During an election, it is often difficult to decide who to support. The Republican Party has a history of offering good qualified candidates and that can make the primary process difficult. It’s sometimes hard to choose a candidate based on their qualifications. I am fortunate to know most candidates on the Republican ballot for this election. Having served nine years in the Legislature, my support for the Tennessee House District 30 race will be based on what I believe is needed to be effective in Nashville.
An effective Representative must show that they are open and receptive to discussion about an issue. They cannot be closed minded to issues and must get along with their fellow Representatives. Esther Helton has shown that she can do that. An effective Representative cannot be arrogant. Esther Helton is far from arrogant. An effective Representative must be humble. Esther Helton is as humble of a person that I know of. An effective Representative must be able to change their position on an issue when given facts that prove to be contrary to their initial decision. Esther Helton has shown that she will do that. An effective Representative must show that they can promote themselves without belittling anyone else. They must also be able to maintain their composure while being verbally attacked. Esther Helton has proven she can do that. An effective Representative must show that they know how to choose their battles, wisely. Esther Helton has shown that she can do that.
I have also been involved in numerous campaigns. Many of which have been primaries. I have seen an evolvement of those primaries. Now in the Republican Party, a lot of emphasis is placed on which candidate is the most Republican, or who has been Republican the longest. I prefer to support the one I believe to be the most qualified. I always try to bear in mind and remind those I help that the day after the primary, we should all be on the same team. However, it becomes more and more difficult when civility is thrown out the window and attacks become personal. Too often Republicans forget Ronald Reagan’s eleventh commandment when they claim him as their role model. Bad mouthing a fellow member of your party only helps to divide your party and has never grown the party.
That being said, I know what is needed to nominate an effective candidate. An effective Nominee must be able to win an election. Esther Helton has proved she can do that. An effective Nominee must be able to raise money. Esther Helton has proved she can do that. An effective Nominee should not have made derogatory statements about their opponent. Esther Helton has not.
I realize that everyone is entitled to their opinion. This opinion is mine. I sincerely hope that on August the third, all Republicans in District 30 can come together and support the Nominee. I believe that should be Esther Helton.
Vince Dean,
Former State Representative Dist. 30