Unopposed elections are the same as no election at all. The cultivation of new political thought, the advancement of political free speech, and response to the electorate are misplaced. Accountability of elected officials is lost unless they are challenged by an opponent.
The present political regime at City Hall does not hold monopoly on thought or courses of action to advance the community. There’s no wrong answer when it comes to political opinion. Expressing your beliefs alters the community’s course even if you do not win the election because government is refreshed through competing political viewpoints.
Good character and the resolve to stick to one’s core beliefs are probably the most important requirements of a candidate. If knowing the difference between right and wrong and you believe what you say and say what you believe then you are well qualified. All that is required in any matter before the council is to remain aware of your core values when voting and to remain strong in those beliefs that led you to your decision. Again, there’s no right or wrong answer; only the concept of doing the right thing, right then, based on your beliefs and the information before you. You don’t owe anyone any more than that.
Individuals make our government work so long as individuals are willing to participate. Local government isn’t rocket science and requires no special qualifications. You don’t have to be a member of any organization. You don’t need permission. You don’t need an invitation. And, if you feel like you need to be asked to seek office; I am asking you to do so on the basis that our community needs you now because you have something special to offer our community’s future.
So, if you are interested in advancing the cause, expanding or reducing government’s role, clinging to yesteryear, advancing the interests of morality, bringing social justice, increasing security, restoring honor and patriotism, lending a hand in bringing the changes that bring hope or the hope that brings change, then you should go to City Hall and file for a place on the ballot. It doesn’t cost a penny.
Jack Coleman
Palestine
Letters to the Editor
February 6, 2009
Run for office in community
- Letters to the Editor
-
- Always two sides to every story
- Hoping for change in Palestine
- Draw attention to important issue
- No flags at courthouse on Fourth
- Thanks to great folks in Palestine
-
Candidate explains decision to supporters, city voters
EDITOR’S NOTE: The following is a letter submitted to the Herald-Press by Dan Bochsler:
To be “fit for its future,” a successful city embraces and moves forward with changes. Recently, several positive votes for change occurred in Palestine. Like in life, nothing ever stops changing, and things do “happen for a reason.” - Palestine lucky to have Dr. Puvvada
- Thanks to all who worked to pass bond
- Support Elkhart ISD bond
- Presley works for betterment of city
- More Letters to the Editor Headlines
Raw: Baby White Rhino Debuts at Australian Zoo
Time Lapse: Rebuilding Bridge Post-collapse
Ohio Woman Accuses 3 of Holding Her Captive
Hunt for Ex-Teamster Boss Hoffa's Remains Ends
Aug. Trial Set for Ohio Man in Triple Kidnapping
Car Crash in NYC's East Village Injures 8
Obama Renews Call for Nuclear Reductions
Raw: Car Jumps Curb in NYC, Injures 8
Unusual Heat Wave Bakes Alaska
Raw: German President Welcomes President Obama
Raw: Arizona Wildfire Scorches 8 Square Miles
Raw: Huge Fire Near Yosemite National Park
Kid Couture: Spending Big Bucks on Babies
