This is in response to the Sun Journal editorial of Aug. 27.
Simply put, the editorialist didn’t approve of a gubernatorial write-in campaign for John Jenkins. The editorial stated, “Anyone running for the top job in this state should have a vision of where we need to go and how we will get there.” And it goes further adding, “…it certainly helps to have money and a network of supporters ready, especially in a statewide race.”
It is true, those formulaic elements of running for governor have been necessary ingredients in previous elections. Money, lots of money, millions of dollars and the backing of one of the political parties has almost always been necessary.
Yes, “traditional” candidates have a vision; the less imaginative call it a plan.
Well, the only vision or plan espoused by one of these politicians that I would believe is their plan to be elected governor. But, the plan they tell us about, and tell us about repeatedly, is similar to paper dolls and their cut-out clothing.
Career politicians dress up their candidacy by selecting accessory promises from the following: lower taxes, more jobs, more efficient government, improved education, better roads and bridges, something green, etc. We frequently hear these sometimes contradictory promises. Do we ever see them accomplished?
The reason may be that the traditional candidate is hamstrung by obligations.
They are obliged to what brought them to the dance: their political party and that party’s agenda.
Traditional candidates raise millions of dollars. Lobbyists, corporations and special interest groups contribute thousands. Perhaps they are not buying influence. Perhaps promises haven’t been made, but I remain suspicious. It may be as innocent as a kiss; the kiss may not be a promise, but it certainly is encouraging.
Political endorsements and monetary contributions fall into the realm of the good manners our mothers wanted us to have: if someone invited us to dinner, if they give us a gift, it is polite to find some way to reciprocate.
Also, once elected and since money and political party advantage is not always enough, traditional politicians misuse their office to garner votes for their next election by awarding generous pay and benefits to state employees.
I am not writing in support of John Jenkins for governor — I haven’t decided who I am going to vote for. What I am advocating for is an opportunity for ordinary citizens to choose a non-traditional candidate, a candidate without political party entanglements, a candidate uncompromised by large monetary donations, and one whose candidacy was brought about by the citizenry instead of by party hacks who choose two candidates, and force me to vote for the lessor of two compromised choices.
Richard Sabine, Lewiston
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