For first responders, the call to serve doesn’t always stop after retiring from public safety. Many take their dedication to the community a step further by getting involved in civics, leveraging their public safety experiences to tackle societal issues from a new perspective. For many, serving in public office or on local boards is an extension of the values instilled through years of assisting community members during their worst days.
Zac Unger, who is running for a city council seat in Oakland, California, has served as a firefighter-paramedic with the Oakland Fire Department since 1998. For Unger, civic engagement is a natural extension of his skillset.
“I grew up in a household that believes very firmly in giving back, and the greatest thing you can do is to serve the folks around you,” he says.
Greg Schwarze, a retired firefighter-paramedic running for re-election to the County Board District 6 in DuPage, Illinois, agrees with Unger’s position on serving the public.
“I have spent my entire adult life in public service,” Schwarze said, reflecting on his roles as a 28-year veteran first responder, public education officer and now a county board member. His experiences have shaped his priorities in office, from advocating for seniors struggling with food insecurity to addressing mental health and addiction issues: “Many of the issues important to me stem from my fire career experiences.”
That desire to alleviate the problems community members face echoes the “can-do” attitude that many first responders are known for.
“We must solve every problem that’s put in front of us,” Unger said. This attitude, forged in crisis situations, prepares first responders to confront the challenges of public policy, where resources are often limited and the issues are complex, but he reminds us, “that doesn’t mean problems go away.”
First responders who transition into politics are also in a more secure position than others running for election, Unger said, which allows them to be more honest with the public, as their livelihood is not on the line.
“I think a lot of politicians run for school board or city council and they’re already measuring the drapes in the governor’s office and plotting their next course,” he said. “As a firefighter, I have the luxury of having had a whole career. I could just retire and I’d be fine, so that gives me the freedom to legislate exactly the way that I think is right, and if people don’t like it, they can vote my butt out of there.”
For both Unger and Schwarze, civic involvement is not about political ambition, but about making a tangible difference. Schwarze, who proudly notes that his campaign signs can be found in both Democrat and Republican yards, emphasizes the importance of keeping partisan politics out of his work.
First responders “have a strong connection to the community and are natural problem solvers,” Schwarze said. “Civic involvement lets us continue serving by bringing those skills to leadership roles. It’s another way to give back and make a difference.”
Electing leaders who have firsthand experience helping people through the struggles of daily living ensures that those in office are not just policymakers, but also advocates who have lived the challenges they seek to address. Whether responding to a crime in progress, a medical emergency, or navigating the complexities of local government, first responders like Unger and Schwarze prove that the call to serve never truly ends.
As Unger describes his campaign, “This is the last step in a public service career, rather than the first step of a political career.”
Thinking about running for office? Here’s what law enforcement officers should know
Many law enforcement officers are drawn to public office as a way to continue serving their communities, but the transition requires careful planning. Here are key steps officers should consider before making the leap:
- Know your “why": Clearly understand why you want to run. Is it to make a real impact or to advance a personal agenda? Your motive will shape your campaign and your time in office.
- Understand the job: Before announcing your candidacy, research the role you’re seeking. Ensure you fully grasp its responsibilities, time commitment and challenges.
- Build relationships: Cultivate strong connections with your community, business leaders and other political figures. These networks will support your campaign and future initiatives.
- Prepare for scrutiny: Running for office invites public and media attention. Be prepared for your personal and professional life to be scrutinized.
- Engage with the community: Law enforcement experience provides an advantage, but listening to the diverse needs and concerns of your entire constituency is essential for effective leadership.
- Get the right support team: Surround yourself with trusted advisors who understand politics, public relations and campaign strategy to guide your journey to elected office.
NEXT: Explore how law enforcement plays a vital role in supporting democratic processes. This article outlines practical steps officers can take to uphold fairness, ensure public confidence, and protect the integrity of elections and civic participation.
