Criticism Isn’t Persecution—It’s Part of Governing

There’s a popular saying in political circles: “If you’re catching flak, you’re over the target.” Lately, some in our local party leadership have used that phrase as a shield against all criticism. They suggest that every disagreement they face—from within the party or from the community at large—must be proof that they’re right and everyone else is wrong. But that’s not how good governance works. And it’s certainly not what conservatism teaches us.

As Republicans, we believe in limited government, personal freedom, and individual responsibility. But too often in today’s political climate, we forget something equally important: humility. It’s easy to get caught up in our own agenda and lose sight of the fact that other people—and their perspectives—matter, too. Disagreement isn’t persecution. It’s part of the process in a constitutional republic.

Our founders intentionally designed a system where no faction, no matter how passionate, gets everything it wants. That’s not failure—that’s freedom. When political leaders act as if all criticism is an attack and every opponent is an enemy, it’s a sign they’ve lost sight of the bigger picture. Debate, checks and balances, and even internal disagreements within a party aren’t signs of weakness. They’re signs of a healthy republic.

Local leadership claims that being challenged by moderates, independents, and even fellow Republicans is proof they’re “true conservatives.” But conservatism doesn’t mean refusing to listen. It means practicing careful, steady stewardship—balancing budgets, protecting rights, and defending the liberties we pass to the next generation. It doesn’t mean burning down institutions simply because you don’t control them.

None of us enters public service hoping to compromise. Real leadership is understanding that progress is often incremental. You don’t win every round, and you shouldn’t. The goal is to preserve a system that ensures no one has unchecked power.

At its heart, conservatism is about conserving what matters most: our freedoms, our communities, and our constitutional way of life. That requires collaboration, not isolation. Respect, not purity tests. And leaders who understand that being challenged doesn’t mean you’re the hero—it means you’re part of a bigger conversation.

Let’s not confuse honest disagreement with betrayal. Let’s remember that government is meant to serve all the people, not just those who agree with us. In the end, leadership is about listening—and no slogan should drown that out.

About the Author

Justin Schorzman is a Kootenai County Republican Precinct Committeeman and community volunteer.

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