[ politics ]
Leading by Example
RET . MAJ . GEN . JAMES HOYER JENNA STEWART
Securing West Virginia ’ s Future
In a complex world , we can ’ t stand alone .
Too many politicians , campaigns and interest groups are focused on what divides us . Negative narratives and extreme viewpoints play into the hands of our enemies , amplify the threats we face and neglect to solve core domestic problems .
Our opinions and perspectives are shaped by our environments . Mine are greatly influenced by almost 40 years of service to our nation and state , the sacrifices my family made as a result of my service and the continued service of our sons . In the near future , my wife and I also hope to become grandparents . I want a bright and secure future for our children , future grandchildren and others to live and prosper in West Virginia .
In the next several years the world will be at a significantly dangerous and challenging stage . China wishes to assert world dominance . Vladimir Putin , who is just pure evil , is willing to destroy and kill to take away the sovereignty of Ukraine and others . Iran wants to impose its religious extremism . North Korea is led by a tyrant . This international instability makes all of us across America unsafe .
The world needs us to lead as much as we need us to lead ; we can ’ t have national security without world stability . How can we lead on the world stage when our national leaders are so divided ? How can we lead our state into the future when extreme views at all levels divide us further ? We can ’ t , and that is why we need to focus on electing leaders who work to bring us to the middle ground and focus on fundamental prosperity issues that make us strong .
All of us must serve our families and communities . Let ’ s focus on what we have in common and work together for the betterment of all . In this complex world , we can ’ t stand alone .
Despite challenges in our own state , we ’ re building some positive growth . When it comes to economic opportunity , we have set the stage for once again achieving our full potential and enjoying the success and economic diversity I knew growing up in the Kanawha Valley in the ’ 60s , ’ 70s and ’ 80s . We can only make this kind of progress by working together .
I challenge you to start a conversation with someone who doesn ’ t share your thoughts and beliefs . Try to understand more deeply your own perspective and the perspective of another . No , this isn ’ t just a cliche statement — this is where our path to common ground begins . Let the goal be to discover where you and your neighbor agree . We all have places where we can agree ; don ’ t let the divisive nature of our world today distract you from this fact .
For example , did you know there are more than 29,000 jobs available right now across West Virginia ? While the strategies of political parties and candidates vary on addressing economic issues , you and your neighbor can both agree that jobs are an important foundation for our wellbeing and that filling those open jobs , recruiting talent to the state and creating a brighter economic future is something we all need and want as West Virginians .
Let ’ s start there . Let ’ s look for candidates who promote and prioritize common purpose . I urge us all to seek candidates who focus on the issues that connect us and who can achieve positive change and momentum — not those who divide us with personal attacks or who advocate extreme positions .
Your responsibilities as a citizen , community member and leader are great . We all shape our shared future through the actions we take and those we don ’ t . Let ’ s take action to build common ground as our children , grandchildren and the world look to us for hope and leadership . •
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