Yesterday marked the last day of the candidate filing period for individuals running for federal, state, county, or city public offices. As things currently stand for Brooklyn Center, we have five candidates for Mayor and a whopping nine candidates for City Council. Since this is more than twice the number of individuals to be elected as Mayor or Council Member, a Municipal Primary Election will take place on Tuesday, August 9, 2022. Also commonly known as a qualifying primary, this election will serve to reduce the number of candidates that will go on to the Municipal General Election on Tuesday, November 8, 2022.
My hope is that this many candidates on the ballot means that voters will be able to choose from a wide array of diverse, unique, qualified individuals all who care deeply about Brooklyn Center and are in alignment with their personal values. With so many options, it might be a difficult choice.
Or maybe the choices are clear. An observation I made early on during the candidate filing period was that few candidates had working and up-to-date websites where we could learn more about them and their stance on various issues. Indeed, when I checked moments ago, only three out of nine Council Member candidates had reachable websites. Myrna Kragness-Kauth, who was mayor of Brooklyn Center from January 1, 1995 to December 31, 2006 remarked on social media in regard to my observation, “I remember from my candidacy, some file just to get their name in the paper. Can’t face the hard work to run.”
I have a suspicion that Myrna may be correct but I can only speak for myself. I’m not trying to make a name for myself. I’m not seeking to push an activist agenda. I’m not looking to divide our community based on our inconsequential differences of appearance or opinion. I’m not afraid of hard work. I want to make your voice heard again and put you at the center of Brooklyn Center.
It will take hard work and it will also require your help. Here are four practical ways that you can partner with me today:
- Donate. Your contributions are very much appreciated.
- Volunteer to knock on doors, make phone calls, host an event, etc.
- Contact me with your questions, comments, concerns, conundrums, snarks, or ideas.
- Promote my Facebook page or website by liking, following, and sharing.
My hope is that everyone who has filed as a candidate is willing to be prepared and put in the work like I am but time will tell.