March 1, 2018
Dear editor;
It has been well reported that the Republican chair of the Kane County Board, Chris Lauzen, has targeted three Democratic incumbents with Democratic primary challengers chosen by him and his fellow Republicans. According to news sources, only one of Lauzen’s chosen candidates has a Democratic voting record; the other two have long histories of pulling Republican ballots. As a result, incumbent Democrats Myrna Molina, District 1; Don Ishmael, District 3; and Monica Silva, District 7, face primary challengers. Lauzen does not deny that he is behind this scheme, or why. The Republican chair is apparently annoyed by opposition, so much so that he’s decided to reach into solidly Democratic Party districts, recruit those he knows will not challenge him, and attempt to secure their victory, and, for them, the taxpayer-funded salaries that come along with such positions.
What’s worse still is his stated rationale. “The three things that matter,” he wrote in both The Beacon-News and The Voice (March 1), “is if you are honest, hardworking and constructive in approach.” Each of us incumbent Democrats serving on the Kane County Board certainly considers us honest, hardworking, and constructive. We are genuinely committed to the principles, values, and aspirations of those with whom we share a genuine political affiliation. But, more importantly, we believe it is good to have a real diversity of opinion among those who govern the County and allocate its resources. Resistance, when it is warranted, produces better policies for all residents. Lauzen should not be so shaken by occasional opposition. He should be more confident in his positions, and less inclined to form a rubber stamp voting block. If there’s one thing we know Democratic voters have had enough of, it’s leaders who quake and quiver when challenged.
Myrna Molina (D), District 1
Theresa Barreiro (D), District 2
Don Ishmael (D), District 3
Angela C. Thomas (D), District 4
Brian W. Dahl (D), District 6
Monica Silva (D), District 7
Barbara Hernandez (D), District 8
Penny Wegman (D), District 20
Jarett Sanchez (D), District 24
