To the editor:

Good heavens, how often are we going to see “From the desk of 4th Ward Councilman Ken Schaffer” – an “aren’t I wonderful” press release? It is only July; the general election is Nov. 8. 

In this piece, Democrat Schaffer takes some rather strange shots at his fall Republican opponent, Tom Milhaus. He claims Mr. Milhaus was supported by the same people who caused problems in the current government. No, those people voted for Mr. Milhaus’ primary election opponent, Mr. Johnson. Mr. Schaffer knows this.  

Our two newest councilpersons, Tony Pullella and Dr. Kerns, were supported by many Republicans who agree that we need change in local government. Actually, many of us were happy to see them elected – but not too happy that they, both former Republicans, felt they had to become Democrats to do so. Since they vote conservatively and their values are far more in sync with the Republican than the Democrat Party, they have the opportunity to change their registration back to Republican anytime. This is often done in other communities.

Both Democrat Ken Schaffer and Republican Tom Milhaus share identical goals for improving the status quo. For Mr. Schaffer to insinuate in his “I am wonderful” piece that if Tom Milhaus is elected, the current “cronyism/nepotism/patronage” would continue, nothing could be further from the truth and this borders on libel. While Mr. Schaffer no doubt is a very nice person, I would hope his self-serving “From the desk of…” is infrequent and apolitical and, above all, honest and accurate.  

Voters need to keep in mind the difference in the philosophies of the two parties. Keep in mind, Democrats historically tax and spend; and Republicans prefer less government and lower taxes.   

Mr. Schaffer was appointed – not elected – so let’s allow the 4th Ward voters to elect the third conservative member on Council. What Brigantine needs is a new Republican party. And the 4th Ward needs a conservative Republican representative, and that is Tom Milhaus. 

Jacqueline Crahalla