What started out as a short interview, lasted for hours over coffee and there was never a dull moment. I felt comfortable and never felt afraid to ask questions.
Mr. Rutledge who graduated from Norfolk State University with studies in Local Science and Pre-law, will readily tell you he that he was not born with a silver spoon in his mouth. He's worked hard and attributes his successes in life to God first. A professed Christian who has no problem admitting he falls short but his faith is unwavering.
He currently serves as President of the National Coalition Against Government and describes one of his second of three accomplishments as his high ratio in representing the people against insurance companies. Certainly something we like hearing, someone who will help us fight that fight! And one thing that really sits with me still is how he said he'd like to make our military, police officers and first responders have tax exempt homes and cars. "It's the least we can do for them."
Well, we hadn't been sitting down long when I noticed a gentleman wearing a Trump T-Shirt covered only by a neon green vest. Yea, you know me, I couldn't help myself but I had to stop him and introduce him to Virginia's next Governor! The gentleman whose name was Glen, seemed somewhat skeptical at first but within no time at all, I watched as these two men became engrossed in a conversation on child discipline, abuse of welfare and the rising costs of insurance. He seemed to be able to easily share his concerns with Mr. Rutledge and it was enlightening see how Mr. Rutledge was able to bring down the barriers and have Glen talking so freely...., discussing concerns many Virginians have today.
It seems somewhere along the way, that expensive inquisition going on down in the basement at our White House has forgotten the people. How refreshing to have someone talking about what's important to us! Yet, that however was not all I observed yesterday while I was talking to him. When I asked what made him the right man for the job. His first response was. "I am not afraid." Referring to the way Republicans are so frequently attacked by Democrats when they step up to run against them. "Republican's have become too complacent and I am not one to back down. If they have a problem with me then let's bring it to a debate." For this I had no doubt he'd do well since his strong stance displayed his character, not only through his answers but how, without hesitation he'd answer me with a genuine concern for Virginians. Yes, he's already thought about these things people! He has thought about them because he says he has seen and experienced them first hand. He is not afraid to mention that he started out as a Democrat, then found himself becoming an independent and now, proudly proclaims to be a Republican, who is strongly against Anti gun laws. "I will never prevent a man from being able to protect his family." And regarding his views on Socialism, his response is "I do not believe it has any place in a free society." I even felt comfortable enough to touch base on the destruction of historical monuments taking place in parts of our state. " It is all the history of our Country and should not be removed. I always ask people 'Why do you want to take away from my children's field trips'?" He says with a smile. It's apparent he wants our citizens to understand how America was built.
We touched on various other subjects like, schools and education . He believes teachers should be required to teach and not have the teachers opinions embedded in our children's heads. Even supporting the possibility of camera's in the classroom. Which is, if you ask ME......is no different than asking our officers to wear them for validation. "I think taking sex ed out of schools and replacing it with pro- life courses to assist in understanding the value of life is something I'd like see happen. We don't need to be confusing our children with their sexuality, that's something they should find out for themselves. Furthermore, "We are not the bathroom police." He goes on to mention that he believes parents should be held accountable for their children's behavior,(i.e., bullying, school attendance, etc)" Which puts the responsibility back on the parents where it is supposed to be. MY first thought is....., that ought to get parents involved, wouldn't you think?
We touched so many different bases, like legalizing marijuana which would assist in helping people who have certain mental illnesses and help control pain, which might steer people away from using opioids. and directing those funds to the homeless which would offer temporary housing while they learn a trade for farmers who have been suffering too long that it would be unfair for you to expect this article to tell you all that you need to know.
When I asked what his approach was for funding his campaign, his response was. What I'd like to see is the endorsement of the people. Signatures to back me up, they can donate if they wish, they can donate a penny, makes no difference to me. I seek their support and they can e-mail me at MerleTRutledge@gmail.com or my personal phone at 757-275-5392. They can call and ask me anything. I'd be happy to answer."
With that being said, you have the means to know more and I encourage you to reach out to him, ask questions and support our next Governor of Virginia!
