Ann Kirkpatrick /Creator: Bill Clark || Credit: CQ Roll Call
Opinion: Once candidates are in office, we realize it’s far more challenging than we might have hoped, and it’s certainly impossible to do it on our own.
By Ann Kirkpatrick opinion contributor, The Arizona Republic
As I reflect on my nearly two decades representing Arizonans and prepare for my retirement, I feel immensely grateful for the opportunities and successes we have had along the way.
I strove to have an office that was accessible, accountable and always focused on delivering for Arizona. Taking a page out of U.S. Rep. Gabby Giffords’ book, we hosted “Congress on Your Corner” events and drove miles and miles across our Southwest desert state.
We met with countless folks, learning about local issues that need a voice. I always promised my constituents, whether or not you agree with my position, I will tell you where I stand, and I will work for all Arizonans.
I learned that the highs are very high, that the lows are known … publicly, and that magic lives in the people you meet. The issues in Flagstaff are different from those in Tucson, but the requests are similar: “Remember us when you’re in Washington.”
How could I forget? Representing Arizona, my home, has been the highest honor of my life.
It’s amazing to see how Arizona has grown
