As an ordinary voter, I sometimes wonder how important it is to vote; how much effect can one person’s vote have? Nevertheless, I have never missed voting in any general or primary election. After all, it is the one chance I have, through my vote, to express my point of view and, perhaps, along with the votes of others, affect the future conduct of politicians. If most people don’t bother to vote because they feel that their one vote is not significant, our politicians will have no incentive to conduct themselves in the best interests of the country. Indeed, it seems that many politicians feel that they can act primarily in their own self-interest, which often means catering to large corporations who lobby them, rather than considering the needs of individual citizens. Also, in small towns, a few votes can be decisive in an election.

To ensure that our country succeeds, and to keep our democracy, I think that we must participate in it the main way we can—we must vote.

Amy Rothstein
Pine Plains, NY

Letter to Democrats

If you voted in the 2020 election, you are by now wondering what happened to your party. When did the Democratic party become the Progressive Socialist party? You are probably sitting around your kitchen table talking about inflation, rising energy costs, higher food bills, and the sorry state of your child’s education and their diminishing future prospects. The champions of “defund the police” neglected to mention that the real-world effect of all their promises to save your soul, the environment and your communities would do nothing of the sort, yet cost you dearly.

I can tell you what happened. You got played. Despite what the mainstream media would like you to believe, reasonable Americans want the same things. We want to be treated with dignity and respect, we want crime-free streets, economic prosperity, the right to worship God without government interference, to visit our elderly and bury them without restrictions, and to have our voices heard, even if others may disagree. We believe that a parent’s right to shape their child’s life and instill values is our right, and not the government’s. But in this “New Normal,” these and other rights have been denied. 

This country is in desperate need of a course correction. The Democratic party of today and our country is being run by a handful of elites, hell-bent on tearing down our nation, or alternatively, offering it for sale to the highest bidder.

You have an opportunity in this election to make a vital change. We have moved too far to the left, and what was once regarded as the land of opportunity is rapidly becoming the land of diminishing returns. Your vote in November will determine whether we move back to a reasonable middle space or move towards the precipice of unimaginable consequences.

Matthew J. Contreras
Milford Township, PA

Assembly District 101 deserves a compassionate leader

I am delighted to write this letter on behalf of Matthew Mackey. I have known Matthew since  January 2020, when xe was a student in a course I taught titled Human Behavior Theory for  Social Work Practice. 

In the years since, Matthew has continually shown ximself to be a  reflective leader, a thoughtful and engaged learner, and an outstanding person. 

Matthew embodies the core values of social work: social justice, service, integrity, dignity  and worth of the person, importance of human relationships and competence. As an advocate for many, xe deeply listens to others share stories and perspectives that may be different than xis own; xe asks good questions and takes risks sharing xis own experiences to connect with others. Throughout my time knowing Matthew, both xis work in the classroom, and xis advocacy stands out. Xis continued advocacy efforts in the area of the LGBTQ+ community,  healthcare and the policy arena are unparalleled. 

For example, Matthew has spent xis life advocating and working towards a more equitable and accessible world. As a social worker, Matthew has studied extensively how policy directly impacts communities, and how to create change that benefits families. Furthermore,  Matthew is an active member of the National Association of Social Workers – NYS Chapter,  where xe regularly speaks on numerous panels regarding disability rights, health insurance,  community empowerment and policy advocacy. More importantly, Matthew does not just speak on these issues, xe acts on these issues by directly working with legislators in Albany,  sharing knowledge and experiences to improve legislation and, in turn, positively impact lives. 

Matthew has showcased xis leadership abilities, xis ability to be reflective, and xis ability to be an engaged lifelong learner. I also want to note that when given constructive feedback, xe took note, made changes, and improved. Being open to feedback, being a lifelong learner,  and being open to new ideas are incredible assets to have as an elected official. Matthew has shown ximself to be bright and resourceful, and I have no doubt xe will be an excellent representative for State Assembly 101. 

Sara Terrana
Queens, NY

Vote Marian Keegan for PA District 139

Are you ready for something different? Had enough of divisive politics and partisan bickering? Then write in Marian Keegan for Representative in the Pennsylvania General Assembly 139th District. 

I’ve been listening to you. I’ve met you in your shops and businesses, in the laundromat and at the bus stop, as a community service volunteer, at lectures and concerts, and at networking and public meetings. When elected, I will work hard to address your concerns and make lives better. 

Our planet is warming. We continue to recover from COVID disruptions, and global events are impacting our lives and economies. Shortages of food, affordable housing and fuel are pushing up prices. I will support efforts to relieve shortages and hold accountable providers who are overcharging. Looking ahead, I will promote new, better and more opportunities for education and employment: innovation; internet access; good roads and water infrastructure; accessible and affordable healthcare; high-quality education; and career and technical training. We are skilled at research, human services, building and manufacturing. Let’s get well-paying jobs for everyone. 

A woman must have control over her own body and achieve equal pay to be successful. I will always support each woman’s freedom to make choices for herself, and will never trade that away. Another right is to bear arms. I will find common-sense solutions to the violence and protect public safety. I am an experienced protector of the environment. I will defend our right to clean air and water.

This election is about experience and a vision for the future that includes livable wages and a place where we can live, work and play together. I will work hard for you by building productive working relationships with legislators in the General Assembly, and applying the principles of workable compromise.

Marian Keegan
Lackawaxen Township, PA