Editors, Vineyard Gazette:

In the debate two weeks ago between Ed Markey and Gabriel Gomez, who are running in a special election on June 25 for the U.S. Senate, a stark contrast emerged between Markey’s long history of “yes” and accomplishment in the U.S. House of Representatives, and a surprisingly negative campaign by Gomez.

This became apparent when Mr. Gomez accused Mr. Markey of writing no new legislation. Mr. Markey jumped on the opportunity to list one piece of important legislation after another that he was involved in. He pointed out that to pass such legislation, a person must work effectively with both sides of the aisle. Mr. Gomez’s astounding response was to repeat his original accusation. Did he think that we would fall for his obvious effort to take down Mr. Markey? It did not work. Mr. Markey continued going down his list of legislative accomplishments. He has been working long and hard on energy and climate change — something that those of us on our vulnerable Island care about a lot.

It appears that Ed Markey is part of the solution and Gabriel Gomez is part of the problem. Mr. Markey demonstrates skills that will make the Senate more functional, while Gomez displays a “no” attitude that would boost the resistance to compromise in the Senate now.

On June 25, we will be voting on what kind of person we want as a senator; the outcome is crucial. Facing us is a very stark contrast between Ed Markey and Gabriel Gomez. It is time for thoughtful Republicans to vote for an outstanding Democrat. It is time for independents and Democrats to make certain that a very special legislator and leader becomes our next senator. Please vote for Ed Markey.

Zee Gamson, Chilmark