Another Letter To The Publisher

"After reading this blog for the past few days, I couldn’t help but make a commentary on certain things. I’ve never written this blog before, but hopefully Joe will post this or something. I am absolutely appalled at some of the statements made about Andy Harris. While I do not debate their right to say so, I do wonder about the education behind some of these comments.

First of all, the comment which seems to be the strongest is that the Eastern Shore has lost all representation and that Harris will absolutely not represent the Shore when elected Congressman. I find this statement to be COMPLETELY unfair, as well as absurd. Each Congressman is elected to represent his DISTRICT. It would be a very poor policy indeed if one were to only represent part of the district. It would be a sure recipe for a loss in the next election. If Harris only represents those on the Western Shore, then he will certainly lose election in two years.

Also, it seems unfair to level criticism at a man who has a proven track record of constituent service. I have friends in his Senate district, and they appreciate him very much. Harris has yet to cast a single vote in US Congress, yet people already say he won’t represent the District. Give him a chance to prove himself, I have no doubts he will be a strong advocate for the Shore. If you do not believe me, look at those who have endorsed him. Local officials, such as Mike Lewis, Lowell Stoltzfus and Rich Colburn have supported his campaign. These esteemed gentlemen were raised on the Shore, and they know that Andy will be very good for the Shore. Furthermore, throughout the primary campaign, Harris spent more time down here than any other candidate. I believe EJ Pipkin came down here twice. Once to announce, and once the weekend before the election, if WBOC is to be believed. Others did spend some time down here, but I know for a fact that Harris was down here frequently.

The other criticism that has been tossed around is that Harris did not win a single county on the Eastern Shore. However, one has to remember again that it is a DISTRICT. One has to win a majority of voters across the region. If the other candidates had done better on the Shore, they may not have had to worry about Harris’ lead elsewhere. However, Harris was able to stay very close to the other candidate on the Shore, showing that his support his widespread throughout the District. If he had only garnered a slim amount, then that statement would be more relevant, but to lose Wicomico by only 60 some votes is an amazing feat.

Ladies and Gentleman, it seems remarkably unfair and somewhat arrogant to say that Andy Harris will not represent the Shore in Congress. He has a strong record of constituent services, and will be a fair advocate for all members and areas of the District. Why? Because it is his job!!!"

Sincerely,

Adam