Middle Deputy Mayor Endorses Russell

To The Editor:
It is with absolutely no reservation that I endorse Steve Russell to become our next Middle Township committeeman. It has been my pleasure to serve the people of Middle Township as their committeeman for the last 12 years, and an even greater honor for me to serve 10 of those years as mayor of Middle Township.
During my tenure on township committee, I have fought hard to protect the integrity of our community, and I have seen what it takes to confront obstacles in a level-headed way that benefits all citizens of Middle Township. This election is about leadership, and Middle Township needs a person who is ready to lead from day one. Steve Russell is the only candidate in this race that is ready and capable of doing that.
Russell’s past experience in dealing with large governmental budgets means that he will be able to make a seamless transition onto the township committee. His deep roots and record of volunteer service in Middle Township is another reason why I support him in this campaign. Lastly, Russell will serve as an independent voice on township committee and, unlike the other two candidates in this election, will be free from all political party control and cronyism.
Taking a close look at the campaigns of Russell’s opponents has given me great pause. It has been speculated that the election of Tim Donohue would pave the way for Committeeman Dan Lockwood to become mayor of Middle Township. Under that possibility, I am afraid that Donohue would walk lockstep with Lockwood and merely serve as a rubber stamp for the decisions of the Republican Party, regardless of that decision’s impact on the greater good of the township.
I am also concerned by the indecision shown by the Democratic Party in this election. When I endorsed Steve Russell last spring, there was no Democratic candidate on the ballot. Through an 18-person write-in campaign and a shrewd bait-and-switch orchestrated by political bosses, the Democratic Party has haphazardly settled on the candidacy of Bill Sturm whom I feel is not quite as ready as Russell to serve at this critical time.
I have been a Democrat my entire life, and I remain a Democrat to this day, but I have always been committed to doing what is right for the people of Middle Township. I strongly believe that Russell is the best choice to serve all citizens of Middle Township.
F. NATHAN DOUGHTY
Court House
(ED. NOTE: Doughty is Deputy Mayor of Middle Township.)