HB254, just like HB176, only encourages more partisanship into local elections that have historically remained nonpartisan. There are no Democrat or Republican pot holes, schools, or zoning issues. These local issues are best addressed by the most qualified candidate who has the leadership qualities to bring people of differing political philosophies together to solve local issues. Not partisan candidates that are beholden to any political party. Please OPPOSE HB254 and ANY bill that makes nonpartisan local elections unnecessarily partisan.

Similar to HB176, this bill (HB254) would shift the focus of many local elections from individual qualifications to who has the support of various partisan institutions. But this bill appears to have an even broader reach. As a result, we could end up with partisan officials in positions that have been traditionally kept partisan-free. I realize that individual people have personal political beliefs that may lean one way or the other. But I don't see the need in unduly emphasizing these affiliations with formal party identifications on the ballot. For instance, do I really need to know if my local school board members are Republicans or Democrats? Such information, while potentially informative, should not be the primary basis for selection in roles that fundamentally require a focus on local issues, expertise relevant to the position, and an ability to serve the community above party lines. The potential inclusion of these traditionally nonpartisan positions under the umbrella of party identification could fundamentally change the nature of local governance. It could shift the emphasis from community-specific needs and qualifications to broader political allegiances, which may not serve the best interests of local communities. This change could also increase polarization at a local level, where cooperative, community-focused governance is essential. Because of this, I ask that this committee vote to keep constitutional offices nonpartisan by rejecting and tabling HB254. Thank you for your time and attention.

Support. Candidates affiliated in any way with apolitical party should be identified as such.