Defending the Heartland: Carmela Conroy’s Battle for the Soul of Eastern Washington
Written by CONNOR WING • Sept 24, 2024
Growing up in Eastern Washington, I was shaped by a unique set of values I call “Washington Cowboy Values.”
These values were instilled primarily by my grandma and great grandfather, but the unpolished beauty of the Palouse, the enchanting Snake River, the city of Spokane, and the resilient communities that call this region home also played a significant role in shaping who I am today.
For me, a Washington Cowboy values independence, community, hard work, stewardship, and fairness. They’re about taking initiative, helping neighbors, and valuing the fruits of their labor. They care deeply for the land and strive to preserve it for future generations and they believe in treating everyone with respect and fairness, regardless of their background.
My family’s roots in Eastern Washington run deep, spanning four generations of love, labor, and legacy.
They are the embodiment of these values.
My ancestors, pioneers in every sense, settled here with a dream of building a better life. They worked tirelessly, cultivating the land, raising horses, and contributing to the small community. Their values, resilience, and kindness set the tone for our family. My great grandparents, children of the Great Depression, knew hardship firsthand. Yet, they persevered, sharing what little they had, helping neighbors, and instilling in us the importance of community. Their stories of struggle and triumph taught us the value of hard work, compassion, and fairness. My mother, born and raised in Eastern Washington, continued this tradition. She taught me the importance of compassion and showed me that leadership is about serving others, not oneself.
Today, as I look at my own family, I see those same Washington Cowboy values shining through. We’re not just individuals; we’re part of a larger community, connected by shared faith and a deep love for this land. Compassionate leadership, like my great-grandparents’ kindness to strangers, effective problem-solving, like my grandma’s resourcefulness during hard times, and unwavering integrity, like my mom’ commitment to her family, are the hallmarks of our legacy.
As a generational Eastern Washingtonian, I know that our region’s strength lies in its people. I’m proud to carry on my family’s legacy, fighting for the values that have defined us and this region for generations.
But Eastern Washington, with its breathtaking landscapes and diverse communities, is facing a formidable challenge from radical MAGA ideology.
This threat is real and multifaceted, ranging from restrictive abortion laws to extreme border policies and the terrifying Project 2025.
This far-right movement is eroding the very fabric of our society, and it’s imperative that we acknowledge its existence and actions.
The proliferation of far-right extremist groups is deeply concerning. These groups exploit social media platforms to disseminate hate and misinformation, fueling violence and intolerance. The consequences are dire, with increased incidents of hate crimes, harassment, and even plots to overthrow the government.
The January 6th insurrection at the U.S. Capitol was a stark reminder of the dangers posed by these extremist groups. The Program on Extremism at George Washington University has extensively documented the rise of far-right violence, highlighting the urgent need for action.
Eastern Washington is under siege by MAGA and radical Republicans, and it’s essential that we fight back. We must safeguard the values that make Eastern Washington special—its inclusive communities, stunning natural beauty, and western spirit. We cannot let radical, far right ideologies undermine our way of life. It’s time to come together, engage in respectful debate, and promote fact-based information to counter the misinformation spread by these groups.
In the face of this overwhelming darkness, where far-right extremism casts a long shadow over Spokane, Walla Walla, and the rest of Eastern Washington, I often find myself on the brink of despair.
But then emerged Carmela Conroy, a warrior of hope, shining bright like a beacon.
A third-generation Eastern Washingtonian, Carmela’s roots run just as deep as mine in this land. She is a true Eastern Washington Cowgirl and has the values to prove it. Her unwavering commitment to our community is forged from a burning desire to protect and serve.
With her impressive background as a deputy prosecutor, U.S. Foreign Service Officer, and national security expert, she’s armed with the expertise to defeat the forces of radicalism that are threatening our way of life.
Carmela’s crusade is built on a foundation of compassion, justice, and equality. She has fought tirelessly for affordable healthcare, economic empowerment, and support for working families and farmers. Her unshakeable resolve is for defending reproductive freedom, workers’ rights, and voting rights—the very pillars of our democracy and she will continue to do so.
In Carmela Conroy, I see a hero rising.
Her courage inspires, her conviction emboldens, and her leadership illuminates a brighter future for Eastern Washington. Endorsed by labor unions, local organizations, teachers’ unions, and esteemed elected officials, her campaign is a testament to the power of unity and determination.
With Carmela at the forefront, I dare to dream of an Eastern Washington free from the grip of extremism.
Join me in rallying behind this champion of hope, and together, let’s forge a legacy of justice, equality, and freedom. Let’s enter into a new era of common sense, decency, and integrity. It’s time to pave a new way forward for our farmers, grandparents, and children.
We must stand against MAGA extremism and radical Republicans who seek to exploit our sacred lands, harm our women, and take us back to a dark era.
Conroy shares our vision for a better Eastern Washington.
Let’s ride together, from the wheat fields to the Rocky Mountains, for a better life. We owe it to ourselves, our children, and the America we know.
Let’s Elect Carmela Conroy to Congress.