Independent Candidate?

To The Swarthmorean,

Will someone please explain why we need an independent “middle of the road” candidate to run against the incumbent Jenn O’Mara for the 165th District? Independent candidates often want to educate voters about a specific stand they are taking, but I don’t see that on Bill Foster's website. I see that he listens to everybody, is nonpartisan, and doesn’t like "party bosses.” I’m not sure Bill understands what’s at stake in Pennsylvania state politics right now.

Republicans and Democrats at this point in our history are not morally equivalent, and a claim to be above partisanship rings false.The best way to fight the regressive Republican agenda—and yes it is a fight—is with a team of Democrats, not posing as a Lone Ranger. I refer you back to last week’s letter from Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon, Senator Tim Kearney, and Representative Leanne Krueger in support of Jenn O’Mara. They are a powerful foursome who represent us together and who work together. And yes, of course they all craft bipartisan legislation as the strategic need to reach across the aisle evolves on a case by case basis.

I know Bill Foster, and he is a thoughtful person who cares about the environment and who can really geek out on the details of recycling. Although I think his energies could be better directed elsewhere, I’m willing to keep an open mind. So here is a throwdown: Someone please explain this candidacy in next week’s Letters to the Editor. Do you have a Bill Foster yard sign? Then write a letter. Deadline Tuesday noon.

Lauren McKinney

Swarthmore