Dr. Darren Divine, Ph.D., Casper College President

As I was thinking about what to write for this edition, I looked back over previous submissions, and came across this topic from last year.  As I sat and thought about it, I realized it is as important, if not more so, than before. 

So, with that idea as my inspiration, here are some updated thoughts on the world of politics.

While Mark Twain is revered for his legendary and enduring prose, one of his most famous quotes is “Suppose you were an idiot, and suppose you were a member of Congress; but I repeat myself.” Now while this particular quote is humorous to some and exasperating to others, it is nonetheless part of the large genre of jokes about politicians and politics.  

Although I enjoy a good joke as much as the next person, I urge you to look past the joke-level, and ponder the purpose and function of politics. While each of us has our individual opinions of the political process, and individual or groups of politicians, I urge you to not cast aside the political process altogether.

As I write this article, the race for the U.S. Presidency is ramping up to what will surly to be a full-throated campaign on both sides of the political divide. In addition, the Wyoming Legislature is in the middle of their four-week Budget Session to determine the state’s funding levels for the next two years.  Both of these processes have the potential to not only shape how our national and state governments will operate in the near term, but they will also affect each of our lives, to some degree or another.

Please know this is not a partisan political message, or a call for everyone to drop their current plans and run for elected office.  Having said that, I would encourage anyone who is interested or feels compelled, to run for an elected office. 

I firmly believe everyone needs to be aware of the pieces of legislation being proposed and moving through your local, state, and national political processes. Democracy is a process of the people.  

Without being involved; without making your voice heard through public discourse, communication with elected representatives, and through the election process, you are leaving your future to the desires of others.