As we welcome the new year, we must acknowledge whether anything other than the numbers has changed. Our local, state, and national challenges (education, public safety, public health, and housing) will remain. The need for transparency and accountability from our elected leaders will persist.
We recognize this reality, but the new year can also be the time for fresh and critical analysis of how we approach our public duty as citizens. To that end, we must especially draw our collective focus on elections taking place this year in Virginia, including our highest offices, Governor, Lt. Governor, and Attorney General.
The framers of our Constitution of Virginia chose not to have these elections occur during the larger turnout years of presidential elections. It was a studied methodology to focus on the key issues in voters’ minds that affect Virginia. New Jersey is the only other state holding statewide elections this year.
As we approach these elections, we must demand solutions to meet the most pressing issues and concerns of the people. As I have long said, the issues of greatest importance are perennial issues — as such, their continuing concerns necessitate new approaches.
The people must, therefore, have answers. How have we Virginians responded to the inflationary effects of our economy? What are the consequences of Trump’s renewed interest in better securing our borders? Who has the best policy to reduce crime and provide public safety? How can we better provide affordable housing and defray the costs of living? Will there be more accountability in improving healthcare, transportation, and education?
As the candidates campaign for votes, I propose we ask simple questions:
- What have you personally done?
- What have you tried to do?
- What distinguishes your candidacy from others?
These questions, and more, are what I have long heard from the people during my career in public service. The people — all of the people — are entitled to know answers thereto, and if not now, when?
Stay tuned.
