Their backgrounds are as different as the ‘D’ and ‘R ‘next to their names. So it is easy to paint the Cape & Islands state senate race between Democrat Julian Cyr and Republican Anthony Schiavi about differences. That is the nature of elections.
But it is refreshing, in this season of caustic presidential politics, to find two thoughtful, respectful candidates vying for the most high profile elected legislative office from Cape Cod.
For the first time since 2011, there is no incumbent running.
The seat represents Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket as well as all of Cape Cod except for Bourne, Falmouth and Sandwich.
Dan Wolf, the current senator, is a Democrat who was elected for the first of three terms in 2011. He has chosen not to run. Prior to Wolf, Democrat Rob O’Leary held the seat from 2001 to 2011. And prior to O’Leary, Henri Rauschenbach, a Republican, served for more than a decade.
Cape Cod Wave interviewed each candidate for more than 90 minutes, asking about their background, their view of the district and the job of senator, and what issues they think are important. Those profiles are linked below.
At the end of each interview, we asked a general question: Tell me something about your opponent.
“Julien is articulate, energetic and very enthusiastic about what he believes in,” said Schiavi. “He’s got a bright future.”
“Tony is a great guy,” said Cyr. “He is clearly someone who cares about this place, and who cares about his country.”
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