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Dear Editor,

I’ve rarely come across a political candidate whose background and experience so closely mirrors the personal life journeys of such a large and diverse constituency as that found in Virginia’s rural/cosmopolitan 5th Congressional District. Gloria Witt, currently vying for a seat in the U.S House of Representatives, is such a candidate.

Raised in Amherst on a family farm with no running water. Earned money as a teenager working in the local tobacco fields. At the urging of her blue-collar father, pursued educational ambitions in earnest, obtaining both a bachelor’s and MBA degrees. Completed a successful 30 year career at a prominent global energy enterprise. Founded her own consulting business focusing on management skills training at companies and non-profits. Assumed leadership roles in civic and philanthropic organizations.

Gritty, hardworking, determined. Someone the majority of our District 5 residents can identify with and appreciate. This includes owners of small farms. Manual workers and service providers. Small business owners. Corporate executives. Educators. Entrepreneurs. And of course, women. And people of color.

And from a policy perspective, Ms. Witt’s family-centric priorities are laser focused on what’s best for all the citizens she will serve. Things like climate-friendly economic growth. Fair and balanced taxation. Expanded access to healthcare for families and veterans. Women’s rights. Protection of basic human rights and our system of democracy in general, which now finds itself under assault by authoritarian wannabes. A re-imagined educational system offering multiple pathways to personal fulfillment and a decent standard of living. Common sense gun safety measures.

And she’ll pursue these objectives by working together with political allies and opponents alike to get things done. At the same time, Ms. Witt’s new to politics – not a career bureaucrat embedded in the Richmond/DC Swamp, which heightens her appeal and credibility among some of our fellow Americans who loathe “big government.”

No question, Ms. Witt’s personal profile and Congressional agenda resonate deeply with many residents of our district. That’s why I encourage you to learn more about her candidacy by visiting her website. When you do, I’m sure you’ll agree that we all win with Witt.

John Deegan

Palmyra