I know the huge national story is Obama and McCain (as it should be), and the good politcal blogs dig deep into Senate and House races, but don't forget to read up and study your local contests.
In my town, tonight kicks off the local poltical season with a Candidate Forum on County Commissioners. Tommorrow is a Forum to meet and listen to the Mayoral candidates. A little farther down the road is a Forum for City Councilors. I feel knowing about your local candidates races is just as important as following closely the National races.
I live in a rural part of Minnesota. So I know the people who are running for seats, but not their views on the direction the city and county should take to better the area. I don't know, to me it feels like if I have a suggestion to the Mayor or my Councilman, they actually listen to me and take my opinion under consideration. I really don't get that from my national Legislators and the President's office (especially during the Bush administion. I am hoping that Barack will change that.)
So anyway, take a night off from the national stuff and get to know your local candidates.
Thanks for reading
James