The recently concluded Plainfield democratic primary for the 2nd and 3rd ward at-large council seat was another great example of America’s democratic political process at work—a process intended to encourage qualified, viable individuals to step forward and compete for their party’s nomination. A couple years ago, the same process allowed about ten Democrats, including our current President, Barack Obama, and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, to compete in a very heated contest for the party’s top prize, the opportunity to be the Democratic nominee for President of the United States.
After all was said and done, everyone, new and old democrats, came together under one party banner, in spite of the very competitive and, at times, brutal contest. I do believe that a good, well fought, competitive, and issues-based primary provides the raw materials for a successful candidate to mold into the goods and services that will provide maximum benefits to his or her constituents.
Hence, I am always amazed that, in spite of our democratic way of life, some in our community feel a compulsion to utter the refrain, “Why can’t we all get along?” The fact of the matter is, we do all get along; many of us just don’t go along to get along and are not willing to part with our moral compass. It is our moral compass that guides us through the meandering pathways of life and prevents us from being stuck on a deserted island. It is our moral compass that takes us to the high road marked with some of life’s guiding principles, such as honesty and integrity, and shelters us from the dangerous hazards that could plunge us into the darken valley of despair. ”What good is a man if he gains the whole world and in the process he parts with his soul?” One must always take the high road.
Having said all of the above, I wish to take this opportunity to congratulate Rebecca Williams on her victory in the June 8th Democratic primary. Rebecca and I are proud members of Plainfield’s only Democratic Party and, like President Obama, we are also proud to be known as New Democrats. I look forward to welcoming her on the council if she is successful in November’s general election, and to working with her and the rest of my colleagues to move Plainfield forward. Rebecca’s intellect, her rational thought process, and her ability to build consensus will make her a great addition to the Plainfield City Council.
Finally, I wish to thank the voters of Plainfield for choosing wisely and for embracing Plainfield’s diversity. Congratulations to Rebecca, and thank you to Plainfield!
Regards,
Adrian
