Editor’s note: The following is a letter to the editor. The opinions expressed in this letter are those of the writer, and do not necessarily reflect those of The Mendocino Voice. If you would like to submit a letter to the editor feel free to write to info@mendovoice.com.
Dear Editor,
I want to share with you why I am voting for Buffey Wright Bourassa for District 3 Supervisor.
First let me say that I have no interest in politics. I believe in ideas, not ideology and believe that the divisive nature of our two-party system has only served those in power and not those of us who give it to them. This is why I have stayed out of the political arena. Though I have voted in every election, at age 53 I have never publicly supported any candidate in my 35 years of my voting history.
It is only because of who I know Buffey to be as a person, as a public servant and as a community leader that I am willing to openly support her. Hearing of her personal and professional background and her willingness, commitment and unrelenting drive to rise above every challenge she faced is what led me to meet with her initially. After many hours of conversations, questions and discussion, I am convinced that she is the right person to serve as our Supervisor.
Buffey has experienced and overcome many of the issues that plague countless numbers of our neighbors. I know there is no substitute for lived experience in understanding how to address these complex issues on a personal and societal level. She has used her experience to support others both individually and in professional roles in Public Health and now working with those who are incarcerated.
In addition, Buffey has been showing up in many different roles throughout our district long before she entered this election. Because of her consistent service to the community, many who knew her in these public service roles encouraged her to seek this position. For over 15 years, she has been engaging in roles that have improved the wellbeing for all individuals, families and groups in our community for no personal gain of her own.
Finally, in conversations with Buffey, she has consistently shown a willingness to listen to and evaluate ideas based on their merit, not on political ideology. The “winner take all” mindset of our current political climate is not benefiting “we the people.”
Many times, I have heard Buffey express her willingness to support ideas that she knows are best for the greatest number of people, even when they are not her own wishes. I’ll never agree with anyone on every issue, but I trust her to engage in a sincere process to come to the best outcome for our community. In a county with a diversity of ideas and opinions, this is the type of leadership needed.
It is for these reasons I will be voting for Buffey to lead our district, and I invite you to consider doing the same.
Michael Reynolds
Willits