Editorial:

Finally, after what seems an interminable campaign, it's time to vote.
It was in February 2007 that Barack Obama announced his candidacy on the steps of the state capitol in Springfield, Ill. Even John McCain's victory in New Hampshire much earlier this year seems like ancient history in light of all that has occurred since.
But besides being glad another extended campaign season is finally over, don't forget to fulfill your important role by casting your ballot. And prepare to be patient since the lines may be long.
Politicians say that every election is the most important one of our lifetimes. In truth, all elections are important. By the act of voting, citizens are utilizing a hard-won freedom that is absent from much of human history. The ability to choose who will govern us is a precious freedom. We ought to honor it by voting.
There are serious matters to decide. Regardless of which candidate prevails, we will have a new president come next January. And depending on what happens, Congress could have a very different look as well. The new president and Congress will set a new direction for the nation — on the economy, on national security matters, on taxation, on any number of other matters that will establish our course for the future.
Whatever your stand on the candidates and issues, we encourage you to vote.

The Eagle-Tribune, North Andover, Mass.