Public service is a noble calling, however the process of running for public office and getting elected is not so noble. The 2016 presidential elections exposed the public to a plethora of half -truths, fake news, false claims, slurs and manipulating information meant to give the final KO blow to the opponent. Sadly, it seems that the upcoming Carroll County elections won't be exonerated by such tactics. After all, the ends justify the means: what is morally needed to represent the constituents is not necessary to win. If personal attacks, misstatements and inaccuracies work and get one elected, how can it be wrong? Or is it? Given the fact that whom we elect is of vital importance to our lives, shouldn't we pay more attention to those candidates who avail themselves of half-truths and deceptive claims to win our votes? Shouldn't honesty win?
David Ellin, a candidate for House of Delegates for District 5 in Carroll County, has recently entered the political arena. With the public announcement of his candidacy and ongoing run for public office, he inevitably entered the nasty kneading machine of politics and caudine forks of the public. Attacked for being a successful attorney or for being "too honest" about issues, Mr. Ellin's critics fail to see exactly those traits that differentiate him from the other incumbents. What's wrong with success and being honest? Isn't that what we appreciate in real life and want reflected into our candidates? By not going to extremes and promising things that would exceed his scope of public service, Mr. Ellin tackled those very issues he can get his hands on and he can change. With the risk of losing votes by not lying about what Ellin can realistically do for Carroll County (support law enforcement, waive taxes for all retirees, defending second amendment rights, better education and actively fight the opioid epidemics), he positions himself as a very promising delegate. The past years, we've had ample opportunity to hear the pompous and empty promises of the incumbents and witness their impotence. Our trampled expectations left a bitter taste in our mouths. Along with a sense of disgust.
We need fresh blood in Carroll County. Judging by the way Mr. Ellin conducts his campaign, I trust he will govern in the same fashion. We have an honest candidate who listens to his constituents' needs and problems. Why not give him a chance?
Angela Belcher
Westminster
