DEAR EDITOR:

Columbiana County political travesties continue, led by none other than the Candyman, aka the Dark Lord of Salem. The Dark Lord of Salem in this past general election cycle reached into races long declared off radar. Historically, county, state, and national were races of focus, Township and school boards were insignificant.

This time select school board and township races were targeted for precarious reasons. Not surprisingly, the Salem City races were front and center in the Dark Lord’s propaganda, sleight of hand mailers and social media posts.

Desperate attempts to further the tyranny of the dark side advanced as a political scourge in the Perry Township races. They were on the hot list as must wins. The current mayor, no doubt pressed forward by the evil emperor, gave a sense of plea declaring that the Perry Township race outcome was a matter of an alleged pending economic demise of Salem.

Annexation of the personal properties of Perry Township residents to increase tax revenue for Salem had long been in legal proceedings and the courts of public opinion. Personal relationships were deemed more than expendable. Personal revenge was a significant driver, the Dark Lord was offended and Salem needed the money!

The Dark Lord’s lust for power thrusts itself into the depths of the universe of political power, Upcoming Mahoning County 2026 primary judicial races are already in the masked “Death Star’s” scope seeking annihilation of all who would oppose its rule.

What is the Dark Lord’s compelling force and seed bed of seduction? Fear! Fear of personal humiliation, destruction, and annihilation. The stronger of mind play the game for gain and fear of losing or not being tagged for political position and money! To the weaker of mind, it is the accessibility to brush up against those of power and fame seeking to gain self-worth by association.

As a voter, what side of the “Force” are you strengthening? Know the candidate! Financially support your candidate directly, recognizing that your money submitted to a “big pot” gets flushed! Give the Candyman your money; the Candyman gives it to his choice!

The flailing by the “Dark Side” for political survival has become increasingly evident.

For the sake of your family, community and country, vote informed, vote smart! Stop this every election cycle political party switching back and forth leading only to upheaval! Vote for righteous political ideology! The Force be with you!

MARK E. GUY

East Palestine