Mitchell's debate decision disrespectful

— Editor’s note: Republican Flathead County commissioner candidate Phil Mitchell has declined an invitation from the Daily Inter Lake to participate in a public debate with his opponent, Democrat Stacey Schnebel.

Republican candidate for Flathead County Commissioner, Phil Mitchell, declining a debate with his Democratic opponent, Stacey Schnebel, completely disrespects the public that he claims to have long served.

Mitchell clearly places his own monetary-driven interests ahead of the constituents’ when he states that his time is very limited due to fundraising and putting his campaign signs in order.

Further, Mitchell makes a bold assumption that his very partisan blanket statement tells us all we need to know about his views, and the views of his opponent for that matter.

What he fails to realize is that at the local level, partisanship should be pushed aside and the focus placed on the issues important to the community. As an elected official, Mitchell would represent all of the citizens of Flathead County no matter what the party affiliation.

What are his views on the local issues that directly affect us? Can he not show up to even discuss these important issues? To hear what matters to voters?

The meaning of a representative government is to represent the constituents.  Stacey Schnebel is working to bridge the daily disconnect that we have from each other and our local government.

I encourage each of you to examine what is important to you and cast an informed vote this November.

— Lacy Gray lives in West Glacier