Most recall efforts fizzle out because the recall organizers are tiny in number and the number of signatures needed is great. Getting on the ballot is only half the battle, because the people who elected the person will most likely vote to keep him on the job.
We elect our representatives for two, four or six years. If an elected official does what he promises during the campaign, we re-elect him. If not, we elect someone else. A recall effort shortcuts this basic democratic process.
Yet sometimes the harmful actions of an elected official warrant a recall rather than waiting until the next election. Recently, the Brookings mayor and two city councilors were successfully recalled after failing to fire the city manager following her conviction of shoplifting.
A group of citizens launched a recall petition against Josephine County Commissioner John West on Aug. 2.
West was elected two years ago after campaigning to support the Sheriff’s Office by eliminating wasteful spending, minimizing tax increases and running the county in a more business-like manner.
By doing this he has ruffled some feathers and upset some people inside and outside of government. Limiting government is not as much fun as expanding government … until it comes time to pay for bigger government.
Before you sign the petition, ask the petition gatherer, “What has John West done wrong?”
Listen carefully, write down the answers and check out the accuracy before you sign your name.
There is no need to rush because you have until Oct. 31 to sign the petition. Consider West’s defense against the allegations done in writing and on radio/TV interviews. He’s defending his reputation and track record and deserves a fair hearing.
The Eagle has reviewed the assertions, the facts and West’s responses, and does not support this recall effort. West should be given the opportunity to complete his work over the remainder of his term. Then let the People decide.
Richard Emmons
This editorial originally appeared in the August-September 2024 Oregon Eagle.