Do candidate statements affect your vote?

By Judy Sly
jsly@modbee.com

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OK, I understand that times have changed, but one of the things that surprises me is how few candidates these days submit statements to be included in the sample ballots.

One factor is cost. Depending on the number of voters in a jurisdiction, it can run into the thousands of dollars. But I've always considered a candidate statement a measure of that candidate's interest in the office. I understand -- in fact, I would advise -- that a candidate can get help in preparing a statement, but it's also an indication of his or her ability to communicate and gives a sense of priorities.

With the filings so far for the seats to be filled in the November election, very, very few candidates are submitting candidate statements. That could mean that voters will get most of their information about the choices for city council or school board from radio ads, signs, newspaper articles and Web sites. And, of course, campaign brochures, which almost always are shine over substance.

I'd be interested in your opinion on this issue. Do you read the candidate statements in sample ballots? Do they influence your vote? And if a candidate doesn't bother -- or want to pay -- to put in a statement, does that affect whether you will support him or her?

There are still a lot of blank spots in the filing list for November, especially on special districts. Friday is the deadline, unless the incumbent doesn't file, in which case the period is extended to Aug. 12.

Seven candidates are in the contest for the Modesto City Schools board. All four incumbents -- Nancy Cline, Steve Collins, Cindy Marks and Belinda Rolicheck -- are running. Three challengers have stepped forward -- Joshua Vander Veen, Jim Standart and Jason Gordo. An item on Monday night's board meeting agenda, the confidential medical services policy, could well evolve into a contentious topic in the campaign. I hope it doesn't overshadow the more important issue -- the difficult budget decisions ahead.

Sly is editor of the Bee opinions pages. Contact her at jsly@modbee.com or 578-2317.