I am writing in support of Barbara McLachlan as our Colorado House representative.
McLachlan is the forward-thinking candidate who will work to secure a dynamic, broad-based economy for Colorado. J. Paul Brown is the candidate who represents old ways of thinking that have resulted in a boom and bust economy that also threatens our quality of life. As such he is threatening the values that make Southwest Colorado special, and which are the keys to our future success.
Brown’s denial of climate change demonstrates that he does not understand how science functions and how it should inform policy. The scientific evidence is constantly evolving, and knowledgeable people understand that is how scientists work.
But the preponderance of evidence shows that climate change is real. To suggest otherwise is some combination of willful denial and ignorance. Neither trait is one which we want in a state representative.
Education is a key issue. Colorado has a healthier economy than many other states in part because we attract many well-educated people from other states. Now we need to be sure that our own Colorado kids are getting as good an education as students in other states. As a former teacher, McLachlan has the experience to lead in this area.
Finally, Brown has demonstrated that he sits squarely within the extreme rightward shift of the Republican party. There is a marked contrast between him and Republican Senator Ellen Roberts, who has consistently been a supporter of Colorado’s strength in diversity of our people, economy and landscapes.
Although I don’t always agree with Roberts I have supported her because her positions are clearly well thought out and demonstrate her good judgment. Brown shows none of these traits and instead embraces the most extreme positions of the Republican party. Brown’s positions on the issues don’t represent the majority of people in La Plata County.
Barbara McLachlan’s beliefs are in synch with most of us here, and represent an optimistic and inclusive vision for the future. That’s why I’m supporting her for the Colorado house.
John Watson
Durango
