I am truly confused. Before the May primary for county commissioner, Chris Lukasevich, a candidate I personally support, worked hard to be nominated. He went door-to-door talking to Carbon County residents, he arranged it so the commissioner meetings could be seen online for the first time by county residents so they could judge for themselves the problems that face the county and the effectiveness of their commissioners, he participated in the two debates that were made available to the Republican candidates.

His hard work led to an upset victory over incumbent Tom Gerhard. Gerhard lost because he never participated in the debates, never responded to the honest concerns Lukasevich was raising, and frankly failed to make wise choices during his time as a commissioner.

So now Lukasevich is one of the two Republican nominees for commissioner. But I am now confused because it is clear that the local Carbon County Republican Committee and some of its officers are not supporting Chris but would prefer to see Gerhard remain as a commissioner. This is after the registered Republican voters made it clear that they want Chris as their candidate. And this is though the committee bylaws state that the committee and its officers SHALL be loyal to its nominees.

What is even more galling is the fact that Gerhard has decided to run as a write-in candidate, and his supporters are stating through social media that Chris is evil and bullied Tom. Imagine an eight-year incumbent being bullied by a political novice. Imagine a 34-year special forces veteran who put his life on the line for the security of this great nation is now considered evil because he has brought the truth about what is going on in this county to its residents.

Lastly, your newspaper and Blue Ridge cable have decided to have Gerhard participate in the debate scheduled for Oct. 28. I know Chris has no problem with this arrangement because he is willing to face all challengers. On the other hand, I personally do. Gerhard doesn’t deserve to participate. He is not a nominee because he already lost in the primary. If I held myself out as a write-in candidate, would I be allowed to participate as well? I do not understand why he has been invited. It makes me wonder about the intent of the people that make it possible for this to happen.

Armin Feldman

Lehighton