Jacobson the right man to lead KCRCC

We can all agree that unity is better than division.  

That’s why we’re glad to see Ron Jacobson, former mayor of Post Falls and current interim city administrator for Coeur d’Alene, was elected chair of the Kootenai County Republican Central Committee on Thursday. We think he is the right man to bring the Republican Party together and end the bickering between the KCRCC and the North Idaho Republicans. 

The back-and-forth accusations between these two political action groups have gone on for too long. They have increased in recent years. It’s time they come to an end. As Jacobson said Thursday, “I’m tired of infighting. I’m tired of separation.”  

So are we. So is everyone. 

Both KCRCC and NIR have bright, talented, and dedicated people within their ranks. Both organizations have contributed to the election process. They will achieve much more working together rather than apart.  

It will take time. We don’t expect instant harmony. Philosophical differences remain. Some see KCRCC as far right, while some see NIR as more moderate. There are issues where they collided. But it’s not so much that they can’t find a middle ground upon which they can both build a base to pursue common goals that will better serve the people they represent.

Brent Regan, who has been KCRCC chair for 10 years, deserves credit for his work on behalf of the Republican Party. He has done much to build it up. He has led it with clear objectives, many of which have been achieved. He does not apologize for leading the fight and does not need to. There is a reason he was roundly applauded by KCRCC members for his service on Thursday. Even his political adversaries recognize his tenacity when it comes to party politics. 

It does, however, seem like time for a change. There was too much conflict, too much division. Perhaps it explains why Regan lost his precinct committee race. Even within the ranks of KCRCC there was dissention, which is not surprising, as there is never 100% agreement. But the discord in the party had reached a point it was threatening its own success. New leadership was due. A change was needed. This is a good time to start. 

Ron Jacobson has proven himself as someone who knows how to work with all sides to get things done. His experience is invaluable. He has been around and is well aware of the importance of working together. There is a reason Coeur d’Alene wanted him as its interim city administrator. His knowledge and leadership are invaluable.

Jacobson said the central committee can achieve great things through cooperation and we agree. It won't be easy, but it can be done. For Kootenai County's sake, it must be done. 

Hopes are high.

Much is at stake.

Let's deliver the unity people want.