In print | Published October 29, 2009

To the Editor:

This letter tells you to vote for Rick Lowe for mayor of Swarthmore.

We know what you’re thinking: “I know what’s coming — all politics is local, every election matters, make your voice heard. But come on — I’m not from Swarthmore. I’m just a student here for a few years. How does the mayor of Swarthmore really matter to me? I don’t even know who the mayor is!” We could remind you how good it felt to stand in line last November to cast your vote for change in the Presidential election. “Sure,” you would respond, “but that was a world-changing election. Who really cares about the mayor of Swarthmore?”

So think about it this way: If you’re like most Swarthmore students, you probably think that the election of President Obama was a great moment for our country. But how much has your life changed since he was elected? The fact is, while the national government is more visible, it’s the local governments that we have the most interaction with in our daily lives. That’s why we at College Democrats have endorsed and are encouraging you to vote for Rick Lowe for mayor.

Rick first approached College Dems last year, telling us that he wanted to run a campaign based on bringing the college and town communities closer together. Since then, he’s proven sincere in his attentiveness to the student community. Some of you reading this may have met him yourselves at Sharples earlier this week or at the College Dems’ weekly meeting on Tuesday. Adopting a key college concern, he has made a campaign issue out of making Swarthmore a greener town and has suggested creating internships in the Ville to bring students into local government. Moreover, Rick would be the first Democratic mayor of Swarthmore and a rare Democratic leader in Delaware County, which has been controlled by Republicans for the last century. If you’re seeking a more constructive relationship with our neighbors outside the bubble or want to strike a blow against one of the oldest Republican machines in the country, Rick Lowe is your man.

Still not convinced? Consider this: The chief of police reports to the mayor. Wouldn’t you rather have a mayor who understands the concerns of students?

Rick Lowe will be on campus around lunch and dinner this weekend. If you see him, ask him about local government or the election and you’ll find him eager to talk. The election will be held next week, on Tuesday, November 3, and College Democrats will be at Parrish Circle providing information about polling locations and transportation to the polls. We hope to see you there.

Jon Erwin-Frank
President, College Democrats
Harry Apostoleris
Treasurer, College Democrats

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