By Ralph Dennis, August 18, 2020

In this age of pandemic distancing, the Progressive Democrats of Benicia convened about 50 members and interested parties in a digital ZOOM Candidate Forum on Aug. 11.

Candidate for Mayor Steve Young and candidates for City Council Trevor Macenski and Terry Scott gave opening statements, answered prepared questions and audience questions, and finished with brief closing statements.

Members of the Progressive Democrats voted whether and whom to endorse by an online poll on the PDB website.  Voting was open for a week following the Forum. “For endorsement, PDB bylaws require a vote of 50% plus one of those present and voting,” indicated Ralph Dennis, Chair of the Progressive Democrats.

Results were overwhelming in the Mayoral race.  100% of the 43 members voting chose to endorse Steve Young for Mayor in 2020.  Christina Strawbridge, who declined to attend, received no votes. “I believe this is a strong statement to progressives in Benicia that a clear choice exists between the candidates in our Mayor’s race for the person with vision, the ability and willingness to take stands on hard issues, and to lead the City. That person without a doubt is Steve Young,” Dennis said.

The race for City Council presented members with a wider choice.  Members could vote for up to two to fill the two vacant seats.  Incumbent Tom Campbell, who also declined to attend, received only 5 votes, or 11.6% of those voting.  Planning Commissioner Trevor Macenski received 13 votes, or 30.2% of those voting.  Arts and Culture Commissioner Terry Scott received support from 40 members, or 93.0% of those voting, and snagged our only endorsement for City Council.

“Terry Scott’s private sector work and experiences will translate well with tackling issues facing Benicia,” according to Dennis, “and his work on the Arts and Culture Commission demonstrates the type of the forward thinking that some City Council members have lacked.”

Dennis also said the Progressive Dems will be discussing with the endorsed candidates how the club can support their campaigns to ensure each is elected. He urged all Benicians eligible to be sure and vote in the Nov. 3 election.

Sharing is caring!