Next Tuesday, Nov. 8, cannot come quickly enough for all those individuals who have qualified for the Shreveport mayoral, city council and Caddo School Board races.
By 11 p.m. that evening, the results of the primary votes should be announced.
And except for a small number, the hopes and dreams of most of these candidates will end in defeat. Its a reality that all have recognized from day one but probably have not fully processed until voting day.
Many, many months of campaigning marked by countless hours and lost opportunities for rest, relaxation and enjoyment will come to an end.
The excitement and joy of the campaign probably ended a week or so after announcing for the race. After that, the campaign became an increasing heavy burden on the candidates, their families and friends.
Several candidates will find themselves in a run-off election to be held on Dec. 10. This will be a mixed blessing.
A candidate then has a 50-50 chance of winning, but at same time must continue to suffer campaign challenges for another four weeks.
The candidates that will be gearing up for a run-off election on the day after the primary will find themselves under more pressure than experienced before the primary vote.
A long, restful and joyful Thanksgiving break will be put on hold for this group and their families. And speaking of families, they are certainly not immune to the ups and downs of a campaign as well as friends of the candidates.
A political campaign is an unforgettable life experience and most often not a good one, even if successful.
Unfortunately, most citizens have little understanding of the extremely stressful and taxing challenges that a candidate will encounter.
Without regard to personal sentiment, citizens should thank all of the candidates for their participation in our democratic process.
Without people to seek political office, American democracy would not exist.
This involvement by citizens is as crucial as our right to vote.
John came to Shreveport in January of 1977 when he was transferred to Barksdale AFB.
He’s been active in Shreveport politics since deciding to make Shreveport his home.
John practiced law for 40 years and he now monitors local politics. He regularly attends Shreveport City Council and Caddo Parish Commission meetings.
John is published weekly in The Inquisitor, bi-monthly in The Forum News, and frequently in the Shreveport Times.
He enjoys addressing civic groups on local government issues and elections.