A Visit to the “Other Side”

Post #46

Yesterday in Rockville's lovely Town Square, former GOP Governor Bob Ehrlich launched his campaign to reclaim the seat he lost in 2006, when voters rejected him in favor of Democrat Martin O'Malley.  I stopped by to see what was happening, which surprised some people since I am a lifelong, partisan Democrat.

Since I'm running in a contested Democratic primary, some of my supporters wondered if I should be seen at a rally staged by 'the other side.'

On the contrary! I was greeted warmly by friends and former colleagues from Annapolis, many of whom I will be working with again should I be fortunate enough to win my campaign for the State Senate.  And while it was great to see my Republican buddies, the event reminded me of how proud I am to be a Democrat -- someone who will stand up on issues like education, the environment, and a woman's right to choose. 

But I’m also proud to be an independent-minded Democrat who will reach out to as many people as possible -- including Republicans and Independents -- if it would help me serve the people of my district.

I told one Ehrlich advisor that I've worked hard for approximately 200 Democratic candidates at the federal, state, and local level during my 30-year political career.  But after the voters have spoken in November, partisanship should give way to governing, and citizens' needs should dictate alliances and decisions.

My bottom line?  No party and no individual has a monopoly on good ideas.  My focus would be on producing the results that the residents of Rockville, Gaithersburg and Garrett Park deserve.

I would love to hear from you, dear Blog reader!  How partisan are you?  How partisan do you believe candidates should be, either when seeking office or after being elected?  Please send an email to Blog@CherylKagan.org or click on the "Comments" link below to express your views.  Please be sure to indicate which post (#46) you're addressing.

Thanks for reading.  I will post again soon.