Fire Side Chat with local conservative candidates

For those who missed it, Bonner Country Republican Women, Inc., held a Fire Side Chat with conservative candidates at the VFW in Sandpoint on October 15, 2024.

In attendance were:

• Ron Korn, running for County Commissioner: District 3
• Brian Domke, running for County Commissioner: District 1
• Cornel Rasor, running for State Representative: District 1
• Dennis Engelhardt, running for Bonner County Assessor

Anita Aurit, the group’s Secretary, acted as the Master of Ceremonies and got the candidates to spill the tea on the challenges they’ve faced in recent months.

Ron Korn discussed what it was like to participate in his first meetings as an interim Commissioner. The governor appointed him to the position when Luke Omodt resigned to return to teaching in September. Korn also answered questions from the crowd regarding the growing population in Bonner County and the impact on its infrastructure. Finally, he encouraged individuals to attend the Bonner County Commissioner meetings on Tuesdays at 9:00 AM. Visit bonnercountyid.gov for more information.

Brian Domke addressed the inaccurate and outrageous claims that have been made about his family since winning the primary election in May. More importantly, he reminded the audience of his qualifications for the role of County Commissioner. Those include having had responsibility for a budget larger than Bonner County’s in a past business role and his strong conservative values. Finally, he reminded the crowd of the risks of Proposition 1 and the impact it would have on ensuring an honest, accurate election in Bonner County.

Cornel Rasor described what it’s like to run for office and be in office while rebuilding his business, the Army Surplus Store, which was lost due to arson this past summer. Like Korn, the governor appointed Rasor to office when his predecessor stepped down for a new job. However, he’s only in the position until the New Year unless we re-elect him. Lucky for Bonner County residents, despite the challenging time in Rasor’s life, he seems to be enjoying his role in the legislature, and, on top of that, he is hopeful he’ll be able to reopen the Army Surplus Store in a new location in Sandpoint before the end of the year.

Dennis Engelhardt, who currently serves as County Assessor and is running unopposed for the office, explained his job responsibilities and acknowledged the great work of the people on his team. Upon questioning by audience members, he described how property is assessed, and his plan to ensure the Assessor’s office will continue to run effectively as the area’s population expansion continues.

When asked, “How can we help?” the candidates agreed:

• Vote
• Writer letters on their behalf to The Bonner County Daily Bee
• If possible, donate to their campaigns.
• Continue to back them after they are in office by attending Commissioner meetings and speaking out publicly about your support for their work.