Hi, I’m Tracy Murphy, and I’d be honored to earn your vote for Lewis County sheriff.
After more than 35 years in law enforcement, I know what professional law enforcement looks like, and I know what strong leadership can accomplish.
I’m not running to preserve the status quo. I’m running to change it.
As your sheriff, I will make combating illegal drugs a priority. We will aggressively target the sources bringing drugs into Lewis County, work to dry up that supply, and hold accountable those profiting from the drugs that are killing our family members and destroying families.
I will focus on thorough and timely investigations. Victims and their families deserve answers, not excuses and years of waiting. I will establish a volunteer Cold Case Unit made up primarily of experienced retired law enforcement professionals who can bring their expertise and fresh eyes to unresolved cases. We will also take advantage of new technology and investigative tools to help pursue every viable lead.
I will invest in our employees. I’m not coming in to replace them. I’m coming in to invest in them. Employees deserve training, mentoring, strong supervision, clear expectations and the tools and resources necessary to succeed. Support and accountability go hand in hand, and no one is above the law.
The people I select to serve in my administration will matter. I will surround myself with the best and brightest; people selected for their experience, merit, leadership ability and commitment to public service, not because of campaign promises or personal loyalty. I don’t want “yes” people around me. I want strong leaders who will bring different perspectives to the table, challenge me when necessary, and share my commitment to developing our employees and serving the public.
I will be a constant and visible presence in our community and with our employees. Leadership isn’t something you do from behind a desk. I will listen, communicate, answer difficult questions and make sure both the public and our employees know their Sheriff is accessible and engaged.
I will plan for the future of our jail. We need a safe, secure, properly staffed facility capable of holding offenders accountable while utilizing proven programs that reduce recidivism and give people willing to change a better opportunity to successfully return to our community.
I believe good government requires people to work together. Personal differences and politics should never get in the way of doing what is best for the people of Lewis County, and that is how I will lead.
I will be responsible with your tax dollars. Before asking taxpayers for more, I will examine our administration, staffing, programs, and resources to determine where we can operate more efficiently and put resources where they are needed most.
Most importantly, I will never forget who government works for. You. This election is about a choice between the status quo and a new direction.
I’m offering change.
I’m Tracy Murphy, and I respectfully ask for your vote for Lewis County sheriff.
Tracy Murphy
Chehalis
Editor’s note: The Chronicle allows candidates for political office to publish one letter to the editor per election cycle. To submit a letter, email letters@chronline.com.
