Jay Lawrence refused to show up to the Citizens Clean Elections debate. He ignored the Valley Interfaith Project (VIP) accountability session. He has hidden from all appearances to defend his positions, afraid of booing and hissing; though Lawrence did make an appearance of sorts in last week’s Fountain Hills Times.

I get it. Jay Lawrence can’t stand up for his positions so he hides behind the “R” and hopes that enough people will blindly vote party. Every voter must learn where candidates stand on the important issues of today. For our children, the ABC’s need to come before an R or a D.

Some of where we differ:

Lawrence: “We have added billions in new K-12 dollars.”

Kurland: Citizens, not you, voted in propositions 301 and 123. You dare celebrate your education record when Arizona ranks 49th in per pupil funding? It would take $3,900 per student to get us to average in the U.S. We have the second highest class sizes and the worst counselor ratios. We must do more for our children and fully fund our schools.

Lawrence: Voted to remove oversight of charter schools and remains silent as pockets are lined.

Kurland: “Charter schools are public schools and need to follow the same procurement laws of neighborhood schools. We must protect our tax dollars!”

Lawrence: Voted to eliminate requirements to unmask dirty money.

Kurland: “I believe every citizen has a right to know who is trying to buy their politicians.”

Lawrence: “If you’re tired of how crazy politics has gotten, I ask you to visit my website.”

Kurland: “If you’re tired of how crazy politics has gotten, I ask you to vote for me.”

A Representative is a promise, not a suggestion; a job description, not a job title. I’d be honored to represent you and your family.