July - 2 - 2026
🏛️ Issue of the Week: Happy 250, USA
Summary
From Netflix to public television, documentaries about America's founding seem to be everywhere. They all remind us of one truth: the people who founded our nation did not all think alike. They brought different ideas, priorities, and visions for the country's future. They brought different experiences, different priorities, and different ideas about how our country should operate. What united them was a belief that people should have a say in how they're governed through debate and compromise.
As your candidate for Missouri House District 33, I've been reminded of that lesson time and again.
I've also learned many people have stopped talking with anyone outside their own circles. Sometimes it's politeness. Sometimes it's exhaustion. Sometimes it's fear of damaging relationships. But we need to start those conversations again. Democracy depends on people exchanging ideas, challenging one another respectfully, and staying engaged. Free speech isn't just a right. It's also a responsibility.
My hope for you on the USA’s 250th birthday is that you find a way to both listen and share ideas with those you meet. Celebrate our diverse views and experiences. It is the best way to honor the United States. Here are some thoughts I’d like to share:
How We Can Start the Conversations Again
After spending months on the campaign trail, I've become convinced we aren't as divided as we're often told. Most people aren't unwilling to talk. They're busy, overwhelmed by information, and worried they don't know enough about the issues.
We talk with friends about our kids, new businesses coming to town, or the latest show we're watching because conversations help us learn. Politics shouldn't be any different.
When I meet voters, I try to keep a few simple principles in mind:
1) Ask permission. “Hey, what have you heard of Issue XYZ? Would you like to discuss it?” Respect the no, but tell them you are interested if they change their mind in the future.
2) Keep it respectful. You don't have to agree on everything to have a worthwhile conversation. Focus on understanding each other's values, thank them for their time, and leave the door open for another discussion.
3) Listen to understand. Most people want to be heard more than they want to win an argument. Listen first, ask questions, and make sure you've understood what they're saying.
4) Respond to what matters to them. Once you've listened, explain your viewpoint using their concerns and priorities, not just your own. Even if you disagree, people are far more likely to understand your perspective when you connect it to the values they shared with you.
Not every conversation will go this smoothly, and I probably wouldn't recommend trying it with that one relative who enjoys arguing for sport. But I've found that most people have more in common than they realize. Sometimes all it takes is someone willing to listen first.
Key District 33 Details - Ways to Stay Informed
Of course, you’ll want to stay informed about issues you discuss, and have resources to share with them so they can look for themselves.
• Lee’s Summit Tribune (local) - www.lstribune.net
• Missouri Independent (state) – www.missouriindependent.com
• The Beacon KC (KS/MO/Local Politics) – www.thebeaconnews.org
• Kansas City Star – (KC) – www.kansascity.com
• Like to listen instead of just reading? KCUR – Radio 89.3 – www.kcur.org
A simple search on any of these sites should yield plenty of information on the topic you're researching. They will use vetted sources and follow established journalistic standards. Local governments and elected officials also maintain official websites (separate from their campaign pages) that provide a clear picture of what's happening on the public record.
Town halls and public forums are another great way to hear information directly from the source. This is especially valuable for school board issues, but take advantage of opportunities to engage with all of your elected officials. Don't be afraid to ask questions. It's their job to hear from every constituent.
A Better Path Forward & Conclusion
Let's say you're brave enough to talk politics with friends and family over the July 4 holiday. Maybe it goes better than you expected. Or maybe you'd like to practice before talking with people you'll know for years to come.
I need you.
There are thousands of households I hope to reach before November, and I can't do it alone. I have an incredible group of volunteers already helping, but we need more neighbors willing to listen first and have real conversations. Whether it's in your own neighborhood or one we've identified, we'll show you how it's done. You'll walk alongside experienced volunteers until you're comfortable, and before long, you'll be helping someone else do the same.
We'll be sharing volunteer opportunities after the holiday, with something for every schedule and every comfort level. I hope you'll join us on the trail before fall. In the meantime, let's honor the spirit of the people who founded our nation 250 years ago by talking with one another about the future we want to build. Our differences don't weaken our communities. Respecting them is how we build a stronger one together.