Election officials stress importance of voting in local races

BLOUNTVILLE, Tenn. (WJHL) – Voters across the State of Tennessee made their way to the polls on Thursday to participate in local elections.

Thursday morning, voters in Washington County cast their votes for state elections and local school boards.

Washington County Certified Administrator of Elections Dana Jones said that while many may not consider the school board elections as important as others, voters ought to take every opportunity to head to the polls.

“We really encourage everybody to come out and have your voice heard,” Jones said.

Election committee member Mike Elder backed Jones’ statement and said voting in smaller elections is important to the county overall.

“Every time there’s an election, try to make the effort to keep up with when they are, where they are,” said Elder. “Voting is our biggest and most basic right in this country, and it’s just extremely important to exercise that right.”

Kingsport residents had big decisions on their ballots, including alderman seats and the title of mayor. Sullivan County’s Administrator of Elections Jason Booher said that while the races are specific to the city, they can be as important as other major elections.

“Local elected office decisions are made daily, weekly, monthly,” said Booher. “That affects voters and constituents and residents of their county or the particular area of the county on a daily basis.”

The polls opened at 8 a.m. and close at 8 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.