I joined Juneau Democrats for brunch with Scott McAdams this morning. I was ready to work for him, but also wanted to see him in person so I could pass on my impressions to others who might be supportive. We gathered in a typical Juneau rain storm. The first topic was the excitement that someone had found good ripe peaches to share (really good fruit is hard to come by up here.) Then Scott arrived, and we understood that the peaches were not the only reason to be excited.
When he stands up in a group of people, Scott looks just like one of us - a pleasant, big man with a nice smile. But, when Scott began to talk, it was clear why he is gaining support every day. As those of you who have seen videos of him know, he is a clear, articulate talker who can deliver a message without rant or rancor. I am just learning how to use my new smartphone and was frantically trying to copy down a few of his talking points. Take a look at his web site to see a clearer outline of his stands. I will try to share a few of those thoughts.
Scott told us:
• He is in a tough three way race but he plans to win. He sees that Miller is dangerous for our state and nation and that Murkowski cannot win because write in candidates don’t win. Yet, he expressed concern that the rational vote in Alaska would be split because of Murkowski’s candidacy. He hopes to rise above their “family feud” and present another choice to voters.
• Working people are his constituency. Alaska has the third highest percentage of union members of any state. He is the only candidate of the three to be a signatory to petitions calling for the free choice act.
• We cannot provide tax cuts for millionaires while balancing the budget on the backs of old folks and kids.
• We are the party of science.
• Lisa says he is inexperienced. But, he has had more elected public service experience than Lisa Murkowski and Frank Murkowski (our former senator and governor) combined when they entered the Senate.
I am glad to report that I liked this man in person even more than from what I had heard. He has a great grasp of the issues and facts. It is hard to believe that it was only a month ago that he realized that he had a viable chance to win this seat and began his campaign.
This man has worked as a commercial fisherman, been a member of the school board and mayor of Sitka, Alaska, run the community schools program, grown up in a small town, and obviously listened closely to the needs and desires of many of us. He is a father and husband who hopes to make the world better. He reminds me some of Al Franken in the straight forward way he addresses issues and in his clear dedication to achieving justice for the little guy.
As an Alaskan who is saddened and embarrassed by how we have been misrepresented by one small town mayor who went national, I hope that, by electing a very different kind of small town mayor, we can undo some of the damage she has done. Please take time to look at Scott’s website and donate a little to help him out. As others have said, money goes far in this small population state. At the brunch we heard that the campaign was struggling whether to spend existing funds on signs or media. Scott may help Democrats retain the Senate and Alaskans regain their dignity in the eyes of the lower 48. He can be one more voice for little people.
Thanks for any help you can give.