To the Editor:
I would like to respond to an editorial published in the Item on Oct. 23. The editorial states that a challenger and I are “debating debating.” I cannot speak for anyone else, but for my part, this is not true, since I have not been contacted about a debate by any challenger or sponsor, despite rumors and claims made by others. However, as I told the Item last week, I would be happy to participate in a debate with all candidates sponsored by a neutral party and agreed-upon format.
Second, the opinion mentions that “ducking debating is tantamount to disrespecting the voters.” I have never ducked any debate, and anyone that knows me knows that I would never disrespect any voter, taxpayer, homeowner, or anyone else. I have no illusions about who serves who. It is the voters that have elected me to State Representative four times, and it is the voters and all citizens for whom I go to work every day.
Third, the opinion mentions that “Americans like drama and excitement in their elections.” In my opinion, the matter of state government is critical to the quality of life in our state and in our district, and not intended as entertainment. I will leave “drama and excitement” to others; my focus remains on representing the district, trying to address the needs of our taxpayers, homeowners, schools, seniors, infrastructure, veterans, and the most vulnerable among us.
Making myself available to the people of the district is important to me, which is why I hold regular office hours at Saugus Town Hall and Wakefield Town Hall every month, year-round, and I can also be contacted by appointment at the State House if you are unable to make the hours at town hall.
I am happy to meet and listen to anyone in the district to understand their needs, concerns, and wishes, without having to wait for election time. It is also why I attend every event I can across Lynn, Saugus, and Wakefield week in and week out, year-round, not just at election time. I don’t just show up at election time for a photo opportunity, I show up because I enjoy representing the people of the district, and I can do that more effectively by keeping current with their needs.
Donald H. Wong
State Representative, Saugus