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Perspective
Who Will Get My Vote?
By Michael Kelsey
The silly season is upon us! If you’re like me then you can’t wait until the elections are over! Not that I want to get back to life as usual because I refuse to let the elections cause any change to life. I just want to read, talk and view something other than a political commercial, to be honest.
Nonetheless, we must all endure until Nov. 4.Until then, we’ll continue receiving phone calls asking about candidates, so here’s my advice regarding whom to vote for this November.
1. Who does the candidate listen to? All candidates have influencers who will translate into aides, appointments and advisors once they’re elected. No matter the level, this will happen. There’s simply too much in our complex government and society for anyone to be an expert on it all. Take the Nebraska Legislature for example. In a 10-day span, it’s quite common to have over 700 bills introduced for consideration. Is it really possible for one person to read all of those bills and be an expert on every facet of how each bill will affect both the target and potential non-targets? Regarding the presidential election, we’ve all been disappointed at the lack of agriculture issue discussion from both of the candidates. Maybe it’s ignorance, maybe it’s priority. The truth is, it’s probably both! So, consider who’s currently advising the candidate and who will be advising the successful candidate on issues important to your business. Where applicable, who will the candidate appoint to key government departments and responsibilities? It’s acceptable to ask a candidate whom they listen to and from whom they seek advice.
2. The perfect candidate? How can an imperfect person (me) reasonably expect to find a perfect candidate? Have you ever made a decision then realized it was the wrong decision? Did you hold to the mistake, convinced you were right or learn from it and move on? I believe the same applies to candidates. Personally, I want a candidate who will admit they made a wrong decision, correct it and move on. Now, if they follow the crowd because they need votes, well, that’s what I call a candidate who has no grit, courage or integrity. When a candidate changes position, before labeling them, look into the real reasons why. You might find a correction based on credible reasons, or you might find a person with no depth and a hasty mouth who simply tries to appease voters.
3. And finally, VOTE! If you spurn your opportunity to participate in the election then you’ve not only given up your right to speak, but you’ve disrespected the sacrifice of many great men and women. Both of my grandfathers served in World War II, one in the armed forces, the other as an agricultural supplier to the armed forces. My father served our country during the ‘60s and ‘70s. Just like you, I have family and friends who have served in many ways. You don’t have to agree or disagree with the conflict in which they served to honor their service. I for one am not about to let their dedication and sacrifice be ignored, trivialized or dishonored by not voting. Y Michael Kelsey is NC’s executive vice president. |