Dear Editor,
Of course our St. Maarten politicians are not ignorant. But I couldn't help thinking so when I read of the debate held Sunday evening. I didn't see the debate, so what I'm writing about is based on what I read in The Daily Herald.
I was shocked, to say the least, when I read that three grassroots St. Maarteners - namely Gracita Arrindell, Roy Marlin and George Pantophlet - could not define who or what is a St. Maartener. How can we trust these people that don't know where they come from? How can you get to point B when you don't know where is point A.
Then I realised what was happening. The grassroots voters are a minority on the voters list. Traditionally, those voters are divided more a less half and half between the two big parties. Now it's going to be three. As a result, the votes from the naturalised citizens will make the difference. By defining who is a St. Maartener, they (the candidates) are afraid of insulting and offending the naturalised citizens.
Another point is that there was no mention of Leo Richardson's answer and who asked the question.
Since it needs another study and research to define a St. Maartener, I would like to ask these candidates to define, who is a foreigner and who is a naturalised citizen.
Maybe that will be easier and within reach of their mental capabilities.

Max E. Choisy