Votes not for sale, all ideas are respected
Sixth Congressional District voters, where Ben Lowe and Peter Roskam are running neck and neck for a seat in the House of Representatives, can start a revolution. Most politicians accept hundreds of thousands of dollars each year from lobbyists, and PACs and rely on a negative message to win elections. In 2009, $3.49 billion was spent by lobbyists to influence votes.
Most agree negative advertisements distort rather than inform and, frequently, target hot button issues instead of real concerns. Ben Lowe, an independent Democrat, refuses money from lobbyists and PACS and refuses the model of negative advertising. When he is elected, Ben will vote for our best interest rather than the best interest of powerful corporations and special interests. He does not look at money as being the source of political power; he believes the voters are the power.
On the other hand, incumbent Peter Roskam per Open Secrets raised $8,679,165 in his political career. Lobbyist money corrupts Roskam's voice and brings into question whose interests he represents. In past campaigns, Roskam resorted to negative advertisements. Ben Lowe has promised to make civil discourse a priority throughout his tenure and refuses to use negative advertisements.
Both Lowe and Roskam were given the opportunity to sign the Coffee Party pledge promising civil discourse and honest open discussion. Roskam did not sign this pledge. Ben Lowe signed the pledge. Why would Roskam refuse to sign a pledge of honest open discussion and civility toward others? I don't know. I will vote for Ben Lowe, a Wheaton College graduate with a degree in environmental science. Lowe represents a departure from current political practices. He will bring the good news that our votes are not for sale and the ideas and opinions of all warrant consideration and respect.
Michael Murray
Roselle