Mississippi’s Party Primary election is next Tuesday. You will have the opportunity to cast a ballot for the president of the United States and for your congressmen ]in either the Democratic Party primary or the Republican Party primary. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

For president of the United States, there are 13 Republican candidates and five Democratic candidates on the respective ballots. While some of these candidates have suspended their campaigns, their names will remain on the ballots.

Mississippians have a voice in electing the next president of the United States. This opportunity occures every four years and is only available because of the sacrifices of thousands of Americans. Honor these sacrifices by taking a few minutes to cast you ballot. Voting is our most important right and the key to our democracy.

Last year, a Mississippi House race with over 9,000 ballots ended in a tie. Your vote matters and each will be counted.

Please don’t forget to bring your photo ID and cast your ballot on March 8.

Delbert Hosemann is the Mississippi Secretary of State.