Jared Boyd and Judge Powers presented clear and concise answers to questions at the recent candidates’ forum in Union. I was struck, however, by Judge Williams’ disrespectful closing statement. Rather than demonstrate the respect and calm he had earlier stated was one of his judicial qualities, he lashed out at Judge Powers with words that were tantamount to calling Judge Powers a liar.

Judge Powers is the more experienced judge of the two. He has served as the presiding judge of the 10th Judicial District since 2017. He has the respect of the lawyers in Union and Wallowa counties, so much so that he is running unopposed for another six-year term.

Judge Powers or visiting judges have absorbed the docket of criminal cases because of Judge Williams’ numerous disqualifications. For whatever reasons, Judge Williams’ closing statement showed a palpable dislike of Judge Powers. Instead of cooperating with the presiding judge to problem solve, Judge Williams seems to have isolated himself. This situation cannot be allowed to continue for six more years. Jared Boyd will bring the calming and collegial change to the court system that we citizens need.

Eric Valentine

La Grande

The writer served as a circuit court judge in the 10th Judicial District from 1983 to 2003.