Letter: In a county, region and state being led by Republicans, our problems are Republican problems

Voting is an essential part of our democracy and the most important step in ensuring that the people we put in leadership positions are interested in governance more than power, in making policy more than making money.

We do this by listening to what they have to say…and just like in 2020 our incumbent party of local Republicans ain’t saying much.

Historically, saying little is how they keep getting elected. While talking might be revealing. This became apparent during the gubernatorial debates when the Republican candidate could barely muster a criticism of Indiana as his party has been in charge for the last two decades. Where he did, he blamed up until he hit the first Democrat. (Note: He is also a US Senator.)

Just to be clear, Dubois County is a county run by Republicans, in a district run by Republicans, in a state run by Republicans. It should be weird to blame our problems on the President. Common sense will tell you the President has little to do with our state’s education policy (especially regarding vouchers), the condition of our roads, or even if we build a new road. 

Regardless, when politicians stay silent, we should take little comfort in knowing that we aren’t being lied to. We have to be aware of current state and local issues. Single-party representation can easily become echo chambers and rubber stamping, costing us taxpayer money, oversight, representation, and our futures. It can lead to a ruling party that governs based on grievances, greed, and religious morality instead of cold, hard facts.

Fortunately, there is still time to call a town hall. And while I can understand there might be little interest in holding one if not all the candidates are willing to participate, I think it is worth noting who doesn’t show up as well as hearing from those that do.

Joe Huddleston
Jasper