In the Maryland Primary, Opportunity Awaits
We confess to turning into C-Span junkies this election season.
While ‘normal’ people are out at movies and parties, we’re home watching uncut speeches by presidential hopefuls.
We tune into long-winded orations of Bill Bradley, wondering if the hoopster-turned-senator has what it takes to inspire people. We’re watching Vice President Al Gore trying to figure if behind his tortured elocution beats the heart of a man we can trust.
We’re listening to Texas Gov. George W. Bush in hopes that we’ll be there the day he departs from The Script. We’re smiling as Sen. John McCain scolds the fat cats who pollute politics while we wonder how long it will take Republican fat cats to send him back to Arizona.
We’re enjoying the political theater that fellow Marylander Alan Keyes brings to the dance. We’re chuckling every time geeky Steve Forbes walks on the stage.
We may be strange, but we’ll be ready in a month when it’s time to pick a candidate in Maryland’s primary election.
If you’re plugged out, you’re not alone. Maryland is one of 11 states that hold presidential primaries on March 7, the day we’re likely to know both parties’ nominees in the 2000 election.
Unfortunately, the Maryland election is all but ignored in the national media because of the truly big contests that day — in California, New York and Ohio, to name three.
Don’t be lured into thinking we’re not important. Maryland is known for giving victories — and hope — to appealing candidates, Democrats Jerry Brown and the late Paul Tsongas among them.
Now is the time to find out what this year’s White House hopefuls are saying about environmental issues. About globalization. About spending our tax money. About educating our kids for a new Internet-driven world. Life won’t always be as cushy as it seems today.
But you must hurry: Maryland is among states that make it tough on voters. If you’re not already registered, you must register by 9pm on Friday, Feb. 11. Register in person at MVA offices and many state government buildings. Or pick up a form at your post office and remember to mail it back right away. Call 800/222-VOTE for details.
Then grab your newspaper, turn on C-SPAN and see who you want to hire.
Copyright 2000
Bay Weekly
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