LETTER TO THE EDITOR, Todd Stanton, Seward County

Some say we have only one local political party but I observe three. We have Democrats that are perhaps increasing with migration, we have Republicans (a party being redefined nationally) and then we have the Republican-In-Name-Only folks, RINOs.

It’s this last group that seem to be the source of much local strife and the issue has gained the renewed attention of the county GOP under its current leadership.

Those who aren’t what they appear or perhaps do not represent the fundamentals of their party, whether Democrat or Republican, need scrutiny. Local Democrats grapple with some whose actions or words are aligned with the extreme left — something I do not associate with the majority of our local Democrats.

There are local ‘Republicans’ who’ve not met a ballooning budget they didn’t like, particularly at the County level where an administration has presented budget proposals requiring thankfully defeated whopper tax increases two years running. The County Commission does not originate those budgets but a one vote majority passed a whopper built on deception in 2025 and we all know what followed. The correction required, demanded and implemented by the people has been mocked and vilified in some circles — by registered Republicans.

At a recent commission work session, simple and reasonable changes required to a budgeting process that has failed in both of the last two years were initially vigorously opposed. When something doesn't work, you make corrections. Let's hope the corrections initially agreed happen.

Though the GOP is the dominant party locally, the RINOs must be held in check. While not expecting all party members to agree with all policy, some of the basics regarding fiscal responsibility and good governance should not waiver. To our three laudable fellow citizens who accepted one year appointment to the Commission, take great care in to what and to whom you listen. It may be prudent to keep eyes and ears wide open when party officers and elected officials warn of the siren song that will draw you in to be smashed on the rocks. Three truncated commission terms rot on those rocks.

There’s a problematic undercurrent in Seward County of many unwilling to rock any boat. Some believe that ‘keeping the peace’ is an honorable political goal though it is not when it rewards the improper actions of leadership. Look where that has brought us. Serving in elected office begins by the establishment of leadership that is trusted by the people. If that trust is broken, then appeasement rejects the will of the people rather than representing it.

As we progress into election season, it may be provident for each party to spend additional time with potential candidates. What does a candidate truly stand for? Can they articulate specific measures that will be taken to rectify the biggest problem the county faces? If they can’t or won’t articulate solutions to the biggest problems, then the party needs to move on, swiftly, and so inform the public.