The journey from there to here

I intend to use this article as the starting point for a pamhlet with the same or similar title. Feel free to add comments or elaborate (or, yes, even debate) in the comments. I will be doing this in a series, so topics not covered here should be covered in future articles.

In today's society, regardless of political affiliation, the majority of Americans seem to think their government is dysfunctional. While it's true that corruption, incompetence, and impropriety seem to be synonymous with politics, it is also true that we have a greater degree of control than we realize. Because we are a government "of the people, by the people, and for the people", our responsibilities in creating a stronger government do not end at the polls, but rather BEGIN there. I intend, in the course of this discussion, to show how you, the average citizen, can have greater input and control in the areas of government that affect your life.

The majority of laws that affect you are made at the state and local level. In all but the largest communities, city council members are highly accessible by the individual, as they realize that every vote matters and that a simple letter to the editor from a dissatisfied constituent can bring an end to their political career. Of all of the levels of government, council members are the most approachable.

Get to now your council representatives. Speak with them honestly and openly, and develop a rapport before you have an issue to discuss with them. Then when you come to them with a concern, they will give your concern greater consideration. Many of them receive so many calls and letters that they simply cannot respond to every one of them, so a sense of familiarity will increase the chance they will listen.

Speak out at council meetings, but not just about the bad that your council is doing. Speak out about the good as well. If your council authorized the resurfacing of your street, or the razing of a condemned house, let them know you appreciate how they helped your neighborhood. Nobody wants to be on the receiving end of complaints all the time, and if you mx the good with the bad, your council members will respect your opinion more.

Vote in every single election, even the munis. I have known politicians who, when contacted by a constituent, will have their staff check whether or not the individual votes in every election. A nonvoter gets no response, but a voter who turns out 100 of the time will be heard, regardless.

Find a candidate you support and campaign for them. Put up yard signs, make phone calls, canvass neighborhoods. If your candidate wins, I guarantee you will be remembered. As you gain experience, you will find your services being desired by candidates at higher and higher levels of government.

Consider running for office yourself. It doesn't have to be a lofty office; a good tactic for those who don't have a lot of time to campaign is to find offices where they have a hard time finding enough candidates (you will find this in almost EVERY area of the country), and keep trying. You may find yourself "elected" to office unopposed. Once you are in office, you will find higher levels of government even more accessible, as you represent a large number of individuals and, with that representation, can influence a fair number of votes.

Join local service organizations, such as the Lions Club, the Rotary, etc. You will find that many prominent businesspersons are members of these types of organizations, and politicians often speak at meetings of these organizations. As a member, this will give you greater access, especially if you help with the setup for these meetings. And again, because of your greater influence within the community, you will make a difference.

If you are a man, I strongly encourage the investment in a navy blue blazer, a pair of neutral colored slacks, a decent tie and a pair of dress shoes (loafers are adequate). While you may feel uncomfortable in these clothes, this attire will give an appearance that is professional enough to convey a stronger message to politicians you are approaching. If you are a woman, similar rofessional attire will accomplish the same result.

 


Comments
on Jan 10, 2006

You had me until the last paragraph!  I am alergic to navy Blue Blazers!

Great start!

on Jan 10, 2006
Gideon, If I recall you're putting your hat in some local race are you not? Your advice here is sound that which I've voiced for many years in more then just political venues. Let's hope it has reader impact. I became involved with civic leadership, fund raising and congressional campaigns for a number of reasons starting back in the early 80's with the Young Republicans, mostly it was exciting exposure. Subsequently I progressed to Republican party involvement on a variety of levels which I atribute to considerable growth on my part.

The title you've chosen for this article rings with purpose and guidance. Considering the increase of folks with opinions a User's Manual with how, where, when or whom to address for what should catch many eyes. I will await subsequent installments and see what direction it takes

As citizens, it's our duty to be properly informed, pro-active even take leadership if requested. By doing so, I solidified my sense of civic pride and never regret that period. Another equally motivating reason for me was to preserve and protect my business interests, which was fruitful.

I've since backed away from civic or charity participation due to marriage some years ago. Instant fatherhood and husband duties along with golf gets my focus with a smattering of work thrown in thanks to living sixty miles away from the action. If history says anything we'll see how long this lasts. All my community involvement came prior to marriage so my wife's never coped with the resulting frantic demands. I keep telling her golf is much easier as she keeps asking me to put years of experience to work in our community.... we'll see.

on Jan 10, 2006

Gideon, If I recall you're putting your hat in some local race are you not?

You recall correctly!  Vote for Giao!  NO, wrong election!  Vote for Gid!

on Jan 10, 2006
Vote for Gid!


Where you running and aren't you an Independant?
on Jan 11, 2006

Where you running and aren't you an Independant?

I am running as the Libertarian candidate for the Texas House of Representatives, District 88. At this point, things are looking pretty good, considering my "outsider" status.