Given that former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo recently urged so-called Christian supporters of the Family Research Council hate group to help preserve “religious freedom” and “Make America Great Again” by running for school boards nationwide, it’s essential that open-minded citizens who embrace critical thinking serve on these boards. 

After all, it’s the vision of school board members that help guide the education of America’s upcoming generations. 

The last thing we need is another Q-Anon/conspiracy theorist like the mayor of Sequim sitting on the school boards of Port Townsend, Sequim, Chimacum, Quilcene, Brinnon, Queets/Clearwater, and/or Quillayute Valley. Perish the thought of an anti-vax proponent of alternative facts running unopposed for Port Townsend City Council. Nor do we need someone directing fire and hospital policy who thinks that some of us, including LGBTQ people, should burn in hell and be denied medical care for our burns.

Invoking the word “freedom” is fraught to misunderstanding in an age when people equate refusal to wear masks or be vaccinated with “personal freedom.” Best to urge anyone with a commitment to truth rather than false narratives to consider running for local office (rather than the Canadian border). 

All candidates in the upcoming Jefferson County elections must file by Friday afternoon, May 21. The time is now. Your service will earn the appreciation of us all.

Jason Victor Serinus
PORT TOWNSEND