In 2008, heartened by Barack Obama's hopeful vision for our nation, his authenticity and the grassroots nature of his campaign, my wife Shonnie and I worked diligently for him in Asheville Precinct 3 during the North Carolina primary. I was then hired as an Obama field organizer for the presidential campaign, and the challenging and fulfilling effort continued. Needless to say, we were deeply gratified at the results of both elections.
Having completed my endeavors for Obama, it was only natural that I'd then gravitate toward the candidacy of Cecil Bothwell in his race for Asheville City Council. I have known Cecil for nearly a decade now, and during that time he has modeled that same authenticity and compelling vision for our community that I found in candidate Obama. And his was also a grassroots campaign, empowering volunteers to put their passion into action.
Moreover, during his decades of service as an investigative reporter, green builder and author in Western North Carolina, Cecil has consistently and courageously spoken truth to power in support of:
• the rights of every citizen regardless of sexual orientation, ethnic origin, socio-economic status, political belief, religious/spiritual faith or lifestyle,
• the health of our planet and all its inhabitants, and
• the creation of a community that works for all of us.
I believe Cecil will provide leadership that is principled, effective, accountable, transparent, inclusive and predicated on citizen participation. He will work with us to create a truly sustainable community, including smart growth, protection of our city's natural beauty, green jobs and action to help curb climate change. But perhaps most importantly, Cecil is one of us — someone who lives among us, someone who understands our wants and needs, someone who will readily hear us when we speak.
Let's elect Cecil Bothwell as the people's representative on Asheville City Council.
— Bruce Mulkey, communications director for the Bothwell for Asheville City Council campaign
Careful making that Obama connection… He’s been a real disappointment to a lot of us so far. Just more corporate servitude- no speaking truth to power, no keeping it real. Hopefully Cecil won’t prove to be as weak if he’s elected.