Two-party system is alive and well

The Daily Bee is certainly correct that democracy was the big winner in the recent election — with 79 percent of Bonner County registered voters casting ballots. And while Republicans came out on top in our races (narrowly in several) in the most GOP of all states, there is some encouraging news for outnumbered Democrats.

More than one out of three Bonner County voters (38 percent percent) chose John Kerry for president in a state whose last Democratic presidential choice was Lyndon Johnson in 1964. In North Idaho's District 1, Democrat Steve

Elgar got more than 6,000 votes to tie Republican Eric Anderson among Bonner County voters, and Tony Lamanna came up only 36 votes short of winning the sheriff's race. Elgar's hard work and clean campaign set the standard for future Democratic gains in North Idaho.

And while presidential election years generally turn out more GOP votes in Idaho — there is hope for the Democrats to pick up legislative seats in 2006.

The record turnout at Bonner County's Democratic Caucus earlier this year is another sign that the party is alive and well.

Contrary to what some may feel, it is important to preserve a two-party system in our county and in Idaho. Good legislation results from having all sides of issues aired before a consensus is established. Let's keep supporting a two-party system in Idaho.

DEBORAH CROSSETT, Chair

Bonner County Democrats

Cocolalla