Smear campaigns need to stop.

Every American has the right to run for office — Republican, Democrat, Independent, or any other party. It takes courage to put yourself and your family in the public eye, and everyone who steps forward to serve deserves to be treated with basic respect.

Unfortunately, every election season seems to bring false rumors, personal attacks, and smear campaigns. These tactics are nothing new, but that doesn’t make them right. Too often, people spread gossip or outright lies to make their preferred candidate look better while trying to damage someone else’s reputation.

If you hear a rumor about a candidate or another person, take the time to verify it. Reach out to the source. Ask questions. Don’t accept gossip as fact.

One of the best ways to get to know a candidate is to attend Meet & Greets, club meetings, forums, and community events. Listen to what they have to say, ask questions, and make your own informed decision based on facts—not rumors.

Before posting hurtful comments on social media, spreading gossip, or participating in a smear campaign, stop and think. False accusations and ugly words can hurt people, damage reputations, divide communities, and even influence elections based on misinformation.

Likewise, no one should be bullied simply because they support a different candidate. We can disagree without being disrespectful.

Let’s raise the level of political discourse. Whether it’s a club, a candidate, or an elected official, let’s focus on facts, ideas, and respectful conversations instead of rumors and personal attacks.

We are better than smear campaigns. Let’s start acting like it.

Marty Hermanson
City of Maricopa Republican Club President