“Daily Kos Attack Response”

In the world of politics, every word we say can carry an impact far beyond what we might initially anticipate. Recently, I found myself at the center of an online controversy due to a comment I made in response to a tweet. The incident was portrayed as racially insensitive, but it’s time to correct the record.

I want to make it explicitly clear: I had no intention of using any slurs or engaging in derogatory language. My commitment to constructive discourse and my Catholic faith guide my principles, and they do not align with racism or any form of discrimination. The media slandered me and spun a false narrative.

Like all of us, I’ve had my share of shortcomings and moments of thoughtlessness throughout my life. I acknowledge that I haven’t always operated from a place of integrity. However, my words in this particular instance were not meant to insult or demean anyone. I deeply regret any misunderstanding that may have arisen from the comment.

I want to address the accusations of promoting conspiracy theories. This is not the case. I am a dedicated reader who critically analyzes the information I encounter. In fact, I authored a book titled “Inside Totalitarianism: Anatomy and Physiology from a Cuban Perspective.” This book includes a translation of my cousin’s insightful work on Cuban democracy and the fall of the Cuban Republic. It explores the historical parallels that concern me and the challenges I see facing our society today.

One of my concerns lies in the transparency and accountability of our elections. I believe that, as a voter, I have the right to express my concerns when I see issues that warrant attention. The legitimacy and fairness of our elections are foundational to our republican system.

I want to emphasize my commitment to being a mediator and a communicator who operates from a place of respect and understanding. While the incident on Daily Kos may have cast a shadow, my dedication to inclusivity and constructive discourse remains unwavering.

Moreover, it’s important to understand that my dedication goes beyond online presence. I didn’t just sit behind a computer screen; I walked the entire district, engaging with people, listening to their concerns, and sharing my vision for a better future. This dedication to serving my community is often overlooked in the heat of online controversies.

Furthermore, as I continue to walk my district, I find more people who say they voted for me or would rather have me represent them than Meg Froelich. This grassroots support reaffirms the importance of connecting with people on a personal level and understanding their needs.

In the realm of politics, it’s crucial to acknowledge that faith can play a complex role in shaping individual perspectives. While some Catholics may hold pro-choice views, it’s equally true that a significant majority of Catholics are pro-life. The Catholic Church’s teachings emphasize the intrinsic value of every human life from conception to natural death, which aligns with the pro-life position. These beliefs have played a significant role in shaping the convictions of many Catholics.

I want to stress that I am not a racist, and my intentions have always been to promote inclusive and constructive discourse. The incident that led to media misrepresentation was an attempt to challenge the media and initiate a debate about the endorsement that Meg Froelich received from the teachers union, which has a role in the literacy crisis.

Notably, I secured a similar number of votes as the Republican candidate who ran against Jeff Bridges in 2019, which is a testament to the support I garnered within my district. It’s worth noting that Meg Froelich, who was appointed to office in 2020, didn’t win the caucus vote, underlining the significance of active community support. Additionally, it’s essential to consider the context of voter turnout: while Jeff Bridges won with a high voter turnout, Meg Froelich’s victory occurred amid low voter turnout, highlighting the importance of active community engagement.

In conclusion, I’m grateful for the opportunity to clarify my perspective and set the record straight. As we navigate the intricacies of our political discourse, let’s focus on the fundamental principles of representation, active engagement, and service to the community. Together, we can continue to strive for a better future for all.

Marla Fernandez, Paralegal and Certified Mediation