BCRCC'S expensive mailers raise many questions

I have to say I was disappointed to see another expensive newspaper mailer from the Bonner County Republican Central Committee. From my perspective, the committee has gone beyond its role by trying to “verify” precinct committeeman candidates and sidestep state party rule Article IX, which limits endorsements in these races. These seats are supposed to give Republicans a direct say in the direction of their party. That choice ought to belong to the voters, not to party insiders.

What struck me most is that the candidates the committee opposes are talking about the things I hear from neighbors all the time: honest leadership, attention to local issues, and a willingness to work together instead of divide people. Those seem like reasonable priorities, not radical ones.

I’m also troubled by the committee’s reluctance to record its meetings. People should be able to see how decisions are made, especially when those decisions affect the party and its members. Transparency builds trust. Secrecy does the opposite.

Then there’s the cost of these mailers. It’s fair to ask how much they cost, who approved them, and whether all members had a voice in the decision. If nearly 45% of the committee’s 2026 contributions — close to $80,000 — came from outside Bonner County, including over $10,000 each from Wyoming and Eagle, Idaho, business owners, voters need to ask, why do outsiders want to fund our local politics?

Bonner County Republicans deserve open meetings, careful spending and the chance to choose their own representatives.

Please remember to vote May 19.

BARBARA SCHRIBER

Sandpoint