Opinion

Most states use appointment commissions or nonpartisan elections to select judges. New York’s system risks the same politicization of the bench that we see at the national level. Luckily, voters in the Fifth Judicial District, which includes Oswego, will get a breath of fresh air when they look at their ballots this year: a judicial candidate with support from across the political spectrum.

Apex Clean Energy is distributing a postcard in New York posing the question: “Do Wind Turbines Really Kill Birds?” Unfortunately, there is no doubt: They do.

When it comes to being connected to their community, few elected officials compare to Will Barclay. Having known Will for many years and witnessing his work firsthand, I am proud to endorse, campaign for, and support Assemblyman Barclay in his bid for re-election.

Assemblyman Barclay has cost the taxpayers of the 120th Assembly District $1,552,000 over the past 16 years ($97,000 a year —base salary + expenses could be higher). During his time in office he has organized 1 pep rally to save a nuke plant. I’m sure that we could have obtained a private group to do the same for a lot less.

I want to encourage people to support Will Barclay for Assembly in this upcoming election. Will is a great representative. Every time I have talked to him or his staff, I have found that my issues are addressed an am reminded again that he is fighting for this area.

We the people choose our State Supreme Court justices by voting for the person or persons we feel best represent the values we feel a Supreme Court justice should have. On November 6, you will find the name of Scott DelConte on three party lines, Conservative, Independence and Democratic.

As a local union representative for the last 20 years, I have had the fortune or misfortune of meeting and working with elected officials and candidates for all levels of government. Some of the elected officers I have met have worked harder for themselves or their political party than the people they represent. I can’t say that about Assemblyman Will Barclay.

Politics is deceitful, divisive and frightening, especially in today’s climate. Emotionally charged words and lies are being bantered around without regard for truthfulness. Misleading statements, inaccuracies, and downright lies are prevalent with certain politicians who should be addressing policies that are important to us.

This November 6, voters in New York have the chance to end corruption in Albany, once and for all. They have the chance to end the “pay to play” culture that is systemic in awarding public contracts. In order to do so, voters have to elect a truly independent candidate for Governor. That candidate is former Mayor of Syracuse, Stephanie Miner.