Just over three years ago, I moved to Lewes believing Lewes and Delaware were progressive in a positive light and on the move. Little did I know that registering to vote, my God-given right, would be snatched from my grasp by a truly archaic system of voting in what is presented as Delaware - being the first state. Having voted in every local, primary and national election for more than 50 years, never missing the opportunity to honor this sacred trust and vote for the person and not by party distinction, I have been shut out of the primary Sept. 15 because I am a representative of the so-called no party. Having searched for a no party candidate, I have come up empty. I did my research, studied the candidates, and voted successfully in the recent Lewes elections. As I began the same process for the elections for Sept. 15, I was informed by Mr. McDowell, “No, Mr. Haddad, you cannot vote; you needed to commit to a party by May 22, 2020 in order to vote!” Shocked and troubled, I contacted Anthony Albese, Delaware commissioner of elections, who responded in a like manner.
My response to both Mr. McDowell and Mr. Albese was, “That would be almost four months before the election, and I did not even know who was running; let alone know who and what party they would be in so that I could honestly and effectively choose a party.” So now I am shut out and unable to vote Sept. 15. Thank you, Delaware!
After extensive research into the two candidates’ positions, perspectives, and focus on what is best from my perspective for the Republican District 3 Primary for Sussex County Council, District 3 councilperson, I have found both candidates to be honorable, professional, and worthy of consideration for the position of councilperson. Had I had the opportunity to vote, I would have cast my ballot for I.G. Burton as the Republican District 3 Sussex County Council member for his untiring dedication, commitment, and personal transparency in his positions with no external influence compromising what he believes is in the best interest of his constituents in the 3rd District. I would encourage all who can vote Sept. 15 to do so; remembering there are others who wish to vote, but are unable to do so for reasons like the one stated above.
-
A letter to the editor expresses a reader's opinion and, as such, is not reflective of the editorial opinions of this newspaper.
To submit a letter to the editor for publishing, send an email to newsroom@capegazette.com. Letters must be signed and include a telephone number and address for verification. Please keep letters to 500 words or fewer. We reserve the right to edit for content and length. Letters should be responsive to issues addressed in the Cape Gazette rather than content from other publications or media. Only one letter per author will be published every 30 days. Letters restating information and opinions already offered by the same author will not be used. Letters must focus on issues of general, local concern, not personalities or specific businesses.
