Father/Son Live Blog: Jim Slattery (US Senate, Kansas) and Mike Slattery (Kansas House, 24th District)
Jim:
Hi, my name’s Jim Slattery and I’m running for the United States Senate in Kansas and with me today is my son Mike who is running Kansas Legislature.
Mike:
We’re excited to be here today talking with you about important issues.
Jim:
I first ran for the Kansas Legislature when I was 24 and I’m so proud to see Mike now running at the age of 26.
Mike:
My father has taught me that public service is one of the best ways to serve our community and I think it’s time for members of my generation to get involved in shaping our state’s future.
I believe Kansas and our nation for that matter needs fresh ideas and new direction. There’s been a lot of partisan bickering in and I think it’s time we elect politicians who are able to put aside their differences and work on issues important to everyone like improving our struggling economy, building strong public schools, providing affordable health care, and finding alternative sources of energy.”
Jim:
It disappoints me that the issues I first talked about when I ran for office 35 years go are still problems today- the economy, health care, education, energy etc. The incompetence of the political leadership in Washington is breathtaking. Government just isn’t getting the job done.
One of my biggest concerns is the rising deficit. Politicians in my generation are charging up bills that will have to be paid by Mike and the next generation. I call it intergenerational robbery and I believe it’s morally wrong and should be stopped.
Mike:
Somewhat along the same lines, I think it’s really important that we protect our environment for future generations. I’m excited about the potential of “green collar jobs.” By investing in the research and development of alternative energy technologies I think we have the opportunity to create new jobs for our generation and protect our environment at the same time.
I think we’d be happy to take questions at this point in time.
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Welcome!
Mike and Jim, welcome and thanks for joining us!
Two questions:
Mike: Can you tell us about your experience running for office? I think a lot of young people are intimidated by the prospect and it would be good to hear your perspective on the challenges and rewards of running a campaign.
Mike and Jim: Can you tell us what the #1 issue is for young people in Kansas and what you would propose to do to help fix that problem?
#1 Issue for Young People
As I said in my original post, I think the high deficits will be the number 1 issue for young people in the future- when they have to start paying back the trillions of dollars in debt.
But right now, I think gas prices are the biggest problem for all Kansans right now- including young people. And it's a hard problem to fix.
First, we need to address what has caused the high gas prices like the war in Iraq, commodity trading speculation, and the declining value of the dollar.
In addition, we need to reduce our consumption of gas and explore alternate sources of energy.
Legislation
Is there any state legislation on the table that could help achieve this that young Kansans should know about? Or is this something that we need to do at the federal level?
It seems like a number of states are really taking the initiative on green jobs and renewable energy in absence of effective action on the part of the federal government. Is that the case in Kansas, or is it an uphill battle against the state Republican party?
Bipartisan Solutions Necessary
I'm not aware of any state legislation to address the problem and in Kansas we have a part-time legislature that adjourned in May. However, given the gravity of the problem, we need to do all that we can. This starts with personal responsibility and doing things like driving less and turning out lights to conserve energy. At the state and federal level, tax credits to encourage research and development of alternative energies like solar, wind, and biofuels can help end our dependence on foreign oil.
There has been a lot of partisan bickering at the state level over the energy future of our state, but I think it's important to understand that there is not a Republican solution to the problem and there is not a Democratic solution to the problem, but a bipartisan solution. In divisive states and in Congress, candidates must work together to find common sense solutions.
Michael, Thanks for your
Michael,
Thanks for your questions. To answer your first, thus far the experience has been terrific. My wife, Jenny, and I first decided to get into the race around August. From there we discussed the race with friends, family, and party officials. Once we officially threw our names in the hat, we have been working nights and weekends on fund-raising, door to door canvassing, designing websites and printed material, etc.
Running is extremely time consuming and emotionally exhausting, but that is why it is called public "service". You will definitely put in more than you get out, but it is a great way to serve your neighbors. Running for office and keeping a full time job is a difficult balance, but my employer has been terrific through the process.
Best Practice and Advice?
Thanks, I think that is the best answer we've gotten to that question thus far.
Is there any practical advice you could give folks looking to run for their first office? Is there something you did wrong that they should watch out for, or something that has worked really well for you that everyone should replicate?
Are you getting any help from the party or from outside organizations like the Young Elected Officials Network?
I have the rare opportunity
I have the rare opportunity to run a democratic primary in Kansas, so the party has been more "hands off" until August.
Talking to your local party chair is a must. Also, I would seek the advice of a few trusted community leaders at the onset. I have spoken to church leaders, party officials, former reps from both parties, etc. to build a solid base of ideas and insight. I also made the decision to include people from both parties on my campaign team to keep the campaign focused on issues, not political issues. I think it is very easy to get caught up in party baises, so having different voices on the team really helped me stay true to who I am.
I also set up a group of trusted "non-political" friends to help keep my priorities in line. I am newly married, and keeping my marriage strong is more important to me than winning this race. My group of friends ensure I keep my family life strong. Like my dad always says, "Happy wife, happy life."
Michael, One thing that is
Michael,
One thing that is imperative to a successful campaign is the team. I have the best team I could imagine, and they are all volunteering on their own time! My campaign manager and treasurer, Aaron, is the best money could buy (and he does it for free). I have been blessed beyond my wildest dreams as far as my team.
Last bit of practical advice, once you decide to run buy the best walking shoes you can afford and HIT THE STREETS! Use your youth and energy as an asset, and walk door to door harder than your opponent. That is what wins tough seats, and that is what impresses voters.
Thanks
I'm so excited that both of you are here and that both of you are running.
Mike, I ask the same question I do all young candidates: what do you feel you would bring to your office that differs with most older leaders?
Jim, I'll ask you the same question I asked Darcy Bruner - I have watched in amazement at your campaigns ability to utilize new technologies to connect with new voters and voters who might not be paying as much attention as usual. I heard a story that you wanted a whole floor of bloggers working with your campaign you were so enthused about these new techniques. Our state isn't the most known for its ability to jump on the newest and greatest thing very quickly - how did you have the insight so early on to know these things would work? And what would you say to candidates who are maybe a little technophobic and fearful of losing that message control to bloggers?
Thanks again to both of you!
-Ally
alicescheshirecat, Thanks
alicescheshirecat,
Thanks for your question. I believe being raised in the technology age gives young candidates a more hopeful perspective on life. Watching technology do the "impossible" repeatedly in our lifetime gives us the ability to dream about changing our future.
Furthermore, I believe our generation is focused on the future much more than previous generations. We are focused on making peace across party lines to make a difference for the people we represent. Previous generations get too caught up in "big party" politics, as opposed to caring for their constituents.
New Technology
First let me say that this is my first time blogging and I'm excited to be here using the new technology.
Kansas is a red state and for a Democrat to win I think we have to employ innovative technology and reach out to new, young voters who haven't previously been involved in the process.
I've been inspired by my two sons, both who are in their twenties, and know a lot about new technology. In addition, I enjoy talking with young people and listening to their ideas. They often have a fresh perspective to an old problem.
I think blogs/blogging/bloggers are a great way to disseminate a message quickly and develop a kind of grassroots following. Yes, it is possible to lose control of the message but often times the opposite happens and a new message develops organically.
Kansas Youth
For both of you - I'm also interested in the dynamics of Kansas politics and the role of youth in the state.
Kansas has a bit of a bad rep from after Thomas Frank's What's the Matter With Kansas. But lately, under the guidance of Democratic Governor (and potential Veep?) Sebelius, it seems to be trending democratic.
What role are Kansas youth playing in that shift to the left and how is it changing the state's politics.
(Particularly for you, Jim, as someone who has been involved in state politics for decades).
What's right with Kansas
Governor Sebelius has done great things for the State of Kansas and is really proven Thomas Frank wrong. While most Kansans think our nation is headed in the wrong direction they think our state is headed in the right direction!
I'm exciting to see the number of youth involved in politics of late. At the Kansas caucuses this year, young people turned out in droves. Obama has motivated young people like no candidate since Bobby Kennedy in 1968 and I think that they will turnout in November and vote for change and a new direction.
From my perspective, the
From my perspective, the youth needs to get involved in this country. Getting involved in public service is a huge sacrifice, but our country's future needs our generation. We are going to have to deal with the issues facing our country some time.
The only question is, "will we face them now, or after another twenty years on the sidelines?"
On the Trail
Have young people been supportive of your campaign thus far? Is all that excitement from Obama transferring downballot?
I have seen a tremendous
I have seen a tremendous amount of excitement and support. I am shocked at how many people in their 50's, 60's and 70's tell me they are glad to see a new face and glad to see young people getting involved.
Responsible Plan
After the economy, the #1 issue for young voters is the War in Iraq.
What do you (Mike and Jim) think is the best way to bring the war to a close? I would also like to know if you will sign on to the Responsible Plan to End the War?
As a state rep, I obviously
As a state rep, I obviously have no control on the situation, but I believe we were tricked into this war. However, pulling out immediately might further destabilize the region. We need to do something long over due, develop a battle plan and exit strategy. I shutter at the thought of being in Iraq for another 50 years like McCain has mentioned, but the ultimate future of Iraq sits with the Iraqi people.
War In Iraq
I think it is disgraceful that we went to war in Iraq based on inaccurate intelligence data. Since then we have lost the lives of more than 4,000 of our best, brightest, and bravest men and women. The war continues to cost over $10 billion a month. I think that within the next year we need to begin to responsibly withdraw our troops from Iraq and refocus our attention on fighting a smart war on terror.
I'm not familiar with the Responsible Plan to End the War, but it is certainly something that I will read, study, and make a decision about. At face value, I agree with their points and it looks like something I would be supportive of
.
Health Care
Young people are one of the most uninsured demographics in the country. Lots of people like to say it's because "we feel invincible" and don't choose to buy health care. The reality is that we're growing up in a market where employment and health care are decoupling - particularly at the entry level most of us occupy - and we're only one broken leg away from bankruptcy.
What do you think is the best way to improve health coverage in America. In your opinion, which Democratic candidate had the best plan for dealing with the health crisis and why?
Health Care
The cost of health care is becoming a burden for young people, families, and businesses alike. We must do something to ensure that Americans have access to quality, affordable, health care.
I think one of the easiest ways to improve health coverage in America is to simplify the system. All the complicated forms and bureaucratic red tape are a hinderance to people obtaining insurance on their own.
I applaud all the Democratic candidates for their efforts to address the health care crisis in our country. But again, I don't think there will be a Democratic solution or a Republican solution to the problem. There will have to be bipartisan compromise.
I look forward to working with members of both parties in Congress to expand the availability and affordability of health care to Kansans.
The obvious question
So I tried to hold back on ths, but the temptation is too great. What's it like to have your father/son also running for election at the same time? How's that playing out in the state? On a purely political level, I imagine it's a great story . . . . and I'm sure it's a huge asset to you, Mike, since you can rely on your Dad's prior experiences on the trail.
Father/Son
For the son end of the deal, it is great for name recognition. It has boosted my race's identity as well, which helps with recognition from organizations and community leaders.
I am thrilled to have my dad getting involved to help right the wrongs Roberts has caused this state and country. It is an honor to run with my dad, and it is a pleasure knowing that our state has the opportunity to vote for someone that wants to serve our state in the senate.
The toughest piece of the father son combo is that I constantly want to help my dad kick butt and take names. At times I need to disengage from his race (trusting it is in good hands) and focus on mine.
And yes, it is a huge help having a father that has "been there and done that". Never hurts to have the advice from a dad that has been repeatedly successful at my level.
Proud Papa
It's fun. Last weekend I had the opportunity to go door to door with Mike and see him in action. I know that he will be an excellent representative for the 24th district.
Registering young voters
Jim and Mike, when you are talking to young voters what do you tell a young person that is not registered to vote and why they should register?
Getting Registered
ksyoungvoter,
I tell young people it is the easiest way to have a say in the future of your country. My grandmother has said, "It is better light a candle, than curse the darkness". Voting is stepping into the role of "lighting a candle".
If they are still frustrated with the direction our country is headed, I tell them to run for office and help direct the city/state/country themselves.
Registering Young People
Bottom line. If we are going to turn this country around, we can't do it if young people aren't involved in the process.
Every young American has the duty to register to vote and vote. We all have to assume our responsibilities as citizens if we expect to change our country.
Coal Plants in Kansas
Could you both comment on the proposals to build coal plants in Western Kansas, as outlined in this animation and what you see as the future of energy and the environment in Kansas?
Props to Alex Parker
Special thanks to Alex Parker the MTV Street Team Reporter from Kansas for the video
See Alex's page here
Coal Plants
I agree with the Governor, that building the coal plants would have been the wrong direction for our state. I would have voted against the plants had I been in office at the time.
I also believe those plants held our legislature captive for almost an entire year.
Strategy?
Do they have the interweb in Kansas? I really haven't been there in quite some time. How do you use this here interweb to make blogging and win the election? I went to the National Library yesterday and couldn't find a Facebook to save my life.
Troll in the machine
Looks like we have a troll from the competition. You are welcome to ask a serious question, but if you have nothing to contribute but snark, please keep to yourself. Persist in this kind of commenting and you will be banned.
-- TheManagement.
good vs. bad lobbyists
Hi Jim,
You recently released a list of the people that you lobbyed for when you were a lobbyist. Hillary Clinton spent a lot of time when she was a candidate for President talking about how there are good lobbyists and bad lobbyists, but never really explained what the difference is.
Could you explain to us about the difference and also as a lobbyist where you feel there should be any adjustment to lobbying laws, if at all.
Good vs. Bad
The difference between a good lobbyist and a bad lobbyist is who you lobby for and what you lobby for.
There are lobbyist who lobby to save jobs in this country and lobbyists who lobby to export jobs to other countries.
There are lobbyists who lobby for consumers and there are lobbyist who lobby for big drug companies, oil companies, and foreign interests.
The recent lobby reform laws are very stringent. All lobbyists are required to disclose their clients, the amount of money, and what issues they are lobbying for. I support these tougher laws.
The Economy
Every year, another class graduates from college with massive debt, and starts looking for decent paying jobs. Lately, those jobs have been harder to come by. The current economic downturn isn't really showing signs of improving very soon, and with gas and food prices rising at an alarming rate, the financial woes of all Americans, but particularly the young people just entering the job market, is starting to look like a crisis. What policy changes can be made at the state and federal levels to help reverse the recent economic situation, and improve the financial outlook for recent and future entrants into the job market?
Jobs out of School
JDieker,
A recent poll of nation-wide employers showed that new jobs for recent college grads actually went up by 8% this year. An interesting statistic, but I'll let my dad answer the federal economy question.
Great question by the way!
Economic Future
I know that young people and old people alike are very concerned about their personal economic future and that of our country. In order to reverse the current trend of spend and borrow fiscal policy, we have to demand that the federal government balance our nation's budget just like individuals have to balance their personal budgets.
Thanks to Mike and Jim!
We are coming to the end of our hour with the Mike and Jim Slattery. I hope they'll stick around a few more minutes to respond to the remaining questions, but before they go I want to thank them both for coming here to our humble corner of the blogosphere to speak to young voters.
You can find out more about their campaigns on their websites:
Jim Slattery for Senate
Mike Slattery for State House
As always, if you have $5 or $10 to spare, please consider donating to Mike to help build the bench in Kansas and to his father Jim to help deliver a more Democratic Senate in November.
Next Thursday we will be joined by Nebraska Senate candidate Scott Kleeb. Hope you'll join us.
Thank you!
Thank you very much Michael for the opportunity to join you this morning. It has been a pleasure, and I encourage everyone readying this to take one more step towards being involved in our country's future. Whether that is voting for the first time, supporting a local candidate, volunteering on a campaign, or running for public office yourself.
The future of this country belongs to our generation, and I addressing our country's issues together!
Thanks again,
Mike Slattery
Thank You
I've enjoyed my first blogging experience. Thank you for the opportunity to talk about the issues that will be important this election.
Thanks
A recent poll of nation-wide employers presented that new jobs for recent college grads actually went up by 8% this year. An interesting statistic, but I willl let my dad answer the Union economy question.
_________________________
Aady
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