"I hate Democrats."

Last Saturday, I stopped at McDonald's to grab an Egg McMuffin on my way to my volunteer work. There was a pause between placing my order and receiving my food. I started talking with an older man wearing a Trump for President cap. I told him I was running for Congress, and his response was, “I hate Democrats.” We had a serious discussion on several topics, and we agreed on some but disagreed on others. The point of the story is that we had a meaningful conversation. We listened to each other and respected each other’s views. Before I left to get my food, he signed my petition to be placed on the ballot for Virginia’s 5th Congressional District as a Democrat. I doubt I will earn his vote because I feel he votes for the party, not the individual, which is his right, and I respect that. After our conversation, I feel he doesn’t hate all Democrats.

One reason nothing gets done in Washington is the lack of communication between parties. It’s an us-versus-them mindset, and there’s rarely room for compromise. They don’t talk to each other; they talk over one another. My brief experience with this gentleman shows the power of civil discourse. Yes, there will always be fundamental differences between the parties, and even within parties, but we need to understand each other’s views, take the best from one another, make compromises, and treat each other with respect for the good of the people, just as the founding fathers did.

I am Gabriella Michele Bedsworth, or simply Gabriella, and I am running to serve as your Congresswoman for Virginia's 5th Congressional District. If elected, I will bring my ability to work well with everyone to help pass laws that benefit the country. But first, I need your vote and financial support to make this happen. No matter here you live, you can contribute to my campaign. If you live in Virginia’s 5^th District, I would appreciate your vote. Please share my website (www.GabriellaForCongress.com) with family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, and anyone else interested in bringing back common sense to politics. Together, we can change the status quo in national politics.