I wear the Republican label proudly, but in Rhode Island a Republican candidate cannot win without being responsive to the needs of independent and Democratic voters. So you are not a Republican yourself, why should you vote for me? Several reasons. 1. This election is not about electing Republicans. It is about breaking the one party monopoly in this state, providing a real opposition to the Democratic leadership and freeing the remaining Democrats to vote their consciences. 2. Rhode Island Republicans are not beholden to special interests. Too many legislators run as Democrats because they think that is the only way to win in this state. Once elected they find themselves dependent on pleasing an alliance of well-funded groups spearheaded by the public employee unions. In most of the state, a Democratic legislator's greatest fear is not a Republican opponent, but a primary challenge within his own party by someone funded by the union political machine. Faced with this reality, even the most idealistic Democrat too often quickly becomes jaded and falls into lockstep with the party bosses. In contrast, I am beholden to no one. I am free to vote for what I think is right and what is best for our district and our state. I am not interested in building a patronage empire or trying to distribute jobs to my friends. I do not view the General Assembly as a career path, but as an opportunity to help make Rhode Island a better place for my children to grow up. 3. This election is about bringing balance and accountability to the General Assembly. It is about smashing over 40 years of one party control over the State House and, by allowing the Governor, and Governor the ability to sustain a veto, forcing the General Assembly to work in good faith with the executive branch for the benefit of the state and the people. Unchecked legislative control, which is what we have in Rhode Island regardless of which party the Governor belongs to, is a recipe for disaster. Newberry for State Representative District 48, North Smithfield & Burrillville Contact me at 765-1069    •    Vote November 4th, 2008 Back to the Homepage