Time for the Democrats to start acting like Democrats

I would like to introduce myself to the voters of Saratoga Springs. I am a lifelong Democrat, and a proud union member. I want to be part of changing our party for the better. That is why I am running for a seat on the Saratoga Springs Democratic Committee.

I and the other Democrats for Change have stepped up because the current local Democratic leadership has failed to listen to the voters of our city. This old guard acts more like de-facto Republicans than Democrats. Continually, they have demonstrated they are threatened by an independent, progressive type of Democrat. But we will bring new ideas, and a fresh outlook. We will work together to accomplish what the current leadership has been afraid to do — win elections.

In the Democratic Party, the old ways are changing, both on a national level and locally. We need to get in step with the times. The Democratic Party in Saratoga Springs can be on its way to becoming the preeminent party in this city. I and the other Democrats for Change need your vote on Primary Day, Sept. 9.

Kevin D. Connolly

Saratoga Springs

Voters deserve City Court judge with integrity and experience

This coming Election Day is going to be a busy one for voters, with a presidential race, congressional races and state office races. It might be easy to forget that there is a local race this year as well. The voters of Saratoga Springs will decide who our next City Court judge will be. I’d encourage everyone to consider Matt Dorsey for this important position.

The term for City Court judge is 10 years. That’s a long time, so it’s important we choose the right person for the job. We want someone who will be fair, someone who will be independent, and someone who has the experience to do the job well. Matt Dorsey has all of these qualities, which is why I believe he’ll do an outstanding job.

Matt grew up here in Saratoga Springs. He attended Vanderbilt Law School and worked in our nation’s capital for a short time, before choosing to return to his hometown. He spent the past decade working in his family law firm, representing a broad range of clients on many legal issues in the various courts throughout Saratoga County, including City Court. Matt also served as city attorney, where he was commended for his ability to work across party lines in the best interests of the city.

When people who know Matt Dorsey speak of him, they often cite his decency, integrity and work ethic. These are certainly qualifies we should look for in a judge. We should choose the person who will provide the fairness we deserve, the independence we trust, and the experience we can county on. With Matt Dorsey, we certainly get all that. Please join me in supporting Matt on Election Day.

Richard C. Wirth

Saratoga Springs

Choice for government office should be based on merit, not friendships

Whether we live in Saratoga County or Rensselaer County, the choice of state senator will impact upon the quality of our lives. We should always honor close friendships in our lives, but when we choose a candidate for public office it is vital to our well-being that we send the most qualified person to represent us.

I urge everyone to support Mike Russo for state Senate because he is unquestionably the most overall experienced and best-prepared candidate to represent the interests of both counties.

I first met Mike when I was volunteering on the Kirsten Gillibrand campaign. I continued to work along with him when I began volunteering in the congressional office in Saratoga Springs. From this inside vantage point I was able to observe his skills, his tireless energy, and his devotion to advocacy for people in all walks of life. I can testify that Mike says what he means and means what he says. He is committed to transparency in government.

Mike Russo gets respect because he gives respect. He is a listener as well as an activist. He is collaborative and skilled at fighting for the needs and rights of constituents. Advocacy on behalf of constituents was what he excelled in day in and day out. In his previous work once again, advocacy for everyday people like you and me was his expertise. But if I had none of this knowledge, I would choose Mike Russo because no other candidate can match his record or experience.

He is the only candidate with a broad range of experience in government at all levels. Mike Russo is the only candidate who is both qualified and ready to work on your behalf on the first day of his term as your senator.

Mary Marsicano

Saratoga Springs