Zosia VanMeter is putting transparency into practice

I was struck recently by Zosia VanMeter’s invitation to Dr. Pete Meaney to participate in a debate in the Democratic primary for state representative in the 9th Essex District. I hope voters will pay attention to what that invitation represents: a candidate who is willing to stand before the public, answer difficult questions, defend her positions, and engage directly with her opponent. That kind of openness is important and helps voters make informed decisions. The contrast with her primary opponent is striking. When Dr. Meaney ran for reelection to the Lynn City Council last year, he did not participate in candidate forums. Now, as he seeks a seat in the State House, there has reportedly been no public response to VanMeter’s invitation to debate. That is difficult to reconcile with a campaign message emphasizing that Meaney wants to be “accessible” and that leadership should be “honest, accessible, and accountable.” It is also worth remembering the controversy surrounding Dr. Meaney’s brief tenure as chair of the Lynn Water and Sewer Commission earlier this year. He was appointed chair under circumstances that raised significant questions, only to resign three days later amid public backlash. Yet he has never had to face sustained public questioning about that episode. Questions like these deserve to be addressed directly to the candidates seeking our votes. Elections should be more than campaign mailers and carefully prepared statements. Voters deserve opportunities to hear candidates think on their feet, challenge one another’s ideas, and explain what they would do in office. I support Zosia VanMeter because she is willing to show up, engage, and be accountable to the people she hopes to represent. Eliot Smith Lynn