Angry Voters

Talking to constituents is sometimes like drinking from a fire hose.

I sympathize with people who believe they have been treated unjustly by an uncaring municipal government or inconsiderate neighbours. Frustration can lead to anger. Spoiling anger may surrender to rage.

When I step onto someones property, to talk about local politics, I now realize that I have to be ready for anything. Anything.

On my last stop yesterday I was invited into the home of two ardent supporters of the incumbent. The couple was livid on a single issue in the Township (I won't provide names or identify the issue) and I quickly realized that they were never going to support me. Regardless, I remained to discuss the issue because I'm interested and may have to decide on it if elected - I would certainly represent them as constituents even if elected against their wishes.

But at no point did I feel welcome in their home, though I was invited in. Near the end of the conversation, which lasted at least half an hour, I had to warn the man to stay out of my personal space as he had repeatedly swiped a sheet of paper back and forth, inches from my face. This man's rage was so intense that I felt at any moment he could attack me.

It's unfortunate that otherwise good people could be driven by circumstance to exhibit such unwelcome behavior to a neighbour. I'm just a carpenter trying to serve his community, okay?

If elected I will consider the issue without prejudice, but I will never again knowingly step foot on their property.