There is an exhilarating feeling to watch a candidate run for office. The ability to meet the people right in their communities, to understand their needs; for a people there’s that hope that we’ve found that diamond in the rough, that one person who will work for us even after the votes are in. In looking at the hierarchy of government, the closest of candidates that we come into the most contact with are our town and city council members; more importantly our mayors. We can tell a lot about a person by the company that they keep. Or in this case the company that is chosen to be a part of their administration and the promises that are being made. If we look at history, some politicians such as George Washington, it took time to know how to do the right thing in government. Washington worked to be a civil leader for America. If we look beyond the campaign ads and accusatory statements that are exchanged between candidates, how well do we look at the civil and community involvement of our mayors?
In the past few years, a new type of leadership is beginning to enter politics, as a younger candidate is entering leadership in New Jersey. It’s impressive to find political leadership that is maintaining accountability and transparency to the people. It brings about a restored hope that this same leadership will filter into other cities and smaller towns. I watched as one campaign unfolded a few months ago and realized the passion that was there. From debates that were supported with statistics to talking with people within diverse neighborhoods; it was all about the people– not the politics. Taking the lead on some of the toughest issues: crime, education, business, attracting investment, the arts, and bureaucracy; there is reason to believe in something greater. I’m sure that there are others who represent ethics, but it is a relief to know that there is one in Jersey City where people are truly looking to represent the present to the future. Like Washington, a new ethical mayor does exist, a genuine public servant who doesn’t seek power for its own sake.
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