Daniel McCoy is serving his third term as Albany County Executive and also serves as President of the County Executives of America
By DANIEL P. MCCOY
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All Americans should remember the phrase that, unfortunately, we have had to hear, and I have had to say, far too many times in 2020, “We are in unprecedented times.” On Jan. 5, Georgia citizens will take to the polls for a runoff election of two Senate seats in the U.S. Senate. With no other political races occurring around the Nation, it means no competition for resources. It is estimated that campaign expenditures may exceed $1 billion. Yes, it is true the Senate races in Georgia are pivotal to the leadership and control of power in the U.S. Senate, and as such the ability of the Democratic or Republican parties to implement their respective policy platforms. However, let us not forget the first sentence above, “we are in unprecedented times.”
We are in a holiday season like no other. The global pandemic has gripped our Country, and with this recent “surge upon a surge,” the virus has tightened the grip even more with infections growing at an alarming rate and the tragic loss of thousands of American lives daily. Further, the economic crisis brought on by COVID-19 has been felt around the world, with no community in our nation spared. This economic crisis has caused the closure of far too many small businesses and the loss of hundreds of thousands of American jobs. For the first time in generations, we are seeing families lined up in food lines that stretch for miles. Truly, these are difficult, desperate and tragic times for so many American families.
And so, it is with this backdrop that we must act during the upcoming Senate races in Georgia. And as we act as people of one nation, we need to unite not divide; we need to compromise not disengage; we need compassion not condemnation. These actions are paramount, for the strength of our country lies with the character of our people. I have faith in America, and I have confidence that the American people have faith in one another, Democrats and Republicans alike. For this is the season of hope, of faith, of remembrance and of light.
I ask that we unite, compromise and show compassion for each other during this holiday season. When you donate towards a campaign I ask that you remember the American families that are struggling and need assistance. I challenge that for each dollar that is spent on a campaign, an equal dollar is donated to American families in need. Let us respond with kindness during this runoff election. As these are unprecedented times, let us have an unprecedented response; a response that reflects the soul of this nation. Let us pledge allegiance to a united America by putting our money behind our words during this election.
