It's never too early to think about elections. Indeed, Plainfielders are often thinking about a given election months or even a year or two ahead. So what's on the calendar for 2014?
Plainfield's schedule goes like this: Ward 1 and the Second & Third Ward at-large seat; Ward 2 and the First & Fourth Ward at-large seat; Ward 3 and the Citywide at-large seat; Ward 4 and the Mayor's seat. So for 2014 we are at the Ward 1 and Second & Third Ward at-large seat, meaning incumbents William Reid and Rebecca Williams will have to campaign for re-election if they choose, and others who are interested will have to file by March 31 to run in the June 3 primary.
Because Mayor Adrian O. Mapp had to vacate the Third Ward seat he held, there will be a third council seat on the ballot, for the unexpired balance of his term. Appointee Gloria Taylor will have to run to keep the seat and others may file by March 31.
To see the full election timeline as posted by the state Division of Elections, click here.
The public can see all the incumbents in action and, once any others file, consider their campaign claims. Names of contenders are already out there and alliances are being forged.
Plaintalker hopes all will take an interest in this year's election. While voters in the First, Second and Third wards can take part in the primary and general election for council seats this year, any city resident can assist in campaigns. If you see a candidate whose views you feel will help Plainfield advance in coming years, contribute, help out, write letters on their behalf. To borrow a phrase, Plainfield needs elected officials who are "capable of mission," who understand their roles as legislators and representatives of the people.
Good luck to all who toss their hats in the ring!
--Bernice
Thank you, Bernice. We need to remove Sharon's hold-overs and get people in who will represent all the people of Plainfield and not their own interests. I will name names: Vera Greaves and Bill Reid. We also need someone in the 3rd Ward who will not be a party puppet and do what is right for the people of Plainfield.
ReplyDeleteI agree Bob - and I am a Democrat, but Plainfield needs good intelligent Independents as well as Republicans to start running strong campaigns.
DeleteAND Plainfield needs to start voting SMART and not just the LINE.
If anyone on the first ward is running against Reid I would love to know who so can get your views. Reid made it clear if I don't like it I can move, I'd like to move him off the council! Rebecca keep up the good work! Gloria Taylor is new so we'll see what she does these first few months to make a good impression on us.
ReplyDeleteI dont believe that Bill Reid is running again. Rumor had it that Jerry Green was going to run Alex Tolliver's wife.
DeleteSenator and House members are up also. We had a US Senator - Harrison Williams from Plainfield at one time, who started out as a City Council member [if the memory is working properly] GB
ReplyDelete