Natalie Williams and Joyce Scott

This has been said before but it can be said again, "There were no losers in the Ward 8 Democrats officer election." Yesterday people from all over Ward 8 and outside of Ward 8 got a glimpse of what could be our political future.  A campaign race without dirty tricks, personal attacks, or general shenanigans. Campaigns and candidates were inspired to do and be better because of their challengers.

To be honest, until I had my ballot in my hand I did not know who I was going to cast my votes for. I felt BOTH slates brought something real, tangible, and much needed to the table.  It was nice (for a change) to feel like both choices were "winners" as opposed to picking the lesser of two evils. I am happy for who I voted for and I am happy for who received the most votes. Natalie Williams and the progressive slate came together in a show of solidarity and promise and ran an amazing campaign. They raised the bar for campaign marketing, communications, outreach and goals. Most importantly they demonstrated that residents (regardless of length of residency) should not only run for elected positions but should be strongly encouraged to do so. There is so much talent on both sides of the age and residency spectrum and we need to encourage it, not stamp it out with fear or criticism. The only people who benefit from a split and suspiciousWard 8 are the ones trying to hold on to a dictatorship, not build a democracy. The Ward 8 Democrats convention and election was a great example of what happens when quality competition is introduced into the political playing field.

Here is to hoping that yesterday's show of togetherness and unity is only the beginning.

Today is a new day.