To the editor:

We have happily lived in Pelham for the past 26 years, raising two sons, both graduates of our public schools. In that time, we have been deeply involved in our local community. Never before have we felt the need to write a letter like this; never before have we been so compelled to involve ourselves in local politics. However, the times have changed. We, like so many of our friends and neighbors, are heartbroken and appalled by what is happening in our country.

When we moved to Pelham in 1999, our local elections were far removed from the national scene. In the past, despite being lifelong Democrats, we have even cast our ballots for local Republicans. But this is not the same country it was ten years ago, let alone twenty-six. While our local Republican candidates may claim this election has nothing to do with national politics, we disagree. People are judged by the company they keep and we cannot, in good conscience, vote for candidates who are still willing to run on the Republican line. To us, by accepting the Republican nomination, candidates tacitly endorse the regressive and hurtful policies of the national GOP.

However, we are fortunate to have been given a chance to let our voices be heard. We have the opportunity this year to elect a slate of passionate, hard-working, accepting neighbors in the form of our Democratic slate. We are proud to completely and fully put our support behind Theresa Mohan, Kara McLoughlin, Michael Jenks, Eileen Miller, and Erica Winter. We have known members of this slate for years, worked alongside them, and we truly believe in their vision for Pelham. They have a deep, proven commitment to our community. Members of this slate have served on PTA boards and committees, the Pelham Education Foundation, the Junior League, Village and Town boards and the Board of Education. They have advocated tirelessly for Pelham issues, such as pedestrian safety and our town ambulance. They have attended dozens of coffees and meet and greets, canvassed thousands of doors, some with their young children in tow, already proving how willing they are to work hard for Pelham.

We believe these candidates are the best equipped to lead Pelham into the future. If you agree that electing Democrats like ours at every level is a vital step in pushing back against what is happening to our country, we urge you to vote for Theresa Mohan, Kara McLoughlin, Michael Jenks, Eileen Miller and Erica Winter on or before November 4th.

Claire and Matthew Persanis
64 Maple Avenue