All of the Democratic and Republican candidates for Butler County commissioner either support oil and gas operations or remain silent on the issue. Why?

There is ample evidence showing the health hazards of drilling activities; that the supposed employment boom created by the industry is phony; and peer reviewed proof that hospitalization rates increase in populations living close to drilling sites.

The nature of gas and oil activities cries out for strong environmental regulations and for strong enforcement of regulations. Yet we have neither, and no major party candidates are calling for them.

The biggest polluter to hit our county in decades is deemed untouchable by Democrats and Republicans. Again, why?

Perhaps the answer lies in the industry’s ability to throw money around liberally. Or is it the industry’s constant and misleading advertising?

Butler County is fortunate to have one county commissioner candidate, Michael Bagdes-Canning, who has the courage and ability to expose the harmful consequences of gas and oil operations. For years, Michael has worked with many others to educate us about the industry and about its environmental impact on our county.

We will be voting for Michael — and only for Michael — for county commissioner.