Because I Have a Daughter

Statement

It's no secret that I am a Democrat running in a conservative district. When I drive throughout the 12 counties of this largely rural district, I see the Trump signs. I interact with Trump voters. I stand my ground in opposition to Donald Trump and the entirely negative campaign he has run. When asked why I don't leave well enough alone, I tell people: Because I have a daughter.

Donald Trump's track record -- and most recently his words -- give me pause. I would hope they would give any man pause. All of us men are sons, or husbands or fathers of daughters -- or all three. I never want any of the women in my family objectified or disrespected. In fact, I don't wish that for any woman. Frankly, real men grow up and grow out of adolescent notions of what matters in relationships and how we treat other people. Mr. Trump's emotional growth was apparently stunted.

I continue to speak out about Donald Trump -- and my opponent's support for him -- because I love my daughter, Heather, and I worry about her being able to make her own way in the world, personally and professionally, when there are still men like Mr. Trump who hold infantile and abusive notions about women. It's that important, that I believe I need to be heard -- even if it means I can't win over a Trump supporter.

As a candidate for Congress in Ohio's 15th District, I promise you this: I will work every day to treat all people with dignity and respect. I won't cower behind politcal expediency or political party needs and refuse to repudiate politicians or business leaders who do not follow the Golden Rule.

For women, I promise to fight for your equal rights and your right to make your own decisions about all healthcare matters.

If you want a representative in Congress who will stand up to the Donald Trumps of the world, (and their enablers) please vote for me on November 8.

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