By Matthew Ricchiazzi:
Let’s face it: Buffalo has a history of dirty politics that has become entrenched in our community. Slanderous rumors, hurtful innuendo, and insulting mailers have become a loathsome part of our political normalcy.
That’s why it’s so refreshing to see a good guy who refuses to engage in gutter politics do so much better than those who decide to take the low road. It’s like seeing the long shot triumph; seeing the nice guy finish first; or seeing the underdog defeat the machine.
That’s why I was so refreshingly surprised when I came across these numbers. To state the obvious, the Town of Tonawanda is overwhelmingly Democratic. In fact, every Democrat running won, except for one. This is how the numbers broke down (as of last Saturday):
Chris Jacobs (R) 9,899
Mark Polancarz (D) 9,616
Maria Whyte (D) 9,042
Chris Collins (R) 8,792
That’s right. Not only did Chris Jacobs get more votes than his opponent, he also got more votes than Mark Polancarz or Chris Collins, in one of the most heavily Democrat-enrolled areas of the County.
As a proud moderate myself, I take enormous comfort in the fact that voters – despite the polarization as of late – are still willing to cross party lines and vote for someone based on his solid character and his genuine and selfless desire to serve the community.
This is proof that voters are more moderate, more sensible, and less partisan than our politicians and news media give us credit for. It’s proof that sensible solutions and pragmatic problem solvers are more appreciated than the abrasive instincts and divisive tactics of the party headquarters.
Perhaps I’m reading too much into the upsets of our recent elections, but I very much hope that Mr. Jacobs intends to revamp and rebrand the Erie County GOP. As a businessman, real estate developer, philanthropist, and public servant, Mr. Jacobs has the experiences and insights that can unite our body politic and reshape our political landscape like few others can.
Imagine a local Republican Party that doesn’t ignore every district inside the City of Buffalo. Imagine a local GOP that doesn’t despise and distrust moderates. Imagine a local GOP that is tolerant of different social views and makes the effort to build a bigger tent.
My intent here is not to preach my politics, but only to convey how hopeful I am that the middle road will become a path increasingly taken – and that, just maybe, we might have actually found someone who can unite us rather than divide us.