A Message to Florida Voters
Most of us have grown up with an “us vs. them” mindset; our ball team and their ball team, cops and robbers, blue and red, “we’re absolutely right” and “they’re absolutely wrong.” Here’s the problem.
The more righteous about “us” or judgmental about “them” we get, or the more we get hyped up by the emotions and fear-mongering of political rhetoric, the more we seem to be pulled away from the ground truth of what’s going on. I suggest that, just for a moment, we look to see how this binary power-struggle dynamic may be affecting our actual interests.
These days, we seem to be overjoyed at a politician filing one good bill (that may or may not make it) while all other votes work against our collective interests. Our expectations are so low that we appear to want to be placated by empty gestures, believing in carefully-tailored promises to take care of x, y, or z but witnessing another legislative session go by without effective change on issues that really matter. The continued willingness to be duped is not sustainable if we want to make a better world for our children.
In my book, important issues are nonpartisan issues; working toward quality, affordable education, healthcare, justice, public safety, environmental protection and economic security. How we get to good should be based on the “provable truth” of the situation and nothing but the provable truth. In some circles, too powerful for our own good, principles of science, evidence, and reason are made out to be benchmarks of dark conspiracies. So, here we are.
How do we break ourselves free from this vicious cycle that leads to Florida being ranked at the bottom of so many important indicators, or that leads to our waters filling up with toxic pollution? We must realize the power of our vote and the difference between a politician and a leader.
→ Politicians may say and do things when they think it will earn votes or campaign donations. Sometimes, they’ll use fear, half-truths or other underhanded tactics to gain support and retain power. The more resources they have at their disposal, the more effective they seem to be.
→ Leaders, in contrast, will say and do things because it’s right and in accordance with their sworn loyalty to the People. They will readily meet and converse with any constituent or stakeholder, regardless of party affiliation or donor status. They will explain themselves and invite further debate. They will not hide from adversity but will welcome it as part of the necessary process; to hear all voices, arguments and considerations before making public policy decisions.
How do we identify candidates who are leaders vs. politicians?
- If they don’t already have a record of performance established, to include routinely scheduling in-person town halls or listening events, I recommend starting with their campaign finance reports. Look for the percentage of in-district, individual contributors in contrast with out-of-district PACs or corporate/lobbyist firms. The claim that “big-money donations don’t sway my opinion” has no demonstrable proof in reality.
- Look also at their pre-campaign biography to determine their true desire to serve the public interest. Perhaps they have a lifetime in the private sector, but interacted with and understand real people and real issues. In the vein of proof of intending to serve the public interest, look for their position on matters clearly and resoundingly defined by science. Ask them hard questions and share their answers.
- Finally, look at how they answer questions or carry themselves in general. Do we really want petty mud slingers who will only represent the interests of “our side” or “their side”? Or worse, “just the donors”? Or do we need statesmanlike men and women who have the professional maturity and others-first mindset to listen to all, consider all, and do their jobs properly?
For the sake of Florida, present and future, vote for real leaders who will actually serve the People. Reject politicians who will say anything to get or retain power. The more we expect of our (potential) elected officials, the more they’ll rise to the occasion.
We all need each other to rise above the partisan fray and help chart a better course for our children.
Note: “Politician” should not carry a negative connotation, but reality shows that it does. There’s a palpable distrust of government and those managing it; and before we can heal this wound and restore public trust, we must acknowledge the need for all elected public officials to realize the difference laid out in this piece. We need them (and candidates running for office) to strive to become leaders.
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Email me: MartinforSenate14@gmail.com