Red vs. blue. Liberal vs. conservative. Democrat vs Republican.

Reading this, I bet your heart raced a tick faster. Why? Because we’ve all been conditioned to division, manufactured by folks with more money and power than God, including two major political parties that care about the lives of everyday Americans as much as they care about the “terms and conditions” page on a software update.

How many times have you heard promises of better health care, lower bills or fewer wars? I’ve heard it every election cycle, and yet living conditions continue to deteriorate for the great majority, regardless of which party is in power.

The status quo, the two-party system, is not working, and it’s time for something different.

I want an elected leader who doesn’t just say the right words, but one who takes meaningful action. I want a leader who isn’t beholden to donors and political parties that prioritize maintaining power, but one who works for the people.

Ky Fireside is that independent leader, and they have the record to prove it.

Most recently, when fighting against the private mass surveillance company Flock Safety, Fireside met with city councilors, the mayor, the police chief, state representatives and U.S. senators. They testified before the governing bodies, answered every email and showed up to every meeting, while treating every community member’s concern as valid — whether it was about Flock aiding immigration enforcement or invading personal privacy. 

As a union organizer, Fireside listened to co-workers, responded to every concern and strove to maintain high morale in the store during union-busting attempts while maintaining patience and professionalism. Their action not only helped win a unanimous vote for the union but showed they can successfully stand up against the status quo and make a difference.

In Salem, Fireside will remain responsive to every constituent request, because they’ve never forgotten that the people are the boss. That’s the representation we deserve, and the change we need.

Daniel Hiestand
Springfield