DEAR News of the Area,
OUR local paper is to be commended for publishing letters across a broad opinion in the heating up debate of the looming Federal election.
I am obviously not alone in having concerns regarding the transparency of independent candidates not only as to their funding but also, should they gain a seat in Parliament, where their allegiances lie.
Whilst Caz Heise, who is contesting the seat of Cowper, appears at first blush to tick most of the boxes, historically Teals have overwhelmingly supported Labor/Greens and those considering her at the ballot box need to be aware of where each candidate stands on all matters affecting us.
We need candidates that have a broader focus than single contentious issues such as climate change and know what they are.
Regards,
Dave CHIBEBA,
Toormina.
Yes it is good NOTA covers all sides. I have had this conversation several times when people want to know who is funding an independent candidate. This is a legitimate question but, it must be asked of ALL candidates not just independent candidates. Caz is very open about her policy for accepting donations see her website https://www.caz4cowper.com.au/donations_policy.
Community based independents (like Caz) will vote on a bill along the wishes of the majority of the electorate. They are not voting “with” anybody except the will of their electorate. If this happens to be the same vote as another politician/party that means the most of the electorate wants that. Caz has a broad policy platform, again available on her website. She is no single issue politician.
If you have concerns then you need to act to relieve them.
If you don’t know, find out! You should not imply that her campaign is opaque without seeking the light.
Caz clearly states that her campaign funding is from the Cowper community and from crowd funding organisations.
She clearly states that her allegiance is to the people of Cowper.
Her broad focus is clearly presented.
A community independent candidate is accountable to the people of Cowper by giving voice to, and action on the issues that matter to them as an electorate. Take the time to go to her website http://www.caz4cowper.com.au and you’ll find out for yourself what policies she is supporting. These are based on the feedback of many conversations had from doorknocking, market stalls, campaign hubs, calling parties, Also talking with local businesses, councils, health providers, non government agencies, local indigenous groups and many others. That approach sounds pretty broad to me. The information is publicly out there if you choose to look for it