When you are in local government, you are on the ground, and you are looking into the eyes and hearts of the people you are there to serve. It teaches you to listen; it teaches you to be expansive in the people with whom you talk to, and I think that that engagement gives you political judgment.

The quote by Valerie Jarrett emphasizes the importance of being closely connected to the community when serving in local government. She argues that when you are directly engaged with the people you serve, you have a unique opportunity to truly understand their concerns and needs. By being "on the ground" and interacting with people face-to-face, local government officials can develop a deeper sense of empathy and connection, which helps them make more informed and compassionate decisions.

Jarrett also highlights how this direct interaction teaches important qualities such as listening and being open to diverse perspectives. The more expansive a leader is in their conversations and engagements, the better they can understand the full spectrum of issues facing their community. By listening attentively and considering the views of a wide range of individuals, officials can gain the political judgment necessary to make decisions that truly reflect the needs of the people they represent.

The origin of this quote lies in Jarrett’s own experiences in public service, particularly in her roles in local government and as an advisor to President Barack Obama. She has often spoken about the value of personal engagement in politics and how it shapes effective leadership. Having worked closely with communities, she understands that political judgment is not solely about policy but also about the human connections and experiences that inform decision-making.

Ultimately, Jarrett’s words reflect her belief that effective leadership comes from an understanding of the people being served. For her, local government provides the most direct and impactful way to learn about politics, as it allows leaders to develop the listening skills and empathy necessary for making thoughtful and just decisions. Through this direct engagement, leaders are able to cultivate the political judgment that is essential for good governance.