Keller @ Large: If You Don't Vote, Don't Bother To Complain
BOSTON (CBS) - Today is Senate primary voting day in Massachusetts, the day when we choose the candidates who will be on the ballot in June, with the winner likely representing us in the Senate for years to come.
Check: Where Do I Vote?
It's an important vote, and if you choose to throw it away, don't be complaining down the road that you don't like the choice in the final.
Speaking of choices, what do we have on today's ballot? There's no one without flaws; no ballot has ever offered a candidate without some.
Listen to Jon's commentary:
Keller at Large April 30 2013
But if you're struggling to decide, let me help you with a positive take on all five candidates.
On the Democratic side, Congressman Stephen Lynch is a tough, smart guy who worked his way up from poverty. While he votes with his party leadership most of the time, he has shown an impressive willingness to think for himself when it matters.
Watch: Democrats Debate
Congressman Ed Markey is an experienced legislator who knows how to work the levers in Washington. You have him to thank for the early start of daylight savings time.
On the Republican ballot, businessman Gabriel Gomez served his country admirably in the Navy and also has an impressive rags to riches story. He would bring a fresh perspective to the Senate, a place that could use it.
Watch: Republicans Debate
Former US Attorney Michael Sullivan is another working-class guy made good. He would bring useful experience and a strong work ethic to the job.
And State Rep. Dan Winslow is a bright thinker of unquestioned integrity. He could be just hauling in the dough in the legal world; instead, he's risking much of his fortune for the opportunity to serve.
These are all decent men who deserve your effort to consider and choose one for this important job.
And I repeat, if you don't vote today, don't bother to bemoan the choices down the road.
You can listen to Keller At Large on WBZ News Radio every weekday at 7:55 a.m. You can also watch Jon on WBZ-TV News.
