Since its establishment 10 years ago, Southern Oregon Climate Action Now has served its mission of educating the public about climate issues by organizing opportunities for candidates to answer questions on climate and the environment.

The organizing committees have consistently invited all candidates to attend and meet their voters. On almost every occasion, Republicans have declined to participate, often without even granting the courtesy of a response. Exceptions in the litany of rejections have been Jessica Gomez, Curt Ankerberg and Dave Dotterrer.

This cycle, despite repeated invitations, every Republican seeking to represent residents of Jackson County on the County Board of Commissioners, in Salem, or in D.C. is missing. None has offered a cogent explanation for declining.

Perhaps candidates should be held accountable for their refusal to participate in an open public forum on critical issues facing Jackson County residents.

Christine Haynie

Medford