Local republicans? The key players here are the sheriff and the judge, both of which are democrats. The elected sheriff retired January 1st.
The sheriff let this situation get out of control in terms of their reaction. There was never any reason to close down schools or take any special security measure period.
A bunch of protesters 30 miles from town are not exactly in a position to be a threat to anyone safety.
The local state representative is a Republican and he has spoken out against the occupation. He wants people to place their faith in the political system and said so at the town meeting with the judge-commissioner.
US Congressman Greg Walden made a passionate speech in Washington, but also wants a withdrawl by the group along with every Republican presidential candidate.