VANCE: Why local elections matter now more than ever

Published 9:15 am Wednesday, October 30, 2024

As we face challenges at the national and global level, it’s easy to overlook the importance of state and local elections. However, these elections have the most direct impact on our day-to-day lives. Government works best when it’s local, with leaders who have deep ties to their communities and are willing to put people and relationships above politics and empty rhetoric.

I’ve spent my entire career serving this community — through law enforcement, education and public service — and I believe strongly that now, more than ever, we need local voices representing us in state government. While debates in Washington dominate the headlines, we must ensure that our own needs here at home are addressed by leaders who understand them best. That’s what I’ve done throughout my career, and it’s why I’m running for re-election.

Critical Issues Facing Our Community

Lowering the Cost of Living: Our community’s well-being depends on strong local businesses, thriving agriculture, and common-sense policies that keep money in the hands of taxpayers. As Georgia’s biggest economic driver, agriculture must be protected. In the past two years alone, many families in [your community] have felt the pinch of rising property taxes and cost of living. I will continue to stand up for local businesses and fight for policies that reduce these costs and support the hardworking families who form the backbone of our community.

Strengthening Education: As an educator, I know firsthand that strong schools are the foundation of a thriving community. Our schools don’t just prepare our children for the future — they are essential to attracting new businesses and creating jobs. During my time in education, I saw how focused classroom instruction and community support can change lives. When we focus on the fundamentals, we better equip our students to succeed and become part of the growing workforce here in Georgia. I will always advocate for policies that strengthen our schools and give students the tools they need to succeed.

Ensuring Public Safety: With a long career in law enforcement, I understand the importance of giving our officers the resources they need to keep our families safe. One of the proudest moments of my career was being appointed by Governor Sonny Perdue as Executive Director of the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council (P.O.S.T.). I saw firsthand how critical it is to provide training and support to our officers so they can do their jobs effectively. I will continue to champion policies that protect those on the front lines and ensure they can continue to uphold the safety we all depend on.

Expanding Access to Quality Healthcare: Access to affordable healthcare, including mental health and addiction treatment, is critical to the health of our community. One of the biggest issues I hear from families is the need for more accessible and affordable healthcare services. I will work to cut red tape, improve transparency, and ensure that all residents, especially those in rural areas, have access to the healthcare they deserve. This includes mental health services, which are more critical now than ever.

A Personal Connection to the Community

My journey, from growing up in rural South Georgia to serving in law enforcement, education, and now politics, has given me a unique perspective on the needs of our community. My conservative values guide my commitment to finding practical solutions. Whether as the Executive Director of the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council or a City Council member for nearly three decades, my life’s work has been rooted in service. In 2022, I was proud to be elected to the State House for District 149, and I look forward to continuing this work.

Acknowledging Challenges and Moving Forward

While we’ve made significant progress in areas like education and public safety, there is more work to be done. We face challenges that require steadfast leadership — leaders who understand the nuances of local governance and can rise above political noise to deliver real solutions. Whether it’s addressing healthcare access or keeping costs low for working families, I know what it takes to get things done. Together, we can build on the work we’ve started and continue to make our community a place where families thrive.

Why Your Vote Matters

In the midst of political noise, local elections offer an opportunity to choose leaders who are deeply invested in our community’s success. Your vote in this election will help shape the future of our schools, businesses, and public safety. We cannot afford to have leaders more interested in scoring political points than delivering results for our families and businesses. Every vote matters.

With early voting ending on Nov. 1  and Election Day on Nov. 5, I ask for your support. I have spent 50 years serving this community and working hard to earn your trust. I’m asking for your vote so I can continue delivering common-sense solutions that improve our quality of life. I’ve worked to make sure your voice is heard at the state level, and I want to keep fighting for you.

A Vision for Our Future

Public service has always been at the heart of my career. From humble beginnings to leadership roles in law enforcement, education, and politics, I’ve been honored to meet people where they are and address the issues that matter most. No matter our political differences, I believe we all want the same thing: safe neighborhoods, thriving schools, and policies that support the hardworking people of our community. As we look ahead, I’m committed to being a champion for conservative values and common-sense solutions that will keep our community strong. I hope to earn your continued support in this election and look forward to serving you for years to come.