Creating Our Future Together

Benjamin Disraeli wrote in Vivian Gray (1826), "Man is not the creature of circumstances. Circumstances are the creatures of men." This was not just an intellectual musing for Disraeli, but a political belief that he would hold through his life, including his years as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.

There is an element of truth to his words. But it's not the whole truth.

Seeing the devastation of Hurricane Ian these past few days, with the loss of life and destruction of homes, businesses, and other property, we can see that the circumstance of the storm caused massive harm beyond human control. People became creatures of circumstances.

But what we observed, also, were human decisions in action. The Governor had asked all residents in the area to leave, but many people stayed. Some shelters were only 10% filled. Some houses were built on higher ground, away from the waters. Some newer homes had been built under more stringent building codes, which allowed them to withstand the driving winds and rain. We know that climate change is being exacerbated by human actions such as the burning of fossil fuels. Circumstances often are the creatures of people, too.

We cannot prevent all challenges from happening, but we can choose how we will prepare. The public policy choices we make will impact not only our present, but also our future. Do we invest in strong schools, services for older adults and people with disabilities, support for growing our workforce, future-forward building codes, and infrastructure renewal?

We must create our future together the best we can. I stand with you for safe, strong, and thriving communities as we plan and build for the years ahead.

Deb

P.S. As we get closer and closer to the Election, our team is ramping up our volunteer and fundraising efforts. We're in a really close race. My opponent is attacking my character. I am sticking to the issues and talking with voters but I need your help.

If you are able to make a donation to my campaign, you can do so here.

If you are interested in getting involved and volunteering, please reach out to my Field Director, Gabii, at gabii@debpattersonor.org