middle ground. Compromise is not a bad word.”
Carmichael says senate members are more willing
to “step back from the politics of the moment.”
He finds this difference invigorating.
An avid reader, Carmichael takes some
inspiration from “Profiles in Courage,” a
compilation of stories outlining heroic traits of
notable figures, written by John F. Kennedy. He
pulled out a well-worn copy from a bookshelf
in his office. “To do the right thing should
be our overwhelming motivation,” he says,
acknowledging that it isn’t always easy.
When asked about his impressions of
the recently completed legislative session,
Carmichael uses adjectives like ‘historic,’
‘unexpected,’ and ‘refreshing.’ Despite the
concerns of some that the new majority would
not be able to pull it off, Carmichael takes great
pride in how smoothly the session ran. “Everyone
did a professional job.” He repeatedly praised
staffers for the long hours they worked, starting
immediately after the November elections, to
help lay the groundwork and get things organized
so leadership could hit the ground running.
Although stories surfaced in the media regarding
the “radical agenda” put forth by the Republicans,
Carmichael strongly disagreed. “We’re now in
line with the surrounding states. Our laws are
more just and equitable. If you’re critical of what
we’ve done, then you are defending the status
quo.” That status quo, he points out, saw West
Virginia dead last in most categories. “It’s time
for a change.”
Carmichael says there’s a lot left to do.
Believing that people do best when left alone, he
states it’s not government’s role to create jobs,
but rather to create the climate that allows for the
creation of jobs by others. He would like to see
campaign finance reform, allowing more people
to run for office. “Right now, you have to be a
millionaire,” he says.
The senator also has high praise for Farm
Bureau. “West Virginia Farm Bureau has been
an incredibly stabilizing force for the political
process, promoting things that are good for all
West Virginians, not just farmers. Their policies
have been level-headed and thoughtful.”
In his spare time, Carmichael keeps in shape by
running, biking and spending time outdoors. He
is active in his church, and serves on the board
of Jackson General Hospital. But it’s clear he
has a great passion for helping to steer the future
of the Mountain State. “This is a cause greater
than self.”
West Virginia Farm Bureau News 11