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The Fun is Just Beginning: It's County Commissioner Election Time
Posted 2-15-2003
It is 2003, and another election for the office of county commissioner
lies ahead. Four years goes very quickly, and it seems just like yesterday
that the 1999 election was taking place. I'm excited about this year's
election because I really love the political process, the nuts and bolts of
putting together a campaign, and the opportunity to visit with many citizens
across the county.
I've been through the process
as a candidate twice, and if I've learned one thing, it is that no two
elections are alike. In 1995, I was a challenger in an election with three
incumbents seeking re-election. In 1999, I was the only incumbent seeking
re-election and with two open seats, there were plenty of challengers from
both parties. This year, no one knows what the field will be like. With the
news of Republican Commissioner Scott Conner's decision not to seek
re-election, it is uncertain just what will happen. Most likely, there will
be more competition on the Republican side. But, we will know by March 11,
2003, the date petitions must be filed.
Whatever the make-up of the
field, 2003 will be different than 1999. In a race with only one incumbent,
but a lot of candidates, the 1999 election was a difficult one for which to
get a feel. The large field brought political insiders, outsiders,
candidates with relevant issues, and others with no issues who just put
their names on the ballot. There was a certain circus-like atmosphere to the
candidate debates because no one was certain what would be said.
Also, external factors will
be different in 2003. In 1999, our nation was at peace, the economy was
steaming ahead, and an atmosphere of optimism permeated the county and the
nation. Unfortunately, 2003 appears to be different. War seems imminent, and
the economy is struggling. Surpluses at the national level are history, the
Commonwealth faces a $2 billion deficit, and the county's fiscal challenges
are looming in the near future. It appears the atmosphere will be tense,
with an anxious electorate. Whether these external factors help translate
into greater voter participation than in other municipal election years, or
people are so consumed by other issues, they don't get out and vote, remains
to be seen.
I learned from a time
management standpoint, it was much harder running as an incumbent in 1999,
with responsibilities here in the courthouse, than it was as a challenger in
1995. That year, I could dedicate every minute to campaigning. This year
will require even a greater juggling act. Not only does the job of county
commissioner require a lot of time, and campaigning is extremely demanding,
but also my daughters are older and involved in activities that require my
time.
2003 should be an exciting
year. Elections are like a long drawn out sports competition, and I thrive
on competition. I know the records of the incumbents will be part of the
debate, and I welcome the challenge. Without doubt, we will not get a free
ride. I think competition is healthy for the democratic process, and it
forces elected officials to stay engaged with the electorate. Stay tuned as
the fun is just beginning. |
