Being a true public servant is a tough job, not for the faint of heart. Because it means actually serving the public — not just those who vote for you or support you, not just those with money.
It means being available to everyone. Fielding calls, texts, posts, letters, meeting in person and then actually carrying through working to solve problems large and small, weighty and humble. Working for the person who is grateful and the person who shouts in your face or sends obscenity-laced messages.
When done right, there is little glory or gain in this. But, there is important work done and a more cohesive community, county, and state results that works for more people — poor, rich, young, old, sick, healthy, men, women, all races — everyone.
Once upon a time, there were more of these people in public service. It was taken for granted; public servants behaved and worked this way. Now, they seem more scarce or, at least, drowned out by those who pose and shout and seek gain at the expense of those they are supposed to serve.
But, we are fortunate; we have a true public servant working for us in the Iowa Legislature — Wes Breckenridge. He has served Jasper County — all the people of Jasper County — as a law enforcement officer and then educator for 30 years. In the Legislature, he has worked across the aisle and helped being Republicans and Democrats together for bipartisan legislation that actually helps people. There are few Legislators who still try to do this.
I admire Wes Breckenridge — his dedication to public service, his humility, his work ethic, and his desire to always be civil and stick to the high road — at a time when so many stoop to dirty tricks.
The mail-in ballots for the election will be coming out beginning Oct. 5. Please join me in supporting and reelecting Wes Breckenridge in Iowa House District 29.
Kevin Engel
Newton