RACISM: It offends us all

It was shocking to learn that Aryan Nation-style racist intimidation took place last weekend in downtown Coeur d’Alene. This behavior was publicly defended and excused by David Reilly, who is connected to both Idaho Freedom Foundation (IFF) and the Kootenai County Republican Central Committee (KCRCC).

No, Dave, “free speech” does not include big trucks with Confederate flags loudly revving their engines and following along slowly while menacing and yelling “N—" at NCAA women student athletes walking innocently down Sherman Avenue on their way to dinner. This horrible treatment does not define our lovely town. These high-level athletes were in our area to compete in the NCAA basketball tournament in Spokane. We cannot allow the stink and stain of racist Aryan behavior to reflect on our community. We must take action.

As a lifelong conservative Republican, and retired Idaho State Senator from District 4, Coeur d’Alene, I am running for Precinct Committeeman in Precinct 407. We must change the membership and leadership of our KCRCC, which currently appears to be the breeding ground for this clone-of-Aryan racist behavior. Join me in demanding that Brent Regan, who chairs both the KCRCC and the IFF, makes a statement condemning the racist actions against the athletes, and removes David Reilly from the employ of both organizations. I have asked Brent multiple times to disassociate the KCRCC from these white supremacist nationalist groups. He has ignored my requests.

Please also remember to VOTE in the May 21 Republican Primary. It is the only way to block this racist takeover. The Precinct Committee positions will be the last on the ballot, so find out what precinct you are in and who is running. (Call the Elections office at 208-446-1030.) It will be your most important vote on the ballot!

MARY SOUZA

Coeur d’Alene