I was mentioned in the March 28 Bridge, noting Andrew Herchek’s claim that my endorsement of Liz Cobbs last year was somehow establishing a new “norm” in Concord. I have communicated with him to correct the record, and I wish to inform your readership about the false claim.
Mr. Herchek’s statement avoids the truth. While I did endorse the candidate I believed was best, I was a departing member of the School Committee. I was stepping down after my two terms (Mr. Herchek would take the seat) — quite unlike the three continuing members who endorsed candidates at that time, which was selectively not mentioned. Those endorsements must not become the norm.
What is the rationale for elected officials to avoid endorsements in our non-partisan elections? It is the same logic we apply to avoiding — until recently for some — blocs of candidates working together to oppose other candidates. The rationale is simple: officials should signal their intent to serve with any candidates we elect to work aside them, without establishing prior formal alliances with some and not others.
I believe that each candidate for public office should be willing and prepared to be judged by their own record, independent of others they are most comfortable with. Those of us in the electorate must consider each candidate based on their past activity and performance — and not rely on who likes whom — or who we’re told to fear.
In my four decades of public service I have not witnessed this norm that Mr. Herchek claims. Candidates: please stand on your own and be willing to be judged by your record of service, truth-telling and integrity. We can then choose those best equipped to serve.
Court Booth
Wright Road
