The basic power in democracy rests in the hands of people who vote. In an ideal world everybody is informed and everybody votes. We do not live in an ideal world.

In an attempt to bring guidance to people who want to vote, but just don’t know who to vote for, the Rowan County Democratic Party Executive Committee offered to endorse candidates who self-identified as Democrats in current municipal non-partisan elections. Seven candidates in the county requested endorsement and participated in the process.

The following candidates whose presentations demonstrated Democratic values were endorsed: Salisbury city council — Al Heggins, Tamara Sheffield, and Latasha Wilks; Spencer town council —Sharon Hovis; East Spencer mayor — Barbara Mallett; and China Grove town council — Jason Higgins. One candidate did not reside in Rowan county and was not endorsed.

Other candidates, who are also Democrats, did not request endorsement out of respect for the non-partisan nature of the election or just did not request it.

The important thing in elections is VOTING. To decide not to vote is the decision to give your power into the hands of the few who do vote. Exercise your Power: VOTE!

— Geoffrey Hoy

Hoy is chairman of the Rowan County Democratic Party.