December 2024
Happy New Year! What a year 2024 has been. With most of the year overshadowed by the divisive nature of November’s Presidential Election, it is the local electorate that will determine the most impactful decisions and policies by electing good, solid, ethical, responsible leaders. I believe we’ve made some small steps in the right direction and are on the path to even more positive outcomes going forward.
The year’s first event from Rock County First set the tone. Yeonmi Park’ story of raw courage in search of freedom made us all realize that freedom is only as close or far away as the next generation. That event highlighted the rights that “we the people” have, and how mindful we must be to keep them; that a representative government must be the goal of every citizen by using the power of their vote.
Together we set out to change a dysfunctional Rock County Board and caused enough change to bring a degree of common sense and reason back to that body. The challenge in 2025 will be developing a necessary understanding of the duties of the current board with a new County Administrator. We need to keep watch on that body and the interactions of board members with new administrators so we’re prepared to provide our instruction through voting when the board is up for re-election in spring of 2026.
It was a bit disappointing that more of us did not step up to run for city councils, school boards and other non-partisan offices. In many of those areas, there is a strong desire for change. Change will not happen, however, unless there are new candidates with new approaches and ideas. Please consider getting nomination papers now for those local seats that will be coming up in 2025.
The country at large also showed a desire for change, and what many thought were insurmountable odds against a second Trump Presidency were overcome by the voters.
We have proof in this year’s activities that voters can and do make a difference.
This year’s school report card data combined with spending data raises some serious questions about several local school district administrations and boards. If you look at the data and believe that the funds school districts receive can still result in positive outcomes with different priorities, you might consider running for your local school board this spring.
Don’t let the hectic holiday season steal away your opportunity to be a changemaker. Completing the nomination process will take a bit of time, but there are many resources to help you and the Rock County First Political Fund (RCF-PF) can assist you in many ways. Learn more HERE on how RCF-PF can help you down the path of deciding to run for local office, and win. Nomination papers are due on January 7th and I would love to see contested races for every single seat. The only way voters can make a good decision on the candidates is to have choices. Please consider being a choice in your community.
It’s the Christmas season and I believe that one of the best gifts you can give your local community is to put your ideas, talent and time to work and run for local office.
May you have a joyous holiday season and be thankful for the freedoms only the USA can offer.
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RCF-PF is Here to Help!
Deciding to run for office is a difficult decision for anyone, and unique to their own circumstances. Many people have told us they have very much appreciated the support and guidance RCF has provided, so they can make a more informed decision. Long story short, RCF is here to help!
Here are a couple resources to get you started
Considering running for local office?
Should you run for local office?
Someone from our Candidate & Campaign Committee would be happy to speak with you directly as well. If you are interested in further assistance, please contact us at rockcountywifirst@gmail.com
View the 2024 RCF year end update HERE.
