Have you made up your mind how you'll vote this fall? If not, this short survey should help you evaluate your choices.

1. Should public schools provide a stimulating learning environment for all kids?

2. Does every neighborhood deserve prompt response to fires and other emergencies?

3. Is there a role for government in stimulating economic development and job creation while minimizing homelessness and hunger?

4. Are prevention and early detection of illness goals that our society should pursue vigorously for the health of all, regardless of income?

5. Should we make efforts to regain the respect of the international community while doing a much better job of national security?

6. Should we take steps now to reduce the emissions that are causing our planet to overheat?

7. Do you believe in a system of taxation that takes into account one's ability to pay?

8. Should our collective dollars support the maintenance of public structures like bridges, tunnels, and roads on an ongoing basis, to avoid unnecessary future expense?

9. Would it be better for our whole society if students graduated from college without enormous debt?

10. Should our government ensure adequate testing of food and drugs to protect consumers from needless risk?

11. Should we invest in public transportation in order to reduce energy consumption?

12. Should our pooled resources be put to work for the common good (rather than the interests of the few)?

If you can thoughtfully say yes to some of these questions, especially the last one, your values are clearly compatible with the Democratic party mainstream. You will make your priorities a step closer to reality by voting for Democrats this fall.

Three Democrats are running for governor: Christopher Gabrieli, Deval Patrick and Thomas Reilly.

Assuming you're registered to vote but not enrolled in any party, or you're registered as a Democrat, you should participate in the election to choose a Democratic nominee. The primary is Tuesday, Sept. 19; polls are open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Vote for the Democratic candidate you believe would make the best choice in November. Whichever Democrat receives the most votes in September will be on the November ballot in competition with the Republican nominee.

Many citizens don't bother to vote in the primary and later wish they had a different option. Make your voice heard in September.

On Nov. 7, vote Democrat so you'll have a far better chance of creating a government that shares your values.

Are you appalled by what's happening in Washington, under the tight control of a Republican president and Republican Congress, but you think Massachusetts politics are OK?

Yes, our Legislature has a majority of Democratic representatives and senators (and they deserve credit for legislation that protects the public), but that branch of government doesn't have the power to set priorities and to manage the people's business.

It's only the governor who is responsible to all Massachusetts citizens. It's the governor who as chief executive of our commonwealth appoints the heads of agencies and commissions, decides whom to hire, what the priorities are, how to administer the law and the public's work. It's the governor who can veto progressive measures passed by a majority of senators and representatives.

Massachusetts has had 16 years of Republican chief executives. Think back to the Republican campaign slogans of economic development, jobs and fiscal responsibility. What is the record?

Consider how far down Massachusetts has slid during this long Republican era - four different governors from different backgrounds but sharing the basic anti-government philosophy of their party ("We're all in this alone!")

We've lost population. Job creation is 45th in the nation. Housing is less affordable than in 47 other states. Property taxes have increased by $1.8 billion since 2000, while municipal services and protections have been cut. College students and their families are struggling to pay the bills, and many have been priced out of public higher education. Public transportation has suffered, and the Big Dig has become the butt of national jokes about cost and safety management.

Because of the rising cost of living, only the wealthiest are getting ahead.

If a review of Massachusetts' decline during the past 16 years of Republican management isn't enough to make you vote Democratic this year, think about the national situation.

As Gov. Romney says, "Having more Republican governors means more Republican congressmen, senators and better support for the presidency."

This fall's election will have a profound effect on both state and national priorities. Vote your values!