This article originally appeared here, at fairfaxtimes.com
As an immigrant who came to this country seeking safety, opportunity, and a better future for my family, I don’t take words like “freedom” and “rule of law” lightly. These aren’t just slogans to me. They are lived experiences. So, when I see a candidate who not only talks about these values but has spent his life defending them, I pay attention. That’s why I believe Stewart Whitson is someone immigrants like me can trust.
Stewart’s story is grounded in service. He’s a U.S. Army combat veteran who led over 300 missions in Iraq and helped rescue an American hostage. That kind of courage doesn’t come from ambition. It comes from principle. After his military service, he went on to serve as an FBI Special Agent, taking on major cases and working to keep our communities safe. He understands what is at stake, not just for long-time citizens but for new Americans trying to find their place here.
Today, Stewart works to help shape federal policy and ensure that our government is more accountable to its citizens on Capitol Hill. He is not about grandstanding. He is about getting things done. He has testified before Congress, worked with lawmakers across the aisle, and focused on making government more accountable and accessible. For legal immigrants, that kind of leadership matters. We don’t need more broken promises. We need someone who will cut through red tape, protect our rights, and make it easier for us to contribute to this country without being buried under bureaucracy.
What makes Stewart stand out to me even more is his character. He’s a husband, a father of five, and a man of faith who’s deeply involved in his community. He gets what it means to raise a family in today’s America. That’s what connects him to so many of us who came here from other countries, hoping for the same things.
Stewart believes in legal immigration. He believes it should be fair, secure, and efficient. He believes new Americans should be welcomed and supported and not pushed into the shadows. He sees immigrants not as a talking point, but as people, workers, parents, students, small business owners and contributors.
In times like these, when so many of us feel caught between political extremes, it’s refreshing to see someone like Stewart who’s grounded, principled, and solutions oriented. He’s not playing politics instead he is offering principled leadership.
I believe Stewart Whitson will fight for all Americans, including those of us who chose America as our home. He’s earned my respect and my support and my vote.