County Surrogate Candidate Challenges Incumbent to 2 Debates

First of a series of profiles on the men and women on the ballot for the Nov. 5 general election. Candidates interested in participating are encouraged to contact Editor NR Davis at natalie.davis@patch.comarding his challenge against incumbent.

In this opening installment, Bob Morris, 53, a Sparta resident and former NASDAQ trader, released a statement throwing down a challenge to Republican Party nominee Gary Chiusano's re-election bid for Sussex County surrogate. Morris' statement follows:

I am "Bob" Morris and I am an Independent candidate running for Sussex County surrogate. I have been a resident of Sussex County since 1968, a successful financial executive and entrepreneur.

I feel compelled to oppose the Republican candidate, who is a career politician, he rarely completes terms for government positions held and based on his
political ads, doesn't appear to understand the responsibilities of the job.  

I am dedicated to forego any salary for the position of surrogate to the extent the law will allow and use those funds to upgrade an old and slow computer system, making technology quick and efficient.

An aggressive target of a 20 percent reduction in the amount of people in the county that pass without a will, or a health directive and a power of attorney is one of my top priorities.

I am is not a politician but one who has succeeded in the business world. I will bring that success to the county in a job that I am eminently qualified for. 

I will create with my own money an online library and an in-house library complete with software and computers for Sussex County residents to construct a cost-free will. I will not provide any legal advice, but I will provide a user-friendly link to the Bar Association. Your legal library will be set up in such a streamlined fashion, that users will be able to navigate and produce their own documents with confidence. 

I am an underdog now. However, I am confident that I will become the watchdog  for the people of Sussex County! I know that I will help the people in this county save money, improve technology, speed service and simplify the process. I have done it in the financial world and I will do it here.

The only information I have seen from my opponent is a desire to move up the ladder financially in the governmental sector with no real understanding of his position.

My opponent accepted an increase in salary as he switched governmental positions before he ever set foot in the office. Taxpayers in Sussex County are accustomed to receiving a raise based on performance, merit or longevity, not for just showing up. Accepting a raise that is above the constitutional standard flies in the face of his claim of being a conservative. 

That's why I MUST run—to give voters a choice between a career politician like Gary Chuisano and a citizen servant like Bob Morris.

I am a an Independent candidate with a Republican background. I truly believe that myself and my opponent should debate the issues. I think debates are crucial. I know my plans are clear and concise and people will quickly see why I am the logical choice.

I challenge my opponent to two debates. We should have one in October and one in November.

I am ready for the challenge, ready to serve and bring a real business approach to the position. These economic times call for real candidates, not career politicians.