“Think globally, act locally.” That aphorism is familiar to most. Its origins are unclear, but its gravity is more important now than ever.

Globally, are you concerned about the erosion of the rule of law and the undermining of democracy? Then vote for Democrats locally who inherently believe in the democratic process (it’s right there in the name of the party).

Globally, are you concerned about DOGE and Russell Vought’s Project 2025 gutting the agencies and services that so many right here in Chautauqua County rely on? Then vote for Democrats locally who will fight to find ways to reverse or counter that unlawful gutting of government.

Globally, are you concerned about the assault on free and fair elections that ensure this is a government, as Republican Abraham Lincoln said, “of the people, by the people, and for the people?” Then vote for Democrats locally who will defend that principle without fear or favor.

By now, the message should be clear: local elections and local government aren’t divorced from the chaos we’re seeing on the national level. In the face of the United States’ demotion on the world stage, a Federal government shutdown precipitated by the Republican party that controls all three branches of government, and a President who is literally tearing down a third of the “People’s House” in Washington, local representation is more important than ever.

Republicans at the local and county level would have you believe that everything’s fine, that the status quo is the way to go. At the same time, they’re silent on their support for the national chaos that’s impossible to ignore. If they support the all-too-rapid transformation of our democratic republic into an autocracy, why don’t they shout it from the rooftops of Dunkirk, Mayville, and Jamestown?

Even if you’re not convinced of that connection, consider this: Chautauqua County Republicans have blocked tax relief for residents at every turn while giving themselves a substantial pay raise. And they’ve refused to make business growth and job creation a priority in the county Legislature’s official goals.

Over 20 years of Republican control of Chautauqua county has seen nothing but ongoing population decline, job loss, and rising homelessness and drug-related crime. Their response? It’s Albany’s fault. That excuse rings hollow. And unless the Chautauqua County Republican party is prepared to disavow the actions of the GOP on the national level, they’re complicit in its crimes against the United States of America taking place in broad daylight.

What can you do about all of this? Simple: vote early starting October 25th, or on Election Day, November 4th. That simple act won’t solve every problem we’re seeing, but each vote is a domino that can start a chain reaction for the better.

Eric Jackson-Forsberg is a Jamestown resident.