Tuesday, during the general election, Warren County won and it had little to nothing to do with the results.

In what amounted to an amazing turnout, 54 percent of registered voters in Warren County showed up and voted. They took the time to have a say in local and state races and, in the process, made a statement about the impact voter turnout can have on an election.

There were those who gave a few minutes of their time to cast a ballot for someone they supported or made sure to vote for someone other than a candidate they in no way wanted to win.

Whatever the reason, it was enough to get them to the polls and vote. It was enough for them to give of their precious time and vote. It was enough for them to take time to have a say in who will lead their district, their county and their state for the next four years.

It was enough.

For weeks, we had taken to this space to criticize voters for what many would consider disappointing or pathetic turnouts in previous election cycles. We had criticized voters for leaving decisions up to others, instead choosing to sit at home and do something — anything — other than voting.

We were tough in our words, in our criticism.

Today we instead stand tough in our applause and appreciation for a community, a county that came out and made a choice, who had their say in who they voted for.

In just a few short months, voters will again be called to vote, this time in the presidential primary election in March. Voters will again be given a choice on whether to take the time and make a statement in who they hope will lead our nation.

The act of voting, though, does not end on election day.

It continues in the study of how elected officials respond and act during their terms. It continues in the research voters must do on the issues of the day and how elected officials are dealing with those issues.

Voting is a process that involves much more than making a selection on a touch screen.

Today we celebrate in our way of life, our form of government and the way our friends, our neighbors and our community showed up and showed out on election day.