Every Vote Counts

By Jessica Johnson Bennett

Remember: Every vote counts.

Some political pundits have deemed 2006 one of the most important Congressional elections since the early 90's. Both the House and Senate are at stake this November and there are many Members of Congress who are in the political fight of their lives.

Prior to last Tuesday, August 8th, no incumbent member of the House or Senate had been defeated in a primary election this year. But in one fell swoop, there were three.

Connecticut Democratic Sen. Joseph I. Lieberman lost to businessman and Iraq war opponent Ned Lamont (though the incumbent quickly filed to run for re-election as an independent). Georgia Democratic Rep. Cynthia A. McKinney was unseated by former local official Hank Johnson, the second time that she lost a primary during her checkered congressional career. And Michigan Rep. Joe Schwarz, a moderate Republican, lost to Tim Walberg, a conservative former state representative, in a battle between the GOP's ideological wings.

These results made Tuesday the first time since 1992 that at least three incumbents were defeated in primary elections on the same night. This only strengthens sentiment on the importance of the mid-term elections in November will be.

So far this year, two-thirds of the states and almost three-fourths of the House districts have held primary elections.

Below is a list of upcoming primaries by state:

• Wyoming - August 22
• Florida - September 5
• Arizona - September 12
• Delaware - September 12
• District of Columbia - September 12
• Maryland - September 12
• Minnesota - September 12
• New York - September 12
• Rhode Island - September 12
• Vermont - September 12
• Wisconsin - September 12
• Massachusetts - September 19
• Washington - September 19
• Hawaii - September 23

It is incredibly important that everyone get out and vote. Remember every vote counts and the best way to be a voice for the Masonry Industry is to vote.

About the Author

Jessica Johnson Bennett was the Director of Government Affairs for MCAA. She has an extensive background in public affairs and government relations. Her expertise in strategic planning, PAC management and operations help on key policy issues.