Each time an election rolls around, inevitably there’s at least one race with disappointing candidate options. Whether it’s the lack of a standout, stellar candidate or even a “you’ll do” candidate, you’re left wondering how there could fail to be a single person who predominantly aligns with your values. And it’s not like those values are all that unique. There are plenty of people who share your convictions. Why aren’t any of them running?

Maybe it’s because you’re the one meant to fill that position, to uphold what you believe is best for our community, our county, our state. Has the thought crossed your mind and been dismissed? Have you come up with every possible excuse as to why this isn’t the time, this isn’t the position, or this isn’t within your list of known strengths?

Consider the schools. Consider how local, county, and state governments currently operate, and all the people contributing to those decisions and outcomes. Are you satisfied? Are the boards and offices being run the way they should be? What if the difference you’re wanting to see won’t happen unless you become a part of the solution?

You could be a voice for how school bonds tax the community or for what is being taught in our schools, either in your township or through the State Board of Education. At the state level, there currently are two Republican and six Democrats who sit on the Board of Education. Those six Democrats are the ones who recently voted to incorporate gender ideology into all subjects in the public schools. Not in favor of that? Two of those board seats will be on the ballot in November.

What do you think about solar, wind, data, and battery companies wanting to set up shop on our local farmlands? What do you think about how our property is taxed, how elections are run, housing is handled, or any other issue facing our state? There are seats available for State Representative, Secretary of State, Attorney General, and even Governor, US Senator, and US Representative.

And before you think you don’t have the right background, most positions merely stipulate that you’re at least 21 years old, a citizen, and that you live in the area you will represent. Political science degree not required.

You could be the just the voice we need. There is still plenty of time to file. The deadline to run for positions such as Secretary of State, Attorney General, Michigan Supreme Court  Justice, and State Board of Education is March 28. Other state-level positions have a filing deadline of April 21. The deadline for township and school board filings is July 21.

For the master list of seats available for the November election, check the Ottawa County Candidate Database.

Perhaps your gift looks more like “boots on the ground,” supporting your political party by attending county conventions and supporting local candidates through door knocking and other means. Precinct Delegates are needed for every precinct in every township, so there tend to be several seats available. Check the Precinct Delegate button on this page to see if your precinct is in need. The filing deadline is May 5. Precinct Delegates are voted on in the August Primary.

Determine the consequences of someone else being elected to the seat that was meant for you. Give running some thought. Pray about it. This could be your time to make a difference.

Here’s a place to start.