I attended a forum hosted by the nonpartisan League of Women Voters Sussex County Sept. 26, between the candidates for Delaware House of Representatives District 4. As I understand it, a goal of the LWVSC is to empower citizens with knowledge so they can fully participate in their government. This goal was achieved because it gave the candidates an opportunity to present their views on issues important to the people of District 4.
I was very disappointed to learn that when the LWVSC also offered both candidates for District 41 the opportunity to participate in a similar forum, challenger Tom Brett agreed to a forum, yet Rich Collins, incumbent in his fifth term, declined. Why would Collins deprive the constituents of District 41 a candidate forum moderated by a nonpartisan organization? The voters of District 41 deserve to hear the two candidates discuss their views on issues such as responsible growth, affordable child care, climate change, reproductive choice, education, LGTBQ rights, voting rights and more.
I was able to clearly understand Tom Brett’s priorities after reading his website at www.brettfordelaware.com.
They include:
1. Manage growth responsibly – Brett wants to balance private property rights with our community need for safe roads, reasonable class sizes, access to healthcare and clean water. Why hasn’t Collins advocated for a better balance of growth during his five terms in office?
2. Affordable child care – Almost everyone in the district – parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, neighbors and employers – is affected by lack of affordable child care. Brett understands the pervasive need for affordable child care and understands the importance of delivering such is a key investment in our community. I have only heard Rich Collins bemoan government spending. What has he done in 10 years to address this need?
3. Climate change and renewable energy – Brett believes the overwhelming science that climate change is an existential threat to our way of life and that fostering growth of clean energy sources is necessary. I attended town halls hosted by Collins in which the featured speakers have claimed that carbon dioxide emissions are not a problem and that climate change is not happening.
Brett met with me, further explained his positions, answered my questions, and wanted to hear my concerns. After that conversation, I recall having felt that my input was heard and valued. My conversation with Brett is not the exception. He has met with thousands of voters in the district to understand how he can best represent their interests.
I have to wonder why the long-term incumbent Collins does not want to present his views on local issues alongside his challenger at a nonpartisan forum. It’s unfortunate that the people of District 41 are going to miss an opportunity to compare the candidates’ vision, priorities and plans.
I am voting for Tom Brett to be my representative for the 41st District. It’s time for change, and I’m confident that Tom Brett will make that happen.
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