2026

This letter was written in answer to one written by the Democrat Washington County Chair, James Corbett, and addressed to the editor of the Banner Press.

Dear Editor:

I read the recent letter submitted by the Washington County Democratic Party Chair. While everyone is entitled to their opinion-and healthy political debate is part of what makes our country great-I believe Washington County voters deserve a response.

I am proud to serve as the new Chair of the Washington County Republican Party, and I strongly disagree with the characterization of Republicans as "a group of corrupt liars." There are thousands of Republicans in our county who are hardworking, honest people-business owners, farmers, veterans, parents, grandparents, teachers and neighbors. They deserve better than to be dismissed with a broad political insult.

Are Republicans perfect? Absolutely not. No political party is. I believe elected officials should be held accountable regardless of the letter beside their name. But disagreement over candidates, policies or past political controversies should not become an excuse to condemn an entire group of people.

The Republican Party in Washington County is focused on the future. We believe in limited government, fiscal responsibility, secure borders, strong families, individual liberty, public safety and protecting the constitutional freedoms that belong to every American. We also believe government should answer to the people-not the other way around.

Regarding data centers and other major development projects, asking questions about infrastructure, water, electricity, taxes, property rights and the long-term impact on our community is not hypocrisy. It is responsible government. Circumstances change, new information becomes available, and elected officials have an obligation to listen to the citizens they represent.

I particularly disagree with the suggestion that Republicans are somehow "waking up" and abandoning their values. From what I see every day, Washington County Republicans are engaged, energized and paying attention. We may not agree on every candidate or every issue-and we shouldn't be afraid of those disagreements-but our fundamental conservative principles remain strong.

Mr. Corbett and I may see the political world very differently, but we share the same community. I would much rather see Republicans and Democrats debate ideas, policies and solutions than attack one another personally.

So, to the person who put up the sign encouraging Republicans to vote: Don't feel sorry. Keep the sign up!!

Voting is not something we should never apologize for encouraging.

Thank you,

Christine Giese

County Chair

Washington County Republican Party