In Response to Ms. Kirby

Editor,

Regarding Ms. Kirby’s letter (Mountain Messenger 2/15/24), I’d like to set the record straight that there is absolutely NO PROHIBITION about a candidate stating whether they are a Republican, Democrat or anything else. The Governor makes these disclosures all the time when he appoints a judge.

There is nothing stating whether one is a Democrat or Republican that is inconsistent with the independence, integrity, or impartiality of the judiciary. A judge may belong to and announce his/her political affiliation whenever they choose regardless of their position. Nothing about doing so suggests an inappropriate bias against anyone.

Further, under the very same canon, candidate LaChance is charged with correcting this misstatement. "A candidate shall take reasonable measures to ensure that appropriate corrective action is taken if the candidate learns of any misrepresentations being made in his or her support by third parties."

Let’s see if he does so.

Derek T. Beverly

Sierra City