Hello to my friends, and in Westfield, especially in Ward 3… The Primary elections are next Tuesday. This is the MOST IMPORTANT election in the cycle. If you don’t make it in Primary your name is not on the ballot in Nov. State wide, and Congress and Senate are up for your approval. This is when you hire new people or re-hire those already there.
As an Independent Voter (unenrolled) it is liberating to not be attached to an ideology or an agenda with which I do not agree, but who I think has been the best job, or who needs to fired and replaced. Who is the most qualified, and who will benefit our community, the Commonwealth, and OUR nation. For me that is kind of easy for 2 of them. You know, that from what I have written, and as an Independent I look at pragmatics and a blend of my ideals and the real realities of our world. As such, Ritchie Neal for Congress. I have known Ritchie from the time he first ran for city council in Springfield. From the start he sought to get life back into Springfield. Then, as mayor, he worked on using community events to bring people together and to market the good side of the city. From the Taste of Springfield to many others down town events. Then, as our Congressman, we has worked hard to channel Federal resources to benefit this district. Now, if the Dems retake the House, he should become Chairman of Ways and Means. One step from Speaker. And, for us old timers remember the benefits when, McCormick and Tip O’Neal held those positions. Ritchie is a good man, he is knowledgeable and experienced to become Ways and Means Chair, and yes, Speaker. I know he stands to protect Social Security and prevent the cuts the current, and as well Medicare. I know he has promised public employees, that we do not LOSE 60% of our Social Security, if we retire from State Public Service as we are one of some 14-16 states in that situation. I know he supports the environment, health services, and reasonable and responsible immigration laws. And, NOT taking babies and children from their parents fleeing many of the same horrific conditions and injustices that our families fled when they left the old world. Ritchie is a history and government knowledge guy. No fooling him with a new and different version as a con job.
Another that I have known for a long time is Bill Galvin, our Secretary of State; since was a House Rep. He has secured our voting by staying on top of the methods used to hack them. He has refused to submit to the Presidents demand for our personal/private voting information. He has made it easier for us to keep our voting status if we move, or change it if we want it changed, as I did. He too is a person of courage and integrity to help us, and to protect us from political predators.
Next, Suzanne Bump, State Auditor. While do not know her personally I do know that she has investigated all kinds of budget and spending abuses and rip offs. She has done wonders to protect how our tax dollars are used. And, that is all I have to say to convince me to rehire her.
The last next are Charlie Baker for Governor, and Karyn Polito, for Lt. Governor. Karyn, I have had the opportunity to meet and to informally talk with her. I found her down to earth and sincerity a real qualifier. And as important, the number of times that she has been here to meet with us, talk with us and to understand our needs and concerns. I like her and respect her. And, for me to say that is a lot. A lot in public office, I can accept, appreciate, etc., but, if I do not like them, I do my best to be civil with our upper level public employees, but that ends when we part. Sorry, I too am an imperfect mortal Human being, just like you. And, I have seen the good that the good can do, and the harm that we are left with by the not so good.
As for Charlie…OK, we are in some critical times. Charlie baker, while also imperfect, has stood up for Massachusetts, and the good people of our state. He has taken on and challenged the chosen President of his Party. That takes guts, in any political world when you conflict with the dominators, and man do I know that. And while I disagree with some of principles and policies, over all, his concern for the environment, health care, clean energy, and the greater good for our state.
As for the rest: the State Treasurer; her folks especially dealing with retirement issues are kind, considerate and respond quickly, and with that sense of being sincere. AG, not so much. I think that she is good; got guts to challenge Congress and the President but when seeking help, it was not there: we can’t help, hire a lawyer, even though the IG’s office and I spoke for over an hour re-my issues regarding a toxic work site environment, and abuse. With my concern, as most often, the clients with mental health issues, are victimized to get at the person whose job they want. And one died before I left, and two shortly thereafter. I am not making any accusations; I was not there, but I knew the people who worked there and worked there.
Anyway, if any of you know anyone in Sen. Jim Welch’s District he is a great guy, hard worker, has integrity, and does a darn hard job representing them. That is it, enjoy the heat, but most importantly live up to your citizen responsibility; exercise your citizen authority, and hire the best person for the job on PRIMARY DAY!. Your former Ward 3 City Councilor, Brian Hoose…[email protected]
