It likely goes without saying that the primary race for House District 47 has been unlike any previous race for the district in the past eight years. This year, incumbent Representative Jerry Paxton has faced three Republican challengers in Joey Correnti IV, Julie McCallister and Dee Garrison.

In creative writing, one of the most common pieces of advice given is to "show not tell". This can be difficult to follow, but the general premise is to use descriptors to build a scene rather than using one sentence to tell the audience what is happening. After attending last Thursday's political forum, I can firmly say that this rule should apply to political candidates as well. 

In modern America, political contention is nearly impossible to avoid. From family gatherings to the workplace, politics can often lead to gladiatorial-like spats. However, in these heated debates, it can be found that misinformation runs rampant and political discourse is impossible. 

On July 20, the Valley Service Organization (VSO) hosted the first of two forums as the remaining five of the eight town council candidates gathered at the Platte Valley Community Center (PVCC) Great Hall. 
Michael Cooley, John Jump and Steve Heinitz had all withdrawn by the time of the forum.

The evening of July 3 saw The Yard in Saratoga play host to three Democratic candidates as part of a meet and greet organized by Beach of Congress. Valley native Carl Beach, who is running for the U.S. House of Representatives, was joined by U.S. Senate candidate Yana Ludwig and Merav Ben-David.
The event, held outdoors, allowed for social distancing and masks were required for attendence.

With the Primary Election little more than a month away, Valley residents will have two opportunities to learn more about the candidates that will be appearing on the ballot on August 18.