The code of neutrality

Editor’s note: The following is in response to a political ad running this week that claims Jack Turner has not divulged who he is voting for in the hotly contested 3rd Congressional District race between Lauren Boebert (R) and Adam Frisch (D).

I most definitely know who I’m planning to vote for in the Dist. 3 Congressional race, but I’m keeping that personal. I have nothing to hide, but both political parties are looking for a reason to tag me with the opposition’s party label. The Dems are saying I’m a closet Republican, and the GOP is proclaiming that I’m a secret Democrat (both are entirely wrong). I will work for the best interests of La Plata County with whoever is elected to the Dist. 3 Congressional race as well as all the other Colorado elected officials whether I voted for them or not. 

To explain: Independent candidates are smart to abide by a code of neutrality when it comes to questions about personally favoring a Republican or a Democrat who is up for election. Why? Because Independents do not want to be pulled into the divisive political party battles they are working to mitigate in our current political climate. Independents must remain outside tribal party alignment fights. 

If elected, then an Independent can collaborate with (or oppose) representatives of one or both parties for the benefit of La Plata County citizens. Being Independent requires a candidate to embrace a path outside of normal party politics so that they can work with members of all parties more readily. This takes an assiduous attention to standing apart from left/right party politics, especially during elections when vulnerability is very high. 

The suggestion that my answer is a lack of principle for not revealing my private vote is erroneous. It takes plenty of courage, conviction and principle to run for office without the backing of a party. Independent candidates have none of the election advantages and financial backing Democrats and Republicans enjoy. On the other hand, we have no obligations or implied paybacks.

– Jack Turner, candidate, La Plata County commissioner