Electing a slate-backed city council like Our Revolution Medford risks undermining the democratic values it claims to uphold, replacing genuine representation with ideological conformity and insider politics.

Our Revolution has positioned itself as a progressive force for change. Yet beneath the surface of its inclusive rhetoric lies a troubling consolidation of power. By endorsing a slate of candidates who now dominate the city council, Our Revolution has created a bloc that often votes in lockstep, marginalizing independent voices and stifling dissent. The group’s branding as democratic and diverse rings hollow when opponents are labeled as “racist” or “MAGA-leaning”—a tactic that shuts down dialogue rather than fosters it. True progressivism requires engaging with differing perspectives, not vilifying them.

The Medford People’s Platform, shaped by this slate-backed council, has enacted changes that further distance residents from their government. Council meetings were cut from four to two per month, limiting opportunities for public oversight. Key issues have been buried in subcommittees with poor communication and inconvenient scheduling, making it harder for citizens to stay informed or participate. Speaking time for residents has been reduced to just three minutes, and preferential treatment is often given to those who echo Our Revolution’s positions. These moves don’t reflect a city council committed to transparency or equity—they reflect a political machine more interested in control than collaboration. In the coming weeks, independent candidates will highlight these differences, offering Medford voters a chance to choose genuine representation over ideological entrenchment. It’s time to reclaim the council for the people—not the party.

On November 4th – Patrick Clerkin, Nick Giurleo, Melanie Tringali, Paul Donato Jr., Nate Merritt, George Scarpelli and Rick Caraviello need your vote. Medford needs a real inclusive, collaborative city council who are working on Medford issue.