Why Lifelong Residency Should Not Define a Candidate's Potential for Public Office

Since last July, I have been publishing blog posts supporting various candidates running for elected office. This included promoting candidates for municipal offices, such as the city's General Assembly or City Council. Now, I am writing posts that promote two candidates running for open seats on the Haywood County Board of Commissioners. Those posts have generated several comments and questions asking whether the individual I am promoting is a native of Haywood County. This is the last reason that should ever be considered in determining whether or not you will vote for a particular individual.

However, this question often comes up as if it were the most important factor in deciding a candidate’s suitability. Yet, focusing on lifelong residency misses the point of what truly matters: a candidate’s ability to serve effectively, uphold their oath with integrity, and bring meaningful change to the community.

Being born and raised in a community does not guarantee that a candidate will understand its residents' needs or have the skills to address them. Competence in public office depends on knowledge, experience, dedication, and values—not birthplace. A candidate who has lived in different places may have gained valuable insights and skills that can benefit the community.

For example, a person who has worked in various cities might bring fresh ideas about improving transportation or education systems. These ideas can be adapted to the local context, offering solutions a lifelong resident might not have considered.

When voters limit their choices to native-born candidates, they risk electing officials who maintain the status quo. This approach often leads to stagnation because it discourages new perspectives and innovation. Candidates who have only experienced one community may be more likely to say, “That’s not how we do things here,” or “We’ve always done it this way,” rather than exploring new ways to solve problems.

Communities grow and change, and their leaders should reflect that dynamic. Electing candidates with diverse backgrounds can introduce new strategies and ideas that help the community adapt and thrive.

Candidates who have lived in different locations often bring a broader understanding of how to achieve community goals. They may have seen successful programs in other places that could be tailored to local needs. This experience can lead to better decision-making and more effective policies.

For instance, a candidate who has worked in a city with a strong education program might propose similar initiatives to improve sustainability locally. These contributions can spark progress and enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Choosing a candidate should be about more than where they were born or how long they have lived in the community. It requires reviewing their qualifications, track record, values, and plans. Voters who take the time to research candidates will find that residency is often irrelevant to a candidate’s ability to serve well.

Instead of asking if a candidate is a lifelong resident, voters should ask:

• What experience does the candidate have that prepares them for this role?

• How have they demonstrated integrity and commitment to public service?

• What specific plans do they have to address community challenges?

• How open are they to new ideas and collaboration?

  
  

Leaders who prioritize fitting in over making tough decisions often avoid change. This “go along to get along” mindset can prevent progress and discourage innovation. When voters choose candidates solely because they are natives, they may unintentionally support this approach.

Effective leaders must be willing to challenge old ways and introduce improvements, even if it means facing opposition. Candidates with diverse experiences are often better equipped to take these risks for the community’s benefit.

Communities benefit when voters expand their criteria beyond lifelong residency. Embracing candidates with varied backgrounds encourages a more inclusive and dynamic political environment. This openness can lead to:

• More creative solutions to local problems

• Greater representation of different community perspectives

• Increased adaptability to changing circumstances

  
  

By focusing on what candidates bring to the table rather than where they come from, voters help build stronger, more resilient communities.

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