Letter: In support of Joanna Bayers

To the editor,

Popular or not, voting is an important right and responsibility. Like many of the rest of us, I would rather avoid the constant ads this time of year.

Our system might have some flaws in execution, but it is still far better than some of the other forms of governance out there. The idea that each of us can personally shape our own and our communities’ futures is both a heavy burden, which should make each of us think twice about how we cast our ballot, but also an incredible gift. If you travel to an area of the world where political freedoms are restricted you will notice the difference in both subtle and dramatic ways.

Joanna Bayers certainly got a chance to see first-hand how influential commitments to a civil government are when she visited Bosnia as part of her studies. I've found her to be a caring, tireless and committed young woman, who is passionate about her goals and the people around her. One might think her energy and the way she always gets back up to try again come from her years as a hockey player, but I think it is rather her drive, which has led her through many different experiences and gives her the determination to keep fighting. I always feel it is important take the time to care about the candidates and vote, but this year I am particularly invested as I feel so strongly that Joanna Bayers could be an irreplaceable voice for our area.

I urge everyone to take the time to check out the candidates and vote; and if you're already fatigued with politics consider taking a Bayers to clear that up.

Emily Lee

Hastings

Tags: letters to the editor, opinion, hastings, minnesota, spiral, local