Schemenaur responds to critique

To the editor:
Mr. Coleman asserts that the most important qualification for choosing a candidate in the primary election is whether a candidate is a ‘true’ or ‘pure’ Democrat.
I have been a Democrat for my whole life, have voted exclusively in Democratic Primary Elections, served as chairman of the Jay County Democratic Party during the fall 2012 campaign and have been raised on the Democratic principles that have been instilled in me since my father first ran as a Democratic candidate in 1984. To question my political pedigree due to hiring decisions that I have made in my office is troubling to me.
Keeping the citizens of Jay County safe, seeking justice for victims and ensuring that laws are followed with fidelity is not a partisan issue. Serving Jay County as prosecuting attorney is far bigger than party politics. There are not different laws for Democrats to follow than those of Republicans. Ensuring that the laws are followed and protecting the victims when they are not followed is never a political decision.
Having worked in the prosecutor’s office for the last eight years, I can ensure you that the work that is done in my office is apolitical. Justice for victims of crimes is not about politics, but is about protecting the residents of Jay County. My chief deputy prosecutor is a Republican. He was chosen for this job, not because of or in spite of his political affiliation, but rather due to his extensive experience as a trial attorney, including his time served as prosecuting attorney for Jay County. He was hired because he was the right person for the job. In fact, when I was elected prosecutor and set about to hire my chief deputy, the only two attorneys from Jay County who expressed interest in the position were Mr. Lopez and my current Democratic primary opponent, who was also a Republican at that time. As both candidates were of the same political party, this was not a factor in my hiring decision.
My office is not the place for political patronage jobs, but is a place where serious work is done to protect victims of crime. I have, and will continue, to hire people to work in my office who are best suited for the task at hand. The office of prosecuting attorney requires principled leadership, unbiased hard work and integrity to the law, and is not a place for partisanship. When it comes to law enforcement — protection of Jay County residents and keeping our community safe — I will always support the best person for the job, regardless of party affiliation. Public safety is simply too important.
To address Mr. Coleman’s concerns as to my support of judicial candidates in 2012, I will say this. Prior to running for Jay Circuit Court Judge, the Democratic nominee (who is now my primary opponent) was a Republican, having declared as such in previous primary elections. A waiver from a former party chair permitted her to be on the ballot as a Democrat. In essence, I saw both candidates as long-time Republicans. I chose to support the incumbent judge, who I felt was the best person for the job. Justice is not to be viewed from a political lens, but rather by the letter of the law.
My voting record and dedication to Democratic Party principles over a period of many years speak for themselves. I am now, and always will be, a proud Democrat. However, more important than the letter behind my name is my continued service to our community, in both my professional and personal life. As an active board member on a variety of community boards, a coach for our kids’ recreational sports leagues and my work in the prosecutor’s office, I have always sought to serve and support everyone, not just the Democrats. I will continue to work tirelessly for all citizens of Jay County.
Wes Schemenaur
Jay County Prosecuting Attorney[[In-content Ad]]