Signs of the Times

Ah yes, it’s a voting year, a time to show how well democracy works, and how well Americans adhere to its principles.  This is a time for intelligent debates that put the People first, especially in such difficult financial times; a time to look at candidates, doing their finest for America and for our communities, models of dignity and good sportsmanship….

Who am I trying to kid?  It’s a brawl, money flying like fists, accusations and dirty dealings, lies, lies, lies.  It’s embarrassing.  It’s shameful.  What I see right now is a businessman’s civil war, stagnating Congress on both State and National sacred grounds.  Those who strive to win the right to serve their people need to do so with honour.  I don’t care if you’re running for the smallest position, or the tallest position, that you are the richest of candidates or the poorest, you need to constantly walk with honour and truth, humbly wishing to serve ALL the people…keeping your actions transparent and above reproach, to the best of your ability.  (Deep breath)  Isn’t it what we would ask ourselves?  Has everyone lost their compass, back at the last campsite?

Being involved with Lyme advocacy, we have spoken with and met our representatives many times.  We know who promises and who delivers, when we hold an educational/awareness event.  I am so pleased to say that Larry Seaquist (D) and Derek Kilmer (D) have both been accessible, have educated themselves on the growing problem of tick-borne infections, and do their level best in representing us.  In March I met Karin Ashabraner (D) and listened to what she had to say, liking her quickly.  She’s ex-army and a teacher, with good balance and grasp of issues.  I really felt she also listened when I was talking, accepting a Lyme education package that included “Under Our Skin,” the documentary that speaks for an invisible community.  The position she goes for, State Representative, is held right now, by Jan Angel (R) who has talked a good streak, but doesn’t show up on the Key, even when she’s promised to come to an event.  Her voting record is abysmal, but you should check all that out on your own.

So, the signs go up, in ditches, on lawns and fences…free speech!  Not quite free though…I see the Republicans have enough money for at least three signs to every Democrat’s.  I smiled when driving past the names of candidates I liked, especially when I saw a few for Karin.  Then one day…Karin’s were gone, yes, ALL of them, up and down the Key.  What I saw next made me ask my son to pull the car over so I could take a picture.  It was not the only time I saw this candidate’s signs rammed right in front of his opponents, making it all but invisible to those driving by.  Some of Larry and Derek’s signs have also been knocked over.  I say chaps, not a very good play!

Barely two inches away!

I would ask Jesse Young (R) to personally oversee the rearranging of signs up and down the Key Peninsula Highway.  I would ask everyone running to remember the calling that brings you here.  It’s not your business, it’s the Peoples.  Our responsibility is to respect the rights of one another, while crossing this great divide. The People need to educate themselves on the issues…the REAL issues, to find truthful, transparent candidates, candidates with honour worth respecting, and electing.

 If you wish to check out any candidates voting record you can go to  www.wslc.org  for the Washington Labor Council.