Ask any candidate or elected official about why or how they want to serve and you will get some form of a response about them wanting to be a “public servant” or “to serve the best interest of their constituents.”
The purpose of this “Letter” is to place before all current or future candidates, and before all present or future office holders who claim the mantle of “public servant” the opportunity to step up and think about what true “servitude” really means.
Basically, being a “servant” means putting the needs and desires of others before your own needs and desires. This concept is part and
parcel of the thinking and writings of many of this nations founding fathers, and is certain a part of the concept of “government of, by, and for the people.”
I urge all candidates and elected officials when choosing a position on any new or existing policy or considering an up or down vote on any legislative issue to consider your decision in light of “public service”, not “political expediency.”
I would also like to remind every voter that your responsibility to choose the best possible “public servant” candidate is just as great as their responsibility to be one after they are elected.
-Vestal Lee Hutchens
5/6/22
