Let the Campaigning Begin

With Friday's deadline to qualify passing, residents of Tucker now know the four candidates vying for the District 4 seat on the Board of Education.

They are Karen Carter, Jim McMahan, John Oselette, and Ella Smith.

I don't know anything about Mr. Oselette or Ms. Smith. Between the two incumbents the choice is clear.

Jim McMahan is far and away the superior candidate.

I say that based on having watched most of the board meetings and seeing Jim McMahan question the superintendent and administrators and demand accountability.

I say that based on having sent several emails to the entire board in the last year and never getting one response from Dr. Carter, but receiving responses from Jim McMahan.

I say that based on sending emails those two board members regarding issues at schools they represent and never getting a response from Dr. Carter, but Jim McMahan responding.

I say that knowing how hard Jim McMahan has worked to make sure Henderson Middle School's addition and renovation meet the needs of the school and not the whims of the administrators.

Anyone who would vote for Dr. Carter is someone who clearly has not been paying attention. Even though he is preferred to Dr. Carter, Mr. McMahan has not been a "perfect" representative in my mind. He could have pushed harder and asked more.

I am standing behind Jim McMahan for the District 4 BOE seat. I like Jim McMahan. He has done a good job.

That said, I look forward to the opportunity to meet Mr. Oselette and Ms. Smith. My father's advice is still ringing in my ears, "try to be smart enough to know when you are wrong."

The primary election will be on May 20. Please make an effort to learn about and meet all of the candidates for yourself and make your own decision.

*This blog represents only my opinion and not the position of any other person or group.