LTE: In response to AOC visit

To the Clinton County Electorate: In response to the recent visit at the Strand Theater by Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez—someone whose views are considered extreme even by many within her own party—the Clinton County Republican Party would like to offer the following perspective to our community. This appearance once again seemed focused on generating personal notoriety for those on stage, rather than offering practical or common-sense solutions to the real issues facing Clinton County. In light of this, we'd like to outline the stark differences between the extreme socialist views—often disguised under mainstream Democratic rhetoric—and the values held by the majority of Clinton County residents, along with the solutions that we, the Republican party, are committed to delivering. The Green New Deal calls for the rapid elimination of fossil fuels— a noble, but unrealistic and harmful approach for our rural economy. From dairy farms and loggers to businesses and schools, our region depends on fossil fuels for heating, transportation, and productivity. While renewable energy is a worthy goal, rushing to abandon reliable sources threatens livelihoods and stability. On immigration, Clinton County understands the consequences of weak border policies. Calls to abolish ICE and ignore border security put our communities at risk. Local law enforcement and border patrol play a vital role in stopping drug trafficking and deterring international threats—especially along our northern border, a growing security concern. Public safety is a top concern for our residents, and far-left policies undermine it on several fronts. The call to defund the police and replace them with social programs shows a dangerous disregard for law enforcement's role in preventing crime. Meanwhile, failed bail reform policies have allowed repeat offenders and dangerous individuals back on our streets with little accountability. At the same time, left-wing Democrat pushes for more gun control target responsible gun owners instead of criminals. In Clinton County, firearms are part of our culture—used for hunting, sport, and protection. We support enforcing existing laws and backing our police—not undermining them while letting criminals roam free. Socialist-style wealth redistribution remains a central tenet of today's left-wing Democrat platform. Handing control of personal and economic decisions to the government has failed everywhere it's been tried. Republicans believe in hard work, liberty, and the right to reap the rewards of our labor—principles that built our farms, businesses, and communities. And finally—we reiterate: This is Clinton County. Big-city policies won't work here. We value self-reliance, hard work, and community. Our residents are best equipped to decide what works for us—not out-of-touch figures chasing headlines. In closing, while national figures like AOC may bring attention and headlines, it is the values, needs, and common sense of our residents that must guide our future. Clinton County Republicans remain committed to protecting our rural way of life, supporting law enforcement, defending constitutional rights, and promoting policies that foster personal responsibility, economic opportunity, and liberty. Local Democrat candidates who aligned with this event should seriously consider the unintended consequences—of embracing extreme ideologies that do not reflect our community's priorities. We trust that Clinton County voters are smart, discerning, and deeply rooted in reality. They understand that these far-left policies won't work—not here in our local communities, and not on the national stage either. This November, we urge voters to support candidates who truly represent Clinton County values. Sincerely, Jeff Luck, Vice Chair, Clinton County Republican Committee The following elected officials agree with the above position of the Clinton County Republican Committee: Senator Dan Stec, Chad Deans County Coroner, Calvin Castine Area 1 Legislator, Francis Peryea Area 2 Legislator, Kevin Randall Area 5 Legislator. —Paid for by the Clinton County Republican Committee

Signup for our newsletter

LTE: In response to AOC visit

COMPANY

CUSTOMER SUPPORT

SUBMISSION FORMS

BEYOND THE NEWS