[THOMAS] Vote For Real Change

I have no real dog in this political fight. I do have a good friend in it. And, unless there's something seriously flawed with the friend or friendship, I stick with the friend. As Tip O'Neill stated, "all politics is local." Perception or reality, people vote who they know.

This commentary extends no further than social media, taboo conversation and the radio. I don't live in New Bedford, never-mind Ward 3. I could give two hoots about Hugh Dunn suddenly moving into the ward, seemingly to get his foot wet in politics. However, if I had a Ward 3 vote today, I'd pull the lever for Bethany Fauteux.

Fauteux's family bleeds libertarian-republican like yours truly. Bethany does not. She admittedly leans democrat-socialist. Bethany is a newcomer to the political spectrum. This is Dunn's first go around. He's worked with the likes of Congreesman and long time hack William Keating and many others. Attorney Dunn speaks well, well connected. Bethany's vocabulary is simple and down home. As a female caller once explained, Fauteux seems like the kind of person who will listen to your concern and try to do something about it. That's the Bethany I know from Mikey B's and Destination Soup. We deserve an elected official who listens and responds.

Hugh Dunn holds all the endorsements, a swollen, local campaign war chest, and a polished demeanor. The odds are heavily against Fauteux. Sounds like Trump less the bravado. If that underdog can win, then so can an uneducated single mom who is true blue New Bedford.

Hugh Dunn may listen to constituents and accordingly act, but as a betting man, my bottom dollar says Bethany will. My vote would go to Fauteux not because she's a better candidate. Just the opposite she is fresh and unencumbered. However, like most of us do when the politicking is local, I'd cast my ballot for the trusted friend.

Editor’s Note:   Brian Thomas is the host of Brian’s Beat on 1420 WBSM New Bedford.  He can be heard weekdays from 10am-Noon and Saturdays from 6am-9am.  The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.