To the Editor:
The phrase “All politics is theater, and all theater is political’’ is hardly tongue-in-cheek. It aptly describes the newest trend among political candidates in 2023 — avoiding public debates with opponents.
Over a dozen Cortland candidates declined to participate in local candidate forums sponsored by the nonpartisan League of Women Voters. Out of eleven contested races across our county this year, only nine candidates agreed to participate in the forums. I myself was one of those nine, signing up for a forum for Legislative District 10.
I signed up because I believe so strongly in the free expression that our Bill of Rights not only protects, but specifically encourages. I signed up because if I am to represent my Homer neighbors to our county Legislature, I owe each of them (including those who may think differently) my best justification for why I am the most qualified candidate. Votes must be earned, not ignored.
At best, a candidate’s avoidance of debate seems out of step with the implied job requirements of public service — namely, of seizing every opportunity to engage with the public. At worst, it is a profound disservice to constituents and their rights to informed choices at the ballot box.
Reed Cleland
Homer
