Beyond Left and Right: A Campaign Rooted in Service

Since announcing my candidacy, I’ve had the opportunity to travel across Tennessee’s 6th District, and every stop has been a reminder of why I’m in this race: to listen, to learn, and to lead with the kind of integrity that’s sorely missing in today’s politics.

On April 12th, I joined an Adopt-a-Highway cleanup along Main Street in Smithville. It was 7 a.m. on a Saturday, and yet a group of folks had shown up, sleeves rolled up, ready to improve their community.  That kind of quiet, determined effort says more than any speech ever could.  These weren’t paid staffers or political operatives, they were everyday Tennesseans who care deeply about their town.  I was honored to stand alongside them.

One of the most powerful lessons I’ve learned so far is this: we are far more alike than we are different.  I’ve spoken with people across the political spectrum, from hardline conservatives to lifelong Democrats, and the common ground is wider than we’re led to believe.  We all want clean water, good schools, safe communities, and honest leadership.  The more people I meet, the more convinced I am that the real divide in this country isn’t left vs. right, it’s the people vs. the powerful few who keep us fighting while they profit.

Getting this campaign off the ground hasn’t been easy.  Opening a bank account, getting approved by ActBlue, and finally seeing those first donations roll in; it was a process.  I’ve wrestled with the whole idea of fundraising.  I’d much rather run this campaign on a barter system, trading time, skills, and energy.  However, the current system doesn’t allow it.  So while I still believe your time is worth more than your money, I’ve come to accept that funding is a necessary piece of the puzzle.  This campaign doesn’t operate in a vacuum, it needs gas in the tank.  I am so very humbled by everyone’s generosity and support.  

What’s surprised me most is that people believe in this thing, I haven’t been laughed out of the room once.  In fact, my Aunt Sara told me, “I can definitely see you as a politician.” I thanked her, then half-joked, “Is that an insult?” The word “politician” doesn’t exactly inspire trust these days.  It conjures images of backroom deals and broken promises.  I’m not here to be that guy.   I’m here to change what that word means, one honest conversation at a time.

Looking ahead, I’ll be attending The Loyal Opposition fundraiser on May 7th, a chance to build more connections and keep this momentum going.  Then from May 15–18, I’ll be stepping away  to participate in a Mission Flexible cohort.  They are an amazing non-profit organization that offers a cohort of former public servants reimagining leadership in the wake of disruption.  It’s a chance to recharge, reflect, and connect with others who know what it means to serve.  

After that, I’m wide open.  If you’re in TN6 and want to host a town hall, let’s do it.  I don’t care if it’s five people in a diner or a hundred in a rec hall; I’ll be there.

We’re building something real here.  Thanks for walking with me.

– Mike Croley Candidate for U.S. Congress, TN-6