12/29/2014

Get ready: 2015 is a major election year in Mississippi

   Welcome to the new year! For all of us in Mississippi, 2015 is a special year because it’s an election year! That’s right! For everyone who didn’t get his fill of politics with the U.S. senator’s race last year, it’s time to do it all again!
   In 2015 everyone from the governor to the dog catcher will be working hard all year to get your vote. OK, maybe not the dog catcher, but it does seem like we elect a lot of people in Mississippi.
   All year long, as you attend fairs and festivals or go any place where large numbers of people congregate, you will find politicians handing out push cards, signs, balloons and fans while shaking hands and making promises. I once watched a candidate for county supervisor give a speech promising to do all he could to raise everyone’s social security!
   Allow me to set the record straight on politicians. I ran for and won public office in 1999 and 2003. Since coming to the Electric Power Associations of Mississippi, I have worked closely with politicians from all over Mississippi. I can honestly say an overwhelming majority of our elected officials are decent, hard-working folks trying to do a good job and make Mississippi a better place to live.
   It takes a lot of time, energy and effort (and these days, money) to run for office. I know I could not have done it without the support of my wife, in-laws, friends and tons of volunteers. All candidates across Mississippi must have a similar support group if they hope to get elected. It is hard work getting up at the crack of dawn and going all day long, sometimes having appearances at five to 10 places.
   Running for office is the easy part; after you win, you have to do the job! For statewide elected officials and legislators, that often means spending time away from family. It means even a quick trip to pick up something from a store can turn into a two-hour adventure with people stopping you to ask questions.
   I think it’s especially hard on families. No spouse, mother, father, son or daughter wants to hear anybody say bad things about their loved one running for or serving in office, but it does happen. The entire experience can put a strain on a family.
   So, why do people do it? I honestly believe they feel they can make a difference. Even though I have been out of office for 10 years, I still reflect on things I did in office that made a difference in people’s lives, though many didn’t even realize it.
   That’s a very rewarding feeling and why I believe these men and women, despite the sacrifice and hardship, choose to run for office year in and year out. Call me naïve.
   As for you, Mr. and Mrs. Voter, please be nice to these candidates as they hit the campaign trail this year. Try to stay informed on the issues and engage the politicians while they campaign, but only if you know the facts. I never minded conversing with an informed voter; it was refreshing. It’s those with only half the truth or think they know it all that drive you crazy. Don’t be one of them.
   Most important, on election day, go vote! I always felt that if the informed voters came to the polls, I wouldn’t have any problems getting elected, but the fear was they would stay home.
   So, know the issues, know the candidates, stay informed and on election day go vote. Mississippi thanks you!

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