About Trent
Restoring Expectations
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Here are the expectations that I intend to return to political discussion in Southern Arizona.
- An expectation of fair play. I will commit to refrain from using trickery and procedural maneuvering to limit the participation and votes of my opponents. I will encourage my voters to not participate in "single shot" voting. I will not seek to suppress signatures gathered by my opponents.
- An expectation of a well-defined, detailed discussion of issues. Very rarely do we get the opportunity in today’s political climate to see issue positions larger than a few paragraphs. Due to the "sound bite" nature of today’s debates, many politicians are afraid that substantiative policy positions will leave them open to specific criticism and out-of-context quotes. I see it as my duty to Southern Arizona’s voters to supplement shorter debate answers and brief brochures with my fully detailed views on the issues.
- An expectation of civility. This should go without much saying, but I intend to treat my opponents with respect and dignity, and will expect the same from my supporters. This includes my expectation that there will be no "nicknaming" of opponents and booing at debates by myself or my supporters.
- An expectation of appearing before the voters. I will make it a priority to appear publically and regularly, both while campaigning and after I am elected. I will also make it a point to make sure that I am approachable and willing to answer questions. Moreover, I will seek out events where my initial supporters may be in the minority, if present at all. I intend to represent all of District 26.
- An expectation of inclusion. If someone wishes to support me in my campaign, they are welcome, regardless of past affiliation or voting behavior. My supporters and I also welcome any voters and volunteers simultaneously supporting other candidates. I will require that my volunteers and staff observe high standards, and also follow my stated expectations.
- An expectation of "showing my work." I intend to keep a blog after I am elected to discuss, most if not all of the votes I make and how I came around to that decision. Often, a politician assumes that they vote on an island and will sometimes hope that a particular vote goes unnoticed. I will carefully lay out my arguments, and hope that I am persuasive to my constituents.
- An expectation of representing Southern Arizona. We find ourselves in a troubling situation as Southern Arizona is slowly and steadily losing influence to the central part of the state. This makes it incumbent upon our Representatives to be even greater advocates for our area. I intend to place the primary focus of my sponsored bills toward issues important to Southern Arizona.
- An expectation of humility. When shown to be in error, I intend to admit it. I may not always be right, but I will commit to doing right in campaigning and elected service.
- An expectation of cooperation. It has become the fashion for political reporting to view representation as a "horserace" between the two parties for control of the House. Although I am dedicated to the platforms and ideals of the Republican party, I intend to reach out to Democrats and seek bi-partisan participation on any bill that I write or endorse.
- An expectation of honesty. I intend to be forthright in all of my communication and actions. I will not attempt to misrepresent myself, or others, and will attempt to outline my feelings about my votes and positions in a clear, detailed manner.
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