After a year of general boredom spiced up by only a few local races of interest, the political class on Whidbey Island is looking forward to the general election in November 2010 and the interesting campaigns that will precede it.

In our Tenth Legislative District, both state House seats are up for grabs. In the second Congressional District, Rep. Rick Larsen will be fending off challengers. There will likely be some statewide initiatives on the ballot, as well as an assortment of Island County offices.

This will be the first general election since the “Great Recession” firmly grasped the nation in its jaws, and Americans aren’t happy about it. Expect everyone, even incumbents, to run on the platform of “change.” It worked for President Obama in 2008, and people still want change. No incumbent can rest easily as long as the filing period is open. The formal filing period isn’t until June, but anyone serious about running will have to announce long before then.

Criticism of elected officials at all levels has been heated this year, particularly on the Internet which is where people go when they want to forget their mother’s lessons about manners. It’s not polite to speak ill of someone, although their policies are fair game. It would be beneficial to the public discourse if Internet users made a New Year’s resolution to stick to the issues. Otherwise, good people might decide to give up public office, or not bother running, even though we’ve never had more need of intelligent and experienced people in office, willing to work hard to serve the public.

If you’re one of those people who have been taking Internet potshots at office holders, now’s your chance to do something constructive. Join a political party or help start a new one, work hard to support your favorite candidates, or run for office yourself. This will be a fascinating year in politics so don’t just sit on the sidelines and watch. Join the fray, have some fun and help make a difference.