The issue that will be discussed is Attempting to influence votes thereby effecting election outcomes. This is a very delicate subject because Freedom to express one's political views is essential to American Democracy. It is sometimes difficult to 1) Determine when information is meant to influence outcomes, 2) Statements are just reflections of personal opinions, 3) How restricted should persons associated with political municipalities or government employment be restrained from participating in election activities, and 4) What if any actions should be taken against people that cross the line.
Some may try to argue that the situation I am describing would not qualify as "attempting to influence". I am using the term as meant in daily conversation and not in any type of legal sense that allows for splitting hairs. I am using it in a similar sense to being pregnant. One is either pregnant, or not and the particular trimester is irrelevant for establishing the fact of pregnancy. The only reason that I am not naming this person is because all of those who are aware of the occurrence would have to agree to push the issue, and the fact that I heard bits and pieces with my own ears would not stand up in a court under legal scrutiny.
The most disheartening part of this situation is I have a high degree of confidence that every member of Council and even the Mayor was aware of these incidents. Ironic, how two years ago before I was on the Council, that the body thought it imperative to barr all employees from talking about Borough issues with the public yet looks the other way when one associated with the Borough starts spreading stories about a private citizen candidate.
It is my opinion at best this incident is egregious, unethical, amoral, and a demonstration of poor judgement. At worse it could be argued that there are more serious and possible legal issues involved. The incident involves spreading a story about Candidate Pamela Loughner Kelley, and suggesting that because of the incidents in the story one should consider voting for someone else. In defense of the person spreading the stories, if they deserve any credit for this deplorable act, the stories had some element of truth and could be verified by sources available to most members of the public. On the flip side, even if true it wasn't about Pam herself but someone close to her. Secondly, it has absolutely nothing to do with her ability to represent and serve the citizens of Delmont.
So, why would Council be inclined to look the other way? Do other members of Council fear Pam? Pam told me once, " I am not running for Council to make friends with its members. I am running to make a difference and serve the people of Delmont." I don't mean to be disrespectful in any way to other new candidates, and I told them this to their faces as well, "From a technical perspective Pam is the most qualified candidate running." In many ways she is more qualified then those of us currently sitting on Council and yes I am including the long sitting veterans. Although I spent a year studying and trying to learn enough to be a competent Councilmen, there are several areas where she may be more qualified then me. I don't view her as a threat but as an asset to the Community.
In many ways it discourages me to write this post. In general, I have no desire to become actively involved in the campaign process. I can not let these rumors be spread in good conscience without the people of Delmont knowing what is going on behind the scenes. Only you can decide on Election Day how you want your government to work.
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