Reader expresses immigration concern

To the editor:

Jay County is facing a problem that too many are pretending doesn’t exist.

Illegal immigration has become a growing issue in Portland and across the county, yet our leaders stay quiet. For a community that has long claimed Republican values and conservative strength, the lack of action and honesty is alarming. 

Local leaders campaign on strong borders and accountability, but here in Jay County it seems those promises stop at the county line. Citizens see what is happening. We see the strain on schools, housing, healthcare and jobs. We see the impact on the local economy and safety. But we also see that those in power are either unwilling or afraid to address it. 

Why does a majority of the community try to raise this issue, only to have it brushed aside by our elected officials as if it were a nuisance instead of a crisis? The people who live here every day can clearly see the impact, yet nothing is ever done about it. 

The people deserve to know: Why the double standard? Why talk tough in speeches and elections, but allow our own community to face challenges that no one will even acknowledge publicly? 

If Republican officials in Jay County truly represent the values they claim, then they should be transparent about the scope of this problem and take real action. 

And if they will not, then maybe it’s time for all of the elected officials to step down — or face an opponent in the next election who will actually uphold their political values and truly represent the people of this county. 

Ignoring it does not make it go away. Pretending it is not happening only breeds distrust. This community deserves leadership with courage and honesty — not silence. 

Sincerely,

Josh Schlechty

Houston