The Kendall County Republican Party wants to remind you October 7th is the deadline to register to vote.

Host:  Michael Ethridge / Mike Wheeler

CONTACT:

kendallcountyGOP@gmail.com

P.O. Box 1044, Boerne, TX, United States

Headquarters:

624 N. Main Street, Ste 202, Boerne, TX, 78006

Original Air Date: 9/28/24 as heard on Boerne Radio 103.9FM

Transcript Below: 

Michael Ethridge:
Welcome back to Boerne Radio and a segment we’re calling the Grand Old Chat brought to you by the Kendall County Republican Party! My name is Michael Ethridge and today, I’m joined by Mike Wheeler, the Chairman of the Kendall County Republican Party, here to talk about the importance of registering to vote, the upcoming deadlines, and why it’s crucial to not only vote in the major races but also pay attention to those down-ballot elections. Thanks for joining us, Mike.

Mike Wheeler:
Thank you for having me! It’s a real privilege to be here today. With election season in full swing, we want to make sure that every voter knows how important their voice is, especially this year with so much on the line.

Section 1: The Power of the Vote

Michael Ethridge:
Let’s start with the basics. Voting is something we hear about constantly during election season, but can you explain why it’s so critical for Texans to register and vote, particularly from the perspective of the Republican Party?

Mike Wheeler:
Absolutely. Voting is, without question, the bedrock of our democratic system. When we vote, we exercise our right to decide who will represent our values, who will work to protect our freedoms, and who will lead our communities and our nation forward. From a Republican standpoint, we believe strongly in principles like individual liberty, smaller government, lower taxes, and economic freedom. Voting gives us the power to ensure that these ideals remain at the forefront of local, state, and national policy.

Think about it—every vote is a step toward shaping a future where personal responsibility is valued, where the government serves the people and not the other way around, and where families can thrive without excessive interference. We want Texans to know that their vote is their voice in keeping Texas strong, prosperous, and free.

Michael Ethridge:
And that’s especially important in a state like Texas, right? Given how politically diverse the state has become, how do you address folks who think their vote won’t make much of a difference?

Mike Wheeler:
Great question. Texas has certainly grown and changed over the years, but one thing remains constant: Every vote matters. We’ve seen in recent years how elections—even major ones—can be decided by razor-thin margins. It’s the same at the local level. There are countless examples where a school board race or a city council seat was determined by just a handful of votes. Imagine being that one voter who made the difference—your vote is literally deciding the future direction of your community. There was even a dead tie right here in Kendall County back in 2012!

Also, people sometimes forget that state policies and local leadership directly impact their day-to-day lives more than they realize. Local tax policies, zoning laws, school budgets, public safety initiatives—these are all influenced by elected officials we often overlook. Voting is how we ensure those positions are filled by people who share our values of fiscal responsibility, public safety, and strong educational standards.

Section 2: Down-Ballot Races

Michael Ethridge:
You mentioned local races, which brings us to an important point. A lot of people tend to focus on the big-ticket races, like the ones for President, Governor, or U.S. Senator. But down-ballot races are just as critical. Can you explain the importance of voting in those down-ballot races?

Mike Wheeler:
Yes, this is a key point, and it’s something we really need to drive home. Down-ballot races—things like city council, school boards, judicial races, and even bond propositions—can have a direct impact on the everyday quality of life for Texans. Yet, they often receive far less attention than the big, headline-grabbing races.

Let me give you an example: most people don’t realize that many of our judges are elected positions. These are the folks who interpret the law and uphold justice, and in some cases, they have the final say on issues related to your freedoms and rights. Voting for conservative judges who understand the Constitution and apply the law as it’s written is incredibly important. It’s about having leaders in place who won’t legislate from the bench but will protect our legal system’s integrity.

Michael Ethridge:
That’s a great point. I think people tend to overlook how impactful those local positions can be. Do you think enough attention is being paid to these down-ballot races?

Mike Wheeler:
Unfortunately, no. While turnout for the top-of-the-ticket races tends to be higher, there’s often a steep drop-off when it comes to down-ballot races. But the reality is, the policies set at the local level—from tax rates to zoning laws—are the ones that most directly affect our daily lives. These races are where we can have the most immediate and personal impact. By voting down-ballot, we’re ensuring that conservative, Republican values are reflected in all levels of government.

Section 3: Voter Registration and Deadlines

Michael Ethridge:
Let’s talk about voter registration. When is the deadline to register for this upcoming election, and what can people do if they’re not sure if they’re registered?

Mike Wheeler:
Time is running out! In Texas, the voter registration deadline is Monday, October 7th, so there’s no time to waste. If you’re not sure whether you’re registered, the good news is that it’s really easy to check online. You can go to the Texas Secretary of State’s website or visit VoteTexas.gov. All you have to do is enter some basic information, and you can confirm whether you’re registered. If you’re not, you can download a registration form, fill it out, and mail it in—or drop it off at your county voter registrar’s office. The whole process only takes a few minutes.

Michael Ethridge:
What about those who’ve recently moved or aren’t sure where they need to vote?

Mike Wheeler:
Great question. If you’ve moved, it’s crucial to update your voter registration with your current address. This ensures that you’re voting in the right district and that your ballot reflects the candidates and issues relevant to your community. And remember, early voting makes it even easier—Texans have multiple days to cast their ballot before Election Day, so there’s really no reason to miss out.

Section 4: Why Voting is Essential

Michael Ethridge:
Some people, especially in today’s climate, feel disillusioned or think their vote won’t really change anything. What would you say to encourage them to vote?

Mike Wheeler:
I completely understand that frustration. But let me say this—your vote does matter, and more than that, it’s your voice in determining the future of this country. Think about the critical issues on the table: the economy, the border, public safety, healthcare, and education. These are not just abstract concepts—they’re issues that affect you, your family, and your community. By not voting, you’re effectively giving up your say in how these things are managed.

From a Republican perspective, we believe in personal responsibility, limited government, and protecting individual freedoms. If you share those beliefs, your vote is how you help ensure they continue to be represented at every level of government. And remember, when you vote, you’re not just choosing a candidate—you’re making a statement about the kind of future you want to see for Texas and for America.

Michael Ethridge:
That’s a powerful message. Any final thoughts before we wrap up?

Mike Wheeler:
I’d just like to remind everyone listening that the upcoming election is one of the most consequential in recent history. We have the opportunity to elect leaders who will fight for our conservative values and ensure that Texas remains strong and free. But we can’t take that for granted—voter participation is the key. So, if you haven’t registered yet, please do so before the October 7th deadline. If you’re already registered, make a plan to vote early or on Election Day, and don’t forget to vote all the way down the ballot.

Together, we can ensure that Texas and Kendall County continues to be a beacon of freedom and opportunity for generations to come. Your vote is your voice—don’t let it go unheard!

Michael Ethridge:

Where can folks go to find more information?

Mike Wheeler:

People can find more information at our website www.kcrptx.com, following us on Facebook and Instagram @kendallgop, or by visiting our Headquarters at 624 N Main, across from Town & Country Nursing Center.

Michael Ethridge:
Thank you, Chairman Mike Wheeler, for shedding light on the importance of voting, registering, and being informed about down-ballot races. We hope everyone takes this message to heart and participates in this critical election.

Mike Wheeler:
Thank you so much for having me. Let’s make sure that every Republican voice is heard this election cycle!

Michael Ethridge:
Folks, remember to register to vote by the Oct. 7th deadline and find out more information by visiting www.kcrptx.com. Thank you for listening today and look forward to our next Grand Old Chat when we discuss early voting, talk about some of the candidates, and give you all the tools you need to vote to Make American Great Again!

This has been a political advertisement paid for by the Kendall County Republican Party.