The following email is a William & Mary student (and registered voter in Williamsburg) named Leksa Pravdic. It is reprinted with her permission. I am particularly struck by Ms. Pravdic's second paragraph, about how "passing meaningful and progressive legislation is 'what it's all about,'" and also how "winning elections is not an end but rather a means to an end." Obviously, Ms. Pravdic sees these qualities in Krystal Ball, as do I. Just as obviously, Ms. Pravdic does not see these qualities in Scott Robinson (let alone in Rob Wittman). All in all, this email is a strong argument for why 1st CD Democrats should (strongly) support Krystal Ball for the nomination, because Krystal inspires people to give of their time, talent and energy. That's how we're going to win this election, by giving people something to be for and by motivating them for progressive ideas, not by nominating someone who is all about politics, positioning and attempting first and foremost to get himself elected.
Ms. Ball,
I'm a student at William and Mary and was at the Young Democrats meeting you visited several weeks ago. At tonight's meeting, Scott Robinson visited us. I had been looking forward to this because I was interested to hear what his views on the issues were, especially considering his website touches only briefly upon three topics: internet coverage, education, and veterans' issues. To my dismay, I was disappointed; Mr. Robinson took it for granted that we were all invested in helping him get elected and did not elaborate on his platform. Instead, he seemed to be most interested in getting our opinions on the best strategy for winning the campaign because "at the end of the day, this [electing democrats] is what it's all about... I'm passionate about winning."
Though I understand the importance of running effective campaigns, I guess I fundamentally disagree with Scott Robinson's statement. To me, passing meaningful and progressive legislation is "what it's all about;" winning elections is not an end but rather a means to an end. This is what I admired and appreciated about your visit to us. You specifically told us your viewpoints on all the major issues (as well as including them on your website), and made it clear that you would not sacrifice your values to party politics and petty bargaining. I think we need more politicians who see things this way, who aren't willing to just say what they think sounds best.
To make a long story short, meeting Mr. Robinson tonight inspired me to get in touch with you and see if there's any way I can get involved and help you win the democratic nomination. I heard through Young Democrats that you are looking for student interns to help you through November. Unfortunately, I will not be in Williamsburg over the summer (I will be in D.C.) and I will be in Argentina next semester. However, if there's any way that I can get involved on a more short term basis in the Williamsburg area, I would love to. Please let me know if you have a need for this type of help.
Thank you very much,
Leksa Pravdic
