Putting one’s name on any ballot should not be made in haste.
When I first ran in 2010, the idea planted by my brother (and one of the people I was closest to) became a main topic in my conversations with God, looking for His direction. I also shared this idea and spoke to my family, close friends, and a trusted network.
The first campaign was exhilarating. Making it through the primary became my catalyst for leading the ticket and winning the general election. It is very difficult to explain just how humbling it is to receive the people’s vote. With their vote comes an incredible level of responsibility.
Is an elected official going to vote with all the people all the time? In a movie called “Political Eutopia,” maybe, but in real life, no way will that ever happen.
With all the campaigning behind, the learning and the real work begins. Rookie mistakes are definitely made, and I made my share of them. Hopefully, it does not take one too long to realize what “campaign promises” just might be outside of their ability to keep.
Sometimes, it looks like it should be simple to get the majority on board, but it is not always the reality.
Generally speaking, I absolutely loved every one of the ninety-nine others the people sent to Charleston each election cycle. We were a family. We spent more time together in 60-plus days than many do with their co-workers. Co-workers can never adequately sum up the relationship. I would still do anything for any of them within my abilities and have on occasion when a few have gotten stranded close to me.
I was ALWAYS proud to represent Wheeling, Ohio County, and our people. I respected my colleagues for their representation of their communities as well. Even when we were on the opposite sides of issues and votes, I always figured the people, their people, would take care of it, if they were not in touch with them. They were the voices that mattered, and they were the ones entrusted to vote to make sure their voices were heard. One of my best friends in the legislature and life is pretty much my polar opposite on so many votes. You know who you are.
When the Republicans gained the majority in both the West Virginia Senate and House, several safety measures were enacted on the Capitol Campus. One of these are the metal detectors which are now at all public entrances. Frankly, I appreciate this move. It is not overly burdensome, even now as a member of the public, to wait in line to get into the East or West Wing and run belongings through the scanner. That was about the extent of thought I gave to personal security.
I, along with several colleagues locally, hosted several Town Halls to meet with our constituents. It did not matter if we were Rs or Ds. It was often a mix of both. We all served the people of the Northern Panhandle and “The Big Wheel,” and we co-hosted well. We showed up for events as guests to speak to interested parties several times.
Never once did I ever think about somebody trying to harm me for a vote.
I have dealt with haters and those who assume they know my motives for doing whatever they think I am doing, but I never questioned my safety. I have been present when the State Police are setting up for events where the Governor will be present. As an elected official, no one thinks someone will try to kill us because they disagree with us so vehemently, but I imagine a lot will be thinking more about this after the assassination ateempt for former President Donald J. Trump..
I imagine some things will change; we now will lose some freedom.
It is a sad day.
