Why I’m Running
October 9th, 2007
Imagine Alaska the way it can be. Remember America the way it’s supposed to be. I can, and I do, and that’s why I’m running for the United States Congress.
Once upon a time Americans shared a belief that our country was bigger than boundaries on a map – it was the enduring ideals enshrined in the Constitution. It was the chance to live the American Dream. It was the unbounded sense of possibility. We had certainty that our direction was upward and our course true. I want that certainty back. I also want my children to know what I know – that it means something special to call Alaska home.
During the years I served as Democratic Leader in the State House, I learned how important it is to keep up your courage and do the right thing, no matter what the odds. My experience also taught me that substance and civility are effective and that we can and should work across party lines to find common ground and commonsense solutions that move us forward and away from partisan politics. That approach worked in Juneau and can work in Washington, D.C.
One of my heroes lived a large, full life. He regularly told me to “Dream Big”. Those words light a beacon as bright as the North Star. They’re a reminder to declare “We can” when we rise to take on the challenges of our time. We can use our power and wealth and ingenuity as a force for peace and security in the world. We can develop Alaska’s energy resources – renewables as well as oil and gas — to make vital contributions to America’s energy independence. We can have schools that reach and teach each student as a unique individual. We can expand health care for children and small business. We can restore trust and high ethical standards in our public servants because we can have leaders who make us proud.
I want to fuel this campaign with good ideas and good will. It’s going to be about what we’re for, not who we’re against. It’s going to be about restoring hope and keeping promises. Please join me in leading our state and our country in a new direction. Thank you in advance for your support. It would be an honor to serve you in the United States House of Representatives.
Warm regards,
