Opt-in and Win

​When State Representative Tina Bojanowski ran for office two years ago,  I was enthusiastic about a working citizen who was passionate about changing government and willing to work in Frankfort to make it happen. My simple offer to help became a nine-month coaching engagement, marked by mutual exchange of knowledge. I've walked alongside Tina since, and it has restored my faith in our founding fathers' ideals of democracy.

One of the first things that stand out about Representative Bojanowski is her character. As a Special Education teacher, she understands the importance of being a positive role model. Our public schools emphasize being a good citizen, treating others respectfully, and letting kindness and caring guide actions.  Tina's commitment to these doesn't stop in the classroom. 

Another distinguishing mark for Representative Bojanowski is that she won her seat running a positive campaign. She focused on talking to people across her District. She shared her ideas about how to take action in Frankfort to meet the needs of her constituents. In short, Tina showed her commitment to working for the people over party politics. And she won her seat without using attack ads against her opponent.

This election year, State Representative Bojanowski faced a new challenger. He is a lawyer with deep pockets trying to buy his way into Frankfort to protect his wealthy friends' interests. In other words, he's an old school politician. He is a bully, quick to make false attacks against Tina instead of talking about issues. When he was challenged recently by a citizen about the falseness of an ad he ran about Tina, he replied that his party ran the ad, and he didn't have any control over it. Tina's opponent is completely underestimating the voters.

Meanwhile, Tina continues to be Tina. She talks to the citizens in her District, works across government on their behalf, and keep them informed. She trusts the voters to see her hard work, hear her message, and connect with her authentic desire to solve real problems and help the people of Kentucky. And this is why I continue to be a supporter and fan.

Imagine a world where politicians hold themselves to the same standards of conduct expected in schools and businesses across our nation. Imagine politicians who care about getting things done to make the lives of citizens better instead of using their power to block important actions because they "don't want the other party to have a win." Imagine a government more invested in the people they are elected to serve than their party or major campaign donors. 

I believe that it is possible to reclaim our government. I see many newcomers to public office who share Tina's values. We have the power to end partisan politics that hold our nation hostage. That power is our vote, and today is the last day to cast your ballot in this critical election year. Please vote, and be sure to encourage everyone around you to do so as well.