Thanksgiving week is here, and while many are preparing for gatherings and traditions, others are entering this time carrying very different realities. This season invites us to hold a fuller picture of our communities. Gratitude can exist alongside grief. Celebration can sit beside struggle. And honesty can help us understand the moment we are living in with greater clarity and care.

The campaign signs are coming down. The ballots are almost fully counted. As of today, 7,809 ballots have been tallied, with an estimated 25 left to count. That puts Pacific County’s voter turnout at 43.6 percent.

But in city after city, district after district across Pacific County, there was no real contest at all.

On this Veterans Day, we pause to honor those who have worn the uniform, served our country, and returned home to build their lives among us.

Election Day has ended and political candidates across the country have given their victory speeches. A few campaign advertisements might linger in yards or on roadways but will soon dissipate into the signs and sounds of our coming winter holidays. What happens between Election Day and January 1st for our newly-elected officials, though? Is this the calm before the storm

We’re grateful for everyone who showed up this election; voters, candidates, and our PCVU canvassers. Now we face a quieter truth: many races had no challengers. So we look ahead to the seats left uncontested, and to the neighbors who might be ready to step up next.

As the election deadline nears, it’s important to know what to do if an issue arises with your ballot. Below you’ll find common ballot-casting problems and how to make sure your vote counts.

This voter guide was created by Pacific County Voices Uniting (PCVU) to help residents better understand the local positions and offices that shape daily life in our communities. Local elections often have a direct impact on schools, health care, emergency services, and infrastructure — yet many voters aren’t familiar with what these roles actually do. Our hope is that this guide makes it easier to feel informed, empowered, and ready to vote.