9th Congressional Meet the Candidate: Michael Manley

The 9th Congressional District is comprised of 46 municipalities that stretch from the South Shore to Cape Cod and over to New Bedford and part of Fall River.

 Incumbent U.S. Representative William Keating, D-Bourne, is seeking re-election to a sixth term in the 9th District seat. He is being challenged by Michael Manley, of Brewster, and Helen Brady, of Plymouth.

We asked the candidates a set of questions. Here are Manley's answers:

Why are you running? What most motivates you?

I am running for Congress because I believe strongly in God, country, family and friends. We should have an ‘attitude of gratitude’ for America. My experience and common sense makes it possible for me to see the problems of District 9 in a different way. I will be working for the common good.

Take some time and list five things you love about America.

Democrats and Republicans have a new motto. “We the Party,” and not “We the People.” Do you agree? Hate is not a good look for America.

My party “Team America” wants to emphasize the following: the past is your lesson, the present is your gift, the future is your motivation!

What is the most pressing issue in your district and how would you address it?

Every day a child is away from school, they fall behind every hour.

Education Plan: Kids first, kids second, kids always! Title One funding for all schools to improve reading in first, second and third grades. No student moves to fourth grade unless they can read. School choice should be made available for Black and Hispanic students. Kindergarten should start at four-years-old.

Small business owners are the backbone of the middle class. We need to help them with loans and healthcare. Residents should shop local and support restaurants. If you don’t, they may not be able to survive. Jobs, jobs, jobs.

How do you differ from the other candidates? What sets you apart?

I am the only pro-life canddiate in the race for District 9. Did you know there is no Democrat in Congress that is pro-life? I will represent every person and town in the district. As a coach, your team is only as strong as your weakest player. As a congressman, your district is only as strong as your constituents who need the most help and you help them.

What other information would you like voters to know about you or policy positions?

I was born to be real, not perfect. As your representative I will fight for your rights! I don’t make promises that I can’t keep. I hope to persuade you to vote for me. I speak plainly and have common sense.

Many of you have met me in all 41 towns in the district. To refresh your memory, when you signed my petition, I gave you a pen. When I handed you my infor on a business card, I gave you my 2020 handshake. I used 12 bottles of hand sanitizer. Your laughter brightened my day.