I have really enjoyed my responsibilities while interning for Rep Salmon, but I came here with the desire to understand the federal system as a strength in working on the local level. So, have I been convinced of working for the federal government? The answer is still....no. I have been fortunate enough to be given tasks here that has brought exposure, but to be truthful, I feel disconnected to the people that I love.
I'm very happy here but I feel like my voice, and the voice, of everyone is controlled by red tape and ridiculous policies that everyone believes are irrelevant. This is absolutely the reason why I find so much joy working at the city level. Yes, I do want to remain focused on being a City Manager and I am excited to begin my studies at ASU as a student in the Master's in Public Administration program.
I believe that one of the reasons why one can impact local government more than the federal government is because of the accountability that exists with smaller government. With smaller budgets and more eyes on the few public officials, there is more pressure to get things done. This is not the case in D.C. as billions of dollars are spent ans wasted each day. This drives me crazy now and I am positive that I will always drive me crazy.
Ryan,
ReplyDeleteI know your defiantly not alone I this. I am sure many feel the same way you do. But things are this way because not enough support or power has been given to those that want to chance the system to streamline the process, and get us back on track as a country united and exemplary in its leadership. Thank you for your service, I too am pursuing a MPA and the program is amazing. Good luck.
I am an advocate for local government. I feel as though the local government has much greater impacts on my personal life than the federal government. As you have mentioned there is more pressure locally and so things can actually get accomplished. It is unfortunate that you feel so disconnected but at least you were able to see this now and not later in life. Good luck with your future studies!
ReplyDeleteRyan,
ReplyDeleteGreat posting. This too is something I have jumped around with and still remain undecided to this day. Do we want to see our local government achievements on the level of the towns and cities we live in, or do we look toward the nation as a whole? It is questions like these that I feel are great while going through internship programs because it allows us to see how certain organizations work and what they may influence in regards to our future career aspirations.
I stand firm in my belief of the power of local governments. I love the idea of civic engagement and change through voting but it has to first start with the local level, an big changes can be made through that course.
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