Vote for person, not party

By Linda Schmitt, Corvallis

There’s two political races in the county that defy reason. The mystery is that there is even a contest. Only a cynical view can explain it: the majority of Ravalli County residents simply vote R, no matter the candidates. 

See for yourself: Manzella has said her view toward Democrats is “know your enemy,” calling them communists and worse. She begrudges providing health care, despite Covid dangers. She sees guns as the answer to every problem. Her opponent, Margaret Gorski, is a moderate leader with a stance of “uniting not dividing,” a steady track record of public service in Ravalli County, getting results, supporting access to public lands, sensible support for education and health care …. a radical she is not.  

The second race, HD 87, is equally bizarre. Laura Merrill is a 30-year businesswoman here, known and loved for her care of her real estate customers. She has engaged with families through crises and transitions, appreciating the challenges life throws at a family. She’s regarded with respect and affection. She cares about education, affordable housing and health care. Ron Marshall is running as a Republican against her. His only position, ONLY position is that he wants to sell candy-flavored nicotine based, addictive vaping substances to kids.  

You figure it out, I can’t. Unless you believe that Ravalli County residents can only vote “R,” like lemmings going over a cliff together. Surely, we can do better.