LETTER: Slight to the NAACP

By: | Stafford County Sun
Published: October 13, 2009

So as not to blur the lines, this letter involves the 52nd House of Delegates race in Eastern Prince William County.

I’m a long-time Democrat and resident of Prince William County. On Oct. 8, the NAACP held a candidate debate involving Republican Rafael Lopez and Democrat Luke Torian.

Mr. Lopez took questions for over an hour from the audience at this well-attended function. Luke Torian was a NO-SHOW! It was learned that the Torian campaign did not show because they did not like
the idea of a former opponent being on the panel and asking questions like the rest of the panel and the audience.

This is absolutely a nasty slight to the NAACP and the people of Prince William County. If Mr. Torian is that “small minded,” it is a great reason why all should show up on Nov. 3 to vote for the candidate
that is most genuine, transparent, knowledgeable on the issues, and independent thinking.

Despite party affiliation, no one deserves to be represented by someone who could care less about letting us know where he or she truly stand on issues but is more concerned with games some
members of the Prince William County Democratic party have played for decades and continue to play, especially when it comes to the African-American citizens residing in the county.

The day after his no-show, I received an e-mail inviting me to attend his last scheduled fundraiser event at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Lionel Lyle. The e-mailed invitation emphasized the support and the
planned attendance of John and Ernestine Jenkins, who are also known as pillars of the local Democratic Party for more than three decades.

Let us not forget, it was John and Ernestine Jenkins who publicly announced their endorsement for Luke Torian BEFORE the primary election was held.

How long are we going to allow these pillars to manipulate our concerns and needs in the 52nd District?

RACHEL TELLIS

Dumfries