Vote Nov. 8
Another rancorous round of local elections will soon be coming to a close – thank goodness.
On many local government ballots you’ll find positions that are unchallenged, unnoticed or uninteresting, and that’s a shame. But, there’s always a few that promise an interesting race.
The race for County Commissioner in both Bucks and Montgomery Counties promises to be close – with many professional “pollsters” implying that the outcome could impact next year’s Presidential election. According to them, all the Democrats need to come out and vote in next week’s local election or the President will be in trouble in 2012 and all the Republicans need to come out and vote next week so we can be assured of a GOP president in 2012.
Here’s a tip – log on to any political blog or read a newspaper from another state and you’ll hear the same thing regarding two dozen counties in three dozen states.
Then decide for yourself whether you put any credibility in, or are getting anything out of what the overpriced, “talking-heads” are saying. It’s all hype.
There will be political campaigns for the next 12 months. There will be a primary in May and a general election in Nov. 2012.
This year alone, our region has experienced an earthquake, hurricane and a Halloween snowstorm – just in the last three months. The only sure thing is that a lot can happen between this November and next. That includes natural disasters and national debacles.
On the local front, three tough races have taken shape for Township Supervisor positions. In Hereford, Democrat Karen Kearns will take on former supervisor, Republican Keith Masemore for one open seat.
In Marlborough, the Democratic side has pitted Charlie Walter against incumbent Republican Carl Ascoli – only one can win.
In Upper Hanover, running on the Democratic ticket is Leon Edelman and Stefan Laessig. They face Republican candidates Dottie Diehl and Steve Rothenberger in a race for two open supervisor seats.
In most instances, these candidates have taken the high road during their campaigns. That is, emphasizing their qualifications for the position, highlighting their community accomplishments and sharing their plans and views instead of engaging in mudslinging and spreading hearsay about their opponents.
Unfortunately, some supporters do their favorite candidates more harm than good when they resort to rumors, gossip or their take on the facts to “sling mud” against opponents. Right or wrong, too often the voter’s perception is that the one who spews the vitriol and venom is a reflection of the candidate. That too is a shame because often it is not true and the candidate winds up being embarrassed or ashamed at the actions of his or her supporters.
So know your candidates. If you don’t know your candidates, then make it your priority to learn about them. You only have a few days left before you cast your ballot. Whatever you do, don’t let the words of one or two “haters” influence your vote that will affect your life for the next two or four years.
Seek the truth, not just one persons “version” of it, about the candidates. Rise above the mire and shield yourself from flying mud.
Above all, vote on Nov. 8. Many died to give you that right.