The Voters Deserve to Know Where We Stand

Tonight, I received a message from someone I respect very much, and it gave me some clarity that I needed.

It reminded me of something that has been important to me from the beginning: doing what I believe is right for the people of Mahwah is what matters most to me.

This is my first campaign for political office, and I’ve learned very quickly how fast these campaigns move. There are so many different ups and downs, and at times, a campaign can take on a life of its own. I can understand why, sometimes, the people can become forgotten by government.

It feels like ages ago that I was introducing myself to Mahwah, but it has only been about two months.

When I started this campaign, I talked a lot about unity. I believed—and still believe—that everyone matters, regardless of past political battles or disagreements.

But I’ve also learned that influence is powerful, and it can affect the way we think and the decisions we make.

We cannot create a better Mahwah if we are afraid of honest dialogue and respectful debate. Different ideas should not divide us. They should challenge us to think.

This past week, I did my best to make sure voters know where I stand on the issues facing Mahwah. As you saw in my last post, Team Mahwah has also put themselves out there and shared their positions and their perspective on where we currently stand.

I believe it is important that all eight candidates do the same.

Hopefully, that begins this Thursday at the Mahwah Library debate.

In my opinion, the reason someone should be elected to Township Council should ultimately come down to what they believe Mahwah should look like going forward and how they intend to get us there.

Past experience, knowledge, and community involvement are important. They can help voters determine whether someone is prepared to serve.

But our positions today—and our ideas for tomorrow—should give voters the information they need to decide which path they want Mahwah to take.

I have an Ariemma & Colella sign alongside mine in my front yard. I would welcome a Diamond sign and a Team Mahwah sign as well.

Why?

Because Mahwah deserves to know who is running.

Voters should take the time to learn about every candidate, examine their positions, ask questions, challenge assumptions, and make the decision they believe is best for our community.

Mail-in voting gives voters the opportunity to do exactly that. There is time to research. There is time to listen. There is time to compare ideas before making a decision.

I will continue to stand by my independence from campaign teams and collaborations.

And I encourage you to challenge me.

My positions are publicly posted. Tell me where you think I’m wrong. Tell me where you think an idea could go further. Tell me what I’m missing.

That conversation is not something I’m afraid of. It’s something I welcome.

Because at the end of the day, this campaign isn't supposed to be about me.

It isn't supposed to be about Team Mahwah.

It isn't supposed to be about any individual candidate.

It is supposed to be about Mahwah.

And if we keep the focus there, I believe we give our community the best opportunity to make an informed decision about its future.

Respectfully,

Candidate John Morin