Just weeks from now, voters in all 50 states will elect state legislators and members of congress to represent them in the new legislative term beginning in January.  Many will be new to the respective bodies to which they were elected, with much to learn about their new job and the institution.  Typically, the chamber will have an orientation program about many topics such as:

• Human Resources – Setting up an office; hiring staff; district mailings; legislative salary, and benefits
• IT – Computers; phones; and laptops
• Constituent Services
• Working with Media
• Introduction to the Governor and Staff
• Introduction to Legislative Service Bureau – Bill and amendment drafting and the staff
• State Appropriations Overview
• State Budget Process – Overview by the Fiscal Agencies
• Mock Session – Procedures
• Working with Lobbyists

None of these topics really convey the meaning of the mission, what it truly means to be a legislator.  And what are the characteristics of a being a great one?  We all know a great chef when we eat her food.  We all know a great athlete when we see him perform.  So how can orientation programs convey to newbie legislators, solid advice on how to approach their new and weighty responsibilities?  Here’s one thought – look to these words:

“Some lives are so vivid, it is difficult to imagine them ended. Some voices are so vibrant, it is hard to think of them stilled. John McCain was a man of deep conviction and a patriot of the highest order. He was a public servant in the finest traditions of our country.”

 President George W. Bush

“Senator John McCain believed that every citizen has a responsibility to make something of the freedoms given by our Constitution, . . .  he lived by his creed every day.”

 President Bill and Hilary Clinton

“In an era filled with cynicism about national unity and public service, John McCain’s life shone as a bright example. He showed us that boundless patriotism and self-sacrifice are not outdated concepts or clichés, but the building blocks of an extraordinary American life.”

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell

“As you go through life, you meet few truly great people. John McCain was one of them. His dedication to his country and the military were unsurpassed, and maybe most of all, he was a truth teller – never afraid to speak truth to power in an era where that has become all too rare.”

Senate Democrat Leader Chuck Schumer

Let me attempt to fashion these comments about John McCain into practical terms for new legislators as they enter the 2019-20 session:

• Deep conviction – People may be momentarily upset or disappointed when a legislator takes a position contrary to their wishes, but if the position emanates from a deep conviction, it will earn you respect in the long run.

• Make something of the freedoms given – Government is often an obstacle because it acts on for its own interests. Focus on freedoms and make something of them for yourself, your constituents, and businesses helping your state.

• Unity, public service, and self-sacrifice – Being a legislator is about others, look around you and toward the horizon for purpose.

• Truth teller – It isn’t always easy, but it is best, otherwise how does a ranking Democrat say such wonderful things about a Republican leader?

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