To the Editor:

I have voted in more than 75 elections, yet I’ve never joined a political party nor endorsed a candidate for office. But this local election for the house of representatives 21st district is different. 

Rather than focus on issues that affect us all, Anthony Constantino’s appeal for our vote is that President Trump supports him. If my wife and I were concerned only for our own welfare we should probably support Mr Constantino. As senior citizens, President Trump’s big bill will benefit us financially. 

But I am also the founder of an organization that is educating the public about autism. How can I ignore the fact that Mr Constantino was involved with a video that is extremely offensive to anyone concerned about people with disabilities and he has yet to apologize? How can I ignore the fact that President Trump has done more to dismantle programs that support people with disabilities than any president in the history of our country?   

On the other hand, I have met Blake Gendebien, his wife Carmen and their oldest child. I know people who have worked with them. They are people of outstanding character who will listen to their constituents’ concerns and offer us effective representation. 

Blake is a farmer, former member of a North Country board of education, and a man of principle, not a politician who will do whatever it takes to get votes. Anthony Constantino has demonstrated that his moral standard is to do whatever he thinks will get him elected. 

When I am alone in the voting booth I will have two thoughts that will guide my decision with regard to the 21st District: 

1. If I vote for Constantino, how can I, in good conscience, face the many wonderful people I know who accept the challenge of having a disability and are productive members of society? 
2. If I have a bit of empathy in my character, how can I vote for a man who takes pride in being supported by a president who at times has spoken ill of military personnel captured in the line of duty, people in various minority groups, women, people with a disability, and just about anyone who isn’t of the same, race, religion, and political persuasion as he is? 

In my opinion, a vote for Blake Gendebien is a vote to restore character and integrity to Washington. 

Don Mesibov
Potsdam