Commentary: Recently two newspaper headlines newspaper caught my attention: "G.O.P. Race Forecast: Hail of Attack Ads" and another: "Super PACs Still Have Time to Serve as Candidates' Attack Dogs".
Right here in Las Cruces, we saw examples of PACs "serving as candidates' attack dogs" and the sight was not pretty nor were the PACs a success.
The first PAC-funded effort, a recall of three City councilors, sickened residents. We felt as if a cloud of vindictiveness had descended over our city. The discord generated by the recall and the way a paid out-of-state agitator used half-lies and misstatements on social media disgusted voters. We chose to make our home in Las Cruces over twenty years ago. We love the culture and landscape, love the friends we've made even more, and were shocked by the atmosphere created by the PAC's recall action.
We wondered, sadly, if tactics like these were the future of political campaigns in our City and County.
So, let us all "beware" and be aware.
When a candidate or a PAC supporting that candidate, sends out offensive mailers, uses social media to attack an opponent by name-calling, and vicious innuendo: Vote no thanks. If he or she offers no solid information as to how they will be of service and also demonstrate a lack of respect for government, beware. Why give that person a government position? If an entire campaign is negative and attacks without a policy statement - beware.
Voting is a right and an obligation. There is no validity in criticizing government if you do not vote. Know your candidates. Attend forums. Ask your friends' opinions. Most of all, be aware.