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Whether you are interested in or follow politics or not, determining the best leaders for America is very hard to ignore or escape, despite all of the political wrangling dominating the airwaves, social media, and other conversations.

At the end of the day, we certainly will not escape the outcomes of who finally becomes our elected officials and what impact their potential policies and actions will have on the quality of our lives and those we love.

So, what qualifications do you look for in electing local and state office holders?

There are values and qualifications that all true public servants should demonstrate no matter what elective office they seek. No matter what level of government, the number one overriding question is: Who and what interests are they working for and representing? That is why determining the best leaders for America is so important.

As voters, are we able to distinguish between the connectivity and mutual benefits of passing policies and laws that are good for the issues and problems that impact states and the nation?

There are many such pressing problems. Among them are immigration reform, sensible gun safety measures, women’s reproductive health, voting rights, equitable taxations, and other economic pocketbook issues. There is a myriad of issue areas that have broad implications for the quality of life for population groups across states.

Determining the Best Leaders for America (CarmenMurillo/iStock Images)

Are we electing office holders with the capacity to discern what those issues are, and able to collaborate and compromise to reach the best solutions? Determining the best leaders for America is critical.

In good governance, there is no place for extreme views, hardliners, proponents of not only misinformation, but downright lies.

In good governance, how can we be expected to do what is in the best interests of the people and the country when we tolerate and disregard the very laws and institutions under which we are supposed to function and conduct ourselves.

At the end of the day, what will determine whom you vote for president, and other offices up for election in your state, city, or county?

What is on the list of qualifications that you are looking for?

These qualifications are not new or unreasonable. The person elected must, at a minimum, show: a strong desire and commitment to serve; high integrity; knowledge and history of the office they seek; a command of the pressing issues; inclusiveness; a capacity to collaborate; and respectfulness. Determining the best leaders for America is more important than ever.

Each of us has a role to play in determining who is best to lead us.

Will we do our part?

This is an excerpt from a column that first appeared in the Missouri Independent

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