Letter: North Dakota Republican Party invites Democrats to join the fight against sexual exploitation

To the editor,

I’m responding to

Scott Nelson’s letter concerning former state Sen. Ray Holmberg,

extending an invitation for bipartisan collaboration in the ongoing fight against sexual exploitation.

It’s concerning that Nelson’s letter attempts to cast a wide net, tarnishing all Republicans in the court of public opinion before the legal process unfolds for Holmberg. This type of discourse, fueled by political motivations, distracts from the genuine issue at hand – the devastating impact of sexual exploitation and child pornography on society.

Instead of engaging in public denunciations of the entire Republican Party, I encourage North Dakota Democrats to rise above partisan differences and join hands in eliminating the scourge of sexual exploitation. The alleged actions in the Holmberg case underscore broader societal problems that demand collective efforts for the well-being of victims, families, and humanity.

For instance, the disturbing link between pornography and sex trafficking is a significant concern. Statistics reveal that sex trafficking is the fastest-growing criminal business globally, generating $99 billion annually, with 20% of victims being children.

While acknowledging the severity of the issue, it’s essential to recognize ongoing efforts by Republicans to combat pornography and prevent sexualization of children. Together, we can explore and implement strategies that align with shared values, fostering a culture that prioritizes protecting children.

Furthermore, there have been attempts to undermine conservative efforts to protect children from sexualization and uphold parental rights. This narrative, coupled with declining educational priorities such as reading, writing, and math scores, raises concerns about normalization of a sexualized lifestyle.

The push by some Democrats to allow children to undergo invasive procedures without parental knowledge or input adds another layer to concerns. It highlights the need for a united front in stopping sex crimes and reaffirming a culture that prioritizes the protection of children.

The indictment of Republican Ray Holmberg serves as a wake-up call for North Dakotans. However, it’s equally crucial to address dishonest efforts that may contribute to the sexualization of youth.

In light of these challenges, North Dakota Republicans extend an invitation to all Americans, regardless of political affiliation, to join the ongoing fight against sexual exploitation. Let’s stand united against any effort that could harm the fabric of our families and the foundational values of our nation. These values are at the core of the North Dakota Republican Party platform, as we advocate for your faith, your family and your freedom.

Sandra Sanford,
Bismarck

Sanford is the chairwoman of the NDGOP.