Greensboro City Council Primary Election: Nicky Smith for District 4

I have had the opportunity to examine the entire field of candidates for Greensboro City Council. Early voting has begun for the primary election that takes place on October 7.

Unfortunately, the only candidate I can recommend without reservation is Nicky Smith who is running in District 4. His opponents are Adam Marshall and Steve Ignac. Marshall — a Democrat–is the “old guard” choice and has yard signs all over my neighborhood. Ignac is a registered libertarian. It is very important that Smith advance to the general election; so I suggest voting for him if you live in District 4.

There is no primary in district 5. I cannot recommend any of the candidates in the other districts.

With regard to the mayoral race, four candidates are running. Robbie Perkins is a Republican; and Marikay Abuzuaiter is a Democrat. I cannot find enough difference between them to make a recommendation. However, it should be noted that Abuzuaiter, throughout her time on City Council, has taken a stronger position toward crime and supporting police than the other Democrats.

The at-large race has ten candidates running for three positions. For the most part, this field is a vast wasteland. A number of these candidates are Democrats who are incumbents or who have previously served in some type of public office. One candidate– Richard Beard– is well funded and well-connected; and is typical of the version of candidate around whom development interests will tend to coalesce. The only candidate who deserves a look is Carla Franklin, a young black woman with a considerable background.

I do not recommend feeling obligated to vote for all three at-large positions or for any candidate about whom you feel unsure.

Only vote for whomever you support without significant reservations. I know I will be voting for Nicky Smith for District 4.