81% OF US APPROVE OF HER


How can a Republican Governor in a highly Democratic State enjoy such a high approval rating? That's right, Governor Jodi Rell has an 81% approval rating based on a poll taken a couple of weeks ago.

It is amazing that she has the confidence of the people that the survey shows she does. It goes against the logic of politics that she would enjoy such a high level of support, but she does. Let's analyze the possible reasons why she is so popular just months away from November election.

First, and most of all, she is trusted. Now, some would say that she is trusted mainly because she contrasts the former Governor and his breach of trust. That would be true in the days following his resignation and her taking the oath of office, but even after almost two years, people still trust her.

Trust is the most important quality in a politician. If people trust you they will be very forgiving for mistakes made by you, or your administration. Trust is the scale whereby everything you do is weighed. If you are trusted you can accomplish great things.

Second, she is a Republican that reaches out to the other side. Our Governor seems to have the ability to build bridges with the Democratic Party. I believe this is true because she views herself as the Leader of the State, not just her Party. She does not look at the Democratic Party as the enemy, but as vital partners in getting things done. So many times we want our leaders in our political party to widen the gap, instead of building bridges. But, nothing ever gets done if we do not reach out to others. Jodi Rell has learned this, as has, Sen. Joe Lieberman

Third, she is genuine. Simply, she is real and has a down home approach to people and her job. I have met her and spoken with her on a few occasions and I have always felt she is authentic. In a world of politicians that seem to be acting, it is refreshing to have a Governor that makes you feel like she is comfortable with herself.

Forth, she has a compassionate heart. Watching her sending off National Guard Troops over seas, you cannot help but notice that the event tugs at her heart. It seems like she is a mother sending her sons and daughters off to battle, and pray's for the day they come home safe.

Fifth, she is courageous. Shortly after her swearing in, she was faced with a life crisis. I remember the news reports saying one word "Cancer". She took this illness on and showed the State of Connecticut her true strength. It did not slow her down. She did not let her trials hinder her mandate to restore the office she held.

Sixth, she is not the average politician. That's right, she does not fit the mold of the common every day politician. Most politicians work to gain votes by pleasing as many people as possible, without offending anyone. This is something that some have made an art of doing. Jodi Rell, approaches her office as a leader in pursuit of what's best for every citizen of Connecticut.

So, there it is. These are the reasons she enjoys an 81% approval rating just months from the election. I predict that she will win the election in November. Not because of the well organized campaign, although it will be. Not, because of the amount of money she raises, and she will raise a good sum of money. But, because we trust her and that is what we need in the Office of Governor.


Greg Stokes