We are in full campaign season. The Republicans have their nominee, Donald Trump, and Hillary Clinton will lead the ticket for the Democrats.
A lot of folks aren't too happy about that, but that's just the way it is. In the next few months until November elections, we will see plenty of political advertising in the media. Lots of newspaper, radio and TV ads. And there will be even more partisan arguments on Facebook and other websites. That might not seem possible, since so much of what's posted now is geared toward denigrating one candidate or the other. But trust us, it's only going to get worse. A lot worse.
Makes you wonder why anyone would run for political office in this day and age.
Fortunately, some citizens do brave the constant scrutiny and near-constant criticism to take a chance at public service-and not only on a national level.
The city of Texarkana, Texas, is accepting applications until Aug. 22 for those who wish to run for mayor or one of three City Council seats. The incumbents are all running for re-election, but that doesn't mean others interested in office should bow out.
Prospective candidates must be at least 18 and have resided in Texas for a year. Mayoral candidates must have lived within the city limits for six months as of Aug. 22, and candidates for the council must have lived in their wards for the same time period. There is no filing fee, and you can get the forms at City Hall.
Let's be clear-we are not suggesting any of the incumbents is doing a bad job or should be voted out. Not at all. Our point is that our government-especially on the local level-is based on citizen participation. We all know that voting is the duty of every citizen, but we need citizens who step up to the plate and try to help the community through serving in public office as well.
Lots of folks gripe about politics-local, state and national. That's easy to do. Stepping up and trying to make things better is the hard part.