Ask Toby

Have a question for Toby? He would love to hear it. Email Toby at toby@tobybarker.com and he'll get back in touch with you.

Q: If you are elected what will be your #1 goal and how will you meet that goal?

A: Thanks for that question. To simplify everything you want to do into one goal is a little difficult, but I'll give it a go.

I think the most important task for a legislator is to immediately establish the kind of work ethic and character he will put into his job as representative for his district. My first goal would be to instill confidence in my constituents that I will provide honest representation that is grounded in hard work and integrity, as well as letting them know that I am willing to be held accountable to that standard at all times.

Showing up for meetings, being on time, not missing votes and actually reading the bills are things often seen as "no brainers" to constituents. However, other parts of the state can attest that a legislator does not always meet this simple criteria.

Any new senator/representative, no matter how old they are, will always start at the bottom of the totem poll. However, experience, both quantitative and qualitative, can help that person gain influence quickly. Being known to fellow legislators as someone who gets his work done, analyzes things critically and is grounded in common sense gains a legislator credibility. Being easily accessible to constituents and voting with his district's needs and wishes instills confidence with those constituents.

That's the kind of representative I'll be. I'll provide decent and honest leadership. I'll be grounded in common sense, not merely 30-second stump speeches. I'll return your call- and your email. Gaining that kind of reputation would be first priority.

Q: What made you interested in getting into politics so early?

A: Thanks for that question.

If you’ve ever spoken to me about why I chose economic development as a career field, you probably heard part of this. I want to be involved in bettering the quality of life for people. This is what drives me. And, when this opportunity presented itself about four months ago, the question was whether or not politics was the best means in which to do so.

I decided the best avenue for me to serve those around me and accelerate the development of our state and its people was the office of state representative. It wasn’t that I was so much interested into getting into politics as a candidate. Rather, it was the potential for change in economic development and education, coupled with the possibility of a different kind of politics that drew me into running for the legislature.

Add to that the steady complaints and words of discontent from friends and neighbors concerning our state’s political process, and suddenly I’m even more motivated to represent Hattiesburg in the House of Representatives. My enthusiasm about the possibilities for our city and region is evident when I speak to people at neighborhood gatherings and out on the street. I’m looking forward to an exciting, grassroots effort that will translate into real momentum when the next legislative session begins.