To the editor:

Where is the Barrington Republican Party?

We are hiding in plain sight for anyone that wants to participate and strike a balance against one-party rule in our town and state.

The Barrington Republican Town Committee is made up of registered Republicans and associate members committed to the good governance of our town, state, and country. Most of our members are longstanding residents of Barrington with an exemplary record of service to the party and the town.  We meet regularly to discuss the issues that affect us all.  We are an elected group of registered Republicans as required by State law.  Associate members may be unaffiliated and are not elected.

We have a website: www.barringtonrepublicans.org

We have an active Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Barringtonrepublicantowncommittee/

You can write to us at: barringtonrigop@gmail.com

But, I suspect that the question is not so much about our existence than our visibility in the community. This year we had no Republicans run for office. This is sad for democracy and for our town.

Our priorities align with our core values. Now is an excellent time for residents of all ages whose values align with ours to join the committee to help transition our party to the next generation. The Republican brand has been demonized for the better part of a decade, so it is understandable that some people are hesitant to publicly declare affiliation with a party that elicits enmity and open hostility from partisans on the Left. I wish I could say that I think this will change and that civility will return, but the actions of some people in the last four years and through this election make me doubt it.

You will have to be courageous in order to stand up for your belief in the sanctity of our Constitution, the inviolability of our Bill of Rights, the soundness of our capitalist economic system, and the truth that division by race, creed, and color does not unite us but rather tears at the fabric of our nation. Although these beliefs have been self-evident since the founding of our republic, it is not easy to declare them in today’s cultural environment where being patriotic and truthful have become unfashionable.

The Republican Party nationally is changing to include a multi-racial and working-class constituency. This contrasts with the traditional makeup of New England Republicans, but it is not incompatible. What binds the Barrington Republicans is our belief that the United States, while not perfect, is and always has been a beacon of freedom and liberty; our belief that what makes people ‘American’ is a devotion to the Constitution and a fierce protection of our individual rights; our belief that we should turn to government to solve problems last, not first; and our belief that fiscal conservatism and low taxes makes our town and state a better place for everyone.

During the upcoming weeks and months, we will be sharing our platform and ideas on local issues. While we may not have Republicans in elective office, we will be a voice for those that share our values. The next election is only two years away, and our plan is to support candidates who will offer a clear choice to Barrington voters.

Geoff Grove

Barrington

Mr. Grove is chairman of the Barrington Republican Town Committee.