It’s the most wonderful time of year.

No, not Christmas. I wish it was Christmas.

It’s that time of year that everyone of the age of 18 can vote for who they want in offices across the county, state and nation. For some, it’s a leap-for-joy, I can’t wait to vote feeling. For others, it’s nothing special.

Take Sports Editor Blake Von Hagen for example. He’s never voted in his four years of eligibility. His reason? The Calculus of Voting. You can read more of his reasoning on our website and if you’re concerned for his well-being, his email is [email protected].

As for me, I’m a big proponent of voting and I’m proud of each of you that took time out of what I know is a busy schedule to stand in line (or maybe walk right up?) to the polls. The races this year have presented themselves as tight— especially in the race for Tennessee’s open Senate seat.

Republican candidate Congressman Marsha Blackburn and Democratic candidate former Tennessee Gov. Phil Bredesen will face off in what has been a spicy and close race this season. The last debate between the two wound up in Knoxville and Staff Writer Kurt Welch was there. For a recap, check out our website. If you just want to know more about Blackburn and Bredesen, see pages four and five in this issue.

Another key race in Tennessee this midterm season? The fight for governor of Tennessee.

Democratic former Nashville mayor Karl Dean and Republican business owner Bill Lee look to take Gov. Bill Haslam’s place. Lee gained the Republican nomination in a surprise win against current Interim Board of Trustees President Randy Boyd. To learn more about the two, check out page six.

I’m excited to bring this issue to you. I hope this can be the start of a tradition at the Daily Beacon of highlighting the election seasons in an easy way for you.

‘Merica.

Kylie Hubbard

EIC