What an amazing adventure this has been, running for the United States Congress. I never even ran for Student Council. I want people to know that one of the real thrills for me during this campaign has been the opportunity to have dialogue with the young people of this district I used to have a lot in common with some 20 years ago. Even though I am now 41 years old, I think I still do. In spite of the wear and tear life invariably doles out, I haven't lost my optimism or idealism.
In that regard, if elected, I'm confident that just as I have in the private sector, I'll lead in Congress. Those of you reading this-students-need to see progress aimed at raising the limits of money available through Pell Grants and Stafford loans. We must continue to encourage Americans to get a college education, regardless of their background. My two young sons cause me to have a vested interest in this and all issues.
In addition, we need to work to provide jobs for those of you who are graduating. My record is that of a job-creator. I know how it's done, and I'm jazzed about the prospect of applying those skills to help provide college students with the jobs in the 21st century.
It's funny: A few days ago I was having lunch at Memorial Union with a young member of my campaign team. I was telling him that I used to hang out there in 1983, and he reminded me that he was born in 1982. In spite of our age difference, we share similar values and optimistic viewpoints on the future of our nation. Oh, by the way, that young guy is a UW grad from Cleveland with a political science degree. He's also a Democrat. I surround myself with people who challenge and continually broaden my horizons. I don't hang out with people who watch Fox News all day. If elected, I'll build that same diversity into our congressional office staff. That's really what this is about: sharing all of our hopes and dreams for the future.
I want to stress the words \all of us"" because as one of the most diverse congressional districts in the nation, we have a very broad definition of those three words. If elected, I will work to provide representation to all citizens of the second Congressional District. I'm aware of the fact that our district has some very different views between its citizens. With the make up of our district, I fully realize that every time I vote on a major issue, about half of the people will be happy and the other half won't. The key is that because of my moderate and practical approach, it won't be the same people each time. I hope you agree with me that we need a Congressperson that represents all of us, and choose to hire me with your vote on Nov. 2.
Dave Magnum, owner of Magnum Broadcasting, is the Republican candidate for U.S. congressional representative in Wisconsin's Second District.
