Today is a momentous occasion. Today, four candidates for Beaufort County Sheriff will be narrowed down to two — one Republican, one Democrat — in the runoff for the November election.

Historically, primaries have low voter turnout. It would seem as though only those who are really invested in the races, or those who are habitually interested in local politics, tend to cast a vote. Should no candidate of the major parties come out a clear winner, the vote tallies often taper off come the second primary.

Every registered voter has, at some point, come to the realization that their vote really does count — especially in local elections. In recent years, Beaufort County voters have seen candidates edged out of a win by votes numbering in the single digits.

That’s why it’s so important to vote today, if a voter hasn’t already taken advantage of One-Stop Voting.

Primaries, especially second primaries, tend to slip by the public’s notice. This one shouldn’t. This is one in which every resident of the county should be invested. The two who emerge from today’s primary will likely be the only choices come the November election — the only choices for the person who will set the tone for all county law enforcement and its interaction with the public.

It may only be July, but it’s an important race, and one that will probably affect everyone in the county at some point.

Today is no day to sit aside and not participate, simply waiting for others to decide the choices in November. Today is, instead, a day to exercise the right to have a say in who will ultimately run the sheriff’s office. Today is the day to show pride in the ability to help a chosen candidate to office.

Vote today. Be a part of the process. It’s every resident’s right, and duty, to do so.