Introduction
The nursing profession in the United States is one that people have the most faith in. Nurses tirelessly work to diagnose and care for the needs of not only the sick, but also the broader community. The nursing profession requires compassion and a desire to care for people. Nurses are often held accountable, and, like elected officials, they have an obligation to care for patients. Thus, having nurses run for and hold elected offices can only enhance and improve the nursing profession, ultimately benefiting patient care in the long term.
Characteristics Needed
Elective offices require one to possess qualifications that include higher education, integrity, and a desire to serve. Running a winning campaign requires the candidate to consider what it will take to win the race (Pitsker, 2019). As a profession bound by moral and ethical mandates, nurses can be formidable allies in politics in the fight for social justice and health equity (Weitzel et al., 2020).
Since nurses possess a natural quality to lead others, they can provide and take an active role in developing policies that benefit the communities that elect them into office. Janusz (2021) found in his research that elected officials do not routinely reflect the diversity of the citizenry. This is a significant point and a compelling reason to encourage nurses to run for elective office.
Nursing Professionals in Congress
Several nursing professionals have successfully run for office in the United States. A nurse currently serving in the 118th Congress is Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (IL-14) (Nurses Serving in Congress, 2017). She was sworn in as United States Representative for Illinois’ 14th Congressional District. One of the first pieces of legislation she sponsored and that was passed focused on patient protection. This proves that having nurses running for office is beneficial not only to the nursing profession but also to society as a whole, since they pass legislation that focuses on healthcare.
Conclusion
Ultimately, nurses who decide to run for elective office should be encouraged to do so. Having experienced leaders who understand how the healthcare system operates will be valuable when advocating for or against legislation that impacts both the healthcare system and its workers. With the compassion that nurses possess, it is ideal to have them as leaders and at the forefront of overseeing the healthcare system in the United States.
References
Janusz, A. (2021). Race and resources in Brazilian mayoral elections. Political Research Quarterly, 75(3), 846–859.
Nurses serving in Congress. ANA. (2017).
Pitsker, K. (2019, November 26). How to run for Local Office. Kiplinger.com.
Underwood sworn into 118th Congress for Third Term. Representative Lauren Underwood. (2023).
Weitzel, J., Luebke, J., Wesp, L., Graf, M. D., Ruiz, A., Dressel, A., & Mkandawire-Valhmu, L. (2020). The role of nurses as allies against racism and discrimination. Advances in Nursing Science, 43(2), 102–113.