Since the founding of this great nation, the number one priority of government — federal, state, city, county and Tribal — is the safety and security of the citizens they serve. Fortunately for us, the elected leaders in Umatilla County understand the meaning of that priority.

Unfortunately, some state and other county and city leaders either do not understand that concept or just don’t care. Rioting, vandalism and assaults have no place in today’s society, regardless of the motivation. This isn’t a left or right issue, it’s an issue of doing what’s right for the citizens they serve.

John Trumbo

Pendleton