Lead with Honesty

Telling the Truth Shouldn’t Be Brave

I remember the first time I stood behind a pulpit as a pastor. I was nervous. Not because I didn’t know what to say—but because I knew I had to say something true. That’s what preaching is. It’s not just giving people what they want to hear. It’s telling the truth, even when it’s hard.

That same idea should guide our politics.

But too often, it doesn’t.

Too many politicians today are more interested in keeping power than serving people. They spin the truth. They say what polls tell them to say. They protect their donors instead of their neighbors. And somewhere along the way, they forget who they’re supposed to work for.

I’m running for Congress because I believe honesty still matters. Leaders should tell the truth. They should admit when they’re wrong. And they should always, always put people ahead of power or profit.

Now, I know that sounds simple. But it’s rare these days. And I’ve seen it up close.

In 2018, I ran for Congress as an independent Republican. I didn’t win, but I heard from so many people who were hungry for something different. Not just a different party. A different kind of politics. One built on integrity.

Since then, I’ve worked with candidates all over the country—Democrats, independents, even a few Republicans—who are trying to lead with honesty. I’ve seen what happens when leaders really listen, when they make decisions based on values, not headlines. It changes everything.

Here’s what I believe:

• Public service is a sacred trust. It’s not about climbing a ladder or landing on TV. It’s about representing people with honesty and humility.

• We need transparency, not backroom deals. That means clear rules about money in politics and real consequences for breaking them.

• And we need to stop rewarding outrage and lies and start lifting up leaders who act with courage and character.

Some folks will say this is naïve. That honesty doesn’t win elections. But I don’t buy it. I believe people are tired of being lied to. They’re tired of leaders who act like politics is a game. They want someone who will speak plainly, take responsibility, and work for the common good.

When I talk with voters in Arkansas, I don’t pretend to have all the answers. But I promise to tell the truth. Even when it’s complicated. Even when it costs me something. Because that’s the only way to build trust. And without trust, democracy falls apart.

As a person of faith, I believe truth-telling is holy work. I believe humility is strength. And I believe that leadership should always start with listening.

So no, telling the truth shouldn’t have to be brave. But in today’s politics, maybe it is. And maybe that’s exactly the kind of courage we need.