I’ve been reading the many articles about, and interviews with, and the references provided about the candidates for Jasper County Sheriff and I have made a decision based on what I’ve learned. Two recent letters that appeared in the same edition of the Newton News, both from Grinnell residents, suggested Tracy Cross was the right candidate for the job because of Cross’s political stance. Both letter writers implied that Cross, since he is endorsed by a “strong conservative Jasper County leader,” should put partisan politics first and foremost over the duties of law enforcement and should instead just become a puppet to do the bidding of Governor Reynolds and her Attorney General and their conservative agenda in the state. This is the wrong type of thinking that helps no one. We don’t need a partisan puppet for our county sheriff. I’m not interested in electing a sheriff simply because they are aligned with the reigning political party in the county. We need a sheriff who puts political beliefs aside and who will work for all the citizens of Jasper County. Those speaking out in favor of Cross love to talk about the Constitution, and seem to believe only their party will follow the laws. That is very insulting to the other candidates, in my opinion.
As for who is best positioned to be our next sheriff, why on earth would one choose a candidate with little experience, and for whom the only endorsements seem to be coming from a few acquaintances and not anyone actually in law enforcement? Only one candidate seems to have the full support of many current and former law enforcement officials, not just in Jasper County, but across the entire state. And contrary to what the letter writer thinks, coming from a family with a long history of law enforcement is not “about being mired in the past.” It just adds more credibility and respect to the candidate’s resume. This candidate’s job history, his proven track record, and the glowing recommendations of all his peers, shows that Brad Shutts is the only candidate who will not put his politics above his responsibilities to all the citizens of Jasper County, and will apply the laws fairly across the board. Politics has no place whatsoever in our law enforcement agencies, nor should it be a consideration in choosing a candidate.
It seems everyone who has worked alongside Brad, or who knows of his reputation, is fully supporting him. Brad, according to those who know what they are talking about, has the track record and the attitude needed to perform this challenging job. And if everyone who knows him and/or who has worked with him in law enforcement believes Brad is the best man for the job, then that’s good enough for me.
John Moore
Newton