A wonderful day for democracy

[pmcalk]

Whatever your view on the issues, I believe today was a great day because it showed that money does not buy you an election in this town.  Nor does the paper's endorsement.  Look at the City Councilors--almost without fail, the ones who had less money, but that worked hard, walking neighborhoods, getting involved, won.  Westcott, Carter, Turner, Barnes--all of these candidates had less money, and less big time contributors, but they listened to those whom they will represent--and that won them the election.

And the Charter Change was approved overwhelmingly, despite anonymous, misleading postcards to the contrary.

Congratulations to the mayor candidates, even those who lost, because they made clear that there are many issues that this city must address if it is to move forward.

My only disappointment tonight is in the district 4 race.  I worked for Maria Barnes and I am thrilled that she won the primary--she worked hard for it.  However, the republican that won (Bartlett) was not even running.  The other two republicans ran great campaigns, and deserved to win over someone who never attended a forum, never posted a sign.  This is one of the first campaigns in which I have been deeply involved, and what a wonderful experience it has been so far.  Each candidate was respectful and friendly, and stuck to the issues.  That is why I feel particularly bad for Mr. Brinkley and Mr. Morlan.  Obviously they lost simply because the name Bartlett sounds familiar to so many voters.  People should not vote if they do not know the issues involved or who is running.

Does anyone know what happens when someone who isn't running wins the election?