Demands of public spotlight put strain on politicians’ families

The Clarion-Ledger Editorial, 9/11/7

When one of Mississippi’s congressmen recently announced he won’t seek re-election next year, his reason was immediately familiar to any parent with young children or teenagers.

U.S. Rep. Chip Pickering and his wife, Leisha, have five sons who range in age from 8 to 17. Pickering said he wants to find a way to spend more time at home.

His situation is just one example of a widely recognized truth: Politics can be rough on families, and even the family members who aren’t seeking office can be drawn into the fray.