Truth and lies: Pinocchio and nonpartisan races in Peoria Unified

OPINION — For years, I’ve watched school board meetings, seeing countless people speak denouncing school board members deemed “too political,” demanding neutrality. Ironically, some of those same commentators express enthusiasm when a vote furthers their political preferences.

Since running for Peoria Unified school board, regarding one-on-one engagement — whether it be going door to door, social media direct messages, emails, etc, — the top question asked is what political party I’m affiliated with. Many ask point blank. Others try to be subtle, asking which sitting board members I align with, or my thoughts of the current president, or if I support abortion? After explaining it’s a nonpartisan position, most still demand a direct answer. While we profess to keep politics out, those same mouths demand it front and center.