Mob mentality at work in county

In my 60 years as a local political junkie, I could never have dreamed the day would come when someone threatened to sue an elected official because of the “way” he “looked” at them. There will always be disagreements among elected officials and criticisms from the public. However, the vitriol being spewed by a handful of county residents tops anything I’ve ever seen locally. 

Have you ever been bullied, baited or set up or witnessed it happening to others? If so, you will recognize what is happening at our commissioners’ meetings. Unfortunately, the baiting worked on one regrettable occasion and the consequences continue to have a negative impact on conducting county business. This uncivilized behavior can only discourage qualified candidates from running for office. 

I was one of many who asked Luke Omodt to run for commissioner. I’m thankful every day for his knowledge and his intelligent and reasoned attempts to tend to county business. He follows the laws and policies that are intended to make our government work. 

A mob mentality is at work here. Don’t buy into it. A group of people appears intent on removing Luke from office. The ugliness you see now is what you will get if they ever have only their own people at the table. 

Preventing this from happening will require the vigilance of every voter who values respectfulness, common sense, and a desire to see our county’s business conducted in the way it is intended to be.

HELEN NEWTON

Sandpoint