Take Time and Vote in this Important Election
This Columnist would like to encourage everyone to come out and vote. Early voting has already started. You can call the Erie County Board of Elections for more information at (716) 858-8891 or visit its website for the places to vote early. If you vote early, you can’t vote again on Primary Day. Primary Day is June 23, 2026.
It is important for everyone to take the time to study the issues and cast their vote. If you read our Community Newspapers, you can get an overview of the issues and where the candidates stand on them. Listen to any debates that are planned. This Columnist would like to wish all of the candidates well. It does take courage to run for any office as well as money and time.
I know because I ran for Lt. Governor of New York State in 2010 on the Freedom Party Line with Charles Barron. At the time he was the Council man from Brooklyn, New York. Now he is in the New York State Assembly. Running for office takes sacrifice, hard work, and a willingness to really put yourself out in the public.
For those candidates who are successful in their campaigns I would like to give the following suggestions once you are in office:
Remember your promises to the community that you will represent.
Take time to really learn the responsibilities of the office you will occupy.
Be a good listener. Hold town hall meetings on a regular basis to find out the concerns of your constituents. Don’t wait until election time to find out.
Be visible and accessible. Answer your own phone sometime. Take a day to do this and connect with the community.
To the Mayoral candidates, make a plan to do something about all of this “Mile High” grass throughout the community. It is unhealthy and dangerous to our children.
Ride through the community you represent from time to time and see for yourself what needs to be fixed. Get out of your car and talk to the residents. Don’t just depend on your aides to do the work.
Send out regular newsletters, not just when you are running for office.
All elected officials that represent the eastside of Buffalo should work together and come up with a united plan to enhance the African American Heritage Corridor whether it is in your district or not. There is a great need for an African American History Museum in this area with restrooms, and a gift shop featuring the Underground Railroad for tourists and murals with the history of our history. I know that we can get it done. I will be watching!!
FINALLY, TO ALL CANDIDATES TAKE DOWN YOUR CAMPAIGN SIGNS WHEN THE ELECTION IS OVER!!