It’s interesting to read the article at Santa Clara The Mission City blog and here there perspective on Karen Hardy.  I’ve never met the women but I’m fascinated that someone would take on the challenge of running for a seat without actually being on the formal ballot.  She has requested to be on it as a ‘write in’ candidate.  So what that means she and her followers are asking voters to write her name on the ballot against the unopposed Kevin Moore.  I’m not sure how many people will do this – it is certainly a gutsy campaign and an interesting one.  I’m not even sure why I understand someone would do this, but they have.  I guess it’s a formal protest against the incumbent Mr Moore (seat 4).  So I guess if you don’t like him or you feel he doesn’t represent you – here is your chance to do something different – you write Karen Hardy in the space provided.  Perhaps this is how the dog from Sunol got voted in – but it does require some paperwork and nominations.  Who in their right mind nominated a dog?  and did the dog sign the required nominating forms - or rather did he leave his paw print?

I think Karen at least has a chance of leaving her mark!  All good politicians, such as Mr Moore need to have a little wind put into their campaigns and Karen is doing that.

Though I highly suspect Ms Hardy is not a popular vote between the powers that be that seem to hold the balance of power in Santa Clara – I say good luck to her for taking on this somewhat odd way of running for council.  She clearly has a more idealistic view of the world than most politicians and in reading what is out there on the web she is not one to be scared of a challenge.  It’s a shame she didn’t run out right on the ballot but I’m sure she has her reasons for doing what she is doing.

©Letters From Silicon Valley 2008