Are Local Elections Important?

Recently I posted on LinkedIn highlighting how hard our Electoral Administrators work

all year round. Now I ask the question; Are Local Elections Important?

I'd like to talk about a topic that's close to my heart: the importance of voting in local

elections. I know, I know, you're probably thinking, "Yawn, how boring! Who cares about

local elections?" Well, my dear friend, let me tell you that local elections are like the

vegetables of democracy: they may not be as exciting as a juicy steak or a bacon

sarnie, but they're essential for a healthy democracy.

First of all, let's start with the basics. Local elections are all about choosing the people

who will represent you in your local council or local government. These people are

responsible for making decisions that affect your everyday life, such as setting council

tax rates, managing local services like rubbish collection and recycling, and making sure

that your local area is safe and well-maintained.

Now, I know what you're thinking: "But Grant, I don't care about rubbish collection or

council tax rates. That stuff is boring!"Well, my dear friend, let me remind you that these things may seem boring, but they're actually incredibly important. For example, if your

local council doesn't manage rubbish collection properly, you could end up with

overflowing bins and a stinky neighbourhood. And if your local council sets council tax

rates too high, you could end up paying more than you can afford, which could put a

strain on your finances.

Those that know me well know I enjoy the funny side of local elections. You see, local

elections can be pretty hilarious if you look at them the right way. For example, did you

know that in the 2002 local elections, Hartlepool United Football Club’s mascot,

H’Angus the Monkey was elected as the mayor of Hartlepool?, https://lnkd.in/eAbZDu-6,

Yes, you read that right: a man dressed up as a monkey ran for office and actually won

and was mayor for over 11 years! In 2018, in homage to Trump, a councillor in Cheshire

was elected after promising to build a wall to keep out Welsh sheep.

In all seriousness, voting in local elections is incredibly important. These elections may

not get as much media coverage as national elections, but they have a big impact on

your life. So, if you want to have a say in how your local area is run, make sure you vote

in the next local elections.

In conclusion, my fellow citizens, I urge you to get out there and vote in your local

elections. Not only will you be doing your civic duty, but you'll also be contributing to a

healthy and vibrant democracy. And who knows, you might even get a good laugh out of

it!

#elections #LE23 #ElectionShop