Didier or Miller? Franklin Commission rematch is all about the drama, or lack thereof
Two experienced Franklin County commissioners are having a rematch this election.
Both are Republicans and both have the county’s best interest at heart. But they have very different leadership styles, and it’s that distinction voters should weigh.
Commissioner Clint Didier is finishing his first term. His opponent, Rick Miller, was a Franklin County Commissioner for 12 years before he was knocked out in the 2018 primary.
Didier won that race, and since then he’s become well known in the Tri-Cities and beyond for his strong will and his outspoken demeanor. His behavior has often put him at odds with fellow Franklin Commissioner Brad Peck and other county officials.
During the height of COVID, Didier’s refusal to follow state social distancing requirements during commission meetings was applauded by many of his supporters.
But we called him out for putting himself above Washington state health rules and county responsibilities — especially when he hijacked a regularly scheduled commission meeting to make a political point against the governor’s latest mask mandate.
The agenda was ignored and county business was delayed so people Didier had encouraged to show up could take turns going to the microphone to blast the governor, quote the U.S. Constitution and dismiss the seriousness of COVID.
Throughout his time on the commission there have been shouting matches at meetings and attempts to blindside and humiliate county employees — like when Didier and Commissioner Rocky Mullen tried to fire the county administrator in public with no warning.
It’s the lack of decorum that is a concern.
He told the Herald Editorial Board that he “comes off wrong sometimes” and that there has been disruption in meetings, but it “takes two to tango” and he is working hard not to let another commissioner provoke him.
He is referring to Commissioner Peck.
On a positive note, Didier’s push for transparency is admirable. Franklin County’s recorded meetings are made available quickly on the county website, and night meetings are a plus.
Didier takes credit for much of these worthwhile changes. While he can be abrupt, his candor is refreshing. Didier is also very concerned about roads and finances, and most of all, he is passionate about protecting the needs of his constituents in rural Franklin County.
But Miller is a collaborator who would look out for those in his district as well.
Miller called himself a fiscal conservative who believes he and Didier likely agree on many issues, but he thinks Didier is failing at the basics — how to treat county officials, respect for the law and proper stewardship of taxpayer money.
Miller has watched the dysfunction at commission meetings and said they are embarrassing the county. Elected officials outside of Franklin County are “laughing at us,” he said.
“I want to bring back what we had in Franklin County. It was better than this,” he said.
To his credit, Didier has endorsements from many Franklin County officials, including the auditor, treasurer, assessor, clerk and Sheriff Jim Raymond.
And with former Washington State Treasurer Duane Davidson taking over as interim county administrator, there could be smoother days ahead.
But Miller said the endorsements for Didier are more about elected officials’ involvement in the Franklin County Republican Party, of which Didier is chair.
Miller is concerned that “politics is being brought into the courthouse … and I can see some trouble here and I don’t want the county to fail.”
Miller says he has endorsements from former Franklin County Commissioner Bob Koch and county commissioners from outside Franklin County.
Of late, it seems that Didier is doing a better job of keeping his emotions in check, and it would be great if we could be sure that would continue.
However, his past, harsh treatment of those who disagree with him is hard to dismiss.
With Miller, citizens will get an experienced commissioner who will bring collaboration and a sense of calm back to the commission.
The Tri-City Herald Editorial Board recommends Rick Miller for Franklin County Commission.
BEHIND THE STORY
MOREBehind Our Election Recommendations
Who decides the recommendations?
Members of The Tri-City Herald editorial board is comprised of experienced opinion journalists and community members, and is separate from The Herald’s newsroom. Conversations are on the record.
What does the recommendation process entail?
Whenever possible, The Herald editorial board meets with opposing candidates at the same time. The questions are largely focused on a candidate’s qualifications and goals. The editorial board then discusses the candidates in each race and decides who to recommend. Board members seek to reach a consensus on our recommendations, but not every decision is unanimous.
Is the editorial board partisan?
No. In making recommendations, members of the editorial board consider which candidates are well prepared to represent their constituents — not whether they agree with us or belong to a particular political party. We evaluate candidates’ relevant experience, their readiness for office, their depth of knowledge of key issues, their understanding of public policy and their ability to work with the current board . We’re seeking candidates who are thoughtful and who offer more than just party-line talking points. The editorial board will endorse both Republicans and Democrats.
Why are the editorials unsigned?
Our election recommendations reflect the collective views of The Herald’s editorial board — not just the opinion of one writer. For the 2022 election, the board includes: Cecilia Rexus, Herald editorial writer; Laurie Williams, Herald executive editor; Jack Briggs, retired Herald publisher; Ken Robertson, retired Herald executive director; Matt Taylor, retired Herald editorial writer; Mike Paoli and Martin Valadez, community representatives.
This story was originally published October 28, 2022 at 5:30 AM.