Here's the bottom line: In Kootenai County, the primary elections have essentially replaced the general elections in partisan races. Look at 2012 again. Every single state and county office was won by a Republican. That's why non-affiliated voters shouldn't stand idly on the political sidelines and wait for the general election while the most important local decisions are being made in the spring. We urge Independents and other non-affiliated voters to register Republican soon so you can participate in the May 20 primary election and send the best, most qualified Republican candidates forward. You can do that by visiting the Elections Department at 1808 N. Third St. in Coeur d'Alene, going to any Department of Motor Vehicles office or by obtaining a mail-in registration card at idahovotes.gov/Coeur d'Alene Press Editorial Board. More here.

Question: I totally agree with the Coeur d'Alene Press editoral. Independents and Unaffiliateds should register as Republicans, so their votes will count in the GOPrimary, which is essentially the general election. Thoughts?