Today is Caucus Day in Colorado, and that brings to mind a local campaign last year.
Last fall our community voted on a ballot initiative. The question was, "Should term limits be extended for the Office of County Sheriff?" - not only for the current sheriff, but for all future sheriffs.
I would venture to guess that most folks approve of our current sheriff's job performance. I would also venture to guess that folks who know our sheriff, like our sheriff. He's not perfect, but he's a hard-working, likable guy.
The YES position was: "It's hard to find a great sheriff. Since we've got one, let's keep him awhile." The NO position was: "But we're talking about extending term limits for all future sheriffs, not just this one."
I stood off to the side and watched the process. Throughout the campaign, it seemed both sides looked at the issue with genuine thoughtfulness. It was discussed and debated with honest philosophical arguments. No rancorous mud-slinging or name-calling. And the sheriff, to his credit, remained silent, letting the community weigh the pro's and con's of term limits without making it personal. All in all, it was the best election process I've ever witnessed.
As America heads into another presidential primary season, I want to toast those rare folks who are engaged thoughtfully and intelligently in the political process. You're a breath of fresh air.
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