Senator Richard F. Colburn is pleased to announce the Daily Times in Salisbury has endorsed his candidacy for the 37th District State Senate race. The Editorial Board released the following comments in the October 27th edition of the Daily Times:
Colburn is deeply rooted in Shore culture, life
October 27, 2010
Maryland Senate District 37 has been represented for the past 16 years by Rich Colburn, who also works as town manager for Federalsburg. District 37 includes portions of Caroline, Dorchester, Talbot and Wicomico counties -- a diverse area both geographically and culturally. Colburn, a Talbot County native, has close and long-held ties with the farmers, poultry growers and watermen of his district, as well as the municipal residents and leaders through his work in Federalsburg.
In addition to his 16 years in the state Senate, Colburn served two terms in the House of Delegates. He navigates the Annapolis legislative landscape as familiarly as he does the rural district he represents. One of his strengths is constituent service, both in a broad sense as well as helping individuals resolve problems. Maintaining the quality of life on the Eastern Shore as we know it today is high on his list of priorities.
Colburn is concerned about perceptions that the state of Maryland is not a business-friendly environment. He said he is frustrated with Washington and its tendency to overregulate and micromanage matters that should be handled at a state or regional level. He would like to see the state sales tax rolled back to 5 percent and eliminate the so-called "millionaire" tax.
At the same time, he recognizes the need to work across the political aisle with state Democrats --a long-held majority in both houses of the legislature -- to effectively represent his constituents.
His challenger is Chris Robinson, an attorney who lives in Trappe and practices in Cambridge. Robinson describes himself as a "conservative Democrat." He is focused on quality-of-life issues --urban planning, education and public safety among them. He advocates many of the same positions as his opponent --a healthy Chesapeake Bay, a business environment that nurtures small business success as well as agriculture and fisheries, and keeping taxes low.
Robinson's experience includes a stint as legislative director and chief of staff for former 1st District Rep. Roy Dyson.
Colburn has the experience, perspective and a deep understanding of the region, the issues and people of District 37, as well as a good record of effective service and representation. He is the better choice for voters.
