While Wesleyan students have been engrossed in the drama transpiring on America’s Next Top Model, a different kind of battle has been going on right here in Middletown.
Mayor Domenique S. Thornton, a Democrat running for a record fifth term, has been engaged in a fierce reelection campaign with Republican challenger Sebastian Giuliano. Giuliano accuses Thornton of failing Middletown residents by mismanaging taxes, neglecting to implement a plan to fight crime, and mishandling the controversy surrounding the delayed and over-budget construction of a new high school. Thornton counters that her tenure has led to an improved downtown business district and unprecedented corporate development for the city. She has also actively fostered a close partnership with the University—one that Giuliano sees as too close.
On Nov. 8, Middletown residents will head to the polls. The editorial board of the Argus cannot in good conscience endorse either candidate. An endorsement of Thornton seems logical: She consistently acts in the University’s interest, which is good for Wesleyan. However, there is more to Middletown than College Row, and Giuliano raises a salient point when he pledges to serve all of the city’s residents equally.
Whoever wins the election, there are some important issues that they must not overlook. Despite aesthetic improvements, Middletown’s North End continues to be dangerous and crime-ridden. A safe downtown is central to a safe Middletown. If the city hopes to attract new residents and fill the many empty storefronts, a more comprehensive approach to curbing crime is necessary.
While Thornton’s tight relationship with the University has been criticized, a bond between Middletown and Wesleyan remains crucial for the livelihood of both. Middletown’s government should not grant sweetheart deals to the University, but at the same time should recognize the asset that Wesleyan is to building the city’s future.
We all live in Middletown for the majority of the year. While it is easy to think of ourselves as only temporary residents who move in as quickly as we move out, we nonetheless have an obligation to care about this community. We hope that the winner of this election will feel the same way.
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