Over the next few weeks Guy Collins (SD-45A) will be posting his thoughts on the '06 elections: national, state, and local, (with more of a tilt toward the local). This will be a multi-part series with the theme of Pride, Perspective, and Perseverance.

Local Candidates (Pride Part 2)
I am PROUD of our new local candidates in SD 45: Derek Brigham, and Sara Durenberger. Both entered the race fairly late; both did yeoman's work, learning as they went since this was the first venture into politics for both of them. On top of that, they had to shoulder a lot of the strategic and tactical load, since they didn't didn't have a developed SD 45 campaign structure or experience base to rely upon, and received little help from the state party.

Its easy to look at the results and be discouraged, especially after working so hard. These candidates (and all local candidates) need to know this year's results weren't a reflection of their efforts. It was a horrible national environment for Republicans.

I believe many of the voters just irrationally said: "I'm mad at Bush and the direction of the Iraq war, and corruption in DC, therefore I'm voting for the alternative party, whether the race is US Senator, state representative, or even a soil and water commissioner." It makes no sense, but unfortunately this is the illogical sentiment I believe ruled the day. I honor these candidates and appreciate all their work - so much of it going unnoticed. I strongly encourage them to stay involved in building the party in future years.

Stay tuned for Pride Part 3.... Grass Roots