Agenda Endorses Baker For Congress, Francis For Circuit Court

AGENDA ENDORSES BAKER FOR CONGRESS, FRANCIS FOR CIRCUIT COURT

AGENDA is not in the habit of making endorsements for political offices. Ifs not that we're against it on principle. The truth is that we rarely feel that we know enough about a candidate to warrant giving our whole-hearted support. In the upcoming August 2 primary, we are pleased to know two candidates well enough to suggest that you vote for them.

First, AGENDA endorses Dean Baker' s bid to capture the Democratic nomination for U.S. Congress. Baker's strong showing against five-term incumbent Carl Pursell in 1986 was no accident. Baker- his organization and his message - weakened Carl Pursell's grip on the 2nd district. Now there is a good chance that Pursell can be unseated. The same issues that made him vulnerable in 1986 may precipitate his defeat in 1988.

Baker, a johnny-come-lately anti-establishment candidate in 1986, won the Democratic primary from "shoo-in" candidate Donald Grimes because Baker's message reflected common sense and progressive values. It was the triumph of a political activist over a politician, a grassroots leader over a Democratic Party insider.

Baker again faces tough odds in the 1988 primary. His campaign is financially dwarfed by that of his opponent, State Senator Lana Pollack. However, it has been demonstrated before that big money does not necessarily translate into widespread popular support.

Baker is a tireless activist, willing to swim against the current for causes he believes in. A champion of grassroots democracy and empowerment, Baker deserves your support.

Second, AGENDA endorses Nancy Francis for Judge of Washtenaw County Circuit Court. Francis has practiced law in Michigan for over 13 years. She has served as staff attorney and director of Model Cities Legal Services, Inc., an agency serving low and moderate income people.

Francis and her family have a long history of social activism. She is the daughter of Albert H. Wheeler, Ann Arbor's first and only Black mayor, and Emma M. Wheeler, a long-time community activist.

Francis, a member of the National Lawyers Guild, the Women Lawyers Association and the American Civil Liberties Union, has over the years demonstrated an unwavering commitment to progressive social change. By representing low income people and political activists (e.g. the 118 individuals who in March, 1986, were arrested for trespassing at the offices of Congressperson Carl Pursell in protest of his votes for contra aid), Francis uses her legal skills to promote justice, not merely to earn a living.

If elected, Francis would become the first woman and the first Black Circuit Court Judge. Francis is competent, committed, and courageous. Vote for Baker and Francis on August 2.