Incumbents Wary of Debates
Over the past few weeks, I've seen a series of apparently futile efforts by Democratic challengers Mike Walsh of Westwood (running for State Senate) and Mac D'Alessandro of Milton (running for Congress) to draw their opponents into debate. It's no surprise incumbent Stephen Lynch doesn't want to elevate his opponent's campaign to an equal platform--he's got nothing to gain and plenty of money to spend to get his message out. Walsh's opponent has less advantage than a sitting Congressman, but having served as a state rep in West Roxbury, he appears to be following the same traditional political calculus to ignore the challenger.
Anyone running for public office should not be afraid to engage his opponents who have qualified for the ballot and are running substantial campaigns with support from thousands of residents. Those with differing opinions at least deserve the respect of seeing the candidates argue the issues. It's not just about whether you agree with a candidate or who's "right," but the quality of engagement we deserve. If these candidates won't even debate their opponents, and if they subsequently win, how can I expect them to represent me or listen to my opinions? They don't need me to get re-elected, so I don't matter?
Maybe a TV debate is not the right forum...but I don't see anything else happening either. I would be happy to moderate an online discussion here if the candidates would find that more appealing, but I'm not going to submit questionnaires and issue endorsements. My point is not that we should score or grade the candidates on their positions, but that we, as voters, deserve the opportunity to evaluate them as they interact so we can judge how truly representative they will be.
Comments
STRONG SUPPORT FOR MIKE WALSH for State Senate
The voters should be able to hear to candidates. Why should they hide from the people who cast there votes. THAT IS UN AMERICAN------I STRONGLY SUPPORT MIKE WALSH , and a debate. yt
Michael Walsh for State Senate
Dear Neighbors:
Westwood finally has an opportunity to send one of our own to Beacon Hill. And from the recent headline about entitlement and patronage, it is no better time to vote for Westwood resident Michael Walsh.
Michael is running for the Suffolk/Norfolk District Senate seat held by Marian Walsh (no relation) for the past seventeen years. Michael Walsh has been working very hard on his campaign and Westwood is poised to benefit by having one of its residents elected to the State Senate. Michael has met and spoken with many voters from each area in the District. He knows the issues, understands the concerns unique to each area and has solid solutions that will work.
Many current Westwood residents are from West Roxbury, Hyde Park or Rosindale. I strongly urge every resident of the Town of Westwood to support its own and to cast your vote on the Tuesday, September14 primary for Michael Walsh.
The Town will be best served by electing Westwood resident, Michael Walsh, to the State Senate. This is an opportunity that we haven’t had in seventeen years to make sure that the Town of Westwood has a strong voice in the Senate. Don’t cast your vote for a "dear friend" candidate who will likely ask "where is Westwood?" when we need our voice heard. Help yourself, and the Town of Westwood, by voting for a Fresh Start! Vote for Michael Walsh, State Senate, on Tuesday, September 14th.
John J. O’Brien, Jr.
91 Hawktree Drive
Westwood, MA 02090
Candidate information
In my volunteer role as Community Information Director for Franklin Matters, I made the offer to the thirteen candidates for Town Council and seven candidates for School Committee for an interview to share their information, background and positions on various Franklin issues for our last Town election. A total of five worked with me to do so. Actually one other did as well but didn't get back in time so his info didn't get published.
I see that effort in scope of what a local blogger can and should do. We have a publishing platform to share information to create an informed electorate. I avoid pushing personal agendas and making endorsements.