Local voters rally behind women

ISSUE: Congratulating successful women
OUR VIEW: Voters welcome female influence

The 2012 elections are another landmark accomplishment for women in government.

The top vote-getters in contested city council races in Radcliff and Elizabethtown were women. Barbara Baker collected 3,771 votes in Radcliff, which was 73 more than the next highest tally. Edna Berger led the field in Elizabethtown by a margin of 358 by collecting the support of 6,027 voters.

Even in uncontested races from smaller communities, women led the way. At the top in Vine Grove was Donna Spangenberger. Sonora Town Council balloting was led by first-time candidate Donna Clark. Lavinda Curl was out in front in West Point’s city election.

That’s before you mention the uncontested re-election of Circuit Clerk Loretta Crady and school board seats won by Janna Baldridge at West Point, Kay Sharon and Suzy Broadwater in Hardin County.

It is significant to recognize that this community as a whole is quite open to leadership roles for women. But it would be wrong to regard Tuesday’s winners based on gender alone.

The candidates named here are accomplished individuals who happen to be women. Their life’s work is no less distinguished than most of the male candidates who offered themselves in the election process. They are well educated, insightful decision makers who are willing to sacrifice privacy, personal time and resources to offer themselves in the often-thankless role of community service.

The voting public obviously recognizes these women as valuable contributors on the public scene.

For young women everywhere, they can serve as role models and encourage other women to step into council chambers or similar leadership positions. Glass ceilings do not exist in politics as former Gov. Martha Layne Collins proved decades ago and Pat Durbin demonstrated at Elizabethtown City Hall and Martha Baker on Radcliff City Council. County Attorney Jenny Oldham, Judge Pamela Addington and Magistrate Lisa Williams are among those who continue to set the pace today.

Hopefully, the community and the nation can someday reach the point when gender is not a consideration. All candidates deserved to be viewed in light of their talents, ideas, work ethic, and accomplishments — not outward appearances such as gender and race.

This editorial represents a consensus of The News-Enterprise's editorial board.