Over the past couple of centuries or so a number of requirements have fallen away — including religious tests, property ownership requirements, poll taxes and literacy tests.

And new rights for several formerly disenfranchised groups have been granted — including women’s suffrage, citizenship for former slaves and Native Americans and the right of 18 year olds to vote.

Of course, several Constitutional Amendments (15th, 19th, 24th and 26th) were necessary to accomplish this nearly universal suffrage for all American citizens.

California’s June 5 primary election is right around the corner. Lassen County vote-by-mail ballots should hit your mailbox this week. They must be received in the county clerk’s office by the close of the polls on Election Day — 8 p.m. Tuesday, June 5.

According to Lassen County Clerk Julie Bustamante, about 51 percent of Lassen County voters prefer to vote by mail and another 20 percent of county voters reside in mail-in-ballot precincts.

That means about 71 percent of Lassen County voters cast their ballots by mail. Bustamante said she begins getting vote-by-mail ballots back almost immediately

The last day to register to vote in the June 5 election is Monday, May 21. Voters who have moved or changed their address do not need to reregister, but they do need to notify the county clerk’s office.

For more information, voters can call 251-8217.

Everyone in Susanville must know by now, many of the candidates and their supporters in this election are divided into two camps — those who support the old, established elected officials and those who seek to establish a new guard with fresh ideas.

The newspaper does not endorse candidates or issues in elections. But we do ask you to do your civic duty and vote — send in your vote-by-mail ballot or visit the polls on Election Day.

If you don’t know which candidates deserve your vote, we hope our candidates’ statements included in both the A and B sections of this edition of the newspaper will introduce you to those running for office and help you make an informed decision.

If we are to have a government of the people, by the people and for the people, the people must participate.

Please cast your vote wisely for the candidates of your choice in this important election.