Becoming Involved

In 1992, I was only 7 years old and there was a Presidential election. I remember wanting to know who would win and I left a sheet of paper and a marker outside of my bedroom door so that my parents could write the newly elected President's name so I could find out as soon as I woke up the next morning. That's the first time I remember ever being interested in politics. In high school, I got the opportunity to meet (at the time, future) Congressman Robin Hayes. I had no understanding of the significance of meeting a political candidate. I didn't really care about politics until I was 19 and was able to vote in my first Presidential election. Then, I started to realize that the decisions other people were making were going to affect me. And for the first time, what I thought mattered. I couldn't stay awake long enough to see the result that night either... but it sparked something in me.

Now, I can't get enough. I watch the news when I wake up, am immersed in the workings of government while I'm at work, and watch the news before I go to sleep. You don't have to love politics like I do.. you don't even have to like it. But, I will challenge you to care enough to act. Decisions are made every single day and they affect your life, personal freedoms and your ability to make a profit. Those decision makers, whether they're County Commissioners or the President of the United States, must hear from you. How will they make the best decision? How will they see the real-life implications of their decisions? They can't. The people whose opinions matter are in our cities and towns - not only the folks paid to be on television.

Again, I urge you to contact your elected officials or other decision makers when anything that they are involved with concerns you and your family. You might be surprised how one voice can make a profound difference.

Former Congressman Robin Hayes & I (1999)