Rattler Nation strongly recommends Al Lawson for Congress. He's always been there for FAMU's students, faculty and staff.We weren't going to get involved, but yesterday at church Rev. R.B. Holmes decided to show his true colors and endorse from the pulpit someone I'm totally against. So with the help of Chuck Hobbs, I decided to come up with my own set of recommendations, using his as a reference point.
Ultimately, the final decision is yours, what matters most is that you exercise your right to vote.
SELECTED FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL RACES
Governor’s Race
Republican Primary: Bill McCollum
Hobbs : "Easily the most controversial race this election season, Bill McCollum clearly is heads and shoulders above Rick Scott as an experienced leader. Scott not only brings zero experience as a politician to the table, but his distortion of McCollum’s record and reticence to fully discuss his own personal issues is troubling. Candidates for high office should have a resume indicative of service, which Scott lacks."
RN: We agree
Democrat Primary: Alex Sink
RN: Is there anyone else running in this race?
Tallahassee Mayoral Race: John Marks
Hobbs and I differ. We like Mayor John Marks and believe he's earned the right to continue serving. Under his leadership, the Gaines Street and Cascades Park projects finally got going, and he has reduced electricity rates. The mayor has proven to be accessible, smart, and caring. Besides, his is one Seminole who can do the Rattler Strike with the best of them.
U.S. Senate
Democratic Primary: Kendrick Meek
RN: This one is a no brainer. Kendrick Meek is young, experienced leader who looks out for working families. This former Rattler football player has been an exceptional Congressman and will be an even better Senator.
Hobbs: The Meek/Jeff Green race has been almost as acerbic as the Republican gubernatorial campaign. Simply stated, Green strikes me as disingenuous (anyone who hangs with Iron Mike Tyson on a regular basis is suspect to me)
US Congressional 2nd Congressional District
Democratic Primary: Al Lawson
Hobbs: Lawson is an honorable man who has capably served North Florida in the state legislature for almost 30 years. Boyd’s unusually harsh attacks on Lawson have been a distasteful distortion of the truth.
RN: We agree with Hobbs, and add that FAMU has never had a stronger supporter.
Republican Primary: David Scholl
Hobbs: A former military officer and solid conservative, Scholl has the intellectual ability and credentials to be an effective leader if elected.
State Senate
Democratic Primary: Curtis Richardson
Hobbs: Curtis’ experience in the Florida legislature is the key in a close race. Montford is a good man and has been an effective education advocate for many years. Richardson, however, has been in the battles and has worked across party lines to protect the best interest of North Florida and that experience is critical during these turbulent economic times.
RN: This was a toss up. But Hobbs swayed us, so we agree.
Leon County Commission at Large: Cliff Thaell
Thaell is seasoned, studied, and focused. He's a proven commodity and you know what you're getting. Nick Maddox reminded me too much of Peter Boulware, with half the smarts. Besides, a black guy who has never voted, even for President Obama can't get my vote.
Circuit Judge Race: Barbara Hobbs
Hobbs: This race is filled with five very capable lawyers. Any one would be a great candidate for the spot, Hobbs (no relation) has spent her career advocating on behalf of the poor, children and those accused of crimes. Her experiences in both civil and criminal law would make her capable of being fair and independent judge. More importantly, her personality is one that would make court feel less rigid, a complaint hat I often hear from citizens disappointed in how very brusque certain jurists are in their demeanor or dealings with the public.
RN: I think Chuck might have liked her last name a whole lot, but I like her bright yellow signs. So, I'll agree with Chuck.