Letter: Tom Davis shows leadership

This is not to be political commentary, just a simple thank you.

Amidst the storm, amidst the confusion, with questions swirling in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew, state Sen. Tom Davis stands out. His party supporters know his capabilities, but his fellow citizens know his heart and commitment to the county and people he loves.

Though state legislators do not have direct input for organizing either evacuation or re-entry, Tom has been rolling up his sleeves, listening and helping friends, neighbors, and fellow Beaufort County people by making his staff available, providing telephone numbers and resources that only he can provide.

You can see him with U.S. Rep. Mark Sanford, with whom he enjoys a close relationship because of his previous position as his chief of staff, or you can see him with the mayors of Beaufort, Bluffton, and Hilton Head Island. You can see him in backyards listening to people explain their sadness, or listening to the operators of small businesses who are worried about their loss of income.

It’s times like these that true leaders rise to the occasion. Tom is one of those — and a friend to all residents of Beaufort County, Republican and Democrat alike.

This story was originally published October 20, 2016 at 2:03 PM with the headline "Letter: Tom Davis shows leadership."