I know I'm probably in the minority here, but I LOVE elections. Particularly local elections.
There's something special about a race where you can actually meet the candidates, ask them questions, or discover that your friend's friend knows them and can give you the tea. (That's what the kids call gossip these days, right?)
But here's something I've been thinking about lately. What if we treated local politics a little more like football?
Hear me out.
Every week, we analyze the plays, question the coaches, debate strategies, and discuss what our favorite teams should do differently. We know the players, follow the stats, and celebrate the wins. Some of us even rearrange our Sundays around it!
What if we brought that same enthusiasm to local government?
Imagine weekly recaps of what's happening in our communities. Podcasts breaking down decisions without political spin. Easy-to-understand stats on budgets, voting records, and projects. We could spend more time talking about the plays being made and less time attacking the people making them.
And here's my favorite part. What if two elected officials from opposing parties could passionately disagree during a meeting, then grab lunch together afterward without anyone questioning their loyalty?
Football players tackle each other for four quarters and then shake hands, exchange jerseys, and sometimes even laugh together afterward. Why can't we do more of that in politics?
While we're at it, can we make politics a little more FUN? When was the last time you attended a campaign event or political gathering and genuinely had a great time? We could use a little more camaraderie and a lot less hostility.
Of course, I'm not suggesting we stop holding elected officials accountable. Quite the opposite! Fans expect their teams to perform, and voters should expect the same from their representatives. Look at the decisions, examine the results, and ask questions. Just remember that disagreeing with someone doesn't automatically make them a bad person.
Here's the other thing about football: Every team needs players willing to step onto the field.
I've joked that running for public office requires either being crazy enough to believe you can make a difference or foolish enough not to know what you're getting into. Having run myself, I'm well aware I fall into one of those categories. Maybe both!
I've met some incredible people who would make outstanding public servants and haven't considered running. Some don't have the time, others don't know where to begin, and many simply don't want to deal with the negativity.
Can you blame them? We say we want better candidates, but then we make the experience so miserable that good people hesitate to participate.
And unlike professional football, there's rarely a big paycheck waiting at the end!
Last year, I participated in the Michigan Political Leadership Program, where I had the opportunity to learn alongside people with different political perspectives. One of my biggest takeaways was how much we have in common when we actually get to know one another.
Before entering politics, I rarely considered someone's party affiliation when deciding whether I liked or respected them. I don't intend to start now, and I hope others extend me that same courtesy.
Government, especially local government, isn't some distant organization. It's our neighbors, business owners, parents, retirees, and volunteers making decisions that affect our everyday lives. And unlike the NFL, you don't need to be drafted to join the team!
You can attend meetings, ask questions, volunteer for a board or commission, or even put your own name on the ballot.
So here's my challenge: Learn who represents you. Follow a local issue. Attend a meeting. And if you've ever thought you could make a difference, consider running for office.
Who knows? You might be exactly the teammate your community needs.
I'd love to hear your thoughts! info@jesslaydon.com
