A Little Bit of Human Interest

Some candidates make their personal lives part of their campaign. Families and the values that we associate with them are markers of character. As our culture grows, we’re finding the value in non-traditional families, too.

I accept that such things are important to many voters. But I think candidates should be judged on their ideas and their public accomplishments much more than their personal stories. Maybe I hold that view because my family structure is still outside the ever-widening mainstream.

I’m single, never married, and have no children. There aren’t many of us out there. But that doesn’t mean we don’t understand what family means. Although I am not a father, I am a son. And a nephew. And a friend to those who are my family by choice if not by birth.

A bit of campaign wisdom I came across when I was considering my run said, “After yourself, the first vote you should be able to count on is your mother’s. If she doesn’t support you, you probably don’t stand a chance.” Well, my mother doesn’t live in the First Ward, so she can’t vote for me. But I do pass that basic test.

Here’s the email my mom sent me after attending my Friendraiser last night:

I must compliment you on your endeavors. Last night you looked so nice, I must only see you when you are not dressed up. You looked professional and seemed so very mature. Hard for me sometimes to see that because I remember rocking you as a baby. You definitely have matured into a fine young man.
Your dad would be so proud of you but then he always was. Me too.

Perhaps I can door knock one day with you in the next week or two.

Your friends seemed quite nice also.

Back to the grind.

Love,
Momsy

If family is important to you as a voter, I understand. You can vote the way my mom would.

ps—Mom probably doesn’t like what this implies, but I am much older than I look.