Letter to the Editor: Walsh Seeking Apology From Rush

Editor's Note: The following letter was submitted by Westwood resident Michael Walsh, candidate for State Senate for Suffolk-Norfolk District including Westwood, Norwood, Dedham, West Roxbury and parts of Roslindale and Hyde Park.

Dear Readers:

In his interview with the editorial board for the Community Newspapers Company (posted  August 30, 2010), my opponent Mike Rush was asked about debating me, Michael F. Walsh. I have outspokenly requested several debates prior to the democratic primary on September 14th. Rush responded, " 'Going to Dunkin Donuts and (having) a street brawl debate,' he said, 'I don't think that anyone benefits from it.' "

Those words are condescending and egotistical, especially since on September 1, 2010, I attended a candidate forum for the Suffolk Norfolk District Senate seat hosted by the Newbridge on the Charles in Dedham, moderated by Dorothy Kelly-Gay, a respected professional and former Mayor of Somerville.  All the State Senate candidates attended and each was provided with the topics to be covered 24 hours in advance of the forum. The moderator complimented the parties on their demeanor and professionalism toward each other. The format was not a debate style that has been requested numerous times and deserved by the voters. Rush does want to give the voters an opportunity to hear the democratic candidates, except, at a "formalized, sanctioned debate," which he also stated to CNC.

Despite assertions, Rush has failed to access those in the community who could easily call for a "formalized sanctioned debate" such as the League of Women Voters and including the Ward 20 Democratic committee to which Rush belongs.

The manner in which I have conducted myself throughout this campaign directly contradicts Rush's baseless assertion that any debate, would be a "street brawl."   

The frustration of Rush's failure to give the voters the respect they deserve and debate the issues as well as his attempt to blame me for that failure, is an insult not only to me, but more so to my family, my parents and in-laws and my supporters. Any such assertion is baseless and insulting, and another example of how a Beacon Hill insider, such as Rush, demonstrates unacceptable behavior and entitlement. They wonder why the rest of us are enraged to vote incumbents out.  

If Rush chooses not to debate, which is apparent from his failure to answer my email requests and numerous public requests, voters may draw an unreasonable inference from Rush's  "street brawl" remark about me and my candidacy and for that reason I demand an apology.

Sincerely,

Michael F. Walsh
Candidate for State Senate, Suffolk Norfolk District