Candidate for
United States Representative; District 1; Democratic Party

As I see it, citizens here and elsewhere across the country are weary of legislative gridlock in Washington. They want productive results, instead of rhetoric and protracted partisan battles. Political parties can respond immediately.

For starters, they can listen for messages from voters and encourage big turnouts at the polls. They also should be true to traditional values, but set clear priorities to go forward. And they can give voters real choices by offering strong, independent candidates who are determined to use common sense to work for the common good.

I would like to see my political party using an aggressive formula:

• Being a credible force for progress, with an agenda for action on multiple fronts such as improved race relations, cleaner urban areas, better public school systems, more health care programs, and environmental protection.
• Strengthening ties with constituencies loyal in the past, particularly youths, senior citizens, women and groups of disaffected voters.
• Renewing a commitment to bold policymaking -- remembering that Democrats were the prime architects of breakthrough government programs and services years ago.

This election also is about the immediate future. How can consumers be optimistic about prospects for economic growth if they continue to see lots of employees laid off because of revenue shortfalls, or to increase short-term profits? What is the realistic outlook for sales of houses, cars, computers and other high-cost items if experienced workers are be forced out of their chosen careers and into lower-paying jobs? Or temporary work? Or any position they can get? Is it any wonder that educated professionals as well as those with industrial skills are disappointed and angry when they see jobs evaporating and little transitional help?

I think we have to call attention to what has occurred at companies across the country. Managers at all levels are under enormous pressure to focus on each weekly, monthly or quarterly bottom line and make decisions that may not be in the best long-term interest of the business. Is that good for competition? Is that good for the U.S. economy? Is anyone accountable?

As Democrats, we need to demonstrate a desire to do what is right, even at the cost of political defections. This is no time to cave in to a bevy of interest groups. The country is fragmented in too many ways already.

The challenges are many and daunting, but we can meet them if we can forge a solid consensus. Let's emphasize shared values, rather than divisive elements of society. Let's call attention to ties that bind and unite us. Let's make it happen.