Climbing the election mountain

If you're disappointed with the turnout of Tuesday's elections, think of it another way. Think of it as a warm-up.

The fate of an important public safety bond was decided. Coeur d'Alene School District patrons made their choice on a school board seat. Highway district commissioners were selected.

Not to minimize any of those elected positions, but the gradient - and likely, the political temperature - will only go up from here.

Over the next dozen months, voters are going to decide key city council races before making their primary election selections for state offices, including some controversial legislative positions. Voters who show up at the polls only once every four years will be licking their chops, as the 2016 presidential primaries will help winnow down what looks like at least one potentially crowded field.

Our message today is twofold. First, congratulations to all the winners in yesterday's local elections. No matter how few people exercised their right to vote, they have spoken. If the ballots cast came from well-informed citizens who relish their role in shaping local government, the margin for anyone else's complaint is small.

But after what's shaping up to be another gorgeous, rejuvenating North Idaho summer, expect the gloves to come off. Arm yourself with as much information as you can in the coming months so when the November election and May 2016 primaries arrive, you'll be well-equipped to choose wisely - particularly if it's again a distinct minority that's doing the choosing.