McNEIL: For U.S. House

Cristina McNeil is the Democratic candidate for U.S. House of Representatives, Idaho Congressional District 1. She will go to the House with an attitude of collaboration to make progress for the benefit of all Idahoans.

A few weeks ago, I attended a “town hall” meeting for Cristina McNeil’s opponent. In his opening remarks, he stressed his opinion that Democrats are at war with the Republicans. I am skeptical that this attitude will foster any cooperation across the aisle for the benefit of our state or country, which is now so politically polarized. Our leaders need to demonstrate values and behaviors that will help ameliorate the destructive mindset that seems to have swept across our country in recent years. We need our representatives in Washington, D.C., to adopt an attitude of cooperation and open-mindedness, not resistance, if not open warfare.

I have hosted Cristina in my home a time or two during this campaign season and gotten to know her a bit better than usual. I am convinced that she is the person to represent Idaho’s Congressional District 1. Her life and professional experiences have well-prepared her for this challenge. She has been a small business owner; a single mother who intimately experienced the effects of the great recession; and community volunteer and advocate for families suffering economic hardship and injustice. She knows firsthand the hard knocks of life. But she has the courage and strength to rise above them for the benefit of herself, her family and her community. She well deserves your vote this November.

For more information, please visit her website www.cristinaforcongress.com about her history, values and platform. Then cast your vote for Cristina.

PAULA NEILS

LD2 Chair KCDCC

Hauser