Schablein: Vote 'yes' on Wicomico Charter Amendment A to end political intimidation

The recent filing of a misleading court petition against respected community leader Mike Goldberg is deeply troubling. This action, spearheaded by a county employee and a local opponent of Charter Amendment A, seems like a deliberate attempt to silence one of the amendment’s most vocal supporters.

Fortunately, video evidence quickly exposed the baseless nature of the accusations against Mr. Goldberg. The county employee was forced to withdraw the petition, but the damage had already been done. This behavior points to a larger issue: a pattern of intimidation aimed at those who dare to challenge the status quo in Wicomico County.

It is telling that these efforts to discredit and undermine opponents are not happening to anyone—they specifically target Mike Goldberg, a prominent advocate for Charter Amendment A. That this harassment has been focused on him alone speaks volumes about the lengths some are willing to go to in suppressing criticism of the county's Executive office.

Just so you know, this incident should not be viewed in isolation. It is yet another example of how political actors tied to the Executive office use underhanded tactics to maintain their grip on power. When the proponents of the current system resort to false claims and legal threats, it becomes clear that something is wrong. This kind of political bullying should not be tolerated in our community.

Voting "Yes" on Charter Amendment A is not just a vote to abolish the Wicomico County Executive position but to end a culture of political intimidation and power grabs. The Executive Office has been used to suppress opposition, stifle debate, and create an atmosphere of fear among those who dare to speak out.

Wicomico County deserves better. We need a government that is transparent, accountable, and responsive to its people's needs—not one that uses its power to silence those who advocate for change. Voting "Yes" on Charter Amendment A will help restore balance and ensure that no single officeholder can dominate county politics unchecked.

We cannot allow a few's actions to overshadow the many's voices. The intimidation of advocates like Mike Goldberg must stop. On Election Day, stand with him and all those who believe in a fair, democratic Wicomico County. Vote "Yes" on Charter Amendment A.

Jared Schablein
Chair of Shore Progress

Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at civiltalk@iniusa.org.