Tuesday Is Election Day

Jasper voters who don’t take advantage of the opportunity for early voting this week will head to the polls next Tuesday, Nov. 7, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. to cast their votes in many races.

Jasper voters like those across the state will help decide who will lead the state for the next four years. And, a small number of Jasper voters will decide a couple of races by themselves.

In conjunction with the midterm elections, voters in Monticello will decide who will serve as Mayor Pro tem. Only registered voters in the city of Monticello can vote in that race. Russell Gross and Ronald James are both seeking that position.

Voters in Jasper County’s District 1 will decide who will represent them on the Board of Education for the next four years. That district is primarily in and around the city of Monticello.

Stacy Standifer is attempting to maintain the seat, and she is being challenged by Sharon Campbell and Bobby Norris.

Jasperites, like voters statewide, will voice their opinions on proposed constitutional amendments and referenda.

Local voters will have a big say in who will represent them at the state level. Rep. Jim Cole is seeking his second term, while long-time Rep. Curtis Jenkins is challenging. Sen. Johnny Grant is also seeking to keep control of the post he has held for two years. Bruce Gilbert of Madison hopes to unseat him.

Jasper’s opinion will matter more in the House race than the Senate, but can definitely make a difference in each.

Those four gentlemen were in Monticello Monday for a candidate forum (see related story).

In Congress, Jim Marshall is seeking his third term, and faces opposition from Mac Collins. Mr. Collins previously served as Congressman.

A sample ballot was printed in last week’s Monticello News, and are available at the Courthouse. Voters can still vote until 4:30 p.m. today, Nov. 2 and tomorrow, Nov. 3. Otherwise, poll workers encourage everyone to study the ballot and know how they plan to vote when they head to the polls Tuesday.