We are living in a polarized world, but local-level issues such as land use, environmental protection, affordable housing, quality education and support for workers, farmers, children, vets and first responders do not have a party affiliation. What they do have is the need for an advocate who can get things done. In other words, Sen. Russ Huxtable.
Although I was a Rehoboth Seahawk in high school, I spent more than 40 years of my life upstate before returning to Rehoboth. First, getting bachelor's and master’s degrees from UD and later serving in the Delaware Legislature for 20 years – as a Republican. I spent two years in the House and 18 in the Senate, and held multiple leadership positions, including serving as minority whip.
While working in the Legislature, I knew many senators and representatives who did their work in Dover but were seldom seen in their own communities listening to constituent concerns and observing issues first hand. I also knew some who attended every fair, festival and fiesta, smiling and shaking hands, but got little accomplished in terms of legislation. Russ Huxtable is the rare exception – a politician who takes the time to listen to his constituents and then takes action to get their issues resolved.
I am now on the boards of Action for Delaware’s Children, the International Women’s Forum of Delaware, and the Delaware Coalition Against Gun Violence (which I co-founded) and am involved in other local organizations. In these capacities and just through daily life, I see Russ Huxtable out in the community talking with constituents and addressing problems large and small. I read about the many pieces of legislation he sponsored or co-sponsored just in his first term.
Has he solved every problem? Of course not. I spent 20 years in the Legislature and trust me, doing the research, writing the legislation, building support, getting the bill passed and lobbying the governor to sign the legislation all takes time.
Which is why Russ’ work is not done. It is just beginning. He’s gotten many things accomplished in his first term (six bills on housing alone), but he’s also spent time establishing relationships with his colleagues, building bipartisan support, and finding ways to fast track time-sensitive legislation.
No matter your party affiliation (or lack thereof), please take a good look at what Russ Huxtable has accomplished in the short time he’s been our senator. Then join me in voting for him so he can continue to improve our quality of life in the Sixth Senate District.
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