Tom Dent has principles, character

I am writing this letter in support of Tom Dent, candidate for state representative in the 13th District Position 1.

I am in great hopes that the voters of the district will take it upon themselves to check out the accusations that are being thrown around both verbally and in print against a man with a great reputation, strong leadership skills and a proven history of love for this district and our country. For 37 years he has been a successful and respected businessman in the Basin.

Tom was elected to lead the Grant County Republican party for nine years, and under his guidance the party grew to the strongest position in its history. Many GOP members in Grant County were very upset when we learned that Tom had made the decision not to run again for Chair of the Grant County GOP. Tom believed that others should have the opportunity to step up and serve as he had done and he wanted to move on to other areas he felt he could make a difference in. Since Tom left the chair's position, our PCO participation rate has dropped considerably as has the volunteers to get the message out. Tom knows how to lead without a dictator attitude and he inspires his volunteers to work hard for the cause that we all believe in. He knows how to listen to all sides presented and then acts with the honesty and integrity he is known for. This area is his home and he has demonstrated strong values and lived what he believes.

I have been honored to represent a portion of Grant County as a PCO since 2005 and feel I can speak from experience. I am a volunteer who believes if you don't step up and try to fix the problem you shouldn't be making cheap comments that are usually unfounded and carry no credibility. I have watched many of Tom's critics who held PCO positions for one or two terms, just quit because they couldn't get their "personal agenda" shoved into conservative policies. I have witnessed manipulative individuals unsuccessfully try to use the Grant County Republican Party and their office to stair step their way to loftier positions for their personal gains. I can honestly say I have never witnessed Tom Dent doing those things. He is a principled man with great character and strong "American" beliefs that he lives by.

I therefore ask the voters of the 13th district to vote for a proven leader with strong leadership skills, and a deep desire to work for the voters of this district and state. Tom is a principled man with great character and a strong "American spirit".

Candace Erickson

Ephrata