Faith, Gratitude and the Road Ahead

For this week’s column, I simply want to say thank you.

Over the past several months, I have been overwhelmed by the encouragement, prayers, conversations, messages, and support shown across District 2 and beyond. No matter the outcome of an election, one of the greatest blessings has been seeing how deeply people still care about their community, their families, and the future of Putnam County.

I am incredibly grateful to every person who took the time to vote, pray, share encouragement, attend events, send messages, or simply stop me at church, in a store, or in a parking lot to offer kind words. Those moments mattered more than many people probably realize.

This journey reminded me how connection and communication still build community. It became about listening, learning, and understanding the concerns and hopes of neighbors throughout our district. I had the opportunity to meet individuals from many walks of life, and I am thankful for every conversation.

One of the hardest parts of the process was meeting the wonderful folks — my neighbors throughout District 2 — and realizing there simply was not enough time to stay as long as I wanted at every home.

What many told me would be “just a quick conversation” often turned into an hour or more sitting on porches, standing in driveways, or talking around kitchen tables. Those moments reminded me how much people still value genuine connection and the opportunity to simply be heard.

I also want to thank the many churches, pastors, friends, business owners, volunteers, and families who prayed not only for me, but for our county and community as a whole. Prayer matters. I truly believe our communities are stronger when we seek wisdom, humility, and guidance from God in both public and private life.

While I never want politics to become someone’s identity, I will say I am thankful to be part of a Republican Party that, in my personal view, aligns closely with my Christian conservative values — including faith, personal responsibility, family, freedom, and service to others. I recognize not everyone will agree on every issue, but I believe respectful conversations and civic involvement remain important.

As we move toward the general election, I humbly ask for your support and prayers for our Republican candidates — including myself — as we continue working to serve Putnam County and help shape the future of our community.

Most of all, this season reminded me why I love Putnam County.

We are blessed to live in a place where people still show up, volunteer, pray for one another, help neighbors, and care about the future of the next generation. That spirit is worth protecting.

Thank you again for your support, your kindness, and your prayers.