Dear editor:

This is a very important election for the state of Wyoming, not only for the local races, but for the state and national races as well. Those elected will help shape Wyoming for the next four years, if not longer. I urge everyone to thoughtfully consider each candidate and vote for the person who best represents your values and your vision for the future of Park County.

We have great candidates with the qualifications, experience and leadership skills required for the position they are seeking. They will be able to manage operations and employees effectively while maintaining fiscal responsibility and avoiding unnecessary costs to taxpayers. These candidates are quality people who will represent the citizens who elected them, not just a political party. These candidates have a history of listening to public comment, working with others, and consider different perspectives before making decisions to benefit the citizens of Park County.

There are other candidates who are more focused on advancing party priorities than addressing the everyday concerns of their constituents. As a result, practical and effective solutions to community challenges will be overlooked. These candidates appear more interested in promoting false narratives on social media to advance their agenda than in discussing factual information. They often resort to name-calling rather than addressing the issues with evidence. Based on their actions, I am not confident they will be receptive to public comment or represent the values of Park County.

One of Wyoming's most fundamental values is independence. True Wyomingites do not like being told what to do or how to do it. As voters, we choose the candidates who will best represent us and our values. We do not need a select few people at a party meeting deciding who is conservative enough to earn our support.

I urge you all to do your own homework, ask the candidates questions, and vote for the candidate who best represents you and your values. 

Tammy Thiel 

Powell