The votes have been cast and most of the candidates chosen — but the political rhetoric has only just begun.

Now that both parties have determined the field in every race but the presidential one, the real circus will begin soon enough, culminating in the November general election.

Although far from perfect, it will include the key element that our democratic system was built upon: choice.

Despite what the politicians and die-hard party liners will say, the next election shouldn’t be about partisanship.

It should be about moving our community, our state and our great nation forward. It should be about finding unity and common ground that can help America find its place atop the global economy.

How do we do those things?

By culling through the propaganda and party talking points to find the candidate with real, tangible ideas to spark job growth, promote a better quality of life for all Americans and lay the blueprint for the success of future generations.

The best way to do this is read, listen, ask questions and seek information from a variety of sources.

If you just watch FOX News, you might only see one slant. If MSNBC is the sole info source, you may only be exposed to another.

Seek lots of information from a variety of media outlets. Then make up your own mind.

No one can go into the voting booth with you. The decision should be yours alone.