Odessa-Midland’s representative uses technology to reach the masses

U.S. Rep. Mike Conaway doesn't waste any time with archaic methods of communication to interact with citizens. He utilizes the Internet - allowing a voice for the public.

Conaway announced this week that he'll open up and share the historic process of building and writing the Republican Party platform through use of the Internet.

"It's an attempt to allow grassroots participation for building a platform," the Midland Republican said.

Texans can visit the website and submit their proposals for consideration. Each week in August will have a different imminent issue facing the country. This week it's energy.

Participants comments will then be taken to Conaway's colleagues, Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., and Sen. Richard Burr, R-N.C., who will be co-chairing the platform committee, Conaway said.

The Internet was around when Conaway was elected four years ago, but new features have changed the way he does things. He said there are many advantages to using the Internet.

"It helps in how I do my job," he said.

The online forum isn't the only online tool Conaway uses for his grassroots initiatives. He said he also uses cost-effective methods for communication like podcasts and online blogs, which inform readers of what he's up to in congress. He also sends out weekly e-mails called the "Conaway Chronicles."

"It helps keep up customer satisfaction," Conaway said.

Conaway also said he's an advocate of transparency, which is citizens' access to government information in order to facilitate their understanding of issues when making decisions. These online tools allow him to practice this, he said.

"There is no question the Internet has changed the face of politics," Glen Findley, department chair of government at Odessa College, said. "There's more information available."

He said the Internet has made mass communication even more "mass," spreading it farther and making it more interactive.

"The U.S. voter has easier access to the representative," Findley said.

"It's important that we open up the political process to anyone who wants to be involved and continue to be a party of the people," Conaway said in a news release.

ISSUES on the forum

Wednesday: Health Care

Aug. 25: Open Forum