2008 At Large Endorsements

This year, DC voters have a slew of options when voting for At Large candidates. Six candidates qualified for the ballot, including a Democrat, a Republican, a Statehood-Green candidate, and three Independent candidates. Additionally, a current councilwoman who was defeated in the Republican primary is running a write-in campaign.

On Tuesday night the Dupont Circle ANC held a debate/forum in which all seven candidates participated. It was my first and only opportunity to compare and contrast all seven of them at the same time. And it was blatantly obvious who carried the evening.

Councilmember Kwame Brown was terrific on every issue. He was well spoken without sounding rehearsed, demonstrated leadership, and came across as knowledgeable and personable. On issue after issue I found myself agreeing with him. He has unequivocally earned himself another full term on the Council representing everyone throughout the city.

Coming in a close second, in my opinion, and miles ahead of the rest of the pack, independent candidate Mark Long amazed and excited me as few local politicians have.

Mr. Long provided thoughtful, deliberative answers to each and every question presented. He was respectful of his time allotment and cordial with the other members of the panel. He didn't tear his opponents down, even when they disagreed. Rather, he laid out his vision for the city, and it was apparent that his desire is to make D.C. a much better place for all of us to live, work and visit.

He grew up in Southeast DC and went to public school here. He has a professional background not only on energy and environmental issues, but also on educational issues, which are of paramount importance today.

What finally won the day for me was Mr. Long's answer to the question of whether or not he supports a new football or soccer stadium in DC (something I am adamantly opposed to, if it is structured the way the baseball stadium deal was). While candidate after candidate stated their fierce opposition to using city funds for a stadium project, Mr. Long replied with a measured, thoughtful approach to the issue. He stated that in a time of economic crisis and possible recession, he would not take ANY public works project off the table, including stadium projects. While I do not believe a stadium is the best use of public funds, I greatly respect and appreciate his answer, and know that he will bring the same thoughtfulness and deliberateness to the Council if elected.

So in addition to asking for your vote on November 4, I'm also asking you to vote to reelect Councilman Kwame Brown, and to elect to the council candidate Mark Long. Thank you for your consideration, and as always, questions, thoughts and concerns are always welcomed.

Respectfully,
Jack