When standing up means stepping down

Republican candidate, Dierdre Scozzafava, suspended her campaign for a U.S. House seat over the weekend in upstate New York. Running against a conservative Republican, she stood out as too moderate due to her support of abortion rights and same-sex marriage.

You would think Dierdre had nothing to bring to the table, but its reported she was strongly supported in the 23rd district, the area she hoped to represent. The Republican National Committee hasn't made a statement, but its likely Dierdre stepped down because of their urging. By Sunday, Dierdre threw her support behind the Democratic candidate, Bill Owens. I can't blame her for jumping to the "dark side." I have a feeling she felt betrayed by her party.

I won't guesstimate the outcome of the race, but I applaud Dierdre for stepping down. Her withdrawal may not appear as a big deal, but I think essentially Dierdre stepped down to stand up for what she believed in. Why should she have to compromise her beliefs to run on the Republican ticket? Dierdre obviously sees the benefits of allowing every person to practice their own beliefs. That's a quality I want in a candidate regardless of their republican or democratic status.

Women, start making your Moves today!