Dear Editor:
I believe Donald Trump was elected president in 2016 because the country was looking for a change from status quo politics. Now, as the 2018 midterm elections approach, we’re on the verge of experiencing something different in our local elections as well, that continues (or extends) the search for something that’s not just different – but also truly exceptional.
In a series of special and primary elections that have occurred across the country, there have been an unprecedented number of diverse candidates running for office. More women than ever before are on the ballot. African Americans, Latinos, Muslim Americans and members of the LGBTQ community as well as democratic socialists are well-represented among those who have filed for office. These candidates have already emerged as serious contenders in a record number of high-profile races.
In states like Michigan, New York, Massachusetts, Virginia, Georgia and Florida – to name just a few – we’ve already witnessed historic primary wins at the hands of unlikely victors. This pivot represents a paradigm shift in our politics where new perspectives, approaches and ways of tackling old problems are not only considered but welcomed.
We need to consider such a shift here in Hamilton County, too. Since 2010, Hamilton County has been the fastest growing county in Indiana. This uptick in its population is simply a sign of our changing times. Many new families from all over the world, including mine, have chosen to call Hamilton County home. They represent a variety of cultures and ethnicities and truly reflect the fabric of our nation. It’s now time that our County Council is more reflective of those who may hold a diverse array of opinions. For too long the Council has been a monolith, controlled by one voice and one party. It is time for a change.
Having different perspectives represented on the Council could allow and create competitive advantages by increasing innovation, acceptance and problem solving capacity. Corporate America has long since viewed diversity as a competitive advantage; executives increasingly realize that diversity of experience, opinion, background, gender, age, religious and gender preference help conceive new ideas and resolve complex issues.
We are and have elected diverse candidates to compete (some are already victorious) for U.S. State House seats, governorships and Congressional seats in Michigan, New York, Massachusetts, Virginia, Georgia and Florida.
Why not Hamilton County?
To learn more about my campaign please visit, facebook.com/PeopleToElectWilliamLHoward and williamlhoward.com respectively. To learn more about your local Democratic candidates, please visit hcdemocrats.org/candidates.
William L. Howard II
Carmel
Candidate for Hamilton County Council District 4