It was pleasing to read the comments by Mongiardo’s Chief of Staff that “no one is making any effort to rig this election.” Later that day, the ink on the Herald-Leader had barely dried when Lieutenant Governor Mongiardo and his chosen candidate met with the Bell County Democrat party leaders.

Over the years many of us have supported Lieutenant Governor Mongiardo because he was not a “stereotypical” politician. Although we may not have agreed with him on some important issues that face Eastern Kentucky, we supported him because of his integrity.

Maybe the Lieutenant Governor does not fully appreciate the negative fallout from his actions? Many rank-and-file Democrats involvement is grounded in the belief that they are equally important. We should be allowed to choose our state senator without pressure from Frankfort.

Lieutenant Governor Mongiardo, it is not too late to take the honorable path. Please let each county party committee member know that they are free to vote for the best candidate.

The likely fallout for continuing this pressure will be to alienate much of the rank-and-file party base. When rank-and-file Democrats believe that their voice does not count they disengage. When rank-and-file Democrats believe that their voice counts they continue their involvement. (This is especially true when their candidate is not nominated.)

County Democrat party leaders, please select a senate candidate who will represent our best interests. Our party leaders should allow the process to advance without the old, negative political influences. We should not demean our character by stooping to the level of undemocratic politics.

1. Liberals

2. Partisan Republicans

I’ve caught some flack over my blogging against Noe by fellow Republicans who say he’s the best candidate to run against.