July 31st - Make a Statement

First of all, let me begin by saying “Long time no speak to, I miss you guys.” 

Let me refresh your memory, I am Shelley Wynter, a right of center, independent who has voted for Democrats (Obama) and Republicans (Bush). I have voted for Republicans and Democrats at the local level and if you were to look me up in Votebuilder.com, I would be listed as a strong independent.

This July 31st, the African American community has a fantastic opportunity to make a wholesale change in the political leadership of our community. We have the opportunity to shout very loudly and clearly to the powers that be “Enough is enough.” July 31st is primary day. In many of our communities, there are local races for State House and State Senate and congressional races. These are the people who really influence our communities (or they should) and the ones who can effectively create change.

So what is the message we are going to send? Well, let's start with whom we are sending the message to.

Congressman John Lewis

Congressman Lewis is a United States and world historical figure. He is a man who has stood up to Jim Crow and has fought for us and our great country. However, as a congressman, he has failed us. Understand a congressman’s job is to do one thing - bring home money to his local district. As a senior congressman with a legacy like his, he should be a top collector of federal funds for the district. And God knows the fifth district can use monies. Schools, and jobs can largely be funded by federal dollars. But if there is no money coming back, then you cannot help these issues. Consider that other Democrats with less time and are certainly not American heroes (Sanford Bishop and David Scott) bring back millions more than Mr. Lewis. And that is even with a Republican run congress. So the message is “Thank you for your sacrifice 40 years ago, however, we are going to give Michael Johnson a chance to bring back jobs and money to the 5th.” It is not an insult, it is called accountability. It is called survival. It is called “What do I get for my vote?”

Ladies and Gentlemen, how does the Joshua Generation take over the reins of our community if the people who are leaders and not even doing a good job are elected time and time again? How do we look at the Republicans and blame them for everything, and we do not even hold those we VOTE for accountable? It is nothing short of crazy.

I have nothing personal against Congressman Lewis, however I have love for my community. That love makes me hold the people we elect accountable. Accountability says that if you cannot bring money home, then your seniority means nothing. When a young man was beat in the Pittsburgh community area, the congressman came out and made a statement. Why? Because it was considered a “gay” issue and that community needed to be reminded that the congressman needs their votes. I am still waiting on a statement on the Kathryn Johnson shooting. When asked about that shooting several years ago, we were told it was a local issue. A beat down on street corner is a LOCAL issue. A black woman being shot in her home by police is a HUMAN issue. But because the community will continue to vote for Mr. Lewis, there is no political advantage to saying anything. Many people say the congressman is the moral center of congress. Well, I have enough moral centers in my community - Churches, fraternal groups, non-profits etc. I need money in my community.

Also, has anyone asked themselves why we in the 5th have not seen any stimulus projects? Well, on local black radio they will tell us it’s because Gov. Deal gave it to his friends. However, the truth is the money comes through congress. So you have not seen anything because nothing was brought back by your congressman. You see how it works.

Please ladies and gentlemen, recognize that history should be respected, not lived every day. By voting for Michael Johnson, we send a cross country message to every democratic politician - WORK for US or you are out. We do not care who you are and what you have done in the past. If we are to grow to the next level, a message must be sent - “Thank you for your service, now sit down and rest.” You can be mad at the republicans or the tea party but understand they are forcing their elected officials to work for them and their issues. That is how politics works.

Vote Michael Johnson for Congress July 31st and send a national message to everyone.