Dear George,

Competition within the party is generally a healthy thing and tends to increase the inclusiveness of the party. I would encourage any qualified Democrats to throw their hat in the ring. As an officer of the Party, I am available to assist any potential candidates in understanding the process and in connecting with Democrats around town.

I do not want to presuppose the results of the Democratic Party nomination process. However, I presume that Blake Caravati and David Toscano will run for the Democratic nomination, will be nominated by the party, will run for reelection and will be reelected. I've been wrong before, but this seems the most likely scenario.

Should that not be the case, one thing we know for sure is that I will not be a candidate for City Council in 2002.

I am interested in sharpening our party organization, refining our message, and broadening our constituency. I am not interested in serving as an elected official at this time. I do not have the time or energy for that demanding assignment, and honor those who give so much for the benefit of the rest of us.

Rus Perry (electronic mail, August 28, 2001).