To the Editor:

One political race that seems to garner little attention is the NY21 Congressional race between our well-known incumbent and her little-known Democratic and Working Families challenger Paula Collins. The local media needs to know that Ms. Collins is a bona-fide, duly accredited candidate and, in the interests of fairness and democracy, they need to give her equal time in coverage of campaign appearances and news. 

Ms. Collins has offered debate to Ms. Stefanik, but Ms. Stefanik refuses to debate.Why? Surely Ms. Collins is an intelligent and serious candidate and a worthy debate opponent. If Ms. Stefanik is that good, she shouldn't be afraid of a little honest give and take in front of the public. The voters of NY21 deserve a fair debate between candidates where each candidate explains how they stand on important issues affecting the lives of the District's residents.

Each voter should examine the platform and position of each candidate on the issues, and in the case of the incumbent, they should examine the actual record, the voting record on each issue impacting NY21 and who that incumbent actually shows up for. 

We need someone who shows up for the people of New York' s 21st Congressional District and makes that their focus. Voters should examine programs and records and cast their ballot using their brain and not their gut. In the past, the North Country has had excellent and dedicated Congressional representation and deserves no less now.

Most important of all, everyone should please Vote.

Dave Sanford
Potsdam