Two recent editorials from Minot Daily News indicate that the editors are keeping a close watch on what goes on in the nation’s capitol. 

The newspaper published one editorial on November 22 questioning whether or not we will really see change in the next few years or just a change in who holds position and power.  The end of the editorial:

Are we in for more “change,” as in merely different from what we have now but not necessarily new, or are we in store for “change” as in charting a new course for America?

Hmm.

And we wonder why markets teeter.

After linking national politics to money troubles, Minot Daily News followed up with an editorial on November 24 that addressed our national debt.  Apparently our national debt has doubled in the last eight years and now sits at $10.660 trillion.  The newspaper asks what the cost of change as suggested by the president-elect will be.

With these two editorials, Minot Daily News emphasized the fact that national politics is really about money and who spends it.  They brought to mind the difference between the national scene and the relatively healthy economy North Dakotans enjoy right now. 

Although the recent financial trends are making their way to ND in some industries, by and large North Dakota has a healthy economy and seems to trust state legislators to be wise stewards of our surplus money.  State leaders focus on building our economy on all levels, including the energy industry, tourism, manufacturing, and information technology as well as agriculture.  Our exports are increasing, and I believe that trend will continue.

With the two situations in mind, I have wondered why we don’t elect someone from North Dakota to lead the country.  With a few exceptions, we have great people serving in all levels of public office.  They lead with deliberate consideration and common sense–not just charisma, although they seem to have that as well. 

I would love to see that situation in Minot Daily News editorials.