Recently, GPR editors Onica Matsika and Stephanie Talmadge had the pleasure of attending a meet and greet with Congressman Jack Kingston (GA-1).
The room in UGA’s Caldwell Hall filled quickly as students from all walks of campus anticipated a visit from Congressman Jack Kingston. As a UGA graduate, students were eager to ask the veteran Savannah legislator questions about political topics ranging from Georgia agriculture reform and tax codes to the changing face of American conservatism.
Congressman Kingston, who has been a representative for Georgia’s District 1 for almost 20 years, began his lecture with a brief introduction as to what the life of a congressman entails. He analyzed his job from three perspectives, the first of which is the Washington aspect, legislating and working on committees. However, he spent more time outlining his other roles as a public relations officer and a “resource of last resort” for those who encounter problems with the federal government, work which includes assisting constituents who were stuck in Haiti after the 2010 earthquake and aiding two south Georgia girls home from South Korea.
He devoted extra time to explaining the public relations aspect of his job. Most of the time away from his D.C. office is spent talking to his constituents and assessing their priorities and concerns. Kingston describes running for office as a job interview – a very expensive one at that. Today, a congressional campaign costs upwards of one million dollars. “If I stay true to my principles, you don’t have to guess how I’ll vote”. He also noted the importance of giving voters quick, truthful, and straight answers. “When you elect me, you’re electing my stances, my religious beliefs, and even my family”. Consequently, he does not feel a need to dodge one way or another when it comes to direct questions.
When asked about how he selects his committees, Kingston provided his clear plan. A congressman “should pick one committee that his constituents have to have, one that will help him move up the ladder, and one that simply interests him.” Kingston currently serves as a member of the Subcommittee on Defense and Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies and Chairman of the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies.
The congressman also explained his conservative stance, which relies heavily on his belief of “transparent markets with the rule of law behind them.” He used an example from Afghanistan to illustrate a point on excessive government involvement. Given the choice to wear burkas, most Afghani women still choose to sport the traditional Muslim garment; they just simply did not want the government forcing them to do so. “We need less government and more personal freedom”, he said “not a nanny state government from cradle to grave”. Kingston also emphasized his skepticism of big business and advocated entrepreneurship. “I would love if all of you could own your own business one day”.
When asked what politically minded students should be doing with their time at the University, Kingston encouraged the room to get to know their representatives, attend town hall meetings, and participate in University sponsored internships and study abroad programs (all the while highlighting the many opportunities UGA has to offer). While at UGA, Kingston stated he was a proud member of International Club, Greek life, Demosthenian Literary Society and College Republicans. He jokingly added that not all Political Science majors have to condemn themselves to a post-grad law school education.
Since his graduation from the University, Congressman Kingston said he does not feel that he has become more conservative, but rather he has developed a better worldview than the one he possessed during his college days. “The views that I have has been tested”. He highlighted the importance of being engaged in world events and not being too distracted by our domestic policies.
There was a hint of celebrity in meeting the Congressman. He used Southern colloquialisms and put forth a comfortable demeanor while retaining the authority his years of service have earned him. It is this balance of personability and professionalism that all voters seek in their representatives. Kingston represents a successful Congressman, one who can remain true to their principles yet win the respect of a wide audience – perhaps more importantly, their vote.
Special thanks to the brothers of BYX fraternity for their kindness.
