Why I’m Running

Since announcing my candidacy, I’ve had the opportunity to travel across Tennessee’s
6th District, and every stop has been a reminder of why I’m in this race: to listen, to
learn, and to lead with the kind of integrity that’s sorely missing in today’s politics.

Showing Up for Our Communities

On April 12th, I joined an Adopt-a-Highway cleanup along Main Street in Smithville. It
was 7 a.m. on a Saturday, and yet a group of folks had shown up, sleeves rolled up,
ready to improve their community. That kind of quiet, determined effort says more than
any speech ever could. These weren’t paid staffers or political operatives, they were
everyday Tennesseans who care deeply about their town. I was honored to stand alongside
them.

What I’m Learning on the Road

One of the most powerful lessons I’ve learned so far is this: we are far more alike
than we are different. I’ve spoken with people across the political spectrum, from
hardline conservatives to lifelong Democrats, and the common ground is wider than
we’re led to believe. We all want clean water, good schools, safe communities, and
honest leadership. The more people I meet, the more convinced I am that the real divide
in this country isn’t left vs. right, it’s the people vs. the powerful few who keep us
fighting while they profit.

Building the Campaign

Getting this campaign off the ground hasn’t been easy. Opening a bank account, getting
approved by ActBlue, and finally seeing those first donations roll in; it was a
process. I’ve wrestled with the whole idea of fundraising. I’d much rather run this
campaign on a barter system, trading time, skills, and energy. However, the current
system doesn’t allow it. So while I still believe your time is worth more than your
money, I’ve come to accept that funding is a necessary piece of the puzzle. This
campaign doesn’t operate in a vacuum, it needs gas in the tank. I am so very humbled by
everyone’s generosity and support.

Redefining Leadership

What’s surprised me most is that people believe in this thing, I haven’t been laughed
out of the room once. In fact, my Aunt Sara told me, “I can definitely see you as a
politician.” I thanked her, then half-joked, “Is that an insult?” The word “politician”
doesn’t exactly inspire trust these days. It conjures images of backroom deals and
broken promises. I’m not here to be that guy. I’m here to change what that word means,
one honest conversation at a time.

What’s Ahead

Looking ahead, I’ll be attending The Loyal Opposition fundraiser on May 7th, a chance
to build more connections and keep this momentum going. Then from May 15–18, I’ll be
stepping away to participate in a Mission Flexible cohort. They are an amazing
non-profit organization that offers a cohort of former public servants reimagining
leadership in the wake of disruption. It’s a chance to recharge, reflect, and connect
with others who know what it means to serve.

An Open Invitation

After that, I’m wide open. If you’re in TN6 and want to host a town hall, let’s do it. I
don’t care if it’s five people in a diner or a hundred in a rec hall; I’ll be there.

We’re building something real here. Thanks for walking with me.

– Mike Croley Candidate for U.S. Congress, TN-6