Why Nurses Belong in the State House
What makes someone an effective elected official? At its core, public service requires listening, problem-solving, ethical responsibility, and the willingness to adapt when something isn’t working. These are not abstract ideals – they are the daily practice of nursing.
That’s why nurses will excel in elected office.
At the foundation of nursing practice is a framework known as ADPIE: assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. It’s not enough to act – we must measure whether our actions are working. And if they’re not, we adjust. We try again. We improve.
Imagine what governance could look like if that same mindset guided public policy. Too often, legislation is passed and left untouched, even when it no longer serves the people it was meant to help. Nurses are trained to ask: Is this working? If not, why? And what can we do differently? Evaluation is not optional in nursing – it is essential. It should be essential in government, too.
Nursing is also grounded in ethics. We treat every patient, regardless of background, belief, or circumstance. We meet people where they are, and we advocate for their needs – even when it’s difficult. As an elected official, that same ethical obligation translates into representing every voice in the community.
In Hinesburg, that means listening to neighbors, showing up in conversations, and bringing those perspectives into every discussion – whether in committee rooms, in hallway conversations, or even over lunch with colleagues. Representation isn’t just about casting votes; it’s about carrying your community with you into every space where decisions are made.
Communication is another cornerstone of nursing. In healthcare, jargon can create barriers – but clear, honest communication builds trust. (See article: Nurses Ranked Most Trusted Profession for 24th Consecutive Year) As nurses, we learn how to explain complex issues in ways that people can actually understand. More importantly, we learn to listen.
Often, what’s left unsaid tells us just as much as what is spoken. A pause, a hesitation, a change in tone – these are clues that guide our understanding. In public service, those same skills are invaluable. When we prioritize listening over talking, we gain the insight needed to make thoughtful, informed decisions.
Nurses are also known for their work ethic. There’s a reason people say, “If you need something done, find a nurse.” We are trained to be efficient, resourceful, and persistent. When we don’t have the answer, we don’t stop there. “No” is rarely the end of the conversation. Instead, we ask: Who can help? What resources exist? How can we make this work?
We don’t claim to have all the answers – but we are relentless in finding them. That’s exactly the kind of approach we need in government: leaders who roll up their sleeves, collaborate, and keep working until solutions are found.
And finally, compassion.
As a nurse, I meet people on some of the worst days of their lives – moments of fear, pain, and uncertainty. Those experiences change you. They deepen your understanding of what people go through and what they need from the systems meant to support them.
Compassion in leadership is not weakness – it is strength. It ensures that policies are not just efficient, but humane. That decisions consider not only outcomes, but the lived experiences of the people affected.
Nurses bring a unique combination of practical problem-solving, ethical grounding, clear communication, tireless work ethic, and deep compassion. These are not just professional skills – they are the building blocks of effective, responsive government.
If we want leaders who listen, adapt, and truly serve their communities, we should be electing more nurses.
This op-ed was also published in The Hinesburg Record.