Reader's view: Ford has been an effective county attorney

Duluth News Tribune
May 10, 2010

I read with interest that Mark Rubin has thrown his hat in the ring for county attorney and will run this fall against incumbent Melanie Ford (“County attorney battle on as Rubin vies for his boss’ job,” April 23). While I respect Rubin’s talents as a prosecutor and as a musician, I appreciate Ford’s talents as an administrator even more. Ever since Ford was elected in 2006, she has worked hard to curb crime by focusing on reducing school truancy, promoting racial equality, undertaking juvenile justice reform and making what happens in the county attorney’s office more transparent to her constituents. Ford is a hardworking, effective leader who gets the job done. Not only that, but her strength, dignity, and perseverance when confronted with personal tragedy — as well as with any obstacles set in her way as a public servant — have been truly inspiring to me and everyone I know. I have a lot of admiration and respect for her; not only is she smart and principled, she is tough and fearless. Ford has been an effective and accessible county attorney who hit the ground running when first elected and has done so much in so little time. County voters can join me in returning Melanie Ford to the county attorney’s office this fall so she can continue to do the truly excellent job she has been doing.

Claire Kirch Duluth

First Time Endorsement

Duluth News Tribune
May 10, 2010

I seldom, if ever, have written a letter supporting a particular candidate for office. I therefore see the re-election of Melanie Ford as St. Louis County Attorney as extremely critical to our city and county.
Ford has not only been excellent from a legal point of view but has made extra efforts to learn how to serve young people, people of color and women in our community better than anyone in similar positions.
She is a hard worker, a good presenter and a good listener. I trust that considering all of these factors, all eligible voters, especially people of color and women, will go to the polls and overwhelmingly re-elect Melanie Ford as St. Louis County Attorney.

ROBERT E. POWLESS