If there is any doubt that your vote doesn’t count, just check out the results of the recent primary election race between two local magisterial district judge candidates.

Former Lock Haven city police chief Kristin Smith garnered the Democratic nomination for the position serving District II in Clinton County by just one vote.

Yes, one vote.

Candidate Heidi Wright was the top vote-getter on the Republican ticket with 959 votes.

But Smith survived on the Democratic ballot, earning 265 votes to Wright’s 264.

Rarely do one-vote victories occur.

But when they do, they punctuate the fact that every vote in our Democracy counts.

Meaning your vote the privilege you are offered as a citizen of our nation is not something to be taken for granted.

For the right to vote has been defended by people who gave their lives for our country.

Don’t ever forget that and do your civic duty.

Both Wright and Smith put forth strong campaigns and are to be congratulated.

Also, we certainly cannot forget the long-standing service of Magisterial District Judge John Maggs, who is retiring from the position after about 20 years — a position he held with great integrity.

Our judges have the daunting task of essentially determining people’s futures when they do something wrong.

It is not easy, by any stretch.

The District II seat covers Mill Hall, Loganton and Beech Creek boroughs, plus the townships of Bald Eagle, Beech Creek, Greene, Lamar, Logan and Porter.

Wright and Smith will face off in November.

Oh, and that’s Nov. 7, so you can mark it on your calendar.

— Lock Haven Express