Campaigning

That was an interesting forum tonight.  It went way over-time, and the Sheriff's candidates were the last ones to be questioned.  In lieu of a closing statement, they asked us each to encourage our opponents.  They gave us 90 seconds to praise and exhort  our opponents to public service.   I was fourth in line.

The thing about this race is that we all know one another.  We have been co-workers and associates for many years.  It's been a clean race, with very little back-stabbing.  We've all taken the high road.

The first three candidates gave very generic encouragement to all of us to serve the public, take care of the little guy, and live up to the oath.  Then it was my turn.  I walked to the podium not knowing exactly what I'd say, but I launched into the standard rhetoric about service before self, a higher responsibility to the citizens, that sort of thing.

Then, I turned to address the candidates directly.  "How can I encourage my opponents? ... Gentlemen, after this election, I will need to hire a Chief Deputy.  I would like to encourage each of you to apply."

The laughter and applause erupted around the room.  I blew the rood off the place.  It felt very, very good.  There is one other forum before early voting starts on September 28th.  God's will be done.