As much as a lot of what went on at the HPL last week irked me, I think that some important things resulted too. People are still talking about the event, the place was packed, and there is some interest in local electoral politics.
If I post about national politics, it’s a rare thing. My own political philosophy is one that includes doubt and skepticism regarding expensive campaigns and the other bullshit inherent in that game (hello, there is a reason we haven’t had a female, openly gay, or person-of-color as president yet, and that reason has nothing to do with qualification). But I think that local politics are important. If we can’t fix our own neighborhoods, we’re not going to have a chance at fixing bigger issues.
So, it’s hopeful that despite what the haters on Hartford think, residents <i>do</i> give a shit about what happens here. Maybe we don’t all agree on what is most important, or on what measures should be taken, but people do care.
Even obnoxious Perez supporters. They could have been out doing something else, but they gave up a few hours to participate in what can be tedious (but damn, get some manners between now and next time!).
Another challenge that was brought up briefly during the talk was the new voting machines. There was one off to the side which people were invited to check out afterwards. I didn’t notice if anyone did.