Editor’s note: This letter was reprinted with Mike Lewis’s full comments.
Letter to the Editor:
My campaign slogan was “Working Together to Make Things Better.” Kris Schmidt has built his campaign on the foundation of teamwork, and his motto is “Working Together Moving Forward.” It seems fitting that two candidates, who both believe in working together, would team up for the betterment of the citizens of Whiteside County.
After losing a highly contested Primary, I held true to my values and beliefs….I am rallying behind Republican Candidate Kris Schmidt for his bid for the Sheriff’s Office. Kris and I have met on several occasions these past few months and talked about how we can work together to bring much needed improvements to the Sheriff’s Office. This election is not about Kris or me. It is about the County in which we live and work, and it always has been. I feel it is my duty to Whiteside County to support and work with the best candidate in this election for Sheriff.
After the election, Kris and I will continue to work together to reunite an office that is at an all-time low in regards to morale. The wonderful things that will be brought to the department will be noticed immediately.
Likewise, I stress how I made the decision to run for Sheriff, because I see the need for fresh vision within the Sheriff’s Office. We need to get on the same page as the other Law Enforcement agencies that are within, and also the ones that surround, our County. Additionally, we need to collaborate our resources, have the same-minded goals, and all work together for the betterment of the people.
The Sheriff’s Office needs a different person driving the team; someone who will listen to the input of the employees and citizens alike, and make sound decisions. Kris and I are both passionate about the employment which we have built our life around. It’s our duty to the employees of the Sheriff’s Office and the communities within the County as well.
After working tirelessly during the Primary, I knew my bid for change was not over, and I continue to work hard with the Citizens for Schmidt Team. Choosing to join forces with Kris Schmidt and move forward was the only option for me! I am still dedicated to making sure our department serves the citizens of the County and communities to the best of its abilities. Kris will most definitely make sure that happens.
Please join me in supporting Kris Schmidt for Sheriff, as he signifies fresh vision and common good for all.
Michael Lewis