To the Editor:
As allegations of political crimes and corruption swirl around at the national level, it is sometimes hard to focus on the fact that deep down, all politics is local. It is even easier to forget this truism here in the Berkshires where we are, for the most part, a pretty progressive bunch. But it would be wise for us here to remember that absolute power corrupts absolutely, whether nationally or locally. Our District Attorney’s office suffers from a dynasty of entitlement, bad direction and even corruption. This September, voters in the Shire are facing a real choice as to whether to continue with the thuggish and stagnant policies of the Capeless District Attorneyship, or to choose real change and honest leadership on the county level with candidate Andrea Harrington.
With characteristic underhandedness former D.A. Capeless slipped his hand-picked successor into the office of the District Attorney. While Paul Caccaviello may be a fine man. He may not be. Capeless played games with our system to make his “boy” the incumbent with the hopes of drawing incumbent advantage to him in the upcoming election and further reinforce his dynastic ambitions. In a disservice to all of us voters, Capeless is trying to ram his legacy down our throats.
The wives of both Capeless and Caccaviello threaten restaurant owners and other business owners here if we dare disagree with their agendas. Were these women doing this at the behest of their husbands? Were they feeling “untouchable” because of their political connections and access to power? Whatever the case we are all at risk from these attacks and it is time to throw these bums out.
Andrea Harrington is honest, hard-working and dedicated to making the Berkshires a safer and better place. She is humble. Her priorities, and I would underline the word HER, would be a real game changer here in our County and a huge departure from the “old boys’ network” currently on display in our halls of power. Her focus on the physical safety of women and families will make for a better County. She is compassionate but realistic and tough. Her ingenuity, engagement and intelligence will be a real help with our opiate crisis and she will try new things, based on research as opposed to the used-up and failed programs of our current “leadership.”
I urge you to vote for change this September 4. Please consider voting for Andrea Harrington for District Attorney.
Jon Piasecki
West Stockbridge
