Originally airing Thursday, Nov. 12, 2015.
WRFA Public Affairs Director Jason Sample talked with Chautauqua County Democratic Elections Commissioner Norman Green about the 2015 Elections. Norm discusses low voter turnout, a lack of contested races, why the Democrats have had little success in winning county legislator seats, and the contested races that were too close to call on Election Night.
Norman Green
More Posts for Show: Community Matters
I thought it might be interesting to share some of the reflections gathered by running for public office for Ward 2 Jamestown Councilman.
First of all, why would someone run for political office who was given a 0% chance of winning by the experts? “You can’t win against a 20 year incumbent”. “It’s a Republican voting Ward”. “You can’t. You can’t”. And finally, the grand encourager: “He has to die for you to win”.
Here are some thoughts for those of you who aspire to the political arena or who might just like to know some of a defeated candidates reflections.
Accomplished:
I wanted to spell out my pragmatic progressive stance. I wanted our ward to have a choice for change. I could. I did. And I thank those who helped with the effort.
Disappointments:
The Hispanic voting community. I visited them. I got them voter registration forms in english and in Spanish. I explained the necessity to vote for change. I promised them no handouts but an opportunity as my forefathers had. they didn’t show.
Democrats in general. There are 960 Voting Democrats and 567 Voting Republicans in Ward 2. there were 147 Democrats that showed up and 286 Republicans. Democrats are a 2 to 1 margin of voters and showed 1 to 2 margin at the polls. My attempt to get Democrats to vote failed. And thus, I failed at the polling booth.
Regrets:
I would have pushed to have a debate broadcast live. I believe that information would have been beneficial to my effort.
General Notes:
It is a lot of hard work.
Learn to take rejection and most of the time it is not personal. Some of the personal rejection can teach us a lesson. I found each conversation enjoyable and valuable.
There are many many well intended people out there. The vast majority are very nice.
Some people admire your attempt and others think of you as a fool.
my very supportive family and friends made the political loss special.
I gained Tyler Case as a friend and rekindled my old time relationship with Maurice Baggiano. For that alone, I am grateful.
In general, I am so very happy I ran for political office. Ultimately, I didn’t do enough to motivate and educate the voters and it showed up at the polls.
And finally, my best wishes to Tony Dolce on his reelection.
With joy and thanks to all,
Joe Scapelitte
Ward 2 Candidate
Thanks for your thoughts and comment Joe. Running for office is a difficult and sometimes thankless effort, but giving the public a choice for change is the keystone of our system of government. You helped to provide that choice and for that you should be applauded.
Thank you.