BertForSenate.com<\/a><\/p>"}}},{"id":6573,"slug":"1-biggest-challenge-us","title":"1. Biggest challenge \/ U.S.","description":"What's the biggest challenge facing the United States and how would you propose to address it?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":0,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"14272":{"content":"
Artificial intelligence is going to transform virtually every sector of our economy, and we are nowhere near prepared for what that means for American workers. I am AI-long: I believe this technology can create enormous opportunities, but we can't pretend there won't be real disruption along the way. We need to start preparing now, and AI companies and big corporations that stand to massively profit must do their part. My comprehensive AI legislation would establish much-needed guardrails, including federal standards for data centers to prevent developers from passing their costs onto communities. It would also promote competition and safety, protect our national security, and generate new revenue from AI companies and data center developers to invest in workers impacted by AI-related disruption. AI companies will make enormous profits from this transformation. We need to make sure American workers share in the upside rather than simply bearing the costs.<\/p>"},"14273":{"content":"
Our biggest challenge is our national security. Under Biden, our adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran were allowed to walk all over us. Dealing with these regimes takes true resolve and experience. As a retired Major General of the United States Army, former Commander of the Combined Joint Interagency Task force in Afghanistan, and Trump's trusted advisor on national security, I am ready to face that challenge.<\/p>"}}},{"id":6574,"slug":"2-biggest-challenge","title":"2. Biggest challenge","description":"
What's the biggest challenge facing Virginia and how would you propose to address it?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":1,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"14272":{"content":"
The cost of everything has gotten out of control. From groceries, to housing, to the utility bill, costs are climbing and Virginians are feeling the squeeze in their pockets. Trump's reckless tariffs are a tax hike on American consumers, a tax on nearly everything. I introduced legislation to require full refunds of Trump's illegal tariffs to put money back in the pockets of Virginians. The housing crisis is also contributing to the affordability crisis. We're millions of homes short in this country. I am proud to have co-authored the bipartisan ROAD to Housing Act, a landmark package of legislation. It has key provisions to cut red tape, make affordable housing easier to build, and stops private equity from buying up homes. I'm also fighting to make sure developers, not residents, pay for costs associated with data centers.<\/p>"},"14273":{"content":"
The biggest challenge facing the Commonwealth is our current leadership. Spanberger and her allies have shown that they are closer to Mamdani and AOC than everyday Virginians - attempting to rig our congressional elections, pushing for billions of dollars in tax increases, infringing on our Second Amendment rights, and joining Green New Deal initiatives like the RGGI that are hurting Virginians no matter their political affiliation. Unlike Warner, I will push back against the policies in the Senate instead of enabling them.<\/p>"}}},{"id":6575,"slug":"3-hr-1-aka-the-one-big-beautiful-bill","title":"3. HR 1, aka the One Big Beautiful Bill","description":"
How would you assess the impact of that legislation?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":2,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"14272":{"content":"
HR 1 slashed health care, nutrition assistance, and other critical programs that Americans rely on in order to pay for massive tax breaks to the very rich. It has already forced over 100,000 Virginians off their health care plans by jacking up the cost of premiums, and its massive Medicaid cuts put roughly 300,000 Virginians at risk of losing their health insurance and threaten rural hospitals that are already struggling to keep their doors open.<\/p>
The bill also caused the largest SNAP cut in the program's history, putting over 200,000 Virginians at risk of losing the program that helps put food on the table. I voted against it and fought to strip out some of its most damaging provisions. Congress should be lowering costs for working families, not asking them to sacrifice so people at the very top can get another tax break.<\/p>"},"14273":{"content":"
The Working Families Tax Cuts (OBBB) has lowered taxes on Virginians virtually across the board and it allows families to keep more of their hard-earned money including no tax on tips, no tax on overtime, and no tax on social security. Not only that, but it has also directed much-needed funding to modernize our military and secure our borders.<\/p>"}}},{"id":6576,"slug":"4-health-care","title":"4. Health care","description":"
What are your views on how Americans can better afford health care? Would you support the so-called \"Medicare for All\"? Why or why not?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":3,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"14272":{"content":"
We need universal health care. Americans shouldn't lose health coverage because they lose a job, and no Virginian should have to choose between groceries, rent, and medicine. As long as we keep arguing over who gets covered, we'll never actually get to have a real conversation about bringing down costs. <\/p>
I helped write the Affordable Care Act, which massively expanded health care access and ensured that no insurance company could discriminate against you for your medical history. I helped cap insulin at $35 a month and cap what seniors pay out of pocket for prescriptions at $2,000 a year. And when the middlemen were hiding how they set drug prices, I helped force them to open their books.<\/p>
I'm less interested in arguing over labels than I am in getting to universal coverage and bringing costs down. We ought to build on what works, fix what doesn't and make sure every American can get quality, affordable health care.<\/p>"},"14273":{"content":"
Socialized health care, \"Medicare for All,\" would cost the American taxpayers trillions of dollars and will never be a viable solution to health care in the United States. It would decrease the quality of care that people receive and lead to longer wait times at the doctor's office. There are real solutions to this issue like fostering free market competition so pharmaceutical companies and hospitals don't price gouge working families.<\/p>"}}},{"id":6577,"slug":"5-rural-hospitals","title":"5. Rural hospitals","description":"
Up to 10 rural hospitals in Virginia have been listed as endangered. What would you propose to make sure they stay open?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":4,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"14272":{"content":"
Rural hospitals were already operating on incredibly thin margins, and the massive Medicaid cuts from HR 1 made the situation much worse. While the wealthy got trillions in tax breaks, rural Virginians are at greater risk of losing access to care. I fought against those cuts and offered amendments to protect Medicaid and rural health care, but Republicans blocked them.<\/p>
I'm also working to strengthen rural hospitals by addressing some of the services most at risk of disappearing. My Keeping Obstetrics Local Act would increase Medicaid payment rates for labor and delivery services to help rural hospitals keep maternity wards open and ensure families don't have to travel hours to have a baby.\tI also authored the Save Struggling Hospitals Act to ensure that rural hospitals are fairly reimbursed for their services by the federal government.<\/p>
I'll keep fighting to protect Medicaid, strengthen rural hospitals and make sure your ZIP code doesn't determine whether you can get quality health care.<\/p>"},"14273":{"content":"
Rural hospitals are key to communities across Virginia. However, this is an issue of failed state leadership to provide adequate resources and support for rural hospitals. These issues need to be addressed to ensure that we are not shortchanging our rural communities for vanity projects in Portsmouth or Alexandria.<\/p>"}}},{"id":6578,"slug":"6-immigration","title":"6. Immigration","description":"
What are your views on immigration? Does the U.S. need more immigrants or fewer? What should be the criteria for entry and deportation? Under what circumstances should undocumented immigrants already here be given a pathway to citizenship?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":5,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"14272":{"content":"
We're the one country where you can come here, play by the rules, embrace our democracy, and become an American. That's what makes our country so strong. But our immigration system has been broken for years. I fought for a bipartisan border deal that would have bolstered our national security, provided better technology to stop fentanyl and implemented major reforms to our asylum system. Donald Trump killed it at the 11th hour.<\/p>
A screwed-up border is not a license for the level of cruelty and chaos that has been unleashed on the streets, with masked, undertrained agents engaging in illegal acts of violence, grabbing people heading to work and folks who showed up to their own court hearing, shooting Americans dead in the street - none of this is making us safer. <\/p>
We need secure borders, a fair and consistent immigration process for people who have lived and contributed here for years, and law enforcement that follows the law. Those things are not mutually exclusive.<\/p>"},"14273":{"content":"
America is a country of immigrants, but we are also a country of law and order. We must keep our borders secure while making legal immigration for those seeking the American Dream available. Those who broke the law and came here illegally should not be given a free path to citizenship over those choosing to do it legally.<\/p>"}}},{"id":6579,"slug":"7-israel-gaza","title":"7. Israel \/ Gaza","description":"
Would you support an arms embargo on Israel? Why or why not? What else should we know about your views on Israel and Gaza?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":6,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"14272":{"content":"
We can stand firmly with Israel's security while also speaking out against actions that jeopardize peace and stability in the region. While I'm a friend to the Israeli people, I do not support all of the actions of Netanyahu's government. Earlier this year, I voted to cut off American aid that could have enabled more illegal Israeli settlements in the West Bank. The conflict that followed the October 7th attacks in Gaza resulted in significant and devastating human cost. Extremist settlers continue to commit violence and displace Palestinian families in the West Bank, while the Israeli government enables illegal settlement expansion. Israel is escalating military actions in southern Lebanon and other areas of the region that are not in Israel or America's long-term interest. Israelis should be able to live in security with a two-state solution that honors the humanity of Israelis and Palestinians, and there must be an end to the ongoing geopolitical conflict in the region.<\/p>"},"14273":{"content":"
No, I would not support an arms embargo against Israel. Israel is one of America's greatest allies, and we cannot allow them to become a sitting duck for their enemies who have vowed to destroy them.<\/p>"}}},{"id":6580,"slug":"8-ukraine-russia","title":"8. Ukraine \/ Russia","description":"
What, if any, aid should the United States be supplying to Ukraine? Why or why not? What are the consequences if Russia succeeds in militarily claiming part of Ukraine?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":7,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"14272":{"content":"
Supporting Ukraine isn't charity - it is squarely in America's national security interest. Ukraine is fighting for its sovereignty against Vladimir Putin's brutal invasion, and the United States should make sure Ukrainians have the tools they need to defend themselves. Their fight is not just about Ukraine's sovereignty. It is about defending the democratic values and principles that protect our own. Ukrainians are literally fighting and dying for these values and in doing so, they are dealing a devastating blow to one of America's top adversaries without sending a single American service member into combat. <\/p>
Russia, China and every other American adversary are watching what we do in Ukraine. If Putin can invade a neighbor, seize territory by force and simply wait out the West, the lesson will be heard far beyond Ukraine.Walking away from Ukraine would make America less safe. <\/p>"},"14273":{"content":"
Obama allowed Crimea to be seized and Biden's failed foreign policy empowered Russia to try and finish the job. Thanks to President Trump, we are no longer in a losing position around the world. Europe is finally picking up their part of the tab that U.S. taxpayers were paying, and any further U.S. assistance must have U.S. interests in mind.<\/p>"}}},{"id":6581,"slug":"9-artificial-intelligence-data-centers","title":"9. Artificial intelligence \/ data centers","description":"
What, if anything, should the federal government do to either encourage or discourage development of artificial intelligence? Please address data centers as part of this.<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":8,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"14272":{"content":"
Artificial intelligence will reshape nearly every aspect of our economy and society. The only question is whether Congress is going to do something about it or try to play catch up. <\/p>
My comprehensive AI legislative framework addresses four key priorities: building AI infrastructure responsibly; promoting competition and safety; preparing workers for economic disruption and technological change; and strengthening America's national security advantage.<\/p>
Data centers use enormous amounts of power and water. Virginians deserve to know the impact a new data center will have on their community, and companies shouldn't be able to hide those details behind secret deals. I've introduced legislation to require greater transparency about energy and water use and other impacts, make data centers pay for the grid upgrades they require instead of passing those costs on to residents, and condition valuable tax benefits on meeting strong efficiency standards.<\/p>"},"14273":{"content":"
Democrats have fought against local control across Virginia, and we need to let local communities decide what is best for themselves. Let me be clear: You should decide what gets built in your community, not politicians in Richmond or Washington DC. Data centers have exposed the failure of the Democrats' Green New Deal energy policies that restrict energy production and communities should be empowered to restrict data centers and control their own land use policies.<\/p>"}}},{"id":6582,"slug":"10-energy-offshore-wind","title":"10. Energy \/ Offshore wind","description":"
President Trump has tried to block development of offshore wind energy. Dominion Energy is building an offshore wind facility off the coast of Virginia Beach and has long-range plans for more. What should the federal government'sposture on offshore wind be? And energy development in general?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":9,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"14272":{"content":"
The Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project is a product of years of work and is the largest commercial-scale offshore wind project in the United States. It is providing clean, reliable energy to Virginians. I am proud of what I've done with Dominion Energy and other partners in the region to secure federal funding for the project, improve local maritime infrastructure, and create good-paying jobs. The project will provide Virginians with greater price stability, fuel savings, and protection against future energy shocks, such as those being created by the Trump administration's war in Iran. I look forward to working on growing Virginia's clean energy economy.<\/p>"},"14273":{"content":"
Offshore Wind is one of the most expensive and least productive forms of energy. America should rely on proven energy sources that produce the levels of power required by Americans now and in the future, and wind off the coast will never be either cost efficient or sufficient to power our economy. The wind turbines off Virginia Beach are not just an eyesore, they cost more to create than they will ever generate and we all got stuck with the bill.<\/p>"}}},{"id":6583,"slug":"11-tariffs","title":"11. Tariffs","description":"
How would you assess the impact of the tariffs that President Trump has imposed?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":10,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"14272":{"content":"
The across-the-board tariffs are reckless. <\/p>
I support targeted trade enforcement when countries like China cheat, steal intellectual property, or manipulate markets. But indiscriminately taxing imported goods and then pretending another country is picking up the tab is simply not how tariffs work. A tariff is a tax, and American businesses and consumers are the ones who are paying it in the form of higher prices.<\/p>
When courts ruled many of these tariffs illegal. I introduced the Tariff Refund Act of 2026 to require the government to return the money it collected with interest.<\/p>"},"14273":{"content":"
President Trump correctly sees tariffs as an instrument to level the playing field with other nations whose import policies unfairly treat U.S. goods and services. Many countries had trade practices that were supremely one-sided to their own benefit and costly to America. It was time that we stood up to those who were taking advantage of us.<\/p>"}}},{"id":6584,"slug":"12-trump-administration","title":"12. Trump administration","description":"
How would you assess the performance of President Trump? What actions would you take to support or oppose his agenda? For Democrats: Would you support impeachment? Why or why not?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":11,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"14272":{"content":"
President Trump has spent far too much of his presidency testing the limits of his office instead of lowering costs and solving problems for Americans. I've opposed him when he has undermined the rule of law, weakened our national security, or pursued policies that hurt Virginia families. But I've never believed my job is to reflexively oppose everything an administration from the other party does. When an administration has a good idea for Virginia or the country, I'll work with it. When it's wrong, I'll fight it.<\/p>
Regarding impeachment: if we didn't have the votes to convict Trump after the violent insurrection on January 6, we aren't going to have those votes in January 2027, either. My strong preference for my party would be to focus on delivering for voters and actually lowering costs, rather than pursuing another impeachment that is unlikely to get the results the folks pushing it want. <\/p>"},"14273":{"content":"
President Trump deserves far more credit than he often receives for rebuilding the Republican coalition and making our party a national winner again. I worked with him during the 2015-2016 campaign and authored candidate Donald Trump's foreign policy doctrine. In the U.S. Senate, I will work with President Trump help him challenge the decades of failed domestic and foreign policy, take on wasteful government spending, and bring a business-minded approach to protecting taxpayer dollars.<\/p>"}}},{"id":6585,"slug":"13-abortion-contraception","title":"13. Abortion \/ contraception","description":"
What changes, if any, to federal law would you like to see?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":12,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"14272":{"content":"
In the years since Roe v. Wade was overturned, we've seen the consequences unfold in real time: women denied lifesaving care, doctors forced to navigate confusing and dangerous legal gray areas, and families left to deal with the fallout. Decisions about pregnancy should be made between a woman and her doctor, not by politicians. That's why I introduced the Women's Health Protection Act, legislation to guarantee access to abortion care across the country. It would once and for all restore the constitutional right to abortion, permanently making it safe and legal nationwide.<\/p>"},"14273":{"content":"
I support the Dobbs decision by the U.S. Supreme Court that the Constitution does not have a federal role in abortion.<\/p>"}}},{"id":6586,"slug":"14-guns","title":"14. Guns","description":"
What legislation, if any, would you support regarding firearms?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":13,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"14272":{"content":"
I believe law-abiding Americans have a right to own firearms. I also believe our kids should be able to go to school, families should be able to go to the grocery store, and people should be able to worship without fearing they'll be the next victims of a mass shooting.<\/p>
Those beliefs are not incompatible. We need commonsense measures that respect responsible gun ownership while keeping dangerous weapons out of the wrong hands. That means requiring comprehensive background checks for gun purchases and banning assault weapons that can inflict enormous casualties in a matter of seconds. These steps won't prevent every act of gun violence, but they will save lives. Congress has waited far too long to act.<\/p>"},"14273":{"content":"
I believe that our Second Amendment rights \"shall not be infringed\" just as our founders intended. We're already seeing gun bans in Virginia by Abigail Spanberger and her allies, and I will ensure the federal government never restricts our constitutional freedoms.<\/p>"}}},{"id":6587,"slug":"15-other-issues","title":"15. Other issues","description":"
What else should voters know about you?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":14,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"14272":{"content":"
I've always believed government works best when people are willing to roll up their sleeves, work across the aisle and actually solve problems.<\/p>
Before politics, I was an entrepreneur. My first business failed in six weeks. My second failed in six months. Eventually I helped build a successful company in an industry - cellular phones - that was transforming the economy. That experience taught me not to be afraid of change, but also not to underestimate how disruptive technological change can be.<\/p>
I've carried that approach into public service: be willing to try something new, work with people you don't always agree with, and never forget that the goal is to give every American the same fair shot I had at success. <\/p>"},"14273":{"content":"
I want to lead on common sense solutions to help families stay safe and prosper.<\/p>"}}}],"template":[{"component":"row","children":[{"component":"column","attributes":{"width":"33%"},"children":[{"component":"individual_candidates","children":[{"component":"candidate_card","children":[{"component":"portrait"},{"component":"name"},{"component":"individual_questions","attributes":{"zone_id":["candidate_card"],"title":"Short summary","help_hint":"Brief fields (like demographics) for a summary card. Keep it short: this takes space in all candidate listings"}}]},{"component":"individual_questions","attributes":{"zone_id":["individual_1","individual_2"],"title":"Sidebar","help_hint":"Shorter topics for the side rail"}}]}]},{"component":"column","attributes":{"width":"66%"},"children":[{"component":"ticket_questions","attributes":{"zone_id":["ticket_1","ticket_2"],"title":"Primary","help_hint":"Main area, great for more in-depth and longer policy topics"}}]}]}],"layout":{"groups":"dropdown","topics":"directory","responses":"auto","wrap":"auto"}}]},{"id":2618,"slug":"congress-2026","title":"U.S. House 2026","blocks":[{"type":"raceitems","race_type":"election","race_id":1982,"race_description":"","groups":[{"custom_id":"ocd-division\/country:us\/state:va\/cd:9","slug":"9th-district","name":"9th District","content":null,"show_heading":true,"hide_map_shape":false,"candidates":[{"id":7877,"slug":"joy-powers","name":"Joy Powers","party":"Democratic","photo_sm":"https:\/\/app.electup.com\/storage\/thumbnails\/sm-d08ced97-50cd-4b41-b596-cc735d69cb48.jpeg","photo_lg":"https:\/\/app.electup.com\/storage\/thumbnails\/lg-d08ced97-50cd-4b41-b596-cc735d69cb48.jpeg","order":0},{"id":12529,"slug":"morgan-griffith","name":"Morgan Griffith","party":"Republican","photo_sm":null,"photo_lg":null,"order":1}]}],"total_groups_count":1,"topics":[{"id":4367,"slug":"biographical-information","title":"Biographical information","description":"","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"individual_1","order":0,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"7877":{"content":"
Joy Powers is a cattle farmer, mother, and rural advocate who works her family's farm and farm equipment dealership in Bedford County, in Virginia's Ninth District. She grew up in agriculture and has spent her life in the rural communities she now hopes to represent.<\/p>
Powers adopted her son from foster care, and the two are proud public school advocates as he heads into first grade. She studied at Virginia Tech and spent her twenties in international agricultural advocacy and education, partnering with rural communities around the world to strengthen their farming systems. <\/p>
Her agricultural roots run deep. A product of FFA, she served as a State FFA Officer and a Virginia 4-H All-Star. She has chaired the Bedford County Fair and was appointed to the Bedford County Agricultural and Economic Advisory Board.<\/p>
A different kind of Democrat, Powers is rooted in rural life and focused on practical solutions over partisan performance. She's running to fight for the Ninth District she calls home.<\/p>"}}},{"id":4368,"slug":"website","title":"Website","description":"","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"individual_1","order":1,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"7877":{"content":"
JoyforVA.Com<\/p>"}}},{"id":4369,"slug":"biggest-challenge-us","title":"1. Biggest challenge \/ U.S.","description":"
What's the biggest challenge facing the United States and how would you propose to address it?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":0,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"7877":{"content":"
The biggest challenge facing this country is that a small class of billionaires and giant corporations has gathered enough wealth and power to bend the government to their interests, while everyone else is told to work harder and expect less.<\/p>
Income inequality is at its highest in a century. The people at the top have never done better, and working families have never felt more squeezed. That's not the free market working. It's what happens when corporations have a seat at every table in Washington and the people paying the price don't.<\/p>
You feel it here. Drug companies set the price of insulin. A few firms decide what you pay for groceries. Wall Street treats a rural hospital as a line item to close.<\/p>
I'd put power back where it belongs: stand up to corporate consolidation, close the loopholes that let the wealthiest pay less than the people who work for them, and get corporate money out of our politics.<\/p>
I'm not against anyone doing well. I'm against a rigged game.<\/p>"}}},{"id":4370,"slug":"biggest-challenge-virginia","title":"2. Biggest challenge \/ Your district","description":"
What's the biggest challenge facing your district and how would you propose to address it?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":1,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"7877":{"content":"
The biggest challenge facing the Ninth is that opportunity has been draining out of the region for years, and everything else follows from it. When the jobs go, the young people go. When the people go, the hospital closes and the school consolidates. Folks here have watched that cycle for a long time while being told it's just the way things are. I don't accept that. <\/p>
This district has the land, the workforce, and the grit to build something. What it's lacked is a representative who fights to make sure federal investment actually reaches rural communities. So I'd focus on breaking the cycle: protect the rural hospitals still standing and bring care closer to home, invest in the jobs, trades, broadband, and childcare that let families stay, and stand up for the farmers and working people who keep this region going. People here don't want a handout. They want a fair shot and a representative who knows this place well enough to fight for it.<\/p>"}}},{"id":4450,"slug":"hr-1-aka-the-one-big-beautiful-bill","title":"3. HR 1, aka the One Big Beautiful Bill","description":"
How would you assess the impact of that legislation?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":2,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"7877":{"content":"
The BBB was sold as a gift to working people, but for a place like the Ninth, we can see straight through that. The biggest piece for us is healthcare. The law cuts about a trillion dollars from Medicaid over the next decade, and the people who feel that first are folks in rural areas, older people, kids, and families already driving too far for care. Congress put in a rural hospital fund to soften the blow, but the people who run these hospitals will tell you it's not enough, and most of it can't even be spent keeping the doors open on the services we already have. We were already losing hospitals out here. This makes that worse. On top of that, it tightens food assistance for working families, elderly and children who are barely getting by, while the tax breaks benefit toward people at the top. I don't think a bill is beautiful because it has a nice name. I think you judge it by whether life gets easier or harder for the people who live here. By that measure, this was one was ugly.<\/p>"}}},{"id":4385,"slug":"health-care","title":"4. Health care","description":"
What are your views on how Americans can better afford health care? Would you support the so-called \"Medicare for All\"? Why or why not?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":3,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"7877":{"content":"
Let's be honest about where we are. In 2026, the United States is the only wealthy nation on earth that still lets people go bankrupt or go without care because they can't afford it. Every other developed country figured out a long time ago that healthcare is something a serious nation guarantees its people. We're behind, and folks here are paying the price for it. So yes, I believe we need universal healthcare, and I'm not going to pretend otherwise to sound moderate. A country as rich as ours can make sure every person can see a doctor without losing the farm. Medicare-for-all is one honest path to that, and plenty of people here are already on Medicare and will tell you it works. <\/p>
What I care about is that we actually get there and that we're straight with people along the way. That means protecting the Medicaid that keeps our rural hospitals open right now, bringing down what families pay for prescriptions and procedures, and never threatening the coverage someone is already counting on. I'll judge every plan by one question: does it get every person covered and care closer to home. Guaranteeing healthcare isn't radical. It's the baseline for a developed country, and it's long past time we acted like one.<\/p>"}}},{"id":4395,"slug":"rural-hospitals","title":"5. Rural hospitals","description":"
Up to 10 rural hospitals in Virginia have been listed as endangered. What would you propose to make sure they stay open?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":4,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"7877":{"content":"
The Medicaid cuts in last year's budget law are what tipped these hospitals toward the edge, partly by restricting the provider taxes and directed payments states use to fund them. I'd work to restore that funding so the money these hospitals run on stops shrinking. Second, fix the rural health fund Congress passed. Right now most of that money can't even be spent keeping existing services open. I'd change the rules so it pays to keep the doors open and the lights on. Third, protect the 340B drug pricing program, which lets rural hospitals buy medications at a discount. There's bipartisan support for strengthening it for rural providers, and I'd be part of that. Fourth, fix the Rural Emergency Hospital option. It was meant to be a lifeline, but as written it forces hospitals to give up inpatient beds and lose 340B access to take it. Fifth, I'd expand staffing through incentivizing expanded residencies and physician placements in rural areas to ensure rural patients have access. <\/p>"}}},{"id":4451,"slug":"immigration","title":"6. Immigration","description":"
What are your views on immigration? Does the U.S. need more immigrants or fewer? What should be the criteria for entry and deportation? Under what circumstances should undocumented immigrants already here be given a pathway to citizenship?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":5,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"7877":{"content":"
Our immigration system is broken, and both parties have spent decades pointing fingers instead of fixing it. I want it fixed, and I want us to stay human while we do it. Yes, we need a secure border and an orderly, legal system. A country has the right to know who is coming in, and I won't apologize for that. But what's happening right now isn't that. Families are being pulled apart. Children are coming home to a parent gone. People who've lived here for years and built lives among us are living in fear. That's not security. That's criminal and it's cruelty. <\/p>
Enforcement should focus on people who commit serious crimes, not neighbors, parents, and longtime workers who threaten no one. We can be a nation of laws without terrorizing our own. And for those already here who've put down roots, worked hard, and stayed out of trouble, I support an earned path to citizenship, with a background check and getting right with the law. The kids brought here who know no other home deserve that chance too.<\/p>"}}},{"id":4393,"slug":"israel-gaza","title":"7. Israel \/ Gaza","description":"
Would you support an arms embargo on Israel? Why or why not? What else should we know about your views on Israel and Gaza?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":6,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"7877":{"content":"
I'll say this plainly, because people are tired of politicians who won't. Benjamin Netanyahu is under an international arrest warrant for war crimes, including using starvation as a weapon against civilians. His military has used white phosphorus over civilian areas in Lebanon, a weapon that burns people alive. I'm not going to dress that up in diplomatic language. It is wrong, and our country should not be paying for it. <\/p>
So yes, I would cut off the American weapons and taxpayer dollars that make us complicit. We send Israel's government billions every year with no real conditions and no accountability. I don't believe families in this district, the ones struggling to afford groceries and keep their hospitals open, should be footing the bill for a government credibly accused of these crimes. <\/p>
And I'll be honest about something else. Our foreign policy should be made in Washington, in the interest of the American people, not dictated by a foreign government or the lobbyists who carry its water. I won't take my orders from AIPAC or anyone like them. I answer to the people of the Ninth District, period. I want the hostages home. I want safety and dignity for Palestinians and Israelis alike. But a real friend tells the truth, and right now the truth is that we should stop funding and arming what a genocide.<\/p>"}}},{"id":4438,"slug":"ukraine-russia","title":"8. Ukraine \/ Russia","description":"
What, if any, aid should the United States be supplying to Ukraine? Why or why not? What are the consequences if Russia succeeds in militarily claiming part of Ukraine?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":7,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"7877":{"content":"
Yes, we should keep helping Ukraine defend itself, and I'll tell you why in plain terms.<\/p>
Russia invaded a smaller neighbor and is trying to take its land by force. If Putin gets away with that, he doesn't stop. He moves on to the next country, and some of those are NATO allies we're treaty-bound to defend, which could put American troops in a war that's far bigger and far costlier than what we're paying to avoid now. Helping Ukraine hold the line is a whole lot cheaper, in dollars and in lives, than the alternative.<\/p>
It's worth being clear about what this aid actually is. Most of it is weapons, a lot of it made right here in America, and replacing older stockpiles which also supports jobs at home. We are not handing over a sack of cash. But still I'd insist on real accountability for every dollar invessted, and I'd push our wealthy European allies to carry more of the load, because it's their continent and their security on the line too.<\/p>
Now, what happens if Russia wins. It tells every dictator watching that borders can be redrawn with tanks, which makes the world more dangerous, including for Taiwan. And it hits home in ways people feel. When that part of the world is at war, grain and energy markets get thrown into chaos, and families here end up paying more at the pump and the grocery store. A stable world is cheaper for working people than a chaotic one.<\/p>
I'm not for endless blank checks. I am for keeping our word, spending smart, and not handing Vladimir Putin a victory that costs us more down the road.<\/p>"}}},{"id":4387,"slug":"artificial-intelligence","title":"9. Artificial intelligence \/ data centers","description":"
What, if anything, should the federal government do to either encourage or discourage development of artificial intelligence? Please address data centers as part of this. <\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":8,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"7877":{"content":"
The way data centers are being forced onto Virginia is a raw deal, and I'd fight it. We're the data center capital of the world, and we're learning what it costs: huge demands on water and power, a grid working families are asked to pay to expand, and Big Tech taking the profit while a retiree gets the bill.<\/p>
So, plainly: these companies pay their own way, in full, for every power line, plant, and drop of water. Not most of it. All of it. We need mandatory environmental standards written into law, not voluntary pledges they break when no one's looking. And this technology was built on taxpayer-funded research and our own data and labor. Now they want tax breaks to replace jobs people pay taxes on, the jobs that fund our schools and ambulances. If they use public resources to wipe out taxable work, they owe it back. No community should have this forced on it from above. I'm not anti-technology. But Washington should must protect the citizen and the land rather than the corporations.<\/p>"}}},{"id":4388,"slug":"offshore-wind","title":"10. Energy \/ Offshore wind","description":"
President Trump has tried to block development of offshore wind energy. Dominion Energy is building an offshore wind facility off the coast of Virginia Beach and has long-range plans for more. What should the federal government'sposture on offshore wind be? And energy development in general?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":9,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"7877":{"content":"
The wind project off Virginia Beach shows what's wrong with how Washington handles energy. It's most of the way built, Virginia families have already paid billions toward it through their bills, and it's now putting power on the grid. Then the federal government tried to halt it on national security claims so thin a judge tossed them and let work restart. Stopping a nearly finished project we've paid for doesn't lower anyone's bill. It raises them and risks thousands of Hampton Roads jobs. So Washington should stop sabotaging energy projects already approved and under construction, and give builders a stable, predictable process instead of yanking leases for politics. On energy, I'm all-of-the-above and practical, not ideological. We need every reliable, affordable source we can build safely, and I'll stand with our energy workers, including in coal country. My test: does it keep the lights on, keep bills down, create good jobs here, and while still protecting our land, air, and water?<\/p>"}}},{"id":4380,"slug":"tariffs","title":"11. Tariffs","description":"
How would you assess the impact of the tariffs that President Trump has imposed? <\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":10,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"7877":{"content":"
Trump's tariffs are a tax on working families, plain and simple. He said other countries would pay it. They didn't. We did. The average household paid about a thousand dollars more last year, on groceries, tools, car parts, the everyday things people here already struggle to afford. Our farmers got hit hardest. When you tariff the whole world, the world hits back, and it hits back at agriculture. Our growers lost markets and watched their costs climb while being told to be patient.<\/p>
And the constant chaos made it worse. Rates went up one week, changed the next, and got struck down in part by the Supreme Court. No farmer or small business owner can plan, invest, or hire in that kind of mess. I'm not against ever using a tariff. A targeted one that protects American workers from real cheating has its place. But slapping tariffs on nearly everything isn't toughness. It's a tax on the people who can least afford it, and I'd fight it.<\/p>"}}},{"id":4397,"slug":"impeachment","title":"12. Trump administration","description":"
How would you assess the performance of President Trump? What actions would you take to support or oppose his agenda? For Democrats: Would you support impeachment? Why or why not?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":11,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"7877":{"content":"
This Presidency has made life harder here in VA CD9. The tariffs hit families and farmers like a tax, and his budget law cut the Medicaid our rural hospitals depend on. I'll oppose what hurts this district and work with anyone on what helps. <\/p>
But this goes deeper than policy, because no one is above the law, including the president. There are credible concerns is using his office to enrich himself and his family, and that demands a real investigation. In addition, survivors of Jeffrey Epstein's crimes deserve the full truth and justice, no matter how powerful the people involved. I support the complete release of the Epstein files, no more cover-ups, and an investigation that follows the evidence wherever it leads. If it shows anyone broke the law, including Trump or his family, they must be held accountable like anyone else. Impeachment is a constitutional duty, not a weapon. If the evidence is there, Congress must act, and I wouldn't hesitate.<\/p>"}}},{"id":4437,"slug":"abortion-contraception","title":"13. Abortion \/ contraception","description":"
What changes, if any, to federal law would you like to see?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":12,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"7877":{"content":"
The decision to end or continue a pregnancy belongs to a woman, her family, her faith, and her doctor, not to politicians, and I'd write that back into federal law. I'd vote to restore the protections we had under Roe, so a woman's rights don't depend on what state she lives in. I respect that people here hold deep and differing beliefs, and I'm not asking anyone to abandon theirs. I'm saying the government shouldn't make this call for your family.<\/p>
I'd also protect contraception. Birth control shouldn't be controversial, and I'd vote against any effort to restrict it. And this is personal for rural places like ours. Many women here live hours from a clinic, and medication and telehealth are how they get care, including for miscarriages. There's a push in Washington and the courts to strip that away. I'd fight it. When you already drive too far for a doctor, taking away safe options doesn't protect women, it endangers them.<\/p>"}}},{"id":4391,"slug":"guns","title":"14. Guns","description":"
What legislation, if any, would you support regarding firearms?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":13,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"7877":{"content":"
Let me be clear up front. I support the Second Amendment, and I'm not interested in taking guns from law-abiding people. Out here, guns are part of life. We hunt, we sport shoot, and a lot of folks live far from the nearest deputy. I respect that, because it's my life too. So I'm not for confiscation, and I won't treat responsible owners like the problem. What I do support is universal background checks, and I won't apologize for it. The same quick check a licensed dealer already runs should apply to every sale. That's not a registry, and it's no burden on honest people. It just keeps guns from those the law already bars, like felons and domestic abusers. Most gun owners I know agree. I'd also go hard after illegal trafficking and straw purchases, because the problem isn't the lawful owner. And I'll always back our law enforcement with the resources, training, and mental health support they need. Backing the badge and backing background checks go together.<\/p>"}}},{"id":4381,"slug":"other-issues","title":"15. Other issues","description":"
What else should voters know about you?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":14,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"7877":{"content":"
A few things I'd want Ninth District voters to know. I'm a different kind of Democrat. I support the Second Amendment, I think Washington wastes too much of your money, and I don't take orders from any party or any lobby. What I care about is whether life here gets easier or harder. And right now it's harder. After more than a decade of the same representation, people in the Ninth are still driving farther for healthcare, paying more for groceries, and watching their kids leave to find opportunity. That's not an accident. It's what happens when a place gets taken for granted.<\/p>
My answer as to why I'm running for Congress is simple: I'm running because I'm rooted in rural Southwest Virginia and I know these communities, these roads, and these struggles as my own. This region deserves someone who will show up, tell the truth, and actually fight for it. That's the whole reason I'm doing this.<\/p>"}}}],"template":[{"component":"row","children":[{"component":"column","attributes":{"width":"33%"},"children":[{"component":"individual_candidates","children":[{"component":"portrait"},{"component":"name"},{"component":"individual_questions","attributes":{"zone_id":["individual_1","individual_2"]}}]}]},{"component":"column","attributes":{"width":"66%"},"children":[{"component":"ticket_questions","attributes":{"zone_id":["ticket_1","ticket_2"]}}]}]}],"layout":{"groups":"dropdown","topics":"directory","responses":"auto","wrap":"auto"}}]},{"id":2619,"slug":"montgomery-county-democratic-sheriff","title":"Montgomery County Sheriff","blocks":[{"type":"raceitems","race_type":"election","race_id":2030,"race_description":"","groups":[{"custom_id":"ocd-division\/country:us\/state:va\/county:montgomery","slug":"montgomery-county-democratic-sheriff","name":"Montgomery County Sheriff","content":null,"show_heading":true,"hide_map_shape":false,"candidates":[{"id":8476,"slug":"tim-andrew-brown","name":"Tim Andrew Brown","party":"Democratic","photo_sm":"https:\/\/app.electup.com\/storage\/thumbnails\/sm-df38a7c4-224b-47a4-886b-2a1b517cf56e.jpg","photo_lg":"https:\/\/app.electup.com\/storage\/thumbnails\/lg-df38a7c4-224b-47a4-886b-2a1b517cf56e.jpg","order":0},{"id":8483,"slug":"robert-page","name":"Robert Page","party":"Republican","photo_sm":"https:\/\/app.electup.com\/storage\/thumbnails\/sm-3d33b569-5087-495f-bfc3-032a4e145e7c.jpeg","photo_lg":"https:\/\/app.electup.com\/storage\/thumbnails\/lg-3d33b569-5087-495f-bfc3-032a4e145e7c.jpeg","order":1}]}],"total_groups_count":1,"topics":[{"id":4443,"slug":"biographical-information","title":"Biographical information","description":"","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"individual_1","order":0,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"8476":{"content":"
Lieutenant Tim Brown brings more than 26 years of law enforcement experience and leadership to Montgomery County. A lifelong resident, Tim began his career with the Christiansburg Police Department in 2000 and has served as a Patrol Officer, Sergeant, Lieutenant, Accreditation Manager, Training Coordinator, and Lieutenant of Investigations. He currently serves as Lieutenant of Crime Prevention.<\/p>
Throughout his career, Tim has demonstrated a commitment to professionalism, accountability, and community service. He is a Master Assessor for the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission and has received numerous commendations, the Certified Accreditation Professional designation, and the Commissioner's Award for advancing professional standards in policing.<\/p>
Tim holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Radford University, and a graduate of the Professional Executive Leadership School and the FBI National Academy.<\/p>"},"8483":{"content":"
I have been with the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office since 2013. I am the only candidate who holds every major DCJS certification available to Virginia sheriff's deputies, including Law Enforcement, Jail Operations, Civil Process, and Court Security, with experience serving in each area. I led the Criminal Warrants Division, overseeing high-risk operations daily. For six years, I served on the U.S. Marshals Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force, working alongside federal, state, and local agencies to track down dangerous fugitives. That experience reinforced my belief that strong partnerships are essential to effective law enforcement. Before law enforcement, I spent years in real estate and the auction industry, running my own business and learning accountability for budgets, people, and results. My wife and I have called this community home for over 30 years and are raising our two boys here. I am committed to serving and protecting everyone who calls this place home.<\/p>"}}},{"id":4444,"slug":"website","title":"Website","description":"","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"individual_1","order":1,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"8476":{"content":"
brownforsheriff.base44.app<\/a><\/p>"},"8483":{"content":"https:\/\/sheriffrobertpage.com\/<\/p>"}}},{"id":4445,"slug":"1-biggest-challenge","title":"1. Biggest challenge","description":"
What is the biggest challenge facing the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office and how would you address it?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":0,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"8476":{"content":"
I believe one of the biggest challenges facing the Montgomery County Sheriff\u2019s Office today is a combination of the drug crisis particularly methamphetamine and the difficulty in recruiting qualified applicants.<\/p>
The drug issue is not just a law enforcement problem; it is a community problem. Meth addiction drives a significant portion of property crime, family instability, and repeat calls for service. My approach would be a balanced strategy that combines strong enforcement against drug traffickers with a focus on prevention, education, and partnerships with treatment providers. I believe in data driven enforcement and resource allocation.<\/p>
Recruitment and retention are becoming increasingly difficult across law enforcement. The applicant pool is shrinking, and agencies are competing for qualified people in a challenging environment. If we want to solve that, we have to make the Sheriff\u2019s Office a place where people want to build a career.<\/p>
<\/p>"},"8483":{"content":"
One of the biggest challenges facing the Sheriff's Office today is the impact of narcotics on our community. Drug abuse not only affects the individuals involved, it drives property crime, fuels violence, strains families, and places a burden on law enforcement, schools, and healthcare systems. To address this challenge, we must take a balanced, proactive approach, with each division playing a critical role. First, we must aggressively target drug dealers and traffickers who profit from addiction and bring drugs into our community. Through proactive enforcement, intelligence-driven investigations, and strong interagency partnerships, we can hold those individuals accountable. To strengthen these efforts, I would incorporate overdose mapping tools and pursue funding for a dedicated analyst position. At the same time, we must work with community partners, treatment providers, and recovery programs to help break the cycle of addiction and improve public safety.<\/p>"}}},{"id":4446,"slug":"2-immigration-enforcement","title":"2. Immigration enforcement","description":"
What is your opinion\u00a0of the federal immigration enforcement strategy and do you believe the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office should cooperate fully with ICE?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":1,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"8476":{"content":"
I feel as Sheriff that it is my duty and obligation to keep this community safe, if someone is wanted, or convicted of a violent crime such a rape, robbery, murder, I will do everything possible to get that person or person(s) out of Montgomery County. As I stated in the Town Hall, when it aligns with the Mission and Vision of the Sheriff's Office. But also stated in the Town Hall we are not breaking up families; for minor crimes or offenses. It has to be better way to obtain Citizenship. I do not support breaking up families just because someone is here illegal and just trying to make a better life for themselves and provide for their families so to speak. As I spoke in the Town Hall these unfair practices hurt our family. I do not agree with all the federal immigration strategies, but I support keeping Montgomery County safe from violent people, rather they are here illegal, or just someone simply wanted from another state. I do not want violent individuals in the community.\u00a0<\/p>"},"8483":{"content":"
I support a federal immigration strategy that prioritizes border security, removes individuals who pose a threat to public safety, and upholds existing laws passed by Congress. I am extremely proud of the relationships we have built over the past several years with the federal agencies who also work to keep our community safe. I spent years working alongside federal law enforcement on the U.S. Marshals task force, tracking down dangerous fugitives. That experience taught me how to cooperate effectively without disrupting local operations, while reinforcing partnerships and improving public safety outcomes. When there is a legitimate public safety threat in Montgomery County, I will work with any law enforcement agency to keep this community safe. My job is to protect families here and hold criminals accountable.<\/p>"}}},{"id":4447,"slug":"3-constitutionality-of-laws","title":"3. Constitutionality of laws","description":"
Any there any laws you would not enforce because you do not believe they are constitutional? If so, which ones? If a court has not ruled a law unconstitutional, why do you feel it's the sheriff's place to decide what is or is not constitutional? <\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":2,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"8476":{"content":"
As Sheriff, I will take an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. I take that oath seriously.<\/p>
The role of the Sheriff is not to unilaterally decide which laws are constitutional and which are not. Our system of government provides a process for that, and ultimately the courts have the authority to interpret the Constitution and rule on the validity of laws.<\/p>
My responsibility as Sheriff is to enforce the laws as enacted and interpreted by the courts while always respecting the constitutional rights of the people we serve. Every enforcement action taken by the Sheriff's Office must be consistent with the Constitution, due process, and the rule of law.<\/p>
As Sheriff, I will follow the Constitution, follow the law, and ensure that the rights of Montgomery County citizens are protected.<\/p>"},"8483":{"content":"
One area where I have had concerns is some of Virginia's recent firearm legislation. The Sheriff is a constitutional officer and takes an oath to both the United States and Virginia Constitutions. While courts ultimately decide constitutionality, I believe Sheriffs have a responsibility to use discretion enforcing laws that clearly violate constitutional practices, and to seek review when conflicts arise. I will honor the oath I took and defend the entire constitution, including the Second Amendment. Law-abiding citizens have the right to keep and bear arms, and I will not enforce unconstitutional laws. As Sheriff, my duty is to protect the rights of the people just as firmly as I protect their safety. I will always stand for both, without compromise.<\/p>"}}},{"id":4448,"slug":"4-ethics","title":"4. Ethics","description":"
What will you do to ensure ethical\u00a0department conduct, whether by supporting existing policies or proposing new ones?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":3,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"8476":{"content":"
As a Master Assessor for the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission, I have seen firsthand how strong accreditation standards improve transparency, professionalism, and public trust.<\/p>
When elected to Sheriff, I will ensure that Montgomery County not only maintains its current state accreditation but achieves national accreditation, so we are operating under the highest standards.<\/p>
I will also ensure that all employees receive regular, meaningful training on ethics, constitutional policing, use of force, and professional standards so expectations are clear and consistently reinforced.<\/p>
As stated in the Town Hall, \u201cwe should demand high standards.\u201d That principle will guide my leadership every day. My goal is to build a Sheriff's Office that the community trusts, employees are proud of, and one that reflects the highest ethical and professional standards in law enforcement.<\/p>"},"8483":{"content":"
Ethical conduct is not negotiable. Through strong policies, consistent accountability, and community engagement, my goal is to continue to maintain a Sheriff's Office that the community trusts and our deputies are proud to serve. Building a culture of accountability begins at the top with setting clear expectations and leading by example. This starts with maintaining strong policies that promote integrity, professionalism, respect, transparency, and are consistently enforced at every level. I will work to evaluate current policies with command staff and frontline personnel to identify areas of improvement and ensure they meet the highest standards.<\/p>"}}},{"id":4449,"slug":"5-other-issues","title":"5. Other issues","description":"
What else would you like voters to know about?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":4,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"8476":{"content":"
I was born and raised here in Montgomery County. I grew up in a law enforcement family; my father was the first African American law enforcement officer in the new river valley. My parents raised us to see value in people, even when they may not see it in themselves. I was taught that when you make a commitment, you keep it, and when you give your word, it should mean something.<\/p>
I believe the Sheriff\u2019s Office should be professional, transparent, community-focused, and committed to treating every person fairly and with dignity. I believe in supporting our deputies and staff, strengthening school safety, working with community partners, and using thoughtful, data-driven strategies to keep our neighborhoods safe. Most importantly, I believe leadership is about service not ego, politics, or division. My campaign has always been centered on \"Service Without Sides,\u2019\" because the Sheriff\u2019s Office belongs to the people, and it should work for everyone.<\/p>
\"A Sheriff for Us All!!!!\"<\/p>"},"8483":{"content":"
I want voters to know that I never set out to be a politician. I built my career serving Montgomery County and working alongside the men and women of the Sheriff's Office. Public safety starts with strong deputies, strong partnerships, and strong community trust. My top priority is to keep Montgomery County one of the safest places in Virginia by protecting our schools and children, supporting victims, and standing behind the deputies who put on the badge every day with training and mental health resources they need to succeed. My priority is protecting the innocent and fighting for victims of crime. I have spent years tracking down those responsible for harming others, and no one is more qualified to bring those criminals to justice and keep our families safe. Public safety is not negotiable and neither is my commitment to it. Together we can strengthen our community, uphold our shared values, and ensure that Montgomery County remains a safe place to live, work, and raise a family.<\/p>"}}}],"template":[{"component":"row","children":[{"component":"column","attributes":{"width":"33%"},"children":[{"component":"individual_candidates","children":[{"component":"portrait"},{"component":"name"},{"component":"individual_questions","attributes":{"zone_id":["individual_1","individual_2"]}}]}]},{"component":"column","attributes":{"width":"66%"},"children":[{"component":"ticket_questions","attributes":{"zone_id":["ticket_1","ticket_2"]}}]}]}],"layout":{"groups":"dropdown","topics":"directory","responses":"auto","wrap":"auto"}}]},{"id":2620,"slug":"constitutional-offices-2026","title":"Constitutional offices 2026","blocks":[{"type":"raceitems","race_type":"election","race_id":2148,"race_description":"","groups":[{"custom_id":null,"slug":"montgomery-county-commonwealths-attorney","name":"Montgomery County \/ Commonwealth's Attorney","content":null,"show_heading":true,"hide_map_shape":false,"candidates":[{"id":10662,"slug":"patrick-r-jensen","name":"Patrick R. Jensen","party":"Republican","photo_sm":"https:\/\/app.electup.com\/storage\/thumbnails\/sm-2572dec2-0f50-41f9-97a3-a095a93b17af.jpg","photo_lg":"https:\/\/app.electup.com\/storage\/thumbnails\/lg-2572dec2-0f50-41f9-97a3-a095a93b17af.jpg","order":0}]}],"total_groups_count":1,"topics":[{"id":5528,"slug":"biographical-information","title":"Biographical information","description":"","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"candidate_card","order":0,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"10662":{"content":"
I am a career prosecutor with nearly 23 years of experience serving the Commonwealth of Virginia. Following a brief period in private practice in Northern Virginia, I began my prosecutorial career in 2003 as an Assistant Commonwealth's Attorney in the City of Martinsville, where I was later promoted to Deputy Assistant Commonwealth's Attorney. I subsequently served briefly in the City of Roanoke Commonwealth's Attorney's Office before joining the Montgomery County Commonwealth's Attorney's Office in 2007.<\/p>
In Montgomery County, I have spent nearly two decades prosecuting criminal cases and working closely with law enforcement, victims, and community partners. In 2012, when Mary Pettitt was elected Commonwealth's Attorney, she promoted me to be her Chief Deputy. In that role, I have helped manage and supervise the county's largest law office while continuing to prosecute criminal cases. Since joining the office in 2007, I have handled thousands of criminal cases, ranging from routine offenses to complex and high-profile matters. My career has given me the opportunity to serve this community in virtually every aspect of the criminal justice system. I am honored to continue that service as Montgomery County's Commonwealth's Attorney.<\/p>
I graduated Virginia Tech with a bachelor's degree in History in 1996 and from the University of Dayton School of Law, with honors, in 2002. I have called Montgomery County my home since 2007 and have resided in the Town of Christiansburg since 2010.<\/p>"}}},{"id":5529,"slug":"reason-for-running","title":"Reason for running","description":"
Please tell us why you're seeking this office.<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":0,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"10662":{"content":"
I am seeking the office of Commonwealth's Attorney with a commitment to maintaining public safety, ensuring equal justice under the law, and preserving the integrity and fairness of our criminal justice system for all residents of Montgomery County.<\/p>
I want to continue the office's strong commitment to public safety, support victims of crime, work collaboratively with our law enforcement partners, and ensure that justice is administered fairly, consistently, and with integrity. I also believe that continuity is important. Having served in this office for nearly two decades, including as Chief Deputy, I understand the office, the community, and the relationships that are essential to effectively carrying out its responsibilities. Just as importantly, I want to retain the talented and experienced team of 17 employees who serve in the office today. Keeping that team together will preserve valuable institutional knowledge and experience and allow us to continue providing the high level of service that the citizens of Montgomery County deserve.<\/p>
Everyone deserves to feel safe in their homes and in their community. I have dedicated my career to that mission, and I am running for Commonwealth's Attorney because I want to continue serving the citizens of this county and working to make our community a safer place for everyone.<\/p>"}}},{"id":5530,"slug":"challenges-and-changes","title":"Challenges and changes","description":"
What challenges do you foresee? What changes, if any, would you like to see made?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":1,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"10662":{"content":"
The Commonwealth's Attorney's Office is currently a strong and well-run organization, staffed by dedicated and experienced professionals who are committed to serving the citizens of Montgomery County. I have been fortunate to be part of that team for nearly two decades, and I believe the office is operating effectively and providing the community with the high level of service it deserves. While I will always look for ways to improve, I do not believe major changes are necessary; my priority is to maintain the office's strengths, preserve its continuity, and ensure that it continues to operate at a high level. One challenge would be retaining the experienced prosecutors that are here along with recruiting in the future. Qualified prosecutors are increasingly difficult to recruit, and retaining the talented attorneys who are already a part of our office is essential to maintaining the quality and continuity of our work. I am committed to supporting our current prosecutors and staff and creating an environment that encourages them to build their careers here in Montgomery County.<\/p>
Another challenge--one I have faced throughout my career--is addressing the complex issues that contribute to crime in our community while ensuring that our criminal justice system remains fair, effective, and focused on public safety. Two of the most significant challenges are substance abuse and mental health. These issues are often at the root of criminal behavior and can make it much more difficult to achieve lasting solutions through the traditional criminal justice process alone.<\/p>
My predecessor, Mary Pettitt, helped establish a Recovery Court to address substance abuse and a Behavioral Health Docket to better serve defendants whose criminal conduct is connected to mental health issues. Those two programs have proven successful. I look forward to continuing and building upon these programs and working with our partners throughout the criminal justice system to ensure that individuals receive the appropriate treatment and support while still being held accountable for their actions.<\/p>"}}},{"id":5531,"slug":"other-issues","title":"Other issues","description":"
What else would you like voters to know?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":2,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"10662":{"content":"
Growing up, my father was on active duty in the Army, so my family moved every three or four years. Including my four years at Virginia Tech, I have now lived in Montgomery County longer than anywhere else. More importantly, this is the place where I have put down roots, built my career, and made lasting friendships. I truly consider Montgomery County my home, and I am proud to have the opportunity to continue serving the community I have come to know and love.<\/p>
I am the Republican nominee for this office, but I want voters to know that partisan politics will never play a role in my decisions as Commonwealth's Attorney. Throughout my career, I have worked for elected Commonwealth's Attorneys from different political backgrounds, including an Independent, a Democrat, and Republicans. I have always believed that every case must be evaluated based on the facts and the law, without passion, prejudice, or political influence. As Commonwealth's Attorney, I will continue to make decisions based on what is right for the case, the law, and the people of Montgomery County.<\/p>
The work of a prosecutor doesn't come with normal work hours. I'm an early riser, so you'll often find me in the office well before the doors open, and I've found that working on Sundays gives me a chance to catch up and, sometimes, get a little ahead. When I'm not working, I can frequently be found walking, running, or biking on the Huckleberry Trail, usually with a podcast playing in my ears. I'm also a big sports fan and follow just about anything Virginia Tech, along with Washington Capitals hockey and the Washington Commanders. At the end of the day, I'm fortunate to have a job I care deeply about, a community I'm proud to call home, and the opportunity to continue serving the people of Montgomery County.<\/p>"}}}],"template":[{"component":"row","children":[{"component":"column","attributes":{"width":"33%"},"children":[{"component":"individual_candidates","children":[{"component":"candidate_card","children":[{"component":"portrait"},{"component":"name"},{"component":"individual_questions","attributes":{"zone_id":["candidate_card"],"title":"Short summary","help_hint":"Brief fields (like demographics) for a summary card. Keep it short: this takes space in all candidate listings"}}]},{"component":"individual_questions","attributes":{"zone_id":["individual_1","individual_2"],"title":"Sidebar","help_hint":"Shorter topics for the side rail"}}]}]},{"component":"column","attributes":{"width":"66%"},"children":[{"component":"ticket_questions","attributes":{"zone_id":["ticket_1","ticket_2"],"title":"Primary","help_hint":"Main area, great for more in-depth and longer policy topics"}}]}]}],"layout":{"groups":"dropdown","topics":"directory","responses":"auto","wrap":"auto"}}]},{"id":2966,"slug":"town-council","title":"Town council 2026","blocks":[{"type":"raceitems","race_type":"election","race_id":2208,"race_description":"","groups":[{"custom_id":null,"slug":"blacksburg-town-council-special-election-2-seats-available","name":"Blacksburg Town Council (special election) \/ 2 seats available","content":null,"show_heading":true,"hide_map_shape":false,"candidates":[{"id":14434,"slug":"leslie-c-harwood","name":"Leslie C. Harwood","party":null,"photo_sm":"https:\/\/app.electup.com\/storage\/thumbnails\/sm-3a917205-adbf-460d-9a27-06ee7bf8a9fc.jpg","photo_lg":"https:\/\/app.electup.com\/storage\/thumbnails\/lg-3a917205-adbf-460d-9a27-06ee7bf8a9fc.jpg","order":0},{"id":14435,"slug":"joel-l-goodhart","name":"Joel L. Goodhart","party":null,"photo_sm":"https:\/\/app.electup.com\/storage\/thumbnails\/sm-5e232c8a-dfce-4ef0-8e4d-2e31c6f0930c.jpeg","photo_lg":"https:\/\/app.electup.com\/storage\/thumbnails\/lg-5e232c8a-dfce-4ef0-8e4d-2e31c6f0930c.jpeg","order":1}]}],"total_groups_count":1,"topics":[{"id":8475,"slug":"biographical-information","title":"Biographical information","description":"","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"candidate_card","order":0,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"14434":{"content":"
I've called Blacksburg home for most of the past 26 years. Like so many people who fall in love with this community, I first came here as a student at Virginia Tech and never really left. Over the years, Blacksburg became much more than the place where I went to school. It became my home, my community, and the place where I chose to build my life.<\/p>
I'm a Triple Hokie, having earned three degrees from Virginia Tech, and I spent more than a decade working for the university. My career has taken me to other places at different times, but Blacksburg has always been home, and I have always come back. I think that experience has actually given me a greater appreciation for what makes this community special. I've seen what other places have to offer, and every time I've been reminded why Blacksburg is worth investing in, protecting, and continually working to make better.<\/p>
Service has been an important part of my life for as long as I can remember. Growing up in Southwest Virginia, my years in 4-H helped shape my commitment to leadership, service, responsibility, and community. Those values have followed me throughout my life. I've volunteered with organizations including Habitat for Humanity and the Montgomery County Christmas Store, and most recently I served as Volunteer Coordinator for Pete Macedo's 2025 campaign for Mayor of Blacksburg.<\/p>
That campaign gave me the opportunity to spend countless hours talking with people throughout Blacksburg. I heard what they love about this town, what they hope for its future, and what frustrates them. One thing I heard repeatedly was that people care deeply about Blacksburg, but too many no longer feel like their voices are being heard or that they understand how and why decisions are being made.<\/p>
Those conversations were an important part of what ultimately led me to run for Town Council myself.<\/p>
Professionally, I'm a program manager and strategic consultant, and I've spent more than a decade managing complicated programs involving universities, government agencies, private partners, researchers, and multidisciplinary teams. Much of my career has involved taking something with a lot of moving pieces and figuring out how to bring the right people together, create a plan, solve problems, and actually get something done.<\/p>
At the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, I helped build the Safety through Disruption National University Transportation Center from its earliest stages. The five-year, $28 million federally funded research program involved multiple universities and dozens of coordinated research projects focused on improving transportation safety. Building a program of that size required creating processes and partnerships, coordinating people with different expertise and priorities, communicating constantly, and making sure all of those individual pieces were working toward a larger goal.<\/p>
That experience has shaped the way I look at many of the challenges facing Blacksburg today.<\/p>
Housing doesn't exist separately from transportation. Transportation affects economic development. Economic development affects our tax base. Development decisions affect infrastructure, neighborhoods, businesses, and the character of our community. And many of these issues are intertwined with our relationship with Virginia Tech.<\/p>
I don't think complicated problems like these are solved by one person walking into a room with all the answers. My career has taught me the opposite. The best solutions usually come from bringing the right people together, listening to people who know things you don't, asking the right questions, understanding how the pieces connect, and working toward a shared goal.<\/p>
That is the kind of leadership I want to bring to Town Council.<\/p>
I also believe we have tremendous resources right here in Blacksburg that we aren't using nearly as well as we could. We have longtime residents with decades of knowledge about this community. We have business owners, nonprofits, professionals, retirees, families, Virginia Tech faculty and staff, and thousands of incredibly talented students who bring new knowledge and ideas into Blacksburg every year.<\/p>
During this campaign, I wanted to find better ways to involve Virginia Tech students in our community, so I started asking them to get involved. That simple decision resulted in a team of student interns helping research issues facing Blacksburg, examining what other communities are doing, looking at policy and data, and bringing new perspectives and ideas to the table. They are gaining meaningful experience, but I am learning from them too.<\/p>
That is how I approach problems. I listen. I ask questions. I do my homework. I find people who know things I don't. I'm willing to speak up and respectfully disagree. And when I believe something is worth doing, I'm willing to keep working to move it forward.<\/p>
My campaign is centered on greater transparency and communication, thoughtful long-term planning, rebuilding trust between residents and their local government, strengthening the relationship between Blacksburg and Virginia Tech, bringing more voices into the decision-making process, and creating a culture where good ideas can actually move forward.<\/p>
I want residents to know where Blacksburg is going, understand the plan for getting there, and have meaningful opportunities to help shape that direction. I want us to communicate earlier instead of after decisions are nearly made. I want us to ask hard questions and be willing to reconsider the way we've always done things. And I want our Town and Virginia Tech to recognize that our futures are intertwined and that we can accomplish far more by working together.<\/p>
I am not a career politician. I'm a neighbor, a volunteer, a program manager, a problem-solver, and someone who cares deeply about the place I call home.<\/p>
I'm running for Town Council because I believe leadership should be about listening, bringing people together, asking hard questions, and then doing the work necessary to turn good ideas into action. I want people to be proud of Blacksburg as it is today and excited about where it is heading. And I want everyone who calls this community home to understand where we are going and know that they have a voice in deciding how we get there.<\/p>
Because Blacksburg doesn't belong to Town Council. It belongs to all of us. And I want to help bring people together to write the next chapter of Blacksburg's future--together.<\/p>"},"14435":{"content":"
Joel was born and raised in the NRV. As a graduate of VT and a lifelong resident, Joel has deep roots in the community and understands first-hand what makes Blacksburg such a special place to live, to grow up, and to raise a family in. It's a place he's committed to see become a strong town.<\/p>"}}},{"id":7256,"slug":"1-greatest-challenge","title":"1. Biggest challenge","description":"
What's the biggest challenge facing your community and how do you propose to address it?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":0,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"14434":{"content":"
I think the biggest challenge facing Blacksburg is figuring out how we grow and adapt to the future while still maintaining what makes this community such a special place to live.<\/p>
And I do not think this is a single issue. Housing, transportation, economic development, our tax base, infrastructure, and our relationship with Virginia Tech are all interconnected. Any decision we make in one area can have consequences in several others, sometimes years down the road.<\/p>
That's why I think we need to do a better job of looking at the whole picture and planning for the long term rather than addressing these issues individually or reacting to problems after they arise.<\/p>
But I also think we have to rebuild trust in how we make those decisions. One of the things I've heard repeatedly from residents is that they don't always feel heard or understand how decisions are being made. We need more transparency, earlier communication, and more meaningful opportunities for residents, students, businesses, Virginia Tech, and other community partners to be part of the conversation.<\/p>
Blacksburg has incredibly talented people and tremendous resources right here in our community. I don't think our biggest challenge is a lack of good ideas. I think it's bringing the right people together, being willing to ask hard questions, and turning good ideas into action.<\/p>"},"14435":{"content":"
Affordable housing is one of the biggest challenges facing the Town of Blacksburg. As a town, our stock of attainable housing, starter housing, and missing middle housing is very lacking. I believe this problem is exacerbated by the town's antiquated zoning codes and ordinances. There are several layers to the housing crisis, but if we do an honest job of creating more attainable housing by-right, then we'll be able to attract more proposals that provide it. Too many administrative, political, or financial roadblocks can prevent attainable housing projects from being submitted, and the first step is zoning code reform. Shepherding that through will be one of my primary goals to achieve this coming year.<\/p>"}}},{"id":7258,"slug":"2-biggest-strength","title":"2. Biggest strength","description":"
What is your community's greatest strength and how do you propose to build on that?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":1,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"14434":{"content":"
Blacksburg's greatest strength is truly its people. We have an extraordinary concentration of knowledge, talent, experience, creativity, and people who genuinely care about this community. We have longtime residents who understand Blacksburg's history and how it has changed. We have business owners, nonprofit leaders, retirees, families, researchers, faculty, staff, and tens of thousands of Virginia Tech students who bring new ideas and expertise into this community every year. We have people who want to help. I don't think we are using that strength nearly as well as we could.<\/p>
One of the things this campaign has reinforced for me is that sometimes you simply have to ask people to get involved.<\/p>
I kept looking at Virginia Tech and thinking: we have this incredible university right in our backyard, with students studying public policy, economics, communications, planning, data, technology, international affairs, and countless other subjects that directly relate to challenges facing our community. Why aren't we finding more ways to involve them?<\/p>
So I put together a student internship program, and now I have a team of students helping research issues facing Blacksburg, studying what other communities are doing, looking at policy, analyzing data, and bringing perspectives and ideas to this campaign that I would not have come up with on my own. They have been amazing. They are learning from the experience, but I am learning from them too.<\/p>
That experience represents exactly how I would approach serving on Town Council.<\/p>
I don't believe elected officials are supposed to walk into the room believing they already have all the answers. I think our job should be to identify the problem, listen to the people affected by it, find the people who know something we don't, bring them together, ask good questions, and figure out how to turn what we learn into action.<\/p>
That is also what I have spent my career doing as a program manager. When you are dealing with a complicated problem involving different organizations, priorities, personalities, and resources, you don't solve it by trying to do everything yourself. You figure out who needs to be at the table. You identify the expertise and resources you already have. You find where communication is breaking down. You establish a shared goal and then build a path for getting there.<\/p>
I think Blacksburg could do much more of that.<\/p>
I want us to create better ways for residents to participate before decisions are nearly finished. I want us to engage students in meaningful ways beyond simply asking them to vote. I want us to tap into the expertise of Virginia Tech faculty and staff. I want us talking with our businesses, nonprofits, neighborhoods, retirees, young professionals, families, and people who may never come to a Town Council meeting but have valuable experience and ideas. And I want to strengthen the relationship between the Town and Virginia Tech so we stop thinking in terms of what one institution can do for the other and start asking what we can accomplish together.<\/p>
I also think building on our greatest strength means making it easier for people to contribute. If someone has a good idea, government shouldn't immediately tell them all the reasons it can't be done. My instinct is to ask, \"What will it take to get to yes?\" Maybe the original idea has to change. Maybe there are legal, financial, or practical limitations. But let's bring the right people together, understand the barriers, and see what is possible.<\/p>
That is the kind of culture I want to help build in Blacksburg: one where people feel like their knowledge, ideas, and participation are actually valued; where government is willing to listen and learn; and where we make much better use of the tremendous resources we already have.<\/p>
I don't think Blacksburg has a shortage of talented people or good ideas. Our opportunity is to get much better at connecting those people and ideas and turning them into action. That is something I know how to do, and it is one of the things I most want to bring to Town Council.<\/p>"},"14435":{"content":"
I think one of Blacksburg's greatest strengths is in our alternative transportation potential. A few years ago, town council voted to make riding our public transit fare free which is a huge amenity for our resident and student populations. I would love to see transit service built upon and expanded during my time on town council and some of the things town staff are working on can be found in the Transit Strategic Plan. I'm also a practical bike rider, and I consider Blacksburg to have a strong foundation for reducing the need for car-dependent transportation on a daily basis. This is something that we should lean into, so that more of our population across the board has access to safe, direct, reliable, and convenient choices for transportation other than cars. This is a goal that I would like to encourage as we go about updating our Comprehensive Plan over the coming year.<\/p>"}}},{"id":7257,"slug":"2-other-issues","title":"3. Other issues","description":"
What else would you like voters to know?<\/p>","type":"text","allow_text":true,"allow_structured":false,"zone_id":"ticket_1","order":2,"compare":true,"show_compare":true,"responses":{"14434":{"content":"
I want voters to know that I'm not waiting until I'm elected to start doing the work.<\/p>
Throughout this campaign, when I've seen something I think Blacksburg could be doing better, I've tried to do something about it. When I wanted to understand why so many public meetings weren't available online, I dug through the Town's website, gathered the data, compared us with other communities, went to Council, and asked why. When nothing happened immediately, I went back and asked again. Now we're seeing movement.<\/p>
When I wanted to find better ways to involve Virginia Tech students in our community, I didn't wait for someone to create a program. I asked students to get involved, and that turned into an incredible team of interns who have researched housing, economic development, communication, municipal policy, and other issues affecting Blacksburg. They've brought new ideas and perspectives to this campaign, and they've reinforced something I already believed: we have tremendous talent and resources right here in our own backyard, and we need to do a much better job of using them.<\/p>
That's how I will approach serving on Council. I'm going to listen. I'm going to do my homework. I'm going to ask questions. I'm going to find the people who know things I don't and bring them into the conversation. I'm not afraid to respectfully disagree, and I'm not afraid to speak up when I believe we can do better. And when someone brings forward a good idea, my first instinct won't be to explain why we can't do it. I want to ask, \"What will it take to get to yes?\"<\/p>
My program management experience has taught me that ideas alone don't create change. You have to bring the right people together, understand the problem, identify the resources you have, create a plan, and then follow through. That is what I know how to do.<\/p>
I also want voters to know that I don't expect them to agree with me all the time. I don't want a community where people only speak up when they agree with their elected officials. If I'm wrong, tell me. If there's something I haven't considered, bring it to me. If someone else has a better idea, I want to hear it. Good leadership requires enough confidence to make decisions but enough humility to know that you don't have all the answers.<\/p>
More than anything, I want to help change the relationship people have with their local government. I want residents to feel like speaking up is worth their time because somebody is actually listening. I want Virginia Tech and the Town working together more effectively. I want students to understand that they are part of this community and that their ideas matter. I want us to make decisions with a clear understanding of where Blacksburg is going - not simply react to one issue after another.<\/p>
And I want people to be proud. Proud of Blacksburg today, but also proud of where we're heading. They should know what the plan is, understand why decisions are being made, and have meaningful opportunities to help shape that future.<\/p>
I'm not running because I think I have all the answers. I'm running because I know how to listen, how to bring people together, how to ask hard questions, and how to turn ideas into action. I'm willing to put in the work, and I'm willing to speak up.<\/p>
This isn't Town Council's community. It's our community. And I want to help make sure all of us have a meaningful role in deciding what comes next.<\/p>"},"14435":{"content":"
At the moment, there are a number of important things that are worth paying attention to. The town is looking to invest $10 million dollars into the athletic fields and facilities at the OBHS and at Kipps. There's a survey that the town put out recently that's open through October 9th and I would encourage voters to fill it out.<\/p>
There's also the Blacksburg Horizons - Comprehensive Plan update on the Let's Talk Blacksburg website. The comprehensive plan is really important as it guides town staff, planning commission, and town council on land use decisions. It's worth looking into at this time as the town works on our 5 year update.<\/p>"}}}],"template":[{"component":"row","children":[{"component":"column","attributes":{"width":"33%"},"children":[{"component":"individual_candidates","children":[{"component":"candidate_card","children":[{"component":"portrait"},{"component":"name"},{"component":"individual_questions","attributes":{"zone_id":["candidate_card"],"title":"Short summary","help_hint":"Brief fields (like demographics) for a summary card. Keep it short: this takes space in all candidate listings"}}]},{"component":"individual_questions","attributes":{"zone_id":["individual_1","individual_2"],"title":"Sidebar","help_hint":"Shorter topics for the side rail"}}]}]},{"component":"column","attributes":{"width":"66%"},"children":[{"component":"ticket_questions","attributes":{"zone_id":["ticket_1","ticket_2"],"title":"Primary","help_hint":"Main area, great for more in-depth and longer policy topics"}}]}]}],"layout":{"groups":"dropdown","topics":"directory","responses":"auto","wrap":"auto"}}]}]}}