It seems that these days, political seasons are about as frequent as monthly bills. Just when you think you have a window of peaceful bliss and sound mind, radio and TV ads, the roadways, and your mailbox begin to explode with declarations, messages, and sound bites. It’s no wonder that so many people are turned off and driven away from ever participating in elections that decide the courses of our neighborhoods, counties, states, and our country.
While I don’t enjoy imposing on your time, I do feel it is extremely necessary to stay the course and stomach the negatives of campaign season. Whether you have a (D) or an (R) behind your name, there is a lot more that unites us, than divides us.
On November 2nd you will be asked to make your way to the polls once again. There you will get to decide the next Governor of our great state and the next representative from Georgia’s 4th District, as well as the occupant of a host of other local and state offices.
Over the next couple of months, I’d like you to put aside party affiliation, and concentrate on what’s most important to you and your family. Then look at the candidates involved and study their stances on those issues. As I’ve said before, we share many more similarities than differences. I’m willing to bet that once you look at Congressman Hank Johnson’s voting record and his views on the most important issue facing our district and our nation and then compare them with mine, you’ll see that party means nothing. I’m a mom, a business owner, and a proud resident of Georgia’s 4th. I know what residents here want for themselves and their families.
Over the past year I have listened to many in our district, attended community and neighborhood meetings, and I know our district is ready for strong representation. I’ve heard the need for a representative to fight for what is right and to be present and accessible at all times, not just during campaign season. I know what it takes to run a tight budget and to live within my means. I know the agony that parents go through as they dwell on how best to give their kids the best opportunities possible.
You’re going to be hearing a lot of talking heads over the next several months spitting out quick sound bites and meaningless jabber. What I’d like to do is breakdown the most important votes and debates that our country’s leaders (including Congressman Johnson) have voted on over the last few years. Why are they important? What do they mean for you and your family? What’s really buried in the thousands of pages of laws that have been passed? Our elected officials can’t look you in the face and answer those questions. That is exactly what I’m going to be doing over the coming weeks.
It is unrealistic to strive for one hundred percent agreement on all things all the time. I strive for the day when our political discourse is ruled by logic, common sense, and facts…not political side shows and amateurish magical facades. You and your family deserve no less. Nor does our district and state.
It’s time for real accountability in DC. I hope you will give me the honor of serving you and the 4th.
Have a safe and prosperous Labor Day Weekend!
