Letters to the Editor: Democrats must unite behind Meek for Senate
It is very disappointing, based on recent coverage in The Palm Beach Post, to see Democrats turning their back on their party, believing that the only way to win the Senate seat in November is by supporting a Republican or an independent, especially when the Democratic Party has a formidable rising star in the race who has championed Democratic ideals and values.
Kendrick Meek has been a strong Democrat in the Legislature and in Congress. Democrats always could rely on Kendrick Meek to do what is right. A Democrat like Kendrick Meek would work hand-in-hand with not only fellow Democratic Sen. Bill Nelson but also the Obama administration, and help bring much-needed relief to Florida.
We know how Kendrick Meek would vote on issues, such as a woman's right to choose, Social Security, education and health care. When he became an independent, Gov. Crist gifted the Senate seat to Kendrick Meek and the Democratic Party. By forcing Marco Rubio into a three-way race, the 42 percent of the Florida electorate who are Democrats would clinch victory for Kendrick Meek. However, some Democrats believe that Rep. Meek cannot win, even when the numbers clearly show that he can and will win in November.
Supporting Charlie Crist in November is not the answer when it comes to defeating Marco Rubio. All it would do is help Marco Rubio win. By dividing the Democratic vote we, as a party, are assured of defeat. By uniting behind the only real Democrat in the race, Kendrick Meek, we will win in November.
It is very easy for people to say that someone can't win, but they never will win if we don't support our own. I'm reminded of a young man from Chicago whom plenty of people felt couldn't win. What Kendrick Meek needs is the support of all Democrats in the state.
REP. PERRY E. THURSTON JR.
Fort Lauderdale
Editor's note: Perry Thurston represents Florida's 93rd House district.