Full disclosure: My other job gives me ample reason to interact with Blue Dog Congressman Mike Ross and his staff. Accordingly, I’m hardly an objective source. Still, I genuinely like this guy — which is something I can’t say about all elected officials and their staff, whether or not I have a reason (or obligation) to interact with them.

So, why do I like Ross? Here’s one reason: He stands up for what he believes, and he doesn’t cater to leadership, if he thinks they’re wrong. Agree or disagree with him, I think you have to respect his integrity.