GRAYSON COUNTY, TX - The presidential race is one of several on the March 4th ballot in Texas. Tuesday night, the Sherman/Grayson County League of Women Voters held a forum for the public to attend and for candidates to state their positions.

Mystic Matthews attended that forum and has the story.

Dozens of people turned out for the event, which was organized by the local league of women voters. Not every candidate appeared, but organizers say the forum offered a little more insight into who is running and which issues matter most this election season.

"I came to see candidates because I'm undecided in several races and needed to be here tonight to see them put on the spot," says longtime Grayson County resident Billy Hamilton. He is like a lot of his neighbors; he feels strongly about the power of a vote.

But Hamilton says in order to cast a ballot, you should be educated on what, or who you're voting for. “Some people vote by the seat of their pants, but you really need to study candidates to make a vote that's proper.”

Hamilton says it’s sad that in previous elections, voter turnout has been low. Especially because of the impact the government has on all levels, nationally and here at home.

Hamilton says, “It's very important to attend these kinds of functions. Everyone in office affects your life in some way. I'd like to see people take more interest in politics. I know they are getting tired with all the things going on, but it’s very important even in the county level all the way to the top.”

The forum was also a debate between the candidates. Moderator Donald Johnston says it allowed people like Hamilton a unique opportunity, that campaign signs or ads don't provide. “If nothing else, people had opportunity to at least see a candidate. It’s important as anything to see and hear and know what they look like and sound like.”

Around 75 people came out for the forum, which featured candidates for District Judge and Constable. Even office holders who didn't draw an opponent spoke, all in preparation for the March primary.

Johnston says, “If anybody wants to be involved in a democracy, this is the way to do, exercise their right to vote.”

All candidates in races covering Grayson County were given the chance to speak and debate if the opposing candidate was there.

Election day is March 4th and early voting continues through this week across the state.