During this time of crisis and panic for many in our community, it can be hard to remain level headed and lead those who elected you when so many people would like to just bury their head in the sand and get away from it all. Yet, Mr. Jason Crow, the United States representative for Colorado’s sixth congressional district which includes Cherokee Trail, is at the forefront of protecting his community and slowing the spread of this virus throughout Colorado. I caught up with him over the phone on April 9, 2020 in order to stay within the CDC’s social distancing rules and guidelines and had the great opportunity to talk to him about what it’s like to serve the public during such a historical event. 

Q: What is something you would like to say to everyone in your district and community about this time of crisis and panic?

A: “I would say that the most important thing is that we are all in this together, that it can strike anyone at any time. We have a duty to the community to stay home if you can and if not, use as much protection and be as safe as possible.”

Q: What do you think of Governor Polis’, and Coloradans in general, response to this pandemic and the shake up of all social norms?

A: “I’m encouraged by the response in the district and the state in wanting to protect one another. Colorado is special in many ways in that we like to take care of each other, large numbers of people could be carrying the virus and don’t know it. It’s important that we know we have an obligation to one another to prevent the spread of the virus as much as possible especially to those who are at higher risk.”

Q: What would you say to all the high school and college seniors who had big events like their graduation and prom cancelled or altered in some way?

A: “It’s a very challenging time for our country and I would like to extend my sincerities to the seniors who won’t be able to experience something like that where it plays such a big part in a young person’s life. This event is very impactful to everyone regardless of age and gender and we all have a part to play” 

Q: What’s one thing you look forward to after all the social distancing rules and practices have ceased?

A: “Personally, I can’t wait to see everyone in my community again and be able to talk and meet face to face with them safely. I look forward to having dinner out on the patio with friends and family and enjoying that social aspect again.”

Q: What are some things you have been doing while at home with your family and practicing social distancing in order to pass the time?

A: “Well as an elected official, I don’t normally have too much free time and especially now with my two kids at home doing school from there I stay pretty busy. With my wife also having a full time we tend to split the work and take turns working and teaching our kids with their school work as well as continuing to do the work we need to get done. It’s just like many parents who are trying to learn how to balance work life while teaching kids at home. When I do have free time I like to exercise in and try to stay active while having to stay at home and inside.”

Q: What are three words you would use to describe this time in our nation’s history?

A: “I would definitely say challenging, unifying, and, well I can’t quite think of the last one, I definitely have to make it a good one so I’ll have to get back to you on that.”

Q: Anything else you would like to say on the topic of the pandemic and current events?

A: “Well I hope something positive I have seen is that we are all coming together and working together, that’s the silver lining to this difficult time and I hope there is some young folks who are inspired to go into public service or healthcare professions where doctors and nurses are badly needed as we have seen how vital they are to everyone.”