By KARYL ANN ARMBRUSTER
Los Alamos

The differences in the positive campaign messages of Democratic candidates for County Council Denise Derkacs, Ryn Herrmann and Beverly Neal-Clinton and the negative campaign messages of David Reagor are stark. The letters of support for these candidates are similarly positive versus negative. The positive letters come from Democrats, which one would expect, but also from Independents, former Republicans and even current Republicans. They tout the accomplishments and praise the ability of Democrats to work with others to get things done for the residents of the County.

Denise Derkacs is focused on housing development to support responsible growth, downtown revitalization to enable small businesses, and community services to sustain quality of life. Her letters of support lauded her for being prepared, diligent, and honest; for her fact-based decision-making; and for her leadership skills.

Ryn Herrmann is focused on economic vitality, downtown revitalization, and quality of life. In her letters of support, she is commended for her enthusiasm, for her work with small businesses, for her ability to get things done, and for her overall contributions to the community.

Beverly Neal-Clinton is focused on affordable housing, inclusivity, and mental health services. Her letters of support acknowledged her service as a Marine and her entrepreneurship as a small business owner. She was lauded for her judgment, character, and ability to listen and work well with others.

David Reagor’s campaign, by comparison, is focused on negativity, on saying NO to many County proposals. What has he proposed to help Los Alamos County be a better place for its 20,000 residents? And it is important to note that it always takes a majority of votes for a measure to pass or fail, not one vote.

My three votes go to the can-do Democratic women, Denise Derkacs, Ryn Herrmann, and Beverly Neal-Clinton!