In 1985, a movie came out by the name of Brewster's Millions. The main character of the movie, Montgomery Brewster, is offered the challenge of spending a large sum of cash in 30 days which would then entitle him to a larger inheritance. He hires his friends at huge salaries for the month and goes on a major spending spree. In discovering how difficult it can be to spend that amount of money in such a short period of time, he sees a campaign ad and decides to run for political office. He spends huge amounts of cash in what he terms, "an effort to buy your vote."
When he realizes how corrupt his opponents are he decides to run with the slogan, "None of the Above," encouraging people not to vote. The irony of the situation is that he actually wins.
I understand Monty Brewster's "None of the Above" thinking. The American people are fed up with politics as usual and career politicians. They are sick of the same issues being brought up by the same people and beaten to death. They are tired of people digging in their heels and voting party line regardless of what is right for Vernon. It is unfortunate that elections have developed this way.
I don't want voters to look at the candidates and become so angered with the bickering that they choose "None of the Above." This election you have another choice. As your unaffiliated Mayor, I am not tied to either party. The council members will all receive the same information at the same time. They will review it and come to the table for an open discussion. Together we will come to a decision that is best for the town of Vernon regardless of political party.
Each of you has been granted a right and a privilege to vote and make your choice known. I encourage you to come out Nov. 8 and vote, even if you haven't in the past. In this election, I will be the candidate who leaves the political sparring behind, and moves Vernon forward.
