With
the elections closing in, candidates find themselves rushing from
podium to podium frantically getting their message out to as many
likely voters as possible. EPCC has been a busy target for these politicians,
like any other venue in the city.
On Oct. 24, both State Senator Eliot Shapleigh (D-El Paso) and Republican
opponent, Donald “Dee” Margo, reunited at a debate forum
hosted at EPCC’s Administrative Service Center.
The
candidates’ opening remarks really gave insight to what issues
were on their minds. “This is an El Paso race,” said Margo.
“There is a difference that can be made in many areas in El
Paso and that is the goal.”
Shapleigh opened the forum by remembering his past services with the
multiple organizations he’s participated in, which eventually
led him the conclusion that “public service is about the people.”
Republican
Dee Margo(R) is challenging Democrat Eliot Shapleigh for his Texas
State Senator seat.
Staff photo
“I
want to make a difference for my community and my people,” said
Shapleigh. “The proof is what you’ve done for the people.”
After opening remarks, the issues addressed were: state income tax,
Texas Tech Medical School funding, tuition costs for EPCC and UTEP,
immigration issues, health coverage and the ASARCO plant.
“I’m not in favor of a state income tax,” said Margo.
“A state income tax is a job stopper.” Margo said companies
that might otherwise come to El Paso would go elsewhere if Texas were
to adopt an income tax.
Shapleigh responded with the idea that a state income tax should really
be considered to bring in more revenue and funding for multiple areas,
in order to assist education. Shapleigh said the state income tax
would not only reduce property tax, but would help students. “Get
tax back and cut tuition,” he said.
Near the end of the forum, each candidate was offered a chance to
give a closing statement.
“I’m not a politician and I’ve never run for office,”
said Margo. “I’m running because I’m concerned.
We should be fighting for results, not just fighting. That’s
why I want to be your senator.”
Shapleigh talked about his vision to move forward. “I ran for
this office because you can make a difference by being in this office,”
said Shapleigh. “We now have the vision for a four-year medical
school.”
As many as 40,000 people could work in a medical complex that included
the new medical school, Thomason General Hospital, and would serve
the Americas, he explained during the debate.
