Deceptive Reporting on Haywood County Commissioner Candidates by Cory Vaillancourt

Vaillancourt's Deceptive Reporting on County Commissioner Candidates

A January 21st article by Cory Vaillancourt in The Smoky Mountain News raises serious concerns about biased and misleading journalism (?) targeting strong Christian conservative Republican candidates for Haywood County Commissioner. Vaillancourt’s piece distorts facts and unfairly attacks the two strongest Christian conservative candidates, Terry Ramey and Tiffany Collins. In contrast, the article presents the other candidates favorably. Vaillancourt portrays them in a positive light because, in my opinion, he and Chairman Kevin Ensley are conspiring to denigrate Ramey and Collins so that they lose in the primary elections. Ensley would like to see one of the other four candidates win, believing he can control any of them.

Vaillancourt's article was false from beginning to end, filled with inaccuracies, and shameful at best. Mr. Vaillancourt tries to portray himself as a journalist, but obviously has no integrity or honor in his reporting, making him a perfect example of a propaganda mouthpiece of the socialist Democratic Party.

Vaillancourt’s article singles out Terry Ramey and Tiffany Collins with false claims and negative portrayals. Both candidates stand firmly on Christian conservative values and advocate for transparency and accountability in local government. Because of this, socialist Democrat non-journalist Vaillancourt paints them as problematic figures, totally ignoring their qualifications and commitment to the community.

There is a strong appearance that Vaillancourt’s reporting aligns with Ensley’s agenda. After fifteen years as commissioner, Ensley resists challenges to his leadership and expects other commissioners to conform to his personal views. Ramey and Collins have openly questioned Ensley’s decisions and pushed for greater transparency, which may explain why Ensley supports efforts to discredit them.

Vaillancourt’s article appears to support Ensley’s goal of maintaining control over the Commissioners by attacking candidates who would disrupt his status quo. This deprives voters of balanced information.

One of the key points Vaillancourt omits is the tax payment records of the other candidates and the other commissioners. A review of Terry Ramey’s tax documents confirms he has paid all his taxes in full. In contrast, a review of the other four Commissioners' tax records indicates that each owes back taxes. As elected officials representing constituents who work hard and diligently pay their taxes on time, it is imperative that they stop exploiting loopholes in the system and be an example of good citizenship by paying their back taxes.

At last Tuesday's Board of Commissioners' meeting, Sherri Lewis, a longtime warrior advocate for the rights and safety of the residents of Haywood County, boldly stepped forward and spoke out, publicly pointing out that each commissioner, Kevin Ensley, Jennifer Best, Brandon Rodgers, and Tommy Long, who is running for reelection, had unpaid taxes on record. Vaillancourt, the so-called journalist, failed to report this fact, which raises questions about his commitment to truthful journalism.

Transparency about financial responsibility is crucial for public officials. Voters deserve to know which candidates uphold their obligations and which do not. Ignoring such facts misleads the electorate and damages trust in the media. In this case, Terry Ramey, who has been relentlessly attacked by his fellow Commissioners and so-called journalist Cory Vaillancourt with false accusations of having failed to pay his taxes, is the innocent party, and those spreading the lies are the very ones guilty of not paying their back taxes.

In the article, Vaillancourt attempts to portray Tiffany Collins as a naive candidate in over her head and requiring Terry Ramey's help to run her campaign. Vaillancourt's false reporting shows that it is Vaillancourt who is over his head and a failing journalist at best. In reality, Tiffany has demonstrated intelligence, articulation, and a deep understanding of residents’ concerns. She has outlined clear plans to address local issues and is not dependent on any other candidate, including Ramey. Vaillancourt’s article fails to capture Collins’ strengths and dedication, instead choosing to downplay her potential impact.

Highlighting Collins’ vision is essential for voters seeking candidates who will actively listen and respond to community needs. Accurate reporting should reflect Tiffany's capabilities and commitment rather than dismiss them.

The hostile tone and distorted facts in Vaillancourt’s article reflect a broader issue with The Smoky Mountain News’ approach to covering local politics. When journalism prioritizes sensationalism and political bias over truth, it harms public discourse, voter confidence, and the newspaper's reputation.

Christian conservative candidates like Ramey and Collins face unfair treatment from the likes of Cory Vaillancourt because their ideologies, values, and calls for accountability challenge entrenched power. This pattern of reporting undermines democratic principles and limits voters’ ability to make informed choices.

Voters in Haywood County deserve clear, factual information about all candidates. This includes:

• Honest assessments of candidates’ records and qualifications

• Transparency about financial and ethical matters

• Balanced coverage by the news media that avoids political bias

• Recognition of candidates’ plans and commitments to the community

  
  

By demanding better journalists than Cory Vaillancourt who are neutral and capable of balanced reporting for local news media, voters can ensure elections reflect the true will of the people rather than the interests of a few.

Cory Vaillancourt’s article lacks integrity and honesty, and it serves as a reminder that media integrity matters deeply in local elections. Voters must critically evaluate sources and seek out multiple perspectives before making decisions. Supporting candidates like Terry Ramey and Tiffany Collins, who promote transparency and accountability, strengthens local government and community trust.

Terry Ramey and Tiffany Collins represent voices willing to challenge the status quo and advocate for residents’ interests. Their commitment deserves fair coverage and respect. As the election approaches, voters should look beyond biased reporting and focus on facts that matter.

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