Bringing It Home: Why Local Politics Deserve Your Voice

If you’ve stepped back from politics in recent years—frustrated by dysfunction in Washington or disillusioned by the tone of national debates—you’re not alone. We’ve heard from many former Republicans in Summit County who feel politically homeless. But here’s what we tell them: don’t give up—come home.

Here in Summit County, we’re building a local Republican Party that reflects the values of balance, integrity, and accountability. We’re not relitigating national controversies. We’re not fixated on personalities. We’re focused on the needs of our neighbors. And we’re inviting you to re-engage—not in a national shouting match, but in a local movement for good government.

What’s at Stake Locally?

When one party controls every countywide elected office and every seat on the County Council, oversight breaks down and decisions go unchecked. Recent events illustrate this imbalance:

  • The sudden purchase of Skullcandy headquarters—without competitive bids or public input—left taxpayers footing the bill for an insider deal that seemed more about scrambling to justify expansion than long-term planning.

  • The approval of the Dakota Pacific development, despite overwhelming public opposition, sent a clear message: the people of Summit County were heard, but ignored. The council had made up its mind.

  • The County Clerk’s rejection of a certified referendum, based on a technicality that defied the spirit of citizen engagement, raised serious concerns about transparency and accountability.

  • And let’s not forget the .5% sales tax, sold to voters as a public safety initiative to increase funding to first responders, but later funneled into the general fund—a classic bait and switch that would never have passed under balanced leadership.

These aren’t partisan grievances. They are governance failures. And they demonstrate why balance matters.

A Better Way Forward

We aren’t asking you to abandon your principles. We’re asking you to help us apply them—right here in our community. We believe in:

  • Respecting public process

  • Holding leaders accountable

  • Ensuring local government listens

  • Elevating facts over narratives

  • Empowering citizens, not sidelining them

Our Summit County Republican Party is building a professional, community-focused organization—one that welcomes diverse conservative voices, champions practical solutions, and believes the people should be heard.

No Litmus Tests. Just Local Solutions.

If you’re a common-sense conservative, an independent voter, or even someone who’s felt politically homeless—we want you at the table.

There are no litmus tests here. You don’t need to prove your ideology or pass some purity screening to participate. What matters is your commitment to local issues and your willingness to work constructively toward solutions that benefit everyone in Summit County.

Unlike our opponents—who preach inclusion but often silence dissent—we truly welcome diverse views. We value respectful disagreement. We believe better decisions emerge when more perspectives are considered. That’s not just a principle—it’s a practice we’re living as we build this new, energized Summit County GOP.

Whether you’re passionate about fiscal responsibility, housing affordability, transparency in government, public safety, or simply restoring balance to local leadership—there’s a place for you here.

Because this isn’t about partisanship. It’s about representation. It’s about making sure local government works for all of us, not just the politically connected few.

Come as you are. Bring your ideas. Let’s rebuild trust, together.

What Can You Do?

If you’re a precinct chair, delegate, or longtime Summit County resident who’s felt alienated from today’s political climate—start local. Learn our objectives and talking points. Knock doors. Host conversations. Invite neighbors who’ve tuned out to give us a second look.

We’re not here to litigate the past. We’re here to build the future. One that’s balanced, grounded, and deeply connected to the people who call Summit County home.

If you’re ready to take part, or just to listen and learn, we invite you to get involved. Because local politics matter. And they need your voice.

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