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Bolsters our Resolve

Some think they know us because we sometimes vote “No.” They judge our intellect and our character by what they assume to be our politics. They claim to be tolerant, inclusive, transparent, well-educated, enlightened free thinkers.

The hypocrisy of those judging us on the whole by how we vote is troubling in a democratic society. I was raised, and I raise my kids, to respect everyone’s opinion. That is tolerance. Debate and differences help to form solutions, as discussion creates ideas one may not have previously considered. That is inclusion. Civilly discussing solutions to our town issues to the point we may just agree to disagree is transparency. Knowing a truth or solution usually lies somewhere in the middle of two or more stakeholders is enlightened thinking.

My “No” vote completed national security missions worldwide. My “No” vote coached travel soccer and basketball. My “No” vote taught religious education. My “No” vote supports Clinton scouting. My “No” vote fundraises for the Knights of Columbus, donating to charity, including fire, police, and ambulance services. My “No” vote supports the Morgan Booster club, Friends of Morgan Music, Friends of Morgan Football, the Clinton Sailing Club, and local theater groups. My “No” vote supports local veteran’s groups and food banks.

I’m not trying to appear braggadocian; I am humanly flawed. The volunteered time and treasure is an investment in our community. I admire and appreciate everything people do for Clinton. Of those who claim to be globalists, respectfully, their behavior at budget time comprises none of the qualities they profess to embody. Continuing to demonize, demean, denigrate, and ridicule us for practicing democracy bolsters our resolve to continue to exercise our liberty. I suggest their ire may best be directed toward the nearly two thirds of registered voters who rarely participate in referendums.

Tom Riccio

Clinton