As Election Day approaches on Tuesday, November 3, the subjects before us are wide and varied. Yet a fundamental question remains: Who speaks for the American people? It is becoming clearer that state and local governments are the fulcrum point of that determination. Those who speak of building upon this administration’s accomplishments have an obligation to explain what has been accomplished and how the people have benefited. The people are entitled to ask who is representing them and what those representatives have accomplished on their behalf. If everything is all right, then how so? If not, then why have your voices been silent?
As I recently emphasized at the Richmond Crusade for Voters’ anniversary banquet, leaders must listen to the people. Throughout my service, my commitment has been to the people and to passing legislation that improved the lives of Virginians. Public service requires us to understand the challenges people face and take action to address them. The right to vote was neither freely nor easily secured. Generations struggled and sacrificed to overcome exclusion from the ballot. We have progressed beyond that historical impediment, but the responsibility to protect and exercise the right to vote remains. We honor their sacrifice by exercising that right with conviction and a deep sense of responsibility to future generations.
Changing leadership is one thing, but constants still remain. Shepherds may change many times, but sheep remain sheep.
The people, however, must exercise their independent judgment. The responsibility of those elected to serve them endures beyond any election or administration.
The people must weigh the records and promises of those seeking office and determine who merits their trust. Those entrusted with leadership must understand that the public’s confidence carries an obligation to act.
Our work is not done. We must continue to demand what is right and criticize what is wrong. The question now is who will pick up the mantle of leadership while fearlessly facing the future.
Stay tuned.
