The Final Word.

AuthorChatfield, Lee

Lee Chatfield, 31, is the youngest speaker in Michigan in more than 100 years and is currently the youngest speaker in the country. First elected to the House in 2014, Chatfield was a high school teacher, coach and athletic director. He earned a master's degree in public policy from Liberty University in Lynchburg, Va.

What are the advantages and disadvantages being in a leadership position at a young age?

I don't view age as a hindrance to those in leadership as long as they surround themselves with people who have experience. I do believe, though, that with age and experience there is a potential to become entrenched in your position. I've approached this position with an open mind and a fresh perspective and understanding that I don't have the answers to everything. If there's one thing the people of our country have proven in the past couple of elections, it's that they don't necessarily value experience. They want a fresh perspective and someone who is going to speak their mind willingly and freely. That can happen at any age.

What effect do Michigan's term limits have on your approach to leading?

I do believe I would not be speaker had there not been term limits, and the stringent term limits in Michigan and other states lead to an element of inexperience at the helm. That's why I've surrounded myself with people who challenge me and lead me down the path of experience.

What led you to make government transparency a priority?

I think trust in government is at an all-time low in our country. To restore that trust between the people and government we need to have openness and transparency.

You and your wife have five children. What has parenthood taught you?

My children have taught me that you don't get everything you want. Parenting is all about negotiating, and I take that and implement it in government every day.

What drove you to run for office?

It was partly the lesson I learned from my father that you either put up or shut up. If you're not happy with what's going on in society, then get involved. Our communities or churches or whatever sector you're involved in aren't short of complainers, but...

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