By Ricky Dana, Candidate for US House, Missouri-4
Let’s be honest—right now, Democrats aren’t winning many popularity contests, especially here in rural America. And there’s a reason for that. Too many in my party have moved too far from the center, focusing on issues that don’t reflect the day-to-day concerns of folks who work the land, raise their families, and keep small towns running. They’ve forgotten what it’s like to live where neighbors know your name, where common sense still matters, and where people expect their leaders to listen instead of lecture.
But this isn’t just a Democratic problem. Republicans have done the same thing—diving deeper into division, choosing political fights over practical solutions. Both major parties have gotten caught up in the noise instead of doing the job they were sent to do: serving the American people.
I’m a Democrat, but I’m also a proud Missourian with rural roots. I understand the values of hard work, responsibility, fairness, and community. That’s why I call myself a common-sense Democrat—because I believe in standing for what’s right, even if it means disagreeing with my own party. I don’t believe in pushing an agenda that ignores the needs of rural families, farmers, and small business owners.
America has been great before, and it can be great again. We’re in a slump—not because the American people have failed, but because too many in Washington have stopped working together. The solution isn’t more division—it’s more cooperation. It’s finding the middle ground where we can pass legislation that benefits everyone, not just one side’s base.
When I’m elected as your congressman, I will work with both Democrats and Republicans to create bipartisan legislation that strengthens our economy, supports rural communities, and protects the freedoms we all value. That means prioritizing agriculture, infrastructure, job creation, healthcare access, and veterans’ services—issues that matter here at home.
Our nation’s greatness doesn’t come from political victories. It comes from the hard work and determination of the American people. It comes from building bridges instead of walls between neighbors. It comes from leaders who are willing to listen, compromise, and put country over party.
I’m running for Congress because I believe Missouri’s 4th District deserves a representative who reflects our values, understands our way of life, and refuses to play the partisan games that have held our country back. It’s time to move forward together, with respect, common sense, and a commitment to making the United States stronger than ever.
The future is ours to shape—if we choose leaders who are willing to work together, find solutions, and put the American people first. That’s the kind of leadership I’ll bring to Washington.
Sources:
Pew Research Center – Americans’ Views of Politics and Politicians
Brookings – Why Bipartisanship Matters
