A vote for Shannon Williamson could elect Ken Lawrence as mayor by splitting the votes of the majority. The smart choice is a vote for Mayor Shelby Rogstad, which positions Shannon to continue in her important position as our council president. Many of us admire both Shelby and Shannon for all their fine work in our community, but facing our political reality, there isn’t any compelling reason to replace Mayor Shelby with Shannon when we examine our basic policy issues.

Make no mistake, Ken Lawerence as mayor would be a disaster. He launched his campaign at the Freedom Festival, tacitly endorsing speakers who advocate for biblical basis of war and Redoubt movement. He’s a vocal Trump supporter backing One America News Network filled with conspiracy theories.

When extremists blanketed Sandpoint with hateful literature left in residents’ yards and robo-calls, Mayor Shelby strongly opposed them. It felt much like the Aryan Nation’s assaults in the 1980s which stained North Idaho’s reputation for years. On this point, we know we can count 100% on Mayor Shelby to stand tough in opposition to hateful rhetoric.

Mr. Lawrence recently claimed that “the budget has more than doubled” since Shelby became mayor. Fact is, 2016 budget was $39.4 million and now its $39.3 million. Chime-in Anita Aurit in her letter endorsing Jacque Guinan, stretching number to “over $40 million.” Obviously, dishonest and fabricated to sway voters.

For the goodness of our community, vote for Mayor Shelby Rognstad with Deb Ruehl, Kate McAlister and Andy Grout to council.

REBECCA HOLLAND

Sandpoint