Cindy Ledbetter

Cindy Ledbetter lives in Newburgh, Indiana. Ledbetter earned an associate degree from Ivy Tech Community College, a B.S. in nursing from the University of Southern Indiana, and M.S. in nursing from the University of Southern Indiana in 2013. Her career experience includes working as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, director of nursing, a supervisor in home health long term care, a retail manager, and owning a business. She has been a member of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association, the Coalition of Advanced Practice Nurses, the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 44, Deaconess Women's Hospital Perinatal Ethics Committee, and the SWIRCA.[1][2]

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

The number one question people ask me is "Why are you running for office?" I am running for office because I want to be a voice for the people, most specifically the middle class. I currently work as a psychiatric nurse practitioner and was elected to the Warrick County Council in November of 2018. I have owned and operated a small manufacturing firm and a restaurant. I have also worked in retail management and have managed both for profit and not for profit organizations. I am married my husband is a retired pipe-fitter and is a member of the Plumbers and Steam Fitters local 136. We have four adult children, one is a nurse, one a school teacher, one works in IT and one in the food service industry. We are a middle class family. My campaign focuses on four issues 1) Workforce/Economic Development 2) Energy 3) Agriculture 4) Mental Health. I am a fiscal conservative, who supports the building trades. I do not agree with everything the Unions represent but I do believe they are one of the reasons that America has such a strong middle class. One of my goals as a politician would be to get the unions to meet with the Republicans in an effort to work towards a deal one that supports a healthy competitive wage for Americans without hurting the small business owner. I am pro-life and pro-second amendment and I would appreciate your support in the 2022 Indiana primary.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

I truly want to be a voice for the people, most specifically the middle class.I will stand firm in protecting life and our second amendment rightsWe have to take steps in Indiana to improve our workforce which not only includes blue collar workers but also educators and mental health professionals

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Work force and economic development, Energy, Agriculture and Mental Health

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

Ronald Reagan - The United States economy was boosted by his supply side economic policies as well as his tax cuts and reduction in government. Privatization and greater competition led to lower prices as well as improvements in efficiency and quality of services. He reduced inflation , as well as unemployment. He appointed judges to federal courts who respected the U.S. Constitution . He was humble, frank and he restored American optimism and faith in the presidency.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

"The Righteous Mind: Why good people are divided by politics and religion" I am not sure that this book reflects my political philosophy but the author Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist does a very good job exploring the origins of our political divisions and points the way forward to mutual understanding.

Haidt shows what each side is right about, and why we need the insights of liberals, conservatives, and libertarians to flourish as a nation.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Important characteristics or integrity, dependability and responsiveness. Responding to constituents' requests for information, ensuring that citizens, as well as groups, have access to members, as well as the legislative process in imperative. The legislature also has a responsibility to educate the citizenry. Citizens must have a sense of what representative democracy entails if they are to participate and advocate responsibly. It is up to the legislature to provide them with that sense.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

Qualities would include organizational skills, integrity, and a willingness to listen to and respond to my constituents. I am very diligent in my work. My background in leadership and well as healthcare has provided me with the ability to be objective in all matters. The way I define being objective is by removing emotion or personal bias from the thought process in an effort to make an educated informed decision that results in the best possible outcome, even if I am not in favor of a proposition I am willing to work towards the best outcome for the matter at hand.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

I believe the core responsibilities of someone elected to this office are maintaining a balance of power, responding to and representing constituents, and making laws in an effort to meet the needs of the constituency.

What legacy would you like to leave?

The legacy that I would like to leave would be one of integrity I do not particularly care for the "politician" , and would rather have a legacy of being known as a "Statesman"

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

The first historical event I recall was the assassination of John Kennedy. Even though I was born after the event it was on the TV much of the time. The first historical event that I remember in my lifetime was the explosion of the US space shuttle, The Challenger. I was watching the event on TV when it happened that day.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My very first job beyone childcare was working as a carhop for Sonic Drive In. I worked for Sonic over the years, moving into co-ownership in my early twenties. I left the restaurant industry in my middle thirties.

What is your favorite book? Why?

The Road Less Traveled by M. Scott Peck ( a psychiatrist) in the book he melds love, science, and religion into a primer on personal growth providing a description of the attributes that make for a fulfilled human being.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

He is not fictional but historical. Ben Franklin, He was a cartoon character when I was younger as I remember them showing him flying a kite and discovering electricity. He also invented bifocals, the odometer and lightning rods. He was very down to earth and focused on common sense

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

I realize that in a public role one opens themselves to criticism. My struggle lies in not becoming a politician as it is much simpler to give the people the political answer, as the political answer lessens the struggle. I am choosing to educate my constituency and have a diverse conversation and therein lies the struggle. Tension and noise get headlines, not diverse conversation.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

It is important to have regular communication in an effort to build a solid working relationship between the legislature and the governor. With the rules of engagement clearly defined even in disagreement, discussing measures maintains a good working relationship. Good communication can minimize misunderstandings regarding motives and goals; Integrity only improves upon this relationship.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

An issue we can work to resolve at a state level will be to increase our workforce. Governor Holcomb's Workforce Agenda is a step in the right direction, and the state is moving forward but there will always be a need for reevaluation, planning, and development.

A larger issue that I am unsure of how we can address as a state legislature is the overbearing burden of federal regulations on the fossil fuel industry. And the new woke Environmental Social Governance among businesses. Our country cannot run on wind and solar power, it is not possible. The poor and elderly will not be able to survive the cost, the middle class will slowly be destroyed and our country will continue to consume more and more fossil fuel as the energy demands will require it. These federal regulations lack common sense and are in my opinion immoral. The emotional, financial and physical price that citizens will face for these far-fetched green policies will be insurmountable.

What are the benefits and drawbacks of a unicameral state legislature, in your opinion?

I am not sure there are any benefits for the people as it relates to a unicameral state legislature. As the state legislature represents both the people and corporations, I would think the only thing keeping the state from being tyrannical with a unicameral legislature would be the two-party system.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

Well, I believe it may be beneficial, but I do not believe that it is necessary or should be a requirement. I think what is most important in the representation of a people is a variety of backgrounds and experiences as this provides diversity as it relates to insight and perspective. Diverse perspectives and positions on issues are necessary when deciding on legislation for such a large number of people.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

As part of its representational function, it is beneficial that the legislator to build relationships with one another if the legislature is to perform its lawmaking function well. This necessitates an exchange of information and ideas. While deliberation involves the exchange of ideas, building consensus involves a more material exchange. It depends on the willingness of opposing sides to sit down at a table together and negotiate their differences. Generally, that means dealing, trading, and compromising, so that as many participants as possible are able to come to an agreement.

What process do you favor for redistricting?

In Indiana the General Assembly are constitutionally required to redraw the state's federal and state legislative districts following the nationwide census, I favor this process as the legislatures are the elected body and were chosen by the people of the state to represent them.

If you are a current legislator, what appealed to you about your current committees?

My current committee assignments are Family and Children Services and Agriculture. The speaker of the house determines these committee assignments. Based on my background and childhood I understand why the speaker chose for me to sit on the committee for family and children. I grew up using social and government services. I have been on my own since the age of 15 and at one point I was homeless. Government services have given me a hand up and allowed me to improve my outcome. I am proud to serve on Family and Children as I enjoy the opportunity to provide services that continue to offer a hand up to those who have less fortunate circumstances.

I was initially unsure of my role on the agriculture committee but I then realized had already built relationships with many of those members and I have learned so much from being involved with the agriculture committee. Agriculture is very important to my district and our state. I am proud to represent our agricultural community.

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

I choose not to "model" myself after anyone. I do hold certain principles as a standard for legislation such as integrity, and fiscal conservatism, but I think this should be done within my individual skillset related to my knowledge and experience as pertains to current matters. History is an example and an educator that must be applied when making consideration on current matters, but we as a people, a state, a country are ever-changing and evolving.

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

N/A

Both sitting legislators and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

I think that I have an impactful story. Growing up in a dysfunctional family, my mother left when I was 15, I became pregnant and dropped out of high school. It took me several years to work to overcome generational poverty. I put myself through college as a young adult, and currently work as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, now I am a member of the Indiana General Assembly. I hope this is an impactful story and it will allow others who are facing similar circumstances to realize they can overcome them.

Should the legislature oversee or grant the use of emergency powers?

I think the governor should have the ability to enact emergency powers as needed. With that being stated I think the legislature has in role in ensuring a balance of those powers. We always need to have checks and balances, the legislature should be able to visit the cause of an emergency order and vote for any adjustments necessary.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

Yes. Especially in today's political environment, if we did not compromise we would not be able to have any progress in the legislature. It is my job as a legislator to In order to represent diverse constituencies, various interests, and differing values, and it is the role of a legislator to engage in conflict, build consensus and achieve settlements. You cannot do that without compromise. Those in politics who are unwilling to compromise may sell a good campaign, but they will not be a good legislator beyond their uncompromising vote. To be clear, there are areas one should compromise and there are areas that there should be no compromise.

To provide an example, Indiana is a pro-life state, but abortion is legal at a federal level. In Indiana, we have done as much as we can to protect the life within our legal ability. There are pro-life groups that will attack this statement stating one should not compromise when it comes to the life of the unborn. I will not compromise on this stance, but as a legislature, I also understand I cannot write a law to change this as it will not be upheld in a court of law. So I vote pro-life on every bill that protects life, but I compromise in that I understand I cannot author legislation that goes against federal law.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

The number one question people ask me is "Why are you running for office?" I am running for office because I want to be a voice for the people, most specifically the middle class. I currently work as a psychiatric nurse practitioner and was elected to the Warrick County Council in November of 2018. I have owned and operated a small manufacturing firm and a restaurant. I have also worked in retail management and have managed both for profit and not for profit organizations. I am married my husband is a retired pipe-fitter and is a member of the Plumbers and Steam Fitters local 136. We have four adult children, one is a nurse, one a school teacher, one works in IT and one in the food service industry. We are a middle class family. My campaign focuses on four issues 1) Workforce/Economic Development 2) Education 3) Agriculture 4) Mental Health. I am a fiscal conservative, who supports the building trades. I do not agree with everything the Unions represent but I do believe they are one of the reasons that America has such a strong middle class. One of my goals as a politician would be to get the unions to meet with the Republicans in an effort to work towards a deal one that supports a healthy competitive wage for Americans without hurting the small business owner. I am pro-life and pro-second amendment and I would appreciate your support in the 2020 Indiana primary.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

I truly want to be a voice for the people, most specifically the middle class I will stand firm in protecting life and our second amendment rightsWe have to take steps in Indiana to improve our workforce which not only includes blue collar workers but also educators and mental health professionals

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Work force and economic development, Education, Agriculture and Mental Health

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

The United States economy was boosted by his supply side economic policies as well as his tax cuts and reduction in government. Privatization and greater competition led to lower prices as well as improvements in efficiency and quality of services. He reduced inflation , as well as unemployment. He appointed judges to federal courts who respected the U.S. Constitution . He was humble, frank and he restored American optimism and faith in the presidency.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

"The Righteous Mind : Why good people are divided by politics and religion" I am not sure that this book reflects my political philosophy but the author Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist does a very good job exploring the origins of our political divisions and points the way forward to mutual understanding.

Haidt shows what each side is right about, and why we need the insights of liberals, conservatives, and libertarians to flourish as a nation.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Important characteristics or integrity, dependability and responsiveness. Responding to constituents' requests for information, ensuring that citizens, as well as groups, have access to members, as well as the legislative process in imperative. The legislature also has a responsibility to educate the citizenry. Citizens must have a sense of what representative democracy entails if they are to participate and advocate responsibly. It is up to the legislature to provide them with that sense.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

Qualities would include organizational skills, integrity and a willingness to listen to and respond to my constituents. I am very diligent in my work. My background in in leadership and well as healthcare has provided me with the ability to be objective in all matters. The way I define being objective is by removing emotion or personal bias from thought process in an effort to make an educated informed decision which results in the best possible outcome, even if I am not in favor of a proposition I am willing to work towards the best outcome for the matter at hand.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

I believe the core responsibility for someone elected to this office are maintaining a balance of power, responding to and representing constituents and making law in an effort to meet the needs of the constituency.

What legacy would you like to leave?

The legacy that I would like to leave would be one of integrity I do not particularly care for the "politician" , and would rather have a legacy of being known as a "Statesman"

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

1976 Bicentennial, I remember all of the festivities and the celebration. I was 10 years old.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

Working for Sonic Drive In as a carhop, I later became a manger and then a co-owner. I worked for Sonic Drive in for about 10 years.

What is your favorite book? Why?

The Road Less Traveled by M. Scott Peck ( a psychiatrist) in the book he melds love, science, and religion into a primer on personal growth providing a description of the attributes that make for a fulfilled human being.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

He is not fictional but historical. Ben Franklin, He was a cartoon character when I was younger as I remember them showing him flying a kite and discovering electricity. He also invented bifocals, the odometer and lightning rods. He was very down to earth and focused on common sense

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Sweet Caroline, Neil Diamond made a new version in light of the COVID-19 pandemic which I recently saw on social media.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

I grew up very poor, I have been on my own since the age of 15. I have a history of being homeless. I have used government services such as food stamps, pell grants, grants that paid for my childcare while I was a single parent in college and grants that even allowed for me to purchase my first home as a single parent. It was a struggle in that I worked very hard to change my life circumstances. I am thankful that at this point in my life I am now able to give back. Being able to combine my personal experience with my business and political background provides a unique insight as it relates to matters of legislation.

Every state besides Nebraska has two legislative chambers. What do you consider the most important differences between the legislative chambers in your state?

The Senate can contain no more than fifty members, and the senators serve for a term of four years. . The House of Representatives can contain no more than one hundred members, and the representatives serve terms of two years. A State Senator represents almost twice as many people as the State Representative.

Each house can initiate legislation, with the exception that the Senate is not permitted to initiate legislation that will affect revenue. The Lieutenant Governor presides over the Senate while it is in session and the Speaker of House s is the highest official in the House of Representatives.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

Well I believe it may be beneficial, I do not believe that is is necessary or should be a requirement. I think what is most important in representation of a people is a variety of backgrounds and experience as this provides diversity as it relates to insight and perspective. Diverse perspectives and positions on issues is necessary when deciding legislation for such a large number of people.

What do you perceive to be your state’s greatest challenges over the next decade?

I think our states greatest challenge over the next decade will be to increase our workforce. Governor Holcomb's Workforce Agenda is a step in the right direction, and the state is moving forward but there will always be need for reevaluation, planning and development.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature?

It is important to have regular communication in an effort to build a solid working relationship between the legislature and the governor. With the rules of engagement clearly defined even in disagreement, discussing measures maintains a good working relationship. Good communication can minimize misunderstandings regarding motives and goals; Integrity only improves upon this relationship .

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

As part of its representational function, it is beneficial that the legislator build relationship with one another if the legislature is to perform its lawmaking function well. This necessitates an exchange of information and ideas. While deliberation involves the exchange of ideas, building consensus involves a more material exchange. It depends on the willingness of opposing sides to sit down at a table together and negotiate their differences. Generally, that means dealing, trading and compromise, so that as many participants as possible are able to come to an agreement.

If you are not a current legislator, are there certain committees that you would want to be a part of?

I am currently not a legislature, I would be very interested in being on the commerce and economic development committee as well as agriculture and rural affairs. Although I do have a background in small business and business administration as it relates to my current experience I would be most suited for Public Health and Local Government.

If you are a current legislator, what appealed to you about your current committees?

NA

If you are not currently a member of your party’s leadership in the legislature, would you be interested in joining the leadership? If so, in what role?

NA

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

I choose not to "model" myself after anyone. I do hold certain principles as a standard for legislation such as integrity, and fiscal conservatism, but I think this should be done within my individual skill set related to my knowledge and experience as pertains to current matters. History is an example and an educator that must be applied when making consideration on current matters, but we as a people, a state, a country are ever changing and evolving.

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

Yes I do have an interest in moving forward politically, at this time I could not provide what office I would place that interest in as I am currently focused on my role as a State Representative.

Both sitting legislators and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

I am very active in working with veterans, I am a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and I also provide mental health services to veterans. Seeing veterans have opportunities for increased access to health care , and benefits as a result of state legislation such as not having to pay state taxes, is touching in that it shows how willing we are to continue to move forward in increasing our services and support for our nation as well as our local veterans.