Politics is my favorite hobby, and I wish my life allowed me more time to indulge.

The 2008 race for Congress in our district is well underway with many candidates both active and ready to become active.  For once, our district will see a robust and energetic Democratic primary between multiple candidates.  This is a good thing...no, this is a great thing.  Emerging from this contest will be a tested and credible candidate unlike anything we've seen before.  Stein, Laesch and Foster should provide each other with ample opportunity to debate the issues important to us all.

My hope is we'll see the candidates discuss their differences with vigor.  Each candidate has seen their surrogates begin this discussion.  Surrogates can be over zealous in their comments as we all know from recent email and blog postings.  So while the candidates are taking the race seriously, I hope the candidates will take hold of the dialogue and elevate the discussion with honest language and real proposals.

My neighbors, friends and family are all ready for a change.  Their votes are available...who will prove themselves worthy is another question.

My advice...the candidates and their supporters would be well served by sticking to the issues important to this district and keep their surrogates on topic as well.