You would think many would-be candidates for elected office would give a second thought to running amid a pandemic that is causing havoc for governmental budgets from the smallest town to the federal government. But it hasn’t.

Hundreds have filed. Twenty-seven have filed to run for Governor!

In my opinion this truly shows the American spirit that brings out the best in us. We want to fix what is wrong. We want to make things better and help lead others to happier times. It is a great sacrifice running for office. Many positions are volunteer and part-time. For those who get paid, it is usually not very substantial. In other words, people don’t do it for the money.

I believe people genuinely want to do good. Many of them have agendas on how to get to that good. Now, we may not and often do not agree with what that good is or how to achieve that good – but I would argue that a vast majority of folks that run for political office have the best of intentions and their heart in the right place.

This is going to be a fascinating and complex election cycle. With the pandemic limiting or outright banning contact, it will make it a challenge to ring doorbells, hold rallies, conduct fundraisers and hold forums. Zoom and other virtual platforms will be in heavy use.

Our WR political action committees will be in transition as well. We normally do in-person interviews of potential endorsees. This will not be happening this year.

Challenging times require flexibility and creativity. I salute those individuals that are willing to toss their hat in the ring and try to improve and help their community.