Tuesday, April 12, 2016

Political Magic

Today, I witnessed something magical. When constituents take it upon themselves to act in politics it reminds you that government is still being run in the original way it was intended. As drafted by the founders, the government should be ran by the people. Furthermore, when a man called in to ask for all the zip codes and map of congressional district 8 I was very flustered. I was wondering, what on earth would a man want to do with that. To be honest it seemed pretty creepy to me. When he came in I could not have been further off base. The man was getting information so that he knew where to door knock to rally support for his petition. He told me that everyday he walks door to door asking people to sign his petition challenging the ruling of Roe v. Wade. This man was knowledgeable of Trent's efforts to prevent abortions and knows that Mr. Franks is one of the most outspoken legislatures on this issue yet me wanted to take it even further with a grass roots campaign.

Our political system only works the way its supposed to if the people participate. This can be anywhere from taking on these grassroots campaigns to something as simple as voting. If not, then our government will lose base with the American. The petitioner's leading role in his community goes on to bring the government closer to the people which is what democracy is all about.

Wednesday, April 6, 2016

District Day

Every once in a great while, the congressman comes back to his home state to check up on the people he's promised to represent. In Glendale, we call thisDistrict Day. District Day is packed full of activities to rally support, raise money, and even meet the staff. In my opinion, its the Christmas for a political office that happens four times a year.

My first district day began with "Coffee with the Congressman". This event was definitely on the smaller side, hosting around forty people.  Just like Christmas morning I woke up to anxious faces and the scent of coffee. All of the invitees were gathered around the podium to see what Saint Franks had brought them this quarter. The attendees of the event were mostly Franks' loyalists, many of which were seasoned veterans of the event. I especially admired the congressman for his ability to work a room. Even those Trump supporters felt right at home.

There was not a waking moment on this day that the congressman wasn't fulfilling his congressional duties. Up next was the private meetings to discuss possible legislation. For example, the congressman had a meeting with a local teen to discuss the infestation of feral cats at her school. These meetings are important but not nearly as important as raising money and awareness for the upcoming election.

For the congressman, his position is up for reelection every two years so there is never a bad time to raise more money. The final event of the night was a fundraiser and kick off party.  This is when the member truly worked his magic encouraging donations from the attendees with his ardent words. Even I wanted to shell out some cash and I was his employee. Trent may not be around all the time but when he does he does the best he can to care for all people he's sworn to help.