Voters Guide: Marion Barry Faces Two Independent Challengers in Ward 8

From News Channel 8. Original article here.

Marion Barry accusing someone of "rhetoric" is like Marion Barry accusing someone of a drug problem. In all seriousness it would have been best for EVERYONE if all the challengers had united behind the BEST candidate (Charles Wilson) and toppled the Barry machine. Barry's time at the party has long been over extended - it is time for him to go home.

WASHINGTON - He beat five Democratic challengers in the primary, but now Marion Barry is up for re-election to the D.C. Council in Ward 8, facing two Independent challengers. Democrat incumbent Marion Barry says he has unfinished business. "I'm working as hard as I can to improve the quality of life, bring about prosperity," said Barry. Barry takes credit for bringing sixty new small businesses to the ward plus a grocery store and sit down restaurant. If re-elected, he says he'll create new jobs in Ward 8. He also says he'll work to attract more primary care clinics. "Well, we'll put money in the budget. We have money in the budget for at least two primary care facilities," said Barry. Independent Durrell Gaston says he would push for a 24-hour clinic in Ward 8, declare an HIV state of emergency and implement tax breaks to attract more health care providers. "We need to bring more doctors to Ward 8 so we have variety," said Gaston. Gaston says he would also help residents transition off public assistance, like he does now as a mentor. "We gave residents free bank accounts, free credit reports and financial goals," said Gaston. Gaston is a native of Ward 8 and says Barry is out of touch. "I experienced what the average person went through so I know what the average person needs and wants," said Gaston. "I've lived in the ward for the last 15 years. I served 2 terms as an ANC commissioner," said Independent Yovocka YoungYoung says she would tap into the job market across the river, bring new residents and new business to Ward 8 and tackle the ward's 14% unemployment rate. "Until we turn those numbers around, we'll continue to be challenged," said Young. She is calling for more vocational programs in high schools and a day labor site. "As long as it's managed well by the city, we can make sure the employees are legal and the employers are legal as well," said Young. Young says Barry is ineffective. "You know it happens in everyone's life. It's evolution," said Young. Barry says both of his challengers are all rhetoric. "Well you know anyone can talk about it. I have a proven track record," said Barry. Barry points to his victory in the Democratic primary where he won nearly 78% of the vote. He calls that "a landslide" and "a mandate." But his challengers in the election point out less than 6,000 voters voted in the primary, which they say shows a voter apathy toward the leadership of Ward 8. They say now more than ever the ward needs change, but Barry says the ward needs his leadership.