Door to door to door to…

Post #71

For over a year, I have spent countless hours walking throughout District 17, knocking on doors.  When I am lucky to find someone home and available to chat for a few minutes, I’ve been able to hear their concerns and ideas as well as share my own. 

Sometimes, people feel put on the spot when I ask which issues particularly concern them.  Unlike some of us who constantly focus on policies, politics, and budgets, most people are too busy living their lives.  How are the kids doing in school?  Will I get caught in traffic on the way to work?  Is my job secure?  Will my health insurance cover the procedure my doctor is recommending?

Once you get someone talking, it’s amazing how passionate and well-informed they tend to be!  On a recent outing, I heard about issues ranging from mental health to Medicaid coverage to funding for Metro to transportation to magnet school programs… and so much more.  Sometimes, I have personal experience on an issue and can share my background.  Often, I just listen and try to learn as much as possible.

Separate from the issues, I am privileged to catch a glimpse of prospective constituents’ lives.  I meet their (usually!) friendly pets, greet their adorable children, and get a sense of the priorities in their household.  Sometimes, there are toys and books scattered everywhere in a happy, kid-centric home. Other times, I’m see the cherished photos showing loved ones grown and on their own.  Elsewhere, a large home renovation project might leave them apologetic for not inviting me inside. Our wonderfully diverse community is often reflected in the ethnic smells and sounds drifting to the doorway.

When I first ran for (and was elected to) the House of Delegates, a mentor who served in both the state legislature and in Congress gave me great advice.  He told me that I would enjoy the opportunity to learn more about my neighbors and the broader community during the campaign than at almost any other time.  He was right.  And while it’s time-consuming and sometimes pretty tiring, I just love it.  So when I ring your doorbell, I hope you’ll answer it and we can chat!

I would love to hear from you, dear Blog reader!  Is your voice being heard by your elected officials?  Do you see them in your neighborhood (and at your door) or mostly at ceremonial events?  Please send an email to Blog@CherylKagan.org or click on the "Comments" link below to express your views.  Please be sure to indicate which post (#71) you're addressing.

Thanks for reading.  I will post again soon.