This is a summary of the endorsements we have made in the last several days. The previously published editorials explain our reasoning in more detail.

More important than how you vote Tuesday is that you vote. Our democracy works best when many people of diverse views participate.

We endorse President Barack Obama (D) for re-election. He has been steady and effective, especially in guiding the economy out of its free-fall and restoring America’s standing in the world. The Affordable Care Act, which his challenger promises to dismantle, is especially important to Alabama.

Charlie Holley (D) is our choice for the 5th District seat in the U.S. House, which includes Morgan and Limestone counties. He is inexperienced, but he recognizes that the incumbent’s divisive politics have damaged the district and the nation.

In the 4th District, which includes Lawrence County, we endorse incumbent Robert Aderholt (R). His seniority and moderation make him an effective representative.

We endorse Bob Vance (D) as Chief Justice of the Alabama Supreme Court. Unlike his opponent, Vance is a solid and nonpartisan judge who will not embarrass the state.

Twinkle Andress Cavanaugh (R) has the ability to be a good president of the Public Service Commission. We endorse her with the hope she focuses on her job rather than federal politics.

We recommend a “yes” vote on Amendment 1, which continues funding of the Forever Wild land-purchase program.

Amendment 2, which increases the state’s ability to recruit industry with economic incentives, also merits a “yes” vote.

We recommend a “yes” vote on Amendment 4, which removes segregationist language from the Constitution.

Amendment 6 is a pointless and illegal rebuff of the Affordable Care Act. We recommend a “no” vote.

We recommend a “yes” vote on Amendment 7, which requires employees to have a secret ballot prior to unionization.

Amendment 8 would reduce legislator salaries, tying them to the median household wage. We recommend a “yes” vote.

We recommend a “yes” vote on Amendments 9 and 10, which make needed revisions to provisions of the Constitution dealing with business taxes and banks.

Amendment 11 is an effort by some in Lawrence County to escape the application of a state law on police jurisdictions. We recommend a “no” vote, both because it is unnecessary and because it could hurt Lawrence County development.

Amendments 3 and 5 are local amendments pertaining to the Mobile area. We recommend a “yes” vote so the amendments’ fates are decided by affected residents.

Tuesday is your chance to shape your local, state and federal governments. Vote!