Raves, Rants & Roses

RESPONSE: As a Republican precinct chair, I’m hearing rumors and sour grapes coming from the supporters of the two candidates who were not voted to be placed on the ballot for Precinct 2 Smith County constable. I want to set the record straight, based on the facts.

According to the Texas Election Code, if a candidate dies before the general election, the precinct chairs from the voting area are responsible for choosing a candidate to be placed on the ballot. This was done by 11 Republican precinct chairs after reading the candidates’ resumes and letters of recommendation, as well as hearing their personal presentations. For those who were not there and do not know all the facts, it is disgraceful to undermine the procedure by which we chose our candidate.

Andy Dunklin mailed each of the precinct chairs a resume packet prior to the Aug. 4 meeting. He was chosen based on his 23 years of law enforcement experience, his numerous letters of commendation from his professional peers and more than 3,000 hours of TCLEOSE training.

Andy Dunklin was never fired from earlier positions and, in fact, was given excellent recommendations. Unfounded rumors were investigated and found to be false. Based on his previous work experience and exceptional record, especially in drug interdiction, Mr. Dunklin was deemed to be the superior candidate by the majority of the voting area’s precinct chairs.

The Republican precinct chairs of Constable Precinct 2 were completely aware that the position needed to be filled by a responsible, honest and capable law enforcement officer and administrator. Andy Dunklin stood out among the candidates to be the best choice, and he won our trust to represent the Republican Party of Smith County on the November ballot.

How sad that a public servant who has put his life on the line for the citizens of Texas for so many years be subjected to this kind of personal attack. Before you believe the rumors, verify the facts. We did, and in the end, Andy Dunklin was the best choice.

Sharon Guthrie, Pct. 71
Tyler