On June 1, Dallas County voters turned out in good numbers to the polls to vote for several hotly contested races.

The reason many believe the turn-out was so strong was the district attorney race, which

Michael Jackson won. For most of the candidates, their lives went back to normal.

However, for two candidates, the race never really stopped.

The three-man race for District Judge was whittled down to two as incumbent Nathaniel Walker and challenger Bob Armstrong advanced to face each other in today’s run-off election.

Both men have been spending money and time campaigning.

The messages are different.

Armstrong wants positive change, whereas Walker’s platform references his experience in the position.

For both men, no matter the outcome June 30 will mean the end to a long process.

The question is how many voters will mark a ballot.

Because of only one race being on the ticket for today’s election there is doubt that the turnout will be strong.

If Selma wants their elected officials to reflect their needs and wants, then Selmians must cast their ballot.

Staying home because of whatever reason is not a good enough excuse.

Because of the sacrifice that has been made throughout history, the right to vote deserves more than excuses. As Americans it is our duty to utilize the democratic process. Whoever wins today’s race, both candidates should be commended for the work and effort which was put into their campaign.

Please be sure to vote today, your community depends on it.