A Statesman’s Decision
Contributed by Ken McCarty, Chugiak Alaska
Why did I pull out of the Senate District L (Eagle River / Chugiak) race? I have been asked this question frequently as well as praised by many for being a statesman to do so. If you are interested to know and how it effects you then I am honored to explain.
In 2020 I ran for State Senate for District L. My opponent was Kelly Merrick. She represents non-conservative views with the disguise of being conservative by placing an R behind her name based on the Rack Choice rules. Two weeks after I lost the 2020 election I began to receive phone calls and comments from hundreds of people who stated: “I voted for Kelly but I should have voted for you.” Based upon their encouragement I threw my name into the Senate race hat to avail conservative values for you.
So, why did I pull out of the Senate race. Simply put, it is due to the confusion of Rank Choice voting. The Rank Choice system is liken to sports, except for a few twists. It allows for all teams to wear the same uniform if they so choose. How confusing is that on the sports field, let alone by the people in the stands. Candidates can place whatever letter behind their name even if denied by a political belief group who normally vets their candidates. Voters are confused as to what foundational beliefs candidates hold. Political parties are deprived of taking a stance (e.g. censor) and even threats of law suits inhibit challenges Another confusing element is the “Primary.” In Rank Choice the primary is the determination as to who makes it to the top four … “Playoffs.” I viewed my campaign as to simply reach the “playoffs” then strategically advance to the General Election. Though attaining fourth in the “Playoffs” I have been consoled by many with “I’m so sorry you lost,” which my response is “I am in the playoffs.” How many times have we seen Wild Card teams win the championship. Never-the-less, the process is intentionally confusing and does not promote clarity of the voice by the voter.
Finally, the General Election is a rank system by which people must rank for the system to work. Confusing as it is and with nearly 250 years of prior standard voting, the voter is forced to take on a paradigm shift that promotes what? My preliminary analysis from the last Rank Choice election showed that only 23% of the voters did rank.
In addition, the predominate conservative comment was “I do not want to rank or suggest ranking to others.” So, with data collection analysis, defiance to rank, and a foundational desire for conservative values to be heard in the People’s Senate Seat that I decided to take a team “assist” and throw my full endorsement to Jared Goecker so the people can win. It on this statesman premise to support you…the team.
Regarding the Rank Choice Ballot 2 initiative I encourage all to vote “YES to Repeal” it and get back to sanity of elections. It has nothing to do with “DARK MONEY” or fairness for my vote to be heard. All voices are heard in the General Election. So, come this next General Election get out to vote. Vote early and do so with a few of your neighbors in your car as you go out for coffee.