Dear Fellow Democrats:

I know some people are concerned that a local business group has endorsed me and two Republicans, and have widely advertised this fact through a series of high-profile tv ads. Although I appreciate their recognition for my work on Council, I wish to make it clear that I am running with Maurice Cox and Kevin Lynch on a Joint Democratic ticket.

When Davide Dukcevich of the Daily Progress asked for my reaction to the television ad at our Democratic candidates' press conference about water issues on Monday, I told him I was surprised to see it. I also described my dismay, when, as we watched the ad for the first time, my son, Russell, and I thought that it was an ad for the Republican candidates. Only at the end does it say whom the ad endorses. I recall saying to Davide that "Our hearts sank." We were dismayed because "...it was a lovely advertisement" that competes with the Democrats.

Kevin, Maurice and I have made several joint TV ads, and these will be airing within the next few days. Each ad features one candidate, with a "Vote for Richards, Cox and Lynch" pitch at the end.

Let's all work together for a straight Democratic win on May 2.

With warmest regards,

Meredith Richards (electronic mail, April 19, 2000)