Ronald S. Homa is a resident of Middletown.
With early voting now underway, I’m concerned about how informed my fellow Delawareans are.
When I served in the U.S. Marine Corps back in the ’70s, my last duty station was in southeast Washington, D.C. This was not only the home of the commandant, the Drum & Bugle Corps, the Silent Drill Platoon, etc., but Marines from this post served at Camp David, defended the capital from riots and performed various ceremonies, to include standing on the White House lawn for full honors arrivals of visiting dignitaries. The last portion was for those of us with a White House security clearance. I remember saying how unfair it was that we were not paid that much to begin with but also didn’t get enough clothing allowance to cover our dress blues having to be dry cleaned (especially if we had to stand there in the rain). How unfair it was that those who didn’t have clearance were on liberty call, while we worked the entire day and evening. The response given was: “It’s an honor and privilege to serve.” I’ve never forgotten those words!
When I look at Delaware’s U.S. Senate race, I see U.S. Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester, a Democrat, who was not only missing from the Jewish Federation of Delaware forum but also the debate at the University of Delaware. Actually, there was no debate. That would take at least two people. Eric Hansen was there by himself, and Dr. Mike Katz was not permitted to be there, even though he’s a legitimate candidate on the ballot.
Are people actually considering voting for Lisa Blunt Rochester, just because she’s a Democrat? It seems she’s counting on it. Why else would she not show up to speak about anything or be questioned about it? It simply amazes me! Here’s someone whose net worth was over $10.5 million back in 2018, has raised well over $7 million (76% of which is from outside interests) and can’t even be present to answer to her constituents. I see a need for money and power! She could have funded her own campaign but instead asks you to buy things, like a $30 navy logo T-shirt, to advertise for her and get your money. I personally could buy several T-shirts for $30. How does Lisa Blunt Rochester show that it’s an honor to serve the people of Delaware and this great nation?
Then, you can look at the Republican candidate, Eric Hansen. But what’s there to look at? He could have argued to have Dr. Katz at the university’s debate, to make his point. He didn’t. I even asked him in person to do so. You can go to drmikekatz.com/who_is_eric_hansen to find out more.
Yes! I do like Dr. Katz! He has funded his own campaign. He does not accept any donations! His reasoning is solid. He only wants to represent the people of Delaware. Not a party. Not corporations. Not special interests.
In talking to people, I’ve heard the naysayers: He’s a politician; he’ll turn out the same as the rest; I’m wasting my vote because he won’t get enough to win; I have to vote Republican; I have to vote Democrat. No one is happy today with the way things are. To have any chance of change, “Dr. Katz deserves the benefit of the doubt.” He has tirelessly traveled to events throughout the state, personally talking to people and listening to them. He answers questions addressed to his email, mike@drmikekatz.com; paid for his own signs and cards; and asked nothing of you except the chance to serve you. The people who work on his campaign and who have put cards on the doors of your house or car are all volunteers who have spoken to Dr. Katz and believe in him. I believe in him. He gives me hope that, if he is elected to be a U.S. senator representing Delaware, he will consider it his “honor and privilege to serve we, the people.” Not a party. Not corporations. Not special interests!
Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at civiltalk@iniusa.org.
