opinion: Dingell remains approachable within the community

Though some may not like all his policies or his politics, Congressman Dingell works consistently to honestly and accurately represent his ideologically diverse and divergent district. Whereas many local or state or federal offices are inaccessible and full of red tape, the Congressmen and his staff are the antithesis: accessible, willing and able to assist constituents on issues large and small.

What has made Congressman Dingell such an effective representative over the years is quite simple, when one sees him at a community picnic, a library exhibit or a parade, his questions are almost always, “What can I do for you? Am I doing what you want or need?” My responses over the years have varied (from), ‘of course’ (to) ‘perhaps you might reconsider this platform or stance.’ In all instances, the Congressman listens, really listens and often acts on these informal exchanges.

To have a congressman so accessible and able makes me believe in the possibility and purpose of representational government even amid the dynamism of web (and) Internet activism. There is something to be said about tangibility and our political process. Sometimes, one just wants to talk to a person in person and with Congressman Dingell such a request is guaranteed.

Jessica ‘Decky’ Alexander

Washtenaw County Resident/ Ypsilanti EMU Faculty member and Director of Academic Service-Learning