I Have Wondered

I have often wondered why some local politicians are, at certain times, quite willing to share their thoughts with The Hamiltonian, while at other times appear reluctant to do so. One can reasonably conclude that such decisions are strategic, tactical, informed by the issues of the day, or perhaps some combination of all three.

Then there is another phenomenon altogether: not responding at all, even to indicate whether one intends to participate. Given that The Hamiltonian is entirely volunteer-driven and has never collected a single penny for its services to the community, the failure to reply is, at minimum, poor form.

It has also occurred to me that some may view The Hamiltonian as inconsequential when compared to our colleagues at The Hamilton Spectator. I have never operated under the illusion that our reach is equal to that of The Spec. They are an established institution with a long and respected history in this city.

At the same time, it has become increasingly indisputable, by a variety of measures and indicators, that The Hamiltonian is consequential. Since 2009, it has carved out a unique place in Hamilton's civic life and continues to earn its motto: Hamilton's Tastemaker in Local Politics and Community.

More importantly, The Hamiltonian is not simply a website. It is a conversation. It is a place where Hamiltonians exchange ideas, challenge assumptions, ask difficult questions, and engage with the issues shaping their city. The voices represented here are not abstract metrics or web traffic statistics. They are voters, taxpayers, volunteers, community leaders, and residents who care deeply about Hamilton's future.

Municipal elections are often decided by remarkably small margins. In the last mayoral election, the difference between winning and losing was negligible. In races decided by hundreds—or even dozens—of votes, can any candidate afford to ignore any segment of the electorate? Can anyone afford to dismiss a forum where engaged Hamiltonians gather to read, discuss, and form opinions?

Perhaps the better question is this: In an era where public trust and meaningful engagement matter more than ever, can any aspiring public servant afford not to participate in every genuine opportunity to connect with the people they seek to represent?

I suspect the answer is self-evident.

Cal DiFalco, Publisher

The Hamiltonian