Letter to the editor: No conflict exists

If Bridget Bailey is elected to the Wasco County Commission, there is no conflict of interest because her husband incidentally serves as district attorney. Having served Wasco County as a commissioner and judge for over 14 years and, for much of that time with my office in the courthouse directly across the hall from the district attorney’s Office, I can attest that the duties of the district attorney are uniquely distinct and separate from, and do not intersect with those of the commissioners.

They do not supervise his staff or have influence over what cases to file and, and similarly, the District Attorney, as a State employee and elected official, has no authority to direct commissioners in their decisions either. Because Eric Nisley intends to step down as legal counsel for the county if Bridget Bailey is elected, there are no reasons to worry about any alleged conflicts.

Bridget Bailey may recuse herself from voting on the DA office budget if she wishes, but that is neither required nor warranted, since the DA’s salary is not even part of the County budget. Besides, there are five other members of the committee that can do just fine approving the DA’s budget. I know a red herring when I see one, and this is just that. This election should focus on the serious issues facing Wasco County, not on distractions.

Dan Ericksen

Former Wasco County Judge