Allen County Commissioner Ron Turpin says Tuesday's election sent a clear message to local Republicans about the cost of living and about how well the party communicates with voters.
Democrats won both open seats on the Board of Commissioners on election night. When the new members take office, two of the three commissioners will be Democrats for the first time in decades, with Turpin as the only Republican remaining on the board.
Turpin said frustration over everyday expenses, including gas and grocery prices, helped drive turnout and contributed to Republican losses locally and nationally. He also said Republicans locally need to do a better job explaining how county decisions affect families' daily lives.
Turpin said he will work with the new commissioners as long as the shared goal is improving life in Allen County, and he pointed to roads, new development and public services as areas where cooperation will matter most.
