Jackie Hanley: Cheney campaign kickoff hints of divisive politics to come

To The Daily Sun,

When Bruce Cheney announced he was a candidate for mayor of Laconia, one thing leapt out: Norm Silber was by his side. For those of us who believe fiercely in our community, that's not an asterisk. That's a red light flashing.

Norm Silber has been at the center of Gunstock Mountain Resort controversy. His role in orchestrating the mass forced resignations of the resort management team and his demand for privatization infuriated individuals throughout Belknap County. Families, workers and small businesses were dismayed by the disruption. The damage was not economic, it was a blow to public confidence.

And when Bruce Cheney makes the decision to kick off his campaign with Silber at his right hand, it's a message that yells loudly. It's not unity or leadership in the best interest of all. It's about teaming up with the same divisive politics that nearly destroyed one of our region's treasured public gems.

Laconia needs a mayor who brings people together, not one who rolls out the welcome mat for the architects of dysfunction. That Cheney feels comfortable standing side by side with Silber says everything we need to know about his campaign and it's not one that prioritizes the people of Laconia.

Jackie Hanley

Laconia