I can't tell you how glad I am that the Republican primary is over. Watching those two fight over "who is more conservative" took me back to the family road trips where my siblings fought over trivial matters. Did anyone catch a platform from either of them? Or was it more about who was "next" in line?
I must confess: I pulled a Republican ballot last Thursday. I chose the Republican ballot because I felt that it allowed me more voice in selecting who would eventually be our leaders. In this case, I voted against Mason due to the attacks on his opponent. I voted for Ester because of the small glimmer of hope that she actually did reach across party lines and represent the vast majority of us (somewhere in between far right and far left). She denies voting for Obama because she is a "true conservative." The one thing I missed out on was getting to vote for Joda.
I've seen Joda around town for a few years now. He has been on various boards, and advisory panels. He leads a the Metro Ideas Project, which helps mid-sized cities design policies that are effective. If you've ever followed him, you'll know that he speaks out against predatory lending, such as the pay-day lenders that plague East Ridge and are creeping into East Brainerd (that's District 30, by the way). That's something I can support.
Esther Helton has all of the connections to waltz into this office. She has raised more than $80,000 to campaign for a Job that only pays $19,009 (plus per diem, while in session). Her website boast that she rubs elbows with everyone that matters (except you). She is a foot soldier in the Republican Party and is up for advancement. She has not vocalized any needs or concerns for the community and, thus, has offered no solutions. I will not be voting for her, twice.
Jonathon Mason is going to hate me, not just for voting against him, but because I will split the party line this November. I will vote for a Democrat (probably two of them, right Phil?). I'm sick of seeing Republicans being promoted through the Peter Principle simply based on our State's color. Let's change that this go around.
Folks, I'm not simply asking you to join me in voting for Joda, but please listen to what he has to say.
Tim Giordano