Some months ago, I was honored to be selected into the Aspen Institute-Rodel Fellowships in Public Leadership inaugural class. The class, I discovered, was comprised of 12 Democrats and 12 Republicans to which I thought, "Oh, my. The meeting room will have a distinct line down the center - Republicans on the right and Democrats on the left. We are going to accomplish nothing!"
Much to my surprise, the assigned seating required that no two members of the same political party be seated side by side. And more importantly, the meeting was cordial, productive and fascinating! Democrats and Republicans shared their views in a candid, calm and open environment. We spoke about the underlying values and ideals that drive us as Americans and as political leaders. Many of us agreed that "it provided an opportunity for introspection and affirmation of purpose."
The goal of the Aspen Institute-Rodel Fellowship in Public Leadership (www.AspenInstitute.org) is to enhance democracy by bringing together the nation's most promising young political leaders. As a group, we exam the underlying values and principles of western democracy, how we affect our communities with our actions, and the responsibilities we have as political leaders in our cities and states. But perhaps, most importantly, we discuss sustaining the vision of a political system based on thoughtful and civil bipartisan dialogue.
The timing of the Fellowship is perfect as Kansas enters into the "Silly Season," otherwise known as a political campaign year. Soon our airwaves, newspapers and mailboxes will be filled with information from different candidates asking for your vote on August 1 and November 7, and naturally, I will be among the group asking. However, being a Rodel Fellow has once again reminded me about the true focus of politics - serving you, the common good, and making sure that the basic needs of Kansans are being met. My focus as State Treasurer is to do what I can within state government to meet our short-term and long-term financial needs.
As you listen to the Republicans and Democrats who are running for Governor, Secretary of State, Attorney General, Insurance Commissioner, State Treasurer, US and Kansas House of Representatives, and a number of other races, try to remember to vote on the issues that matter most to you.
What are your concerns? How do you want the state to be shaped? What are your priorities? What is best for the state and its people? Once you have answered these questions, find a candidate who supports those views. Become involved in the political process. VOTE! Assist the candidates you believe in through any means possible by making a donation, volunteering your time, walking in parades, offering to knock on doors and pass out literature.
The director of the Aspen Institute-Rodel Fellowships in Public Leadership class said, "In a nation of 300 million people, democracy itself and the very principles of self-government depend on the willingness of people who disagree with each other to sit down and work together for the common good." I am so pleased to be a part of this learning experience and hope to bring what I learn home to Kansas to apply.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve you. It is my great honor to be your 37th Kansas State Treasurer.
