I never considered running for office. In fact, over the past 10 years or so when friends would suggest it, and I would jokingly respond, “I wouldn’t pass the vetting process!” My doubt wasn’t in my background, and it certainly wasn’t in my desire to serve people. But having never run for political office, I questioned my patience to actually participate in a campaign, and when in office, my patience to wait for change.

The one thing about running that excited me most was the chance to represent people, to give them a voice and fight for change. Understanding my past will allow you to understand why running for office is the most important thing I will ever do in my lifetime.