Dan Corcoran is running for Commissioner for Ridley Township, Ward 2. He recently shared with us his thoughts on running for office, including what inspired him to run, what he hopes to change if elected, and what makes him unique among the slate of candidates.
Is there a particular issue that motivates you to serve on as commissioner?
I can’t really say that there is one particular issue that motivates me to serve as commissioner. I have to admit that I am very disturbed by the corruption in the police department, but my motivation really stems from the passion I have for being a voice for those who don’t have one. I believe that I have been presented with a unique opportunity to get off of the sidelines and to be able to take action when it comes to helping to make a difference in the lives of those in my community and bringing the change that Ridley Township so desperately needs from its leadership.
What specific experiences or skills have prepared you to serve in this position?
This is my first campaign. I have not run for public office before, and I feel that that gives me a unique advantage that many more experienced politicians do not possess. I am running because I feel that I can bring real change. I am not influenced by nor do I feel that I have to answer to others and have them approve of my beliefs and ideas before I present them. I am my own person, and I will not be told what to say, what to believe, or be beholden to anyone. I am running to serve the community, not to be a yes man.
If elected, what will your priorities be?
If elected, my priorities will be to bring something fresh and new to Ridley. That includes honesty, transparency, integrity, and above all else, empathy. The priorities of the community will be my priorities. Listening to and understanding their needs will help guide me, as I feel that is what leadership and public service entails.
What inspired you to run?
Being given this once in a lifetime opportunity to run for public office and serve my community is an inspiration in and of itself. The fact that someone (Ruth Ann Davidson) saw something in me that lead them to believe in me and trust me with the responsibility of being one of the leaders of this community has truly inspired me.
What do you hope to change if elected?
I hope to change the way people feel about their elected officials. I myself have thought for the past several election cycles that I was forced to choose between the lesser of 2 evils. I want the community to know that I am running for them. It is always about we, not me. I also want to change the perspective that many feel that they can only vote along party lines. I am running to serve the needs of the community, not my party.