HomeMy WebLinkAbout022625 email - Sheriff AppointmentALERT: BE CAUTIOUS This email originated outside the organization. Do not open attachments or click on links if you are not expecting them.
Dear County Commissioners,
Your decision to appoint Andy Pernsteiner as Sheriff over Art Frank is deeply disappointing—not just because it upholds the status quo in Jefferson County, but because it reflects a
larger and troubling national trend. Across the country, we are witnessing an erosion of justice, from federal attacks on immigrants and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives
to the rollback of civil rights protections. At a time when local leadership must take a stand against these regressive forces, this decision instead aligns Jefferson County with them.
I supported Heather Dudley-Nollette because I believed she had the courage to lead with integrity and to prioritize the well-being of the entire community, not just those already in
positions of power. This appointment does not reflect that kind of leadership. Rather than moving toward greater accountability and inclusivity, this decision reinforces the same systems
that have long ignored and excluded marginalized voices.
Jefferson County often presents itself as a progressive community, a place that values justice, fairness, and equity. But these values mean little if they are not reflected in action.
We know that law enforcement institutions, both locally and nationally, have struggled to build trust with communities of color, immigrants, and other vulnerable populations. This was
an opportunity to begin changing that dynamic—to show that Jefferson County is committed to the safety and dignity of all its residents. Instead, you have chosen a path that will only
deepen existing mistrust.
The contrast between the two candidates could not be clearer. Andy Pernsteiner has a record of dismissing community concerns, while Art Frank has consistently engaged in meaningful dialogue
and worked to build bridges. Furthermore, it is impossible to ignore the disturbing behavior within Pernsteiner’s own household—his daughter’s use of racial slurs in 2020 speaks to
a broader cultural issue that cannot be separated from the responsibilities of this office. At a time when our nation is grappling with how to address deeply ingrained racism in law
enforcement, why would Jefferson County choose to move backward?
This appointment also mirrors a troubling trend we see at the national level: political leaders abandoning commitments to equity when it becomes politically inconvenient. DEI programs,
which exist to ensure fairness and representation, are being dismantled under the guise of neutrality. The same bad-faith arguments used to undermine DEI—claims that it is divisive
or unnecessary—are the same ones used to justify preserving power structures that exclude and oppress. Jefferson County had an opportunity to push against this trend, to affirm that
real leadership means standing firm in the face of these regressive forces. Instead, this appointment suggests a willingness to compromise on justice rather than defend it.
The consequences of this decision are not abstract. They will be felt by the very people who already experience the greatest barriers to safety and justice in this community. When law
enforcement leadership does not reflect a genuine commitment to listening, to equity, and to rebuilding trust, the most vulnerable members of our community suffer first.
This moment requires more than just words about progress—it requires action. If the BoCC truly stands for the values it claims, it must take meaningful steps to demonstrate that this
decision does not define Jefferson County’s future. Because the people who live here, who work here, and who have fought for justice will not stop demanding better.
Sincerely,
Cameron Jones
Port Townsend Community Member
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