Tuesday, September 26, 2006

You can't elect people who won't do the job.

I attended the debate between State Senator Tom Reynolds and his challenger, Wauwatosa Alderman Jim Sullivan on September 21 at St. Therese Catholic Church. As everyone knows, it turned out to not be a debate since the incumbent failed to show up.

Tom Reynolds’ campaign is a disgrace, to the political process, to the Republican Party, and to himself.

If you’re afraid of having video or audio taken of the things you say, then politics is the wrong business for you. If you’re afraid that you’re going to say something stupid that can be used in an attack ad, then politics is the wrong business for you. Speaking in public, being recorded and even being attacked for what you say are included in the job description of being an elected official. If you don’t want to fulfill the requirements, then seek employment elsewhere.

Should we be surprised that Reynolds sponsored a bill that would let other folks – pharmacists – simply decide to not do their job on occasion?

When it comes to Jim Sullivan, I thought he did a great job at the debate. As a Republican – a sane Republican – I disagreed with a few of the things he said. But he was gracious, friendly, and had clearly given the issues on which he was questioned ample thought. Unlike his opponent who is a coward, Sullivan put himself out there to meet the voters and give us an opportunity to judge whether we think he’s fit for the job. Again, he met the requirements of the job he is seeking, unlike his challenger.

If anyone reads this blog and lives in the 5th Senate district, I ask that you support Jim Sullivan, if only to put an end to the embarrassment our district currently suffers.