Candidate Q&A
Why are you running?
I am extremely concerned about the divisions that exist in our Nation and our District. Our politics have become too extreme, divisive and disconnected. We aren’t solving issues that should be non partisan due to the divisions. I’m also very concerned about the anti science culture that exists currently. Public health is not partisan. Medical and scientific research should not be political footballs. Illinois’ 15th District needs help with infrastructure improvements, making sure residents have access to affordable and quality healthcare, and good educational opportunities. We need a representative in the United States Congress who will fight to bring Federal funding back to our district to help with these needs.
What do you think is the most pressing issue facing your constituents and how do you plan on addressing it?
Affordability. More broadly our small businesses and family farms are the backbone of our district. They currently don’t have fair markets, reliable infrastructure, reliable broadband and predictable policies that don’t change with every election cycle. I will work to bring Federal funding back to my district for community projects. I believe infrastructure improvements will be the first step in decreasing costs for our farmers and small businesses and improve revenue. I will also do all that I can to make sure we promote policies that fair markets and stabile policies that improve predictably for our farmers and small business owners.
What is one unique challenge your district faces and how do you plan to address it?
An almost absolute lack of Federal funding brought back to the district by our current Congresswoman. I will aggressively seek to bring Federal funds back to the district.
What do you think federal immigration reform should look like?
I think it should be more targeted and much more humane than current policy is. It should focus on deporting criminals and not criminalizing individuals who are productive members of our society. We can streamline the immigration process. We absolutely should not have roving patrols in our cities terrorizing law abiding individuals.
How should Congress address the rising costs of health care?
I would advocate for Medicare for all.
What approach would you take on tax policy and what is your top priority?
I would raise taxes billionaires and corporations. My top priority is improving the quality of life for the working class and also supporting our underprivileged communities.
Is the House currently using its oversight powers in the way it should be? What areas of government need more or less oversight?
No, I believe the Executive branch of our government isn’t receiving any oversight. Congress definitely needs to use its coequal power to provide a check on the power of the President.
What is the most pressing foreign policy issue facing the country and what role should the House play in dealing with it?
I believe the Russian invasion of Ukraine is our biggest foreign policy issue. We have to support Ukraine in our words and actions. I think it is extremely important that we provide financial and material support to Ukraine.
How do you view AI and the role the government should play in its regulation?
I am very concerned about AI. I think government must have a primary role in its regulation. I’m concerned about employment loss and social inequities in addition to privacy concerns and security for all of us.
How would you describe the current state of your party and what changes or new approaches would you like to see your party adopt?
I feel that overall our party is strong, but we need to continue to trumpet our big tent approach. We have to fiercely advocate for and defend policies that favor the working class of our country.