What is the true measure of a man or woman? What makes a person someone others can look up to and esteem? In a word: character.

Character is honesty, integrity and courage, and has been defined simply as the person you are when no one else is watching. Anyone can fake integrity or courage for a short time in front of a crowd, but that is not the true measure of their character. The true test is the kind of person they are behind closed doors, out of the limelight, when their paycheck is not on the line. Essentially, the true test is the kind of person they are at home.

My dad is running for state Senate in District 27. I am the oldest of 12 kids, and with that many people in one house, there is almost always someone watching. I have formed my opinion of my dad’s character over the course of almost 30 years, and anyone who knows me well knows that I am not a yes woman who allows someone else to put their opinion in my mouth. I don’t say what I do about my dad because someone asked or told me to; I say it because it’s true.

My dad is a man of incredible character. He treats people with honor and respect, regardless of any differences between them. He does a job with excellence, utilizing his skills and work ethic to do the best job possible. He is up-front and honest with people, and is careful to stand by his word no matter what. He doesn’t try to be someone he’s not, nor does he hide behind cleverly-worded jargon. He genuinely cares about people and puts the needs of others ahead of his own. I have watched him selflessly serve my family for three decades, sacrificing his time, energy and talents for the sake of others. He is truly kind and gentle in his interactions with people  — which is why he has been able to successfully navigate life with a wife and eight daughters! My dad is the one who taught me to love and defend my country. He is the one who ignited a passion within me for history and politics. I respect my dad and look up to him because he is a true man of character behind the scenes.

As a state senator, my dad’s passion for politics and care for people will combine to make him a stellar representative. He will make decisions based on how it affects the people of his district, not based on personal preference or political posturing. He will make himself accountable to the people he represents, and truly do the best job he possibly can for the men and women for whom he is privileged to speak.

I am proud to say that Gene Dornink is my dad, and I am proud to be able to vote for a man of such character in an election year that is sorely lacking it.

Melody Dornink

Hayfield