direction you'd like to see the country headed the next four years, but being a resident of a swing state in a very close election your counts so much more.

Have any doubts? Pick up the ringing phone, and six of every ten calls are political. We've had so many people call us or stop by you'd think we were popular or something. Surely Waukesha has seen more than it's share of candidates this year. Just the other day Clinton was at UWW, just blocks from here. It's gotten to the point that I wouldn't be surprised if President Obama or Michelle stopped by the house to ask for our vote.

You think Christmas is over-hyped? Starts too early? We've been in heavy election mode for a year! Signs are decorating yards everywhere. Among the many election cards arriving in the mail, we've even received a presidential "catalog" from Romney.

I kind of lost track of how many elections we've had this year. Four? Five? With another, the last, in December. We've had more elections and training this year than ever to get ready for this day. Waukesha County has even had recent experience with recounts, should it come to that.

Have you talked to a neighbor, relative, co-worker or friend about Tuesday's election? I have. Unbelievably, I've recently talked to those who either didn't know when it was or said they weren't going to bother. Apparently you can't get through to everyone, but I'm hoping for a large turnout Tuesday.

When you think of the sacrifices people have made to guarantee our right to a democratic and free society...  I feel pretty strongly that the least we could do in return is stay informed and involved by voting. I plan to be at the polls from 6:00 a.m. 'till 1:00 a.m. the next day, if that's what it takes. It's the least I could do.

If you didn't vote early, like we did, don't be afraid to come to the polls Tuesday. We've never before had this much preparation and staffing. There will be lines, especially in the late afternoon, so come early or bring something to do while you wait. If you need to register be prepared for two lines.

There's reward in election heaven for those who vote... and for those helping the elderly and disabled to vote.