As we approach the General Election on November 21st, it’s crucial to embrace a culture of respect and honest engagement. This responsibility lies with all of us–former candidates, current candidates, their supporters, and the voters.

Our city has a tradition of dignified campaigns, exemplified by individuals like Lou Shurtliff and Dee Smith, who showcased their merits rather than attacking their opponents. They embodied the spirit of active engagement encouraged by President Kennedy, showcasing how we can participate in the electoral process with integrity.

This election season presents an opportunity to continue this tradition. It’s important to endorse candidates based on their visions for Ogden’s future rather than resorting to negative campaigning. Mud-slinging and rumors not only harm the community spirit but reflect poorly on the individuals involved and the candidates they support.

The emotional intensity of elections can sometimes lead to negative tactics. However, I urge all involved, especially the candidates, to maintain a higher standard of engagement. Let’s focus on promoting the positive attributes of our chosen candidates through volunteering, discussing issues openly, and supporting them in respectful manners.

For those whose preferred candidates didn’t advance past the primary, I understand the disappointment. Yet, your involvement remains vital. I encourage you to learn about the remaining candidates and support the one whose vision aligns with your hopes for Ogden.

Social media has become a significant platform for political discussion, yet it can also be a source of negativity. Let’s use these platforms to share information, engage in meaningful dialogue, and keep the discussion focused on the issues at hand.

Our collective aim should be to elect a leader who will guide Ogden towards a bright future. By promoting a respectful, issue-focused discourse, we uphold the democratic values that bind our community together, ensuring a constructive pathway towards November 21st and beyond.

Oscar Mata

Ogden