The column below reflects the views of the author, and these opinions are neither endorsed nor supported by WisOpinion.com.

It is election season again. Mailboxes are filling with campaign literature, phones are ringing, and text messages are arriving. While many voters focus on November, this year the August 11th primary may be the most consequential election of all.

Democrats will choose among six candidates for governor, two contenders for the 3rd Congressional District, and three candidates for State Senate District 17. These choices will determine who represents our communities and whose priorities will move forward.

In Crawford, Grant, Iowa, and Lafayette counties, turnout in the August primaries has traditionally lagged far behind the general election. Yet these western counties deserve a strong voice! If voters stay home on August 11th, others will decide who speaks for our communities.

Wisconsin has seen the importance of primaries before. In 2018, Democratic voters chose the candidate who would go on to become governor, proving that the August 11th primary can shape the future of our state.

As a candidate for state Senate, I believe voters have a clear choice. I am the only candidate who has spent decades building a business, creating jobs, and working throughout the entire district. My experience comes from the communities of District 17, not from political circles.

I have worked with businesses, families, and communities across southern Wisconsin and recently helped local residents and township officials preserve local control over land-use decisions. I showed up because local people asked for help.

District 17 needs leadership that understands economic development, affordability, agriculture, health care, education, and local control. Western Wisconsin deserves a senator who has worked in these communities and understands their challenges firsthand.

On August 11th, voters have an opportunity to ensure every corner of District 17 is heard. Don’t wait until November. Make your voice count in this very important primary.

Lisa White is a Democratic candidate for 17th Senate District