Elected officials are at their best when they lead with empathy for their constituents and the issues facing their community. Leading with love, rather than hate, is the right thing to do, especially in a political climate rife with incendiary rhetoric. Leaders like Janet Thompson, who are motivated by compassion and respect for their constituents, are becoming increasingly rare. Additionally, approaching policy through an empathetic lens can often lead to innovative solutions to issues that have persisted for decades.
In the criminal justice system mental health issues often go unaddressed due to a lack of resources, leading to higher crime rates. Rather than demonizing those struggling with mental health issues, Janet Thompson is seeking to increase mental health resources in Boone County, in collaboration with the Boone County Sheriff’s Office and the court system. This preventative, rather than reactive, approach to crime prevention is a perfect example of what Janet has done during her tenure as Boone County Commissioner: lead with compassion. In a political cycle which is dominated by spiteful rhetoric, Boone County needs leaders like Janet, who seek to unite, not divide us.