Magnolia has always been in need of improvement.

I say that because I love it, more than anything. Even the best things –– especially the best things –– have the capacity to grow and create something better. History is on the side of change. It is not on the side of fearmongering, of hate. It is not on the side of Manny Reyes.

Something about this election doesn't seem right. I know the people of this town, probably better than most. We want what's best for our town. For everyone here, not just those deemed worthy of it by those who hide behind their conservatism. The downtrodden, the diverse. Those who are left defenseless and prone by political relapse. Even if this doesn't describe you, I'm sure it describes someone you know, someone who deserves help and happiness, too.

Everyone Magnolia deserves better than to live in fear. Everyone.

I know our town isn't perfect, but I believed us to be better than self-righteousness and scare tactics. Have we fallen into a state of complicity? Are we ignoring what regression does to society? Is it that we're truly afraid of change, or are we just too scared to reach out and demand it?

We are better than this, all of us.

Our local government has a history of shady backroom deals and corruption. They can try to assuage us with falsehoods, but we know the truth: Manny Reyes doesn't belong anywhere near our city council.

Demand change. Demand a recount. Resist.