This election means

Published 9:00 pm Monday, September 13, 2004

So it seems the predictions were true: Many voters are downright angry about the state’s new primary election system. Having to choose a party and vote only on its ballot in partisan races has so miffed some absentee voters that they’ve refused to take part in today’s election.

That’s too bad. Because those who refuse to vote at all are also boycotting local ballot issues dealing with libraries and emergency services, things that make our communities great places to live. There are also nonpartisan races on the ballot that don’t require you to make a party choice.

Our advice: Hold your nose if you have to, but vote. Too much is at stake to opt out. If you have an absentee ballot, send it in today. If you’re registered to vote at the polls, make sure you do so between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m.

Here’s a recap of contested races for which this editorial board has made recommendations:

2nd District, Republicans 4 Suzanne Sinclair

Larry Klepinger

Glenn Coggeshell

GOVERNOR

Democrats 4 Chris Gregoire

Ron Sims

STATE ATTORNEY GENERAL

RepublicansDemocrats 4 Mike Vaska4 Mark Sidran

Rob McKennaDeborah Senn

STATE LEGISLATURE

10th District, Democrats House Pos. 1

4 Nancy Conard

Gina Bull

21st District, Democrats House Pos. 1

4 Mary Helen Roberts

Mike Huisman

38th District, Democrats House Pos. 1House Pos. 2

4 John McCoy4 Mike Sells

Randall RikeDavid Simpson

39th District, Democrats Senate

4 Susanne Olson

John Painter

SNOHOMISH COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT JUDGE

Position 8Position 13

4 Eric Lucas4 Michael Downes

David HulbertMichael Hall

CITY OF EVERETT

Proposition 1 (sales-tax increase for Everett Transit)

4 No