Vote Tuesday, Nov. 2
Be somebody and vote
There is an eery connection between inner-city violence and low voter turnouts. At first blush, the relationship seems contrived, but further inquiry is more persuasive.
Frequently, those apprehended for violence assert that their conduct was justified because they were “dissed,” or disrespected. Their self-esteem is so fragile that it usually does not take much to offend. Similarly, those who do not vote believe that they don’t count. They have never embraced Jesse Jackson’s rallying cry, “I am somebody.”
The violent perp acts out while the non-voter withdraws. Both actions are driven by an inadequate sense of self and community. The violent person does not care about the disruption he creates in the community and the no-show on Election Day is immune to the politically debilitating consequences of his act.
Aberrant political behavior is even more damaging to the welfare of the community than the sporadic acts of violence that make the news. Policy makers have to understand that there is a substantial voting bloc to press for the interests of the community. It is not as important that everyone votes the same way, as it is that everyone votes.
A self-respecting people should stand up for themselves at the polls, in each and every election, to be sure that they are counted.
Banner endorsements
It is time for friends and neighbors to rally once again in a mass demonstration of political will. On Tuesday, Nov. 2, the polls will open to elect all constitutional officers and U.S. congressmen. It is incumbent upon all those who are registered to vote to take the time to be counted.
Sometimes the claims and counterclaims in political advertising can cause confusion about which candidate to support, but there must never be any confusion about the necessity to participate. Fortunately, the quality of candidates inspires the commitment to vote this year.
Deval Patrick — Governor
The Bay State Banner endorsed Deval Patrick’s re-election in the Oct. 21 issue. Patrick’s record of achievement from the corner office is so extraordinary that even the campaign promises of his competitors are not competitive.
Steve Grossman — Treasurer
With an MBA from the Harvard Business School and years of practical business experience, Grossman is eminently qualified to perform the technical duties as treasurer. But just as important as his business resumé, Grossman has for decades been a public service volunteer. The Bay State Banner endorses Grossman for teasurer.
Suzanne Bump — Auditor
The Bay State Banner endorses Suzanne Bump for auditor because she is the most likely candidate to assure that state funds are being honestly spent and that state programs perform as expected.
The ballot questions
There are three questions that need the voters’ attention in this election. The Bay State Banner suggests that the answer to each of them is a resounding “NO.”
Question 1
Repeal the 6.25 percent sales tax on alcoholic beverages.
There is no good public policy reason to make booze more affordable.
Question 2
Repeal comprehensive permits for low and moderate income housing.
Chapter 40B requires suburbs to provide moderate income housing.
Question 3
Reduce state’s sales tax from 6.25 percent to 3 percent.
This would have a disastrous impact on efforts to balance the budget while maintaining a reasonable level of public services.
