I am outraged and saddened by many of the activities I’ve seen in this year’s local political campaign.

Lake County candidates have had their signs stolen, damaged and torn down by people with a different political view. Worse yet our well-meaning citizens have been harassed and intimidated for not sharing these views.

When people feel they must resort to vandalism, intimidation and threats that has gone way too far. We must all stand together to ensure the rights of every one, which includes their right to openly express their thoughts or to run for public office. Rather then attack candidates we should thank them for offering to step up and run for public office.

I too signed the political fair practice agreement and pledged to abide by it in the spirit for which it is intended. I stand by that pledge and I stand by everyone’s right to free thought, speech and freedom of the press.

I disagree with both my opponents in this sheriff’s race as far as leadership and management style and philosophy. This is my right as it is theirs to disagree with my own.

I have stuck to the issues and not personalities, rumor or innuendo. If I do not know something is a fact I say so, however, I believe it is the obligation of candidates to share their views on the various topics when asked.

I believe in the right of free press, which has often exposed wrongdoing by our public officials who would have that information covered up. As a public official I believe it is my duty to work with the media not against them. Granted there are times when information must be held because of legal restrictions or an ongoing investigation however whenever possible the door must remain open.

I too followed the local blogs hoping to gather information to help make my decision to run for office. I hoped to learn what their perspective of problems and issues in Lake County were. I was amazed at the things being said about local officials and their families by people hiding behind the mask of anonymity and I have said so many times.

Complaining about government has become a national pastime but it is our right to do so. Sharing your thoughts of government and our elected officials is a good thing and we can learn from this. Attacking while hiding behind a mask is another.

I was very disappointed to see the vicious attacks on our deputies and their families and law enforcement officers in general. Nowhere do these victims have an opportunity to face their accusers or have an opportunity to defend their good names. Each time they have tried they are subjected to more attacks and shouted down. This is not the American way and I have no time for such foolishness. I stopped reading these blogs months ago.

I would encourage everyone to take the time to listen to what each candidate has to say, review what he or she have to offer. Only then can we each make an informed decision as to which candidate best suits our needs. Stick to the issues not personalities, then vote for the candidate of your choice. Please give everyone the same opportunity, free of interference, because your personal views may be different.

We must all stand together and not allow a few would-be thugs with special agendas to bully our community. Their rights are guaranteed but so are ours.

Jack Baxter is a candidate in this year's sheriff's race. He lives in Lakeport.