Hi, John, my name is Steve Nelson, Thomas’ father.
In 1980 when Thomas was four years old he built a speaker’s stand out of a large cardboard box. Seeing it, I thought to myself, “Hmm…maybe he’s planning on being a preacher like his Dad.” But no, he had just watched the 1980 debate between Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan, and he was inspired.
Thomas’ activism continued into high school. He and his buddy Bill organized a College Democrats chapter at Little Chute High School. He can tell you what he did at Carleton College and Princeton. But I can tell you his heart has always been for the farmers and millworkers who surrounded him in his youth. He is modern in every way, but still an old soul at his core.
Thomas has the same passion for fairness that I do; the same disgust for those who take advantage of the vulnerable. If you want someone to cover your back, he’s your man. He is tenacious. He knows how to channel his temper and tell the truth. He’s not a Preacher’s Kid for nothing!
And yet, he has a wonderful sense of humor, as you see in his ads and Instagram. Always has time for his kids and family. Keeps track of all his cousins and elders. Loves to laugh, fish, watch sports, and make time for it all.
John, let me get to the point. Thomas’ campaign has a big deadline coming up on Wednesday. Only if you’re able, can you chip in to support his campaign? Any amount would go a long way.
P.S. in a future email, I’ll tell you what his grandmother said about him…
Peace!
Sincerely,
Steve, Dad, and if you read my diploma, The Rev. Dr. Steven M. Nelson
