One thing that has come from the recent public forum for Democratic primary candidates is that the unfortunate incident between City Councilman David Dempsey and Auburn Mayor Tim Lattimore needs to be put behind us.

There's no arguing that it certainly gave Auburn a black eye. But that was three years ago and it's time for everybody to move on. Now that the primary is over you also can't help but notice there's been an organized effort to politically destroy Dempsey.

His own party abandoned him (which was strange), his candidacy petitions were questioned (they were OK), and now they're after him on supposed campaign spending violations. Even the Independence party, which has endorsed him for mayor, is being criticized.

Hey, I'm not saying that I've agreed with everything Dempsey has done or said but I know a lynch mob when I see one. This is the kind of back-room politics that has given Auburn a dirty little reputation. How about we focus on not repeating mistakes and finding the best people to lead us into the future?

In the mayoral race, the Independence party is sending Dempsey up against incumbent Lattimore, who is endorsed by both the Republican and Conservative parties. Michael Quill is on the Democratic line.

As an example, the SCHOTT plant over on Columbus Street just announced they'll be shutting down at the end of next year. That's another 62 people looking for work. Every one of these closings hits our town hard; and the list is a long one - from GE and Dunn & McCarthy to Columbian Rope and Bombardier (Alco).

It's the march of death for jobs and our local economy. We're not alone, of course. The entire northeastern part of the U.S. is plagued with these same problems. But this is our town and we've got to find a way to turn things around. Which of the candidates in the upcoming general election offers us the best chance to face these problems with real solutions? In my opinion, a good place to start is the abortion issue.

Anybody whose thinking is so muddled and distorted as to allow them to support the butchering of the most innocent and defenseless of all human beings, the unborn children, will be least likely to grasp the truth on other issues, as well. Conversely, someone who understands the necessity of protecting and defending all human life will be most likely to think clearly in other areas.

The other thing I look for when considering candidates for city council and especially for mayor is somebody who has a genuine love and concern for this town. Not just in words but in actions. That's the candidate who will likely put Auburn above ego and personal ambition.

Ducayne's column appears Tuesdays in The Citizen, and she can be reached at

sacredheart6005@hotmail.com