Dear Editor

I am responding to Terry Bartley’s statements in an article about the candidates for the county party positions. I have been the Vice-Chair of the Kosciusko County Democrats for the past four years, but have never seen Mr. Bartley at any meetings (in person or virtual), at any dinner or event, help any candidate canvass, or volunteer to work at the polls. Mr. Bartley stated that “they have quit having the JJ Dinner.” Our annual “Salute to Service Dinner” (previously called the JJ Dinner) has been held every year except 2020 when it was cancelled due to COVID.

Mr. Bartley stated that “long-term precinct committee members were replaced without notice.” The State Party sets the rules for elected and appointed Precinct Committee Chairs and Vice-Chairs.  Every four years, any Democrat in the County can file with the County Clerk to run for Precinct Chair. The Chair of the County party may appoint any Democrat to precincts with no elected chair.  The rules do not require the reappointment of previous members who chose not to run. As a prior County Chair, Mr. Bartley should be aware of the rules.

Mr. Bartley stated, “They don’t do anything.” As Vice-Chair, I have coordinated hundreds of Democratic poll workers throughout the County, planned dinners and events, walked in parades, attended rallies, canvassed for and contributed money to various candidates in 2016, 2018, 2019, and 2020. I find his comments inaccurate and offensive.

Yours truly,
Vicki Morton
Syracuse