Occasionally the right personality comes along that fits my idea of a good political candidate. I like the way this guy meets people... a genuine "hello" and a firm handshake. I appreciate that he first listens, then asks what is most important to me. If he can't support a particular issue, he tells you why. If he can, he shares his thoughts and welcomes yours.
You quickly sense his business savvy. He has helped grow their family-owned business to 140 employees. He keenly understands the value of economic development and jobs for people, young and old. He has political smarts too. If the issue is right for our area, our district, even our state, I sense he will vote yes, regardless of which party introduced that particular legislation.
Being a candidate is demanding, lots of hours, lots of driving, and definitely too many coffee and doughnut stops. But talk with this candidate any day, any time, and I always hear his positive words, "It's going great. The folks I meet are terrific. I'm really looking forward to Nov. 7."
There's no such thing as a perfect candidate for political office. However, Scott VanBinsbergen gets about as close as any choice I've had in recent years.
Dick Hagen
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