Hello, fellow Prime Time for Women members!

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from Prime Time for Women it’s the power of the mission; Be Seen. Be Heard. Inspire.

We’ve spent years building careers, raising families, and pouring our hearts into everything we do. But, as I look at the current makeup of our local government, I’ve realized that while women are the backbone of our community, our voices are missing at decision making tables. That is one of the reasons I have decided to run for Washington County Commissioner.

I did some research and found that Washington County has a legacy of bold women like Mary Titcomb, who brought us the nation’s first bookmobile. Another example is Grace Snively, who was the first African American woman to be appointed as an Election Judge and eventually became a chief judge after 30 years of service. Despite examples like these, the Board of County Commissioners has remained almost exclusively a boys’ club.

In the last several decades, female representation on the Board has been incredibly rare. In fact, we haven’t had a woman’s voice on the Board since 2014. Currently, all five seats are held by men. Decisions are made for us, but without us. These decisions affect everything from health to the way we age in place, and the safety of the neighborhoods we love.

My professional background is in Human Services. Whether I’m advocating for marginalized groups with the NAACP, ACLU , Eliza’s House, or working as an advocate for people with intellectual disabilities, my approach has always been Human First.

To me, being a leader isn’t about having the loudest voice; it’s about making sure everyone else feels seen, heard, and valued. These are the Prime Time for Women values I carry in my work and personal life. I want to bring that same empathy and advocacy to the Commissioners’ office. I want to look at a budget and ask; How does this affect the seniors living on a fixed income? How does this support the grandmother raising her grandchildren? Or how does this affect a single, working mom? 

I am running as an Unaffiliated candidate because I believe local issues shouldn’t be partisan. I want to represent people, not a political party. I must earn my way onto the ballot through a petition process. Unlike the major party candidates, I need signatures from registered voters just to ensure my name is printed on your ballot this November.

On my website, www.washco4tajsmith.com, I talk about my platform; things like improving transportation, healthcare access, and creating a more connected Washington County. But beyond the policies, I’m running because “Nothing Changes if Nothing Changes.”

We deserve a government that reflects our diverse population. We deserve to have a voice that understands aging with dignity, the importance of accessible recreation, and the value of a community that looks out for its own.

I am reaching out to Prime Time for Women members because you know better than anyone that when women lead, the entire community thrives. If you believe it’s time for a new perspective; one that is human-centered, inclusive, and fiercely dedicated to making sure every resident is seen and heard; I would be honored to have your support.
Let’s ensure that the next time decisions are made about our county’s future, a woman is at the table helping to lead the way.

With gratitude and hope,
Taj Smith