Names are in: Candidates have filed -- and now it is time to start vetting

The die has been cast for the 2012 May primary -- and there are more than a few names on the local and state ballots.

And those who stepped up and said they would run should be commended. It is not a simple or easy decision to put your name on a ballot.

But now the most important work starts.

It is all well and good to say you want to be a council member, a state legislator or even the governor.

It is another thing to be qualified to do so -- and to be the best choice for the job.

Those who have asked to be considered should not be harassed or face unreasonable questions. But they should be prepared to tell voters why they are the best picks for their respective offices.

And those who have been in office need to be prepared to defend their records.

That is how you make sure you get officeholders with the right motives and the skills to lead this city, county and state in the right direction.

Published in Editorials on March 1, 2012 11:40 AM