Everyone has heard the old expression that religion and politics are two topics that should be avoided at the dinner table. And there is a good reason why.

Small-town politics can bring out the best, and the worst, in some people. The Nov. 8 election includes several contested races and already has some groups lobbing virtual grenades back and forth.

Nearly everyone in the city of Ironton has weighed in on one side or the other when it comes to the school levy, the municipal fee and the municipal judge race.

Longtime friends have not spoken to each other in months. Neighbors have stopped waving at each other when they grab the afternoon paper. Signs have been destroyed. Family reunions have become very tricky.

Local politics are vital to how our city and county functions, but candidates and their supporters must keep the election in perspective - it is just politics. It shouldn't be so personal.

Just because a person supports a particular candidate doesn't make that person bad, and it doesn't make him wrong. That is the beauty of a democracy - everyone has a voice.

We urge every candidate to lead the way when it comes to running a clean, honest campaign. As with most things, leadership, respect and courtesy start at the top.

Each person running for political office or pushing for or against any of the local issues should lead be example and urge others to avoid dirty politics and other things that only serve to splinter the community.

Our governmental system ensures that anyone elected will have a chance to prove themselves before voters are asked to decide again. All involved should do their part to tell voters why they are the best candidates.

Mud slinging and name calling does not serve anyone well and only disenchants many voters. Lawrence County should set a good example with clean campaigns that focus on what each person brings to the table.

May the best man or woman win. Most of the time, the voters will be able to tell who that is.