The mark of a truly great individual is the ability to adapt and overcome any circumstance or obstacle. This fact holds true in any situation life could throw at an individual.
Walking through the marble halls of the Legislature citizens can become overwhelmed, but what happens when people serve as the representative voice of their constituents? This representation is both an honor and a duty bestowed upon any first-time legislator.
Many milestones will happen that first session in which newly-elected lawmakers partake: the first committee meeting they attend; the first floor speech they give; and, the first bill they help see through the legislative process. The novelty of participating in the Legislature remains constant throughout the session as long-term and complex issues reach their desks.
Delegate Brian Savilla (R-Putnam) is still aware of the new circumstances he’s in when the time to cast a vote on the floor is presented.
“I sometimes worry about the small things,” Savilla said, “Even something as simple as pressing the button creates both excitement and apprehension for me. I don’t want to miss an important vote that can potentially benefit my constituents.”
Despite the strong desire of civic participation that fuels a legislator’s involvement, some tasks still evoke a feeling of extraordinary change. Delegate Eric Householder (R-Berkeley) said things that come naturally to him seem to be a bit more difficult in this setting.
“You have to learn the whole process that goes on here,” Householder said, “I’ve never had a problem speaking with people, but my first day I felt like a fish out of water.”
The inspiration behind each lawmaker’s involvement differs. Some are spurred by hope, others by willpower and tradition. No matter the reason, the general consensus is the goal to make West Virginia the best it can be for all its residents.
Senator David Nohe (R-Wood) said his aspirations of being a lawmaker began at an early age and he hoped he would one day be in his position.
“As I watch all these children coming to the Legislature, I was reminded of the time I came here when I was young,” Nohe said. “I remember thinking my goal was to one day hold this very position.”
Delegate Denise Campbell (D-Randolph) said her active involvement in the community drove her passion to join the ranks of lawmakers.
“I’ve always been very active in legislative activities in my community,” Campbell said, “I wanted to make a positive impact and provide a voice to the people who didn’t have one.”
The lawmakers of West Virginia may seem very distant from citizens during the session, but they are members of the communities they represent. Spending 60 days out of the year at the Capitol is not an end to their legislative duties.
Each lawmaker spends a large portion of time attending events and meetings throughout his or her district. A high value of emphasis is placed on the concerns and opinions of their constituency.
Senator Ronald Miller (D-Greenbrier) said even after being around politics for years, he is still appreciative for the level of work.
“Coming into this new situation, the workload I’ve had has been striking,” Miller said, “I begin in the morning and continue working all day and there are a lot of people who do the same.”
Senator Gregory Tucker (D-Nicholas) said it is important to witness the amount of time legislators and staff put in.
“I wish the public could see the dedication these people have, not only the lawmakers, but the staff and every person who helps with the progress of the Legislature,” Tucker said.
While West Virginia has a part-time Legislature in name, the duties and responsibilities of being a legislator are vast and require careful and deliberate consideration year round. Each lawmaker makes a large commitment, balancing public service with life as a regular working citizen in their communities. The lawmakers who fill the Capitol are men and women who have chosen to stand up and fight for every constituent. All carry the optimism and confidence to make the difficult decisions needed to keep West Virginia on the road to prosperity.
