Dear Gardiner, and my supporters from the June 27 Primary:

I’m facing a dilemma and I need your assistance. My run for supervisor was for compelling reasons that I know many of you also see, since I came just 49 votes short. Afterwards, there was hope for change and reconciliation, but our overtures were rebuffed, culminating in my being threatened by the Chair of the Gardiner Democratic Committee that he would “ruin my reputation,” and “make me a pariah,” unless I wrote a Marybeth Majestic letter, so here it is.

I cannot support a candidate who prioritizes personal interest over the town’s well-being. E.g,: subjecting the town to a lawsuit by inappropriately interceding against a proposed liquor store which could harm her family’s financial interests; scarring the Ridge with her 1/2 mile driveway over the lawful objection of neighbors and boards; allowing illegal developments like Awosting Club to operate for three years and counting; permitting Jellystone to convert campsites into 134 mobile homes; and vindictively stifling opposing viewpoints. More details at: democratsforscottarnold.com.

As a parent of children of color, I cannot support a supervisor who objected to “I Can’t Breathe” and “Hands Up Don’t Shoot” on a mural created by HS students.

As a 20-year resident of Gardiner, I cannot support a supervisor who allows rampant overdevelopment and continues to threaten Ridge Zoning protection.

I’ve been a lifelong Democrat, and with the Gardiner Dems since 2007. This decision is not taken lightly. My hope is that we can unite around a higher ethic, setting aside polarization and negative tactics and lies. Also, local elections have always been less partisan. The Supervisor herself ran twice as a Republican. I urge my 329 voters, and other Dems, to examine their hearts and consider the bigger picture. Why can’t we choose to not support an issue-plagued local Democrat/DINO?

I remain a loyal Democrat, and do believe that this race is not indicative of the entire party, so I hope you vote for all of the other great Democrats.

My hero, Pete Seeger, always stood up for the truth and for doing what’s right.

I hope we can all do the same.