Nearly everyone in and around politics has a story about who or what got them involved. Perhaps it was working on a campaign, on Capitol Hill, or at a state capitol. No matter where it was, it usually involves someone giving a young person an opportunity that changes the trajectory of their life. In fact, one of the better pieces of advice for young people is the importance of identifying role models, getting to know them, and soaking up as much knowledge from them as possible. And you should never forget those who gave you that break.
One of the greatest privileges of my life was to meet, work for, and become longtime friends with Bennett Johnston. Hailing from my hometown of Shreveport, Louisiana, Johnston served in the Senate for just over four terms (1972-1997). He passed away last Tuesday morning at age 92.
As a second-semester senior and debater in high school, I was recruited early on to help out on his first campaign for the U.S. Senate in 1972. My job, after school, on weekends, and the following
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