The Real Facts About The ‘Independent’ Candidate

To The Editor:
Over the last few weeks, I have read competing negative letters to the editor from the campaigns of the Republican and Democratic candidates for Middle Township Committee. As the independent candidate for Middle Township Committee, I feel the voters of Middle Township deserve to hear from an actual candidate, rather than political representatives.
This past winter, I sought the nomination of the Middle Township Republican Organization, and stated additionally that I would consider running as an Independent if I was not successful. My intent in doing so was never to threaten the Republican Party, but instead to show my level of commitment to run and serve the people of Middle Township. After a meeting with Committeeman Dan Lockwood to discuss my candidacy, I decided that I would best serve the people of Middle Township running as an Independent.
Interestingly, during this time I was also approached by the Middle Township Democratic Organization and asked if I would seek the Democratic nomination. At the time, the Democratic Organization did not have a candidate. I declined that opportunity choosing to be Independent as well.
Being able to serve all citizens, Republican, Democratic and independent, is crucial for good government. As an Independent, I feel that I can do just that.
My pledge is to:
• Fight for a smaller more efficient government that ensures that the taxpayers get the best for their tax dollars.
• Listen to the concerns of all the people, not because of party affiliation, where they live or who they are.
• To engage other surrounding governments to look at shared services that do not negatively affect our employees or the level of service provided.
The recent letters to this publication from my opponents only confirm that I made the right decision to run as an Independent. The people of Middle Township are tired of useless bickering within and between political parties as well as backroom deals brokered without the best interest of the taxpayer in mind. Middle Township deserves someone who can make sound decisions based on merit, not based on the special interests of a political organization.
STEVE RUSSELL
Court House