Terrence Murphy MIA at candidate forums

I have voted in every election since I turned 18 - a very long time ago. I know that democracy is fragile and requires active participation to survive and flourish.

But with all the rhetoric and vitriol, the deluge of mail and phone calls, and the ridiculous fear mongering TV commercials, how is a citizen to know which candidate really stands for the ideals they value and will advocate for the legislation that will improve the quality of their lives? I have realized that candidate forums/ debates offer the most practical way to do so. When a candidate fails to show up to meet his/her constituents, answer questions, and speak honestly about their positions on issues, it speaks volumes.

In the race for the NYS Senate seat for SD40, the candidates Terrence Murphy and Pete Harckham were invited to several such events in recent weeks. They were both invited to talk with the Journal News, Channel 12 News, the NAACP forum in Peekskill, and the LWV forum in New Castle. Only one candidate, Pete Harckham, showed up.

This is not surprising. In the four years that Terrence Murphy has represented us in Albany, I have attempted to contact him numerous times by phone, email, and in person- only to receive the runaround from his staff. I have repeatedly asked when Mr. Murphy would hold town hall meetings to speak with his constituents. Silence.

Although Mr. Murphy appeared at the LWV candidate's forum in Mahopac last week, it's too little, too late. On November 6, I will vote for Pete Harckham for NYS Senate, because he has demonstrated that he will listen and talk with people- even those who may not agree with him.

Celeste Theis