Maryland Community Newspapers Online
I was shocked to read that the debate among congressional District 8 candidates did not take place. I was there!
As a lifelong Democrat, I went to hear the way the various candidates addressed key issues. I found myself increasingly drawn to Gordon Clark's (Green Party candidate) answers to questions. I wish The Gazette had covered the debate since it revealed "news" — a candidate who has received little media attention is persuading voters to embrace a more visionary agenda. I trust the rest of Gazette "news" is accurate.
Paul Wapner, Takoma Park
It was most unfortunate that The Gazette reporters did not attend the District 8 congressional debate at the Rockville Library on Oct. 2. It did take place and I found it far more substantive on the issues we face than what I heard in the vice presidential debate later that evening.
The presence of third party candidates in the District 8 debate made a great improvement in the substance and quality of the debate. Gordon Clark, the Green Party candidate, was particularly effective in providing thoughtful solutions in contrast to the present incumbent's record.
I understand it is available at the following Web site: www.chesapeakeclimate.org/.
It is also unfortunate the presidential debates do not include third party candidates. It is most likely they would bring more substance to the debates in contrast to the sound bites of stump speeches and character slams that we get now.
Charles Harker, Sandy Spring
It is unfortunate that The Gazette completely misrepresented the recent debate between Gordon Clark and Rep. Christopher Van Hollen's stand-in. Not only did the debate occur, but Mr. Clark won hands down!
Mr. Van Hollen was not present despite his assuring us that he would be there. Another in absentia for Mr. Van Hollen.
It's time for constructive change and honest representation for Marylanders. Voters in the 8th District can still see the debate online by going to the homepage of the Chesapeake Climate Action Network at www.chesapeakeclimate.org/ and clicking on "Energy and Environment Forums."
Cynthia Tracy, Kensington
I am flabbergasted that The Gazette report that the only debate scheduled for Maryland's 8th Congressional District did not occur. I was in the standing-room-only candidates forum at the beautiful new Rockville public library, along with a slew of television cameras.
The League of Women Voters, as always, fulfilled their important non-partisan role of moderating the debate with élan.
Green Party candidate Gordon Clark was passionate, articulate, and clearly won the debate based on audience reaction, though Republican candidate Steve Hudson and the two other candidates at the forum also scored some points. You can go and watch the whole thing online thanks to Chesapeake Climate Action Network (www.chesapeakeclimate.org).
In a district that is clearly "safe" for a third-party candidate, I am deeply disturbed that you have not bothered to cover Gordon Clark's campaign. Incumbent Chris Van Hollen was unable to be there because of the financial crisis, to the great disappointment of everyone in the room, but his staff member debated in his place.
Although the incumbent does not seem to feel he needs to bother to campaign, the press should not ignore the fact that many citizens are exploring the idea that it is "safe" to vote for Gordon Clark, who represents the truly progressive positions of many in the 8th District.
Sue Katz Miller, Takoma Park
In an Oct. 8 article about the Maryland 8th Congressional District campaign, The Gazette reported that incumbent Rep. Chris Van Hollen and Republican challenger Steve Hudson "were scheduled to debate, but it was canceled" due to the bailout vote that evening.
That's funny. I'm positive I saw that debate a week ago at the Rockville Public Library! Van Hollen couldn't make it, but his legislative director was there, Mr. Hudson was there, and write-in candidates Deborah Vollmer and Lih Young were there. Above all, Green Party candidate Gordon Clark was there, and I think he easily won the debate.
Meanwhile, the least The Gazette should do now is interview Clark. Can't The Gazette be bothered to try to follow a story about a congressional election campaign in our own backyard — and try to get it right?
Thomas Nephew, Takoma Park
The recent League of Women Voters District 8 candidates forum was excellent! Kudos to LWV for keeping it on time and for the wonderful facilitation! Kudos to CCAN, which broadcast the forum via the Internet. Worked like a charm! And finally to the candidates who showed up. Thank you for your interest in running for this office to represent us in Congress.
I would have to say, however, that Gordon Clark, who I've known for years, is the best candidate for the job as he best represents those positions that will turn this country around in the areas of a "greener" economy, fewer wars abroad and bringing back that tool of diplomacy which has long taken a backseat to our use of violence as a tool for change: honest and respectful dialogue between peoples.
Joe Robbins, Mount Rainier