Editor, Gazette-Journal:

With the elections past, it is time to reflect on the meaning for our county and the nation. Some lessons include the desire of parents here and across the country to become active again in their children’s education. This is probably due to forced parental involvement during the COVID pandemic. CRT may have been the spark that touched off the explosion but cannot be considered the sole reason that voters thronged to the polls.

The question of moving the war memorial also stirred voters as many look on it as a substitute for a gravestone honoring ancestors that fought for their country and never returned.

The board of supervisors’ election brought in two candidates that have the reputation as gadflies, but it is hoped will moderate themselves now that they sit on the board. The only regrettable incident involved around the tearing down of a political sign by the incumbent, showing his disdain for the 1st Amendment. I have no doubt that this contributed to his poor showing at the polls.

As for the Commonwealth elections, voter turnout, indifference to the issues of the day, and possibly a reaction to breaking with tradition to run for a second term combined to favor the Republicans.

The large voter turnout, a 20 percent increase over the last election, should be cause to celebrate what John Steinbeck said called “the durability of democracy.” I am heartened for our future as we see citizens working within the system for the public good.

One final thought: Ben Franklin said of the Constitution—“We have given the country a Republic, if they can keep it.” I think we will.

Capt. Mark A. Truscott, USMM
Late Sgt. USMC
Onemo, Va.