Dear Editor:
Friday was a special day. I went to early voting and cast my ballot for William Clifford.
About 18 months ago, I started working with Bill on his campaign. I’ve never done anything political, other than vote, up to that point. He was the only person talking about running at that time and I was skeptical. I had known Bill for nine years, but couldn’t say we ever had anything more than professional interactions. He was a Sergeant on the day shift and I was a Reserve Deputy who worked night shift. I usually just saw Bill during the firearms training or other training events he organized.
I always respected Bill and thought him to be fair, honest and intelligent. As we developed a friendship during his campaign, I realized he has that special “it” factor that makes a great leader. He listens to people’s opinion, respects everyone, and makes great decisions that he stands behind.
I’ve spoken to nearly everyone who works in the Patrol and Reserve Divisions of the Sheriff’s Office about Bill over the last 18 months. They almost unanimously support Bill. He’s the kind of guy people can rally around and know that he won’t let them down.
I am a skeptic, so I fully expected Bill would let up on his intensity somewhere during this campaign. He has worked at a pace most can’t match. He would work 12 hours, change clothes and do two or three events. If he got a day off, he was volunteering for charities and then doing political events. Bill never slowed down.
He has spoken to hundreds of people to hear their concerns. He has spoken to leaders in government, mental health, addiction treatment and the court system. Bill formed a platform of Five Pillars early on and has campaigned on details of what he will do. He has a great background, trust of his people, and a vision for the future.
Even as other campaigns, or hopefully people who wrongly think they are helping other campaigns, spread false rumors about changes Bill would make if elected, or false stories of promises he has made for support, Bill’s supporters knew the truth and Bill pressed on with his message.
I’m proud to be a friend of Bill and it was an honor to give him my vote.
John Mills
Westfield