SCBC Post 1 Republican Candidate sends email to competitor asking her to withdrawal from race

Stephens County Board of Commissioner’s Post 1 Democratic candidate Kathy Pauly has come forward with an email she received from her Post 1 Republican competitor Tara Simmons asking her to withdrawal from the race.

Pauly tells WNEG News she received the email from Simmons on June 23, just two days after the runoff election that solidified Simmons spot as the Republican candidate for Post 1.

In the email, Simmons writes: “Kathy, I am reaching out to inquire whether you would consider withdrawing as the Democrat Candidate for the General Election in November. Craig Oglesby, the proposed Libertarian Candidate is going to be unable to secure the 5% of registered voter signatures as required so he will not be on the ballot in November. As you are most likely aware, Stephens County is in a budgetary crisis due to the substantial increase in insurance for our county employees. I really would like to be involved in the budget review process as a Commissioner elect. The shelter funding is at risk and I would like to do what I can to protect it. However, because I have opposition in November (you), my role in the process is very limited. Of course it would be most beneficial for the shelter if I could advocate for the funding to be increased or at a minimum remain the same as it is. I believe you know, considering the demographics of Stephens County, what the end result of the November General Election will be. I am asking you to consider this option as it would certainly be in best interests of a common cause we both have. You have my contact information if you would like to discuss anything further or anything in the future of course.”

Pauly says she was disappointed in Simmons’ request for her to bow out of the race.

Here is Pauly’s response sent to Simmons: “Dear Tara, First off, I’d like to congratulate you on winning the primary runoff.  I was definitely taken aback and disappointed by your email, as you know that the reason I am running is to give people a choice.

“Our country has essentially a two party political system. I personally wish we had more parties, which would allow for more opinions to be heard.  This would encourage people to learn to compromise, to build coalitions to work together and to get things done for the people that they represent.

“When it comes to a single county, like Stephens County, commissioners are not addressing national or state level partisan issues. Instead, they are addressing local problems, that are neither Republican or Democratic party aligned.

“It seems only fair to let all voices be heard, including Democrats, Independents and yes, even moderate Republicans who might want a choice in who they vote for in November.

“When it comes to the humane shelter, I think we are both on the same page, wanting to continue the county’s financial support at current levels. We also need to better communicate to our residents the importance of the shelter and the benefits such an organization provides in enhancing our county’s appeal to both new residents and new businesses moving here.  We can make it clear, that whichever one of us wins the election, there will be no differences between us on this important issue.

“No matter which way the election goes, you can be sure that this will not change our friendship with you and your parents.”

Pauly adds that she was hoping that they could run their campaigns friendly.

Simmons spoke to WNEG News about the email saying she stands by what she wrote.

She adds that she was hoping that Pauly would get behind her campaign.

The General Election will be held on November 8 in Stephens County.