I am a former employee of the Johnson County Auditor’s Office, and I want to offer my strongest support to the incumbent, Tom Slockett. Coordinating an office that is responsible for all elections, oversees all account transactions and publishes a legal record of the county’s actions requires someone who has broad experience in governing.

It’s fine to be an expert in just one area, but a many-sided operation like the auditor’s office benefits from a leader with a proven record. Slockett was a pioneer in using computers to lower overhead costs while making information easier for the public to reach. Above all, he has been dedicated to improving voter access without endangering the sanctity of the ballot.

Slockett has shaped a forward-looking operation. To break from the standard that Slockett has set at a time when wise government is needed more than ever is not the right decision.

Edward Brunner

Professor, American Literature

Southern Illinois University

Carbondale, Ill.