Let’s talk about gaslighting—a term so overused in modern discourse that it risks losing its sting, much like the promises of integrity, or a “fresh start” we so often hear from local government officials. Gaslighting, for the uninitiated, is a form of psychological manipulation where one party attempts to make another doubt their perceptions, memories, or grasp on reality. It’s not just a word; it’s an art form perfected by those in power who believe they are above reproach, above you, and apparently above the very laws that bind the rest of us.
Now, take Josephine County’s local government. No, really—take it, dissect it, and scrutinize it. Here we have officials who seem to float on a cloud of their own self-importance, operating under a charter they interpret in ways that often seem, shall we say, “creative.” For those of you trying to understand how these figures manage to dodge accountability while demanding your trust, let me assure you: it’s not magic. It’s gaslighting, served with a heaping side of condescension.
First, let’s identify the classic signs of gaslighting, especially when practiced by public officials:
- Denial of Reality: Did they promise transparency but suddenly hide behind procedural jargon? That’s gaslighting. When their actions directly contradict their words, but you’re made to feel crazy for noticing, it’s time to sit up and pay attention.
- Projection of Blame: Watch how swiftly they turn the tables. Concerned citizens become “misinformed agitators,” while officials cast themselves as victims of unwarranted criticism.
- Misrepresentation of Facts: They’ll cherry-pick data, twist timelines, and conveniently “forget” details to fit their narrative. You’ll hear phrases like, “That’s not what we meant” or “You misunderstood the context.”
- Feigning Authority: Nothing says gaslighting quite like the authoritative tone of someone who pretends to know the rules while breaking them. “This is how it’s always been done,” they’ll declare, as if that justifies their behavior.
Gaslighting doesn’t work in a vacuum. It requires an audience willing to doubt itself—or one too weary to fight back. Local government officials thrive on this dynamic, especially when they exude an air of untouchability. If you’ve ever brought up a concern at a public meeting only to be met with dismissive smiles or condescending tones, congratulations—you’ve witnessed gaslighting in action.
The recent antics in Josephine County make this all too clear. Certain officials act as though the rules are mere suggestions, and their authority is divine. They lean on the idea that the public—busy, frustrated, or simply disillusioned—won’t bother to challenge their narrative.
Here’s the trick: They don’t need you to believe them completely. They just need you to doubt yourself enough to stop pushing back.
If you’re tired of being gaslit by those who are supposed to serve you, here’s a primer on reclaiming your footing:
- Educate Yourself: Read the county charter, study public records, and familiarize yourself with meeting minutes. Gaslighting thrives on ignorance, so arm yourself with knowledge.
- Demand Clarity: When officials speak in circles, ask them to state their points clearly and concisely. If they dodge, call it out.
- Collaborate with Others: Gaslighting works best on individuals, so join forces with like-minded community members. Strength in numbers exposes manipulation for what it is.
- Hold Them Accountable: Use public comment periods, write letters, and engage the media. Shine a light on gaslighting tactics and refuse to let them dominate the narrative.
Let’s be honest: There’s a certain audacity required to gaslight an entire community. It’s as if these officials believe they’re the only adults in the room and the rest of us are just petulant children incapable of grasping their brilliance. But here’s the truth: The emperor has no clothes. And it’s high time we pointed it out.
Josephine County’s leadership may believe they’re untouchable, but the reality is this: They work for us. Not the other way around. Gaslighting may be their weapon of choice, but knowledge, persistence, and a united community are far more powerful tools.
So, the next time you’re in a public meeting and you hear the carefully measured tones of an official explaining why they can’t possibly be wrong, remember: You’re not crazy. They just want you to think you are. Don’t fall for it.