Gary Schuman

[{"question": "Ballotpedia survey responses", "answer_html": "<p>See also: <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a></p>\n<div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-10 col-md-6 col-xs-offset-1 col-md-offset-3\"><p><a href=\"https://ballotpedia.org/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\"><img align=\"middle\" alt=\"Candidate Connection\" src=\"https://cdn.ballotpedia.org/images/8/88/Candidate_Connection_Logo.png\" width=\"90%\"/></a></p></div></div>\n<p>Gary Schuman completed <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a> survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Schuman's responses.</p>\n<p><span class=\"expand-all\">Expand all</span> | <span class=\"collapse-all\">Collapse all</span></p>\n<div aria-multiselectable=\"true\" class=\"panel-group\" id=\"accordion\" role=\"tablist\"><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading-bio-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWho are you? Tell us about yourself.\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-bio-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI have been a proud and Happy Maryland resident for almost a decade. I was born and raised in New York. I was educated in public schools from Kindergarten through high school, and even college. My degrees in Political Science, Communications and English are from Queens College of The City University of New York. For two years I ran the district office for New York State Assemblyman Arthur J. Cooperman. I learned about the importance of constituent services and how to best serve the public. I was also present at community events, committee meetings, and assisted in drafting legislation. \r\nI am a Journalist, and locally my articles and columns have appeared in The Mid Atlantic Media Publications, including: Washington Week, Baltimore Style, Washington Family and The Baltimore Jewish Times. Previously my columns have appeared in The New York Times, Daily News, USA Today and more. I was the Editor of For Your Health Newspaper and Our Town Magazine in New York City and Palm Beach Life Magazine and The Boynton News in Florida. I have taught school, owned and run several tablecloth restaurants and been a full time sole caregiver for my best friend ever, my mom. I know about food, business, media, government, health and politics. I do hands on pet rescue, and have several homeless pets as my companions. I have an abundant respect for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. I relish the Constitution., and will protect and defend it for all my constituents, and all Americans.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading-key-message-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tPlease list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-key-message-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>I accept no Pac; no superpac, no dark money, no donations at all. We need campaign finance reform, and I am the only person running in the 3rd Congressional District in Maryland who does not accept donations, and who is not attempting to buy your vote. I am the only person running for the 435 seats in the House and 34 in the Senate, who accepts no money. I also will not spend my own money. Gary Schuman Walks The Walk, while the others Talk the Talk! Additionally we must eliminate the Electoral College. This guarantees the rule of one person, one vote. No more majority winners in reality, yet minority presidents in office. Moreover, this will streamline primaries, eliminating big corporate involvement in elections.</li><li>We must bridge the divide. We need to end \"tribal politics\" NOW! I am the guy to accomplish this. I have the energy, the wit and the personality to captivate and charm both sides of the aisle. My refusal to accept PAC money or any donations earns me respect from all sides of the many issues. I have done the research to back up my ideas and I have examined funding for the programs. There are either zero costs, or actual reductions in costs of programs I will replace.Liberals want my vision and conservatives like my math. Both sides trust me. My plan for more professional police on the southern border will assure safety for everyone without turning away immigrants. Immigrants we need as much or more than they need us.</li><li>One of the most important jobs of a Congressman is constituent services. I plan to keep my congressional office round the clock; 24/7. There are people who need me and my staff all hours of the day and night. One of us will answer the phones live! There are things that can be done to help people navigate the red tape and bureaucracy at any hour. We will give resources, send faxes and emails and open files. I believe this will become the standard, as the rest of the two houses of Congress will follow my lead. We must raise the minimum wage to $15.00 an hour, to be effective immediately. The bill must include guarantee annual raises equal to CPI, and said raises for fixed income elderly persons also.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading1-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading1-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI am passionate about everything I have stated. We must focus on our similarities, not our differences. In fact, we should relish our distinctive individuality, and learn from each other. We don't need to be friends, just have mutual respect, understanding and awareness that United We Stand Divided We Fall. Specifically, we must pass Medicare for All, and expand the food stamp program. We need to support Israel and Ukraine for both strategic and moral purposes.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading2-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWho do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading2-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tAs I get older, my heroes have become the same as when I was a child. My Dad, my Mom, my maternal Grandma and Grandpa. <br/>\n<p>Dad retired in his 60's and painted charcoals and oils. I remember in the supermarket he would make the window signs for \"sales and specials. He could freehand draw straight lines that I could not accomplish with 2 rulers and a protractor. He was the 5th of 6 kids; 3 boys and 3 girls. His older brothers and sisters were married starting families. When his Dad passed, he left school to support his mother and little sister. He later joined the army in World War 2, returned safe, married and built successful small businesses. He was always pro union, supportive of his staff and gave stellar customer service. He worked 11 hour days, commuted over an hour, 6 days a week. He basically sacrificed his entire life for his family; first his mom, then his wife and son. He gave up his youth, his education, he enlisted and more. Only after he retired I realized he had the gift and desire for creating art. <br/>\r\nMy mom was an extraordinarily gorgeous young woman; model and movie star quality. She wanted to act and gave it up to be a wife and mom. After I graduated high school Mom went into the glamorous garment industry. She sparkled from being part of the fashion world. <br/>\n</p>\nMy Grandma was the sweetest person ever. She could never say anything bad about anyone. Even if some one was uniquely ignorant and foolish, she would say: \"He's not that bright\". This was rare and the harshest words she ever used. She was a prodigy. She played classical piano in Carnegie Hall, in New York City when she was 9 years old. She taught me to play. Grandpa's only joy in life was his family. He was in World War 2, built businesses through the depression and worked to provide for his family. I wish I had the opportunity and determination to do what they did. I hope one day I can thank them and say I realize their gift to me. I wish I knew then.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading3-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIs there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading3-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tMy political philosophy is the same as my philosophy of life. The book is \"All I really Need to Know, I learned in Kindergarten\", by Robert Fulghum. Some songs would be: United We Stand, by The Brotherhood of Man; \"The Games People Play\" and \"Walk A Mile In My Shoes\", By Joe South. A film:\"My Sweet Charlie\", starring Al Freeman Jr. and Patty Duke. It was released in 1970 on T.V. It was responding to early complaints about violence on TV. the way they handled violence, especially the final frame, was effective, chilling and non violent. We should revisit this and consider how violent TV, Music videos, Video games and feature films are fueling our violent behavior. There is a song by the Israeli group, Milk and Honey, \"Hallelujah\". Also known as \"Hallelujah To the World\", so as to not be confused with the Leonard Cohen song. Milk and Honey won the 1979 Eurovision best song and it became Israel's second national anthem. Listen to the lyrics, and discover positivity and optimism from a very unlikely place.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading4-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading4-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tIntegrity, passion and compassion. Respect, self respect, confidence, intelligence.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading5-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading5-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI am passionate and compassionate. I have energy, drive, dedication and vision. I have superior intelligence, a gift for communicating to all types and ages of people, and I have an excellent sense of humor. I can even laugh at myself. This speaks to my self confidence. I love people, enjoy them, care about them and respect them. I have education in Political Science, as well as hands on experience in running a legislative office. I know the importance of responsible and prompt constituent services and have delivered the same. I think prior to arriving at decisions, and do not respond to special interest groups and trends.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading6-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading6-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tWith all due respect this was answered in the previous response.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading7-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat legacy would you like to leave?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading7-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI would like to accomplish things that would make my parents and grandparents proud. Also, that honesty is truly the best policy, and there for the grace of God , go you and I. And, if you want to make a difference, you can.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading8-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse8-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading8-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse8-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tAlan Shepard going up into space. I was in second grade.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading9-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse9-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat was your very first job? How long did you have it?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading9-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse9-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI worked in my Dad's supermarket. I sorted pop bottles, delivered groceries, swept up, scrubbed butcher blocks and on breaks went into the cooler and punched the hanging meat like Rocky in the movie. I was too young to work the cash register, I couldn't reach the keys. I did this through Junior high and high school.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading10-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse10-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is your favorite book? Why?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading10-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse10-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI have several. Whatever I am reading at the time is my favorite. I love different types of books. The \"Jungle Book\", by Rudyard Kipling is always on my short list of favs. It is beautifully written, and it was the first book my Mom bought me. It has a very special place in my heart, and I believe it was my inspiration to become a writer.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading11-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse11-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIf you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading11-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse11-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI do not have any specific character in fiction. One day it might be Perry Mason, and the next day, Kojak. However, Atticus Finch from \"To Kill A Mockingbird\" is always on the list.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading12-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse12-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat was the last song that got stuck in your head?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading12-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse12-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\t\"This Land is Your Land\", by Woody Guthrie. The music is sweet, sensitive and moving. It has a slightly upbeat feel with a bit of a tear jerking melody associated with minor key music. The lyrics are touching, optimistic and positive. The song appeals to Liberals by virtue of its egalitarian message, yet has a patriotic feel as well. It is my unofficial campaign song.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading13-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse13-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is something that has been a struggle in your life?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading13-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse13-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tSaying Good Bye. I am a pet lover, an animal activist and I do pet rescue. I have had dogs, cats, birds and hamsters. Parting with loved ones is a pain and I find this exceedingly difficult. Of course, I am referring to humans loved ones also.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading14-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse14-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading14-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse14-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe House of Representatives is the most responsive to the people. Each House member represents less citizens than a Senator.. For the majority of states, this is less citizens per Rep than per Senator. Also, we are answerable every 2 years. The President every 4 years and the Senate every 6 years. The House is the only place war can be declared. The House can impeach, and holds the power of the purse.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading15-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse15-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tDo you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading15-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse15-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tDefinitely not. Intelligence, passion, compassion, oratory, leadership, vision, a sense of humor and a sense of decency, along with self respect are the most important.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading16-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse16-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading16-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse16-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tFirst, we must preserve our democracy. We need to draw upon our best and brightest, who also have passion and compassion. This will be needed to communicate, motivate and adjudicate issues and matters to the many disgruntled and disbelieving Trump supporters. <br/>\n<p>We must House the Homeless; Feed the hungry, Care for the sick, Engage the elderly, Embrace the different among us and Welcome the stranger. I have programs for all that I mentioned, including price tags of Zero for most. We need to fundamentally and philosophically re-learn what is to be the United States of America. We must end tribal politics. We must have drastic campaign finance reform, Eliminate all big money, Pacs, Superpacs, corporate influence. We must eliminate the electoral college. If we do not address these foundational dynamics, nothing substantial will ever be accomplished.<br/>\n</p>\nWe must acknowledge that we have ceased to be a Capitalist society and have become corporatism. We must return to a free market economy, where competition reigns supreme; not big money. We must encourage small independent businesses. We also must bring life work balance to all. We need to reign in the excesses and abuses of predatory industries, especially real estate developers and residential landlords. Landlords are manipulating the rents and warehousing inventory. This artificially keeps rents high, and keeps working class Americans hostage to landlords and monthly inflated rents. We must promote healthy food, instead of junk food, genetically altered food and toxic pesticide infected food. Healthier food also translates to lower health care costs. So this is my way of communicating to businesses they benefit from these programs as well.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading17-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse17-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tDo you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading17-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse17-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tYes.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading18-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse18-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat are your thoughts on term limits?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading18-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse18-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tWe need term limits for all offices, including The Supreme Court. We need to place a ten year maximum time frame that a president is allowed to serve. In other words, once the first term ends, if he or she is not re-elected, that person cannot run 4 years later. The 10 years allows for a Vice President to run 2 times after taking over for a President who leaves office or dies during his term; provided there are less than 2 years left to the term. Both houses of congress need to have a maximum of 12 years for it's respective members. 6 terms for the House, and 2 terms for the senate. This will guarantee more access to people and less corporate influence.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading19-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse19-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIs there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading19-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse19-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tAllard Lowenstein, the first member of congress to criticize our involvement in Viet Nam. he did many other great things. Of course, I do not wish to be as assassinated as he was. Elijah Cummings, John Lewis, Seymour Halpern. Mr. Halpern was an extremely liberal Republican from New York City. His voting record and beliefs were as liberal as any Democrat. As a student I had met with him in his Washington, DC office, and also at events in New York City's borough of Queens. He was part of the northeast and specifically New York liberal Republicans who chose the Republican party because of mid 20th century rampant corruption in New York's Democrat party.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading20-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse20-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tBoth sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading20-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse20-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI was told recently that some people liked me, but could not vote Democratic. I feel this proves I am the guy to bridge the divide.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading21-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse21-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tTell us your favorite joke.\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading21-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse21-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tMy jokes are best told in person. I Have many. As of late, due to the incredible lack of respect many drivers in Greater Baltimore have for traffic lights, here goes: A guy is driving along with a passenger to his right. He approaches a red light and bolts right through the intersection.<br/>\r\nThe passenger screams: \"Hey, it's a red light\". The driver says, \"don't worry, my brother drives this way and he taught me everything I know\". He comes to another red light, and again flies right through it. The passenger says:\"Hey, again! Another red light.\". The driver says: \"I told you My brother taught me how to drive and he always drives this way\". The driver comes to a green light and slams on his brakes, the passenger spills the coffee he was trying to sip all over his tie and shirt, and screams:\"What are you doing? It's a green light.\" The driver says:\" My brother might be coming the other way\".\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading22-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse22-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tDo you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading22-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse22-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tCertain matters need compromise. Some issues are not for negotiating. I also make the decision, and maintain I will be unwavering in my support on some matters, but bend on others. I will never compromise my personal principles, morality or humanity. Furthermore, I will never violate my oath, the Constitution or the American ethic.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse23-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading23-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse23-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse23-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tThe Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. What role would this power play in your priorities if elected?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading23-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse23-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tIt is the basis of compromise. If the opposition wants some funding for something for their district, we will vote for it, within reason, but they must first support our goals. Specifically: Medicare for all; !5.00 per hour minimum wage; open borders; expanded SNAP ( food stamps), etc.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse24-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading24-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse24-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse24-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tHow should the U.S. House use its investigative powers?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading24-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse24-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tWe need to rid our government of corruption, foreign interests and big moneyed interests. Also, get a grip on organized crime.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse25-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading25-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse25-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse25-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat committees interest you?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading25-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse25-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tForeign Affairs, Homeland Security, Judiciary, Agriculture, Ways and Means,\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse26-218674-2024-04-08\" id=\"heading26-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse26-218674-2024-04-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse26-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading26-218674-2024-04-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse26-218674-2024-04-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tAll finances of the government and elected officials must be transparent, and easily accessed by the public. We are a democracy, and as such the government and its employees, especially elected office holders work for the people and must be completely accountable.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div></div>\n<div class=\"small\" data-nosnippet=\"\"><p><i><b>Note:</b> Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.</i></p></div>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"></div>\n<p>Gary Schuman did not complete <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's 2020 Candidate Connection</a> survey.\n</p>", "answer_text": "See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection\n\nGary Schuman completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Schuman's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. I have been a proud and Happy Maryland resident for almost a decade. I was born and raised in New York. I was educated in public schools from Kindergarten through high school, and even college. My degrees in Political Science, Communications and English are from Queens College of The City University of New York. For two years I ran the district office for New York State Assemblyman Arthur J. Cooperman. I learned about the importance of constituent services and how to best serve the public. I was also present at community events, committee meetings, and assisted in drafting legislation. \r\nI am a Journalist, and locally my articles and columns have appeared in The Mid Atlantic Media Publications, including: Washington Week, Baltimore Style, Washington Family and The Baltimore Jewish Times. Previously my columns have appeared in The New York Times, Daily News, USA Today and more. I was the Editor of For Your Health Newspaper and Our Town Magazine in New York City and Palm Beach Life Magazine and The Boynton News in Florida. I have taught school, owned and run several tablecloth restaurants and been a full time sole caregiver for my best friend ever, my mom. I know about food, business, media, government, health and politics. I do hands on pet rescue, and have several homeless pets as my companions. I have an abundant respect for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. I relish the Constitution., and will protect and defend it for all my constituents, and all Americans. Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office? I accept no Pac; no superpac, no dark money, no donations at all. We need campaign finance reform, and I am the only person running in the 3rd Congressional District in Maryland who does not accept donations, and who is not attempting to buy your vote. I am the only person running for the 435 seats in the House and 34 in the Senate, who accepts no money. I also will not spend my own money. Gary Schuman Walks The Walk, while the others Talk the Talk! Additionally we must eliminate the Electoral College. This guarantees the rule of one person, one vote. No more majority winners in reality, yet minority presidents in office. Moreover, this will streamline primaries, eliminating big corporate involvement in elections. We must bridge the divide. We need to end \"tribal politics\" NOW! I am the guy to accomplish this. I have the energy, the wit and the personality to captivate and charm both sides of the aisle. My refusal to accept PAC money or any donations earns me respect from all sides of the many issues. I have done the research to back up my ideas and I have examined funding for the programs. There are either zero costs, or actual reductions in costs of programs I will replace.Liberals want my vision and conservatives like my math. Both sides trust me. My plan for more professional police on the southern border will assure safety for everyone without turning away immigrants. Immigrants we need as much or more than they need us. One of the most important jobs of a Congressman is constituent services. I plan to keep my congressional office round the clock; 24/7. There are people who need me and my staff all hours of the day and night. One of us will answer the phones live! There are things that can be done to help people navigate the red tape and bureaucracy at any hour. We will give resources, send faxes and emails and open files. I believe this will become the standard, as the rest of the two houses of Congress will follow my lead. We must raise the minimum wage to $15.00 an hour, to be effective immediately. The bill must include guarantee annual raises equal to CPI, and said raises for fixed income elderly persons also. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? I am passionate about everything I have stated. We must focus on our similarities, not our differences. In fact, we should relish our distinctive individuality, and learn from each other. We don't need to be friends, just have mutual respect, understanding and awareness that United We Stand Divided We Fall. Specifically, we must pass Medicare for All, and expand the food stamp program. We need to support Israel and Ukraine for both strategic and moral purposes. Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why? As I get older, my heroes have become the same as when I was a child. My Dad, my Mom, my maternal Grandma and Grandpa. Dad retired in his 60's and painted charcoals and oils. I remember in the supermarket he would make the window signs for \"sales and specials. He could freehand draw straight lines that I could not accomplish with 2 rulers and a protractor. He was the 5th of 6 kids; 3 boys and 3 girls. His older brothers and sisters were married starting families. When his Dad passed, he left school to support his mother and little sister. He later joined the army in World War 2, returned safe, married and built successful small businesses. He was always pro union, supportive of his staff and gave stellar customer service. He worked 11 hour days, commuted over an hour, 6 days a week. He basically sacrificed his entire life for his family; first his mom, then his wife and son. He gave up his youth, his education, he enlisted and more. Only after he retired I realized he had the gift and desire for creating art. My mom was an extraordinarily gorgeous young woman; model and movie star quality. She wanted to act and gave it up to be a wife and mom. After I graduated high school Mom went into the glamorous garment industry. She sparkled from being part of the fashion world. My Grandma was the sweetest person ever. She could never say anything bad about anyone. Even if some one was uniquely ignorant and foolish, she would say: \"He's not that bright\". This was rare and the harshest words she ever used. She was a prodigy. She played classical piano in Carnegie Hall, in New York City when she was 9 years old. She taught me to play. Grandpa's only joy in life was his family. He was in World War 2, built businesses through the depression and worked to provide for his family. I wish I had the opportunity and determination to do what they did. I hope one day I can thank them and say I realize their gift to me. I wish I knew then. Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy? My political philosophy is the same as my philosophy of life. The book is \"All I really Need to Know, I learned in Kindergarten\", by Robert Fulghum. Some songs would be: United We Stand, by The Brotherhood of Man; \"The Games People Play\" and \"Walk A Mile In My Shoes\", By Joe South. A film:\"My Sweet Charlie\", starring Al Freeman Jr. and Patty Duke. It was released in 1970 on T.V. It was responding to early complaints about violence on TV. the way they handled violence, especially the final frame, was effective, chilling and non violent. We should revisit this and consider how violent TV, Music videos, Video games and feature films are fueling our violent behavior. There is a song by the Israeli group, Milk and Honey, \"Hallelujah\". Also known as \"Hallelujah To the World\", so as to not be confused with the Leonard Cohen song. Milk and Honey won the 1979 Eurovision best song and it became Israel's second national anthem. Listen to the lyrics, and discover positivity and optimism from a very unlikely place. What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? Integrity, passion and compassion. Respect, self respect, confidence, intelligence. What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder? I am passionate and compassionate. I have energy, drive, dedication and vision. I have superior intelligence, a gift for communicating to all types and ages of people, and I have an excellent sense of humor. I can even laugh at myself. This speaks to my self confidence. I love people, enjoy them, care about them and respect them. I have education in Political Science, as well as hands on experience in running a legislative office. I know the importance of responsible and prompt constituent services and have delivered the same. I think prior to arriving at decisions, and do not respond to special interest groups and trends. What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office? With all due respect this was answered in the previous response. What legacy would you like to leave? I would like to accomplish things that would make my parents and grandparents proud. Also, that honesty is truly the best policy, and there for the grace of God , go you and I. And, if you want to make a difference, you can. What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time? Alan Shepard going up into space. I was in second grade. What was your very first job? How long did you have it? I worked in my Dad's supermarket. I sorted pop bottles, delivered groceries, swept up, scrubbed butcher blocks and on breaks went into the cooler and punched the hanging meat like Rocky in the movie. I was too young to work the cash register, I couldn't reach the keys. I did this through Junior high and high school. What is your favorite book? Why? I have several. Whatever I am reading at the time is my favorite. I love different types of books. The \"Jungle Book\", by Rudyard Kipling is always on my short list of favs. It is beautifully written, and it was the first book my Mom bought me. It has a very special place in my heart, and I believe it was my inspiration to become a writer. If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be? I do not have any specific character in fiction. One day it might be Perry Mason, and the next day, Kojak. However, Atticus Finch from \"To Kill A Mockingbird\" is always on the list. What was the last song that got stuck in your head? \"This Land is Your Land\", by Woody Guthrie. The music is sweet, sensitive and moving. It has a slightly upbeat feel with a bit of a tear jerking melody associated with minor key music. The lyrics are touching, optimistic and positive. The song appeals to Liberals by virtue of its egalitarian message, yet has a patriotic feel as well. It is my unofficial campaign song. What is something that has been a struggle in your life? Saying Good Bye. I am a pet lover, an animal activist and I do pet rescue. I have had dogs, cats, birds and hamsters. Parting with loved ones is a pain and I find this exceedingly difficult. Of course, I am referring to humans loved ones also. What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution? The House of Representatives is the most responsive to the people. Each House member represents less citizens than a Senator.. For the majority of states, this is less citizens per Rep than per Senator. Also, we are answerable every 2 years. The President every 4 years and the Senate every 6 years. The House is the only place war can be declared. The House can impeach, and holds the power of the purse. Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics? Definitely not. Intelligence, passion, compassion, oratory, leadership, vision, a sense of humor and a sense of decency, along with self respect are the most important. What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade? First, we must preserve our democracy. We need to draw upon our best and brightest, who also have passion and compassion. This will be needed to communicate, motivate and adjudicate issues and matters to the many disgruntled and disbelieving Trump supporters. We must House the Homeless; Feed the hungry, Care for the sick, Engage the elderly, Embrace the different among us and Welcome the stranger. I have programs for all that I mentioned, including price tags of Zero for most. We need to fundamentally and philosophically re-learn what is to be the United States of America. We must end tribal politics. We must have drastic campaign finance reform, Eliminate all big money, Pacs, Superpacs, corporate influence. We must eliminate the electoral college. If we do not address these foundational dynamics, nothing substantial will ever be accomplished. We must acknowledge that we have ceased to be a Capitalist society and have become corporatism. We must return to a free market economy, where competition reigns supreme; not big money. We must encourage small independent businesses. We also must bring life work balance to all. We need to reign in the excesses and abuses of predatory industries, especially real estate developers and residential landlords. Landlords are manipulating the rents and warehousing inventory. This artificially keeps rents high, and keeps working class Americans hostage to landlords and monthly inflated rents. We must promote healthy food, instead of junk food, genetically altered food and toxic pesticide infected food. Healthier food also translates to lower health care costs. So this is my way of communicating to businesses they benefit from these programs as well. Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives? Yes. What are your thoughts on term limits? We need term limits for all offices, including The Supreme Court. We need to place a ten year maximum time frame that a president is allowed to serve. In other words, once the first term ends, if he or she is not re-elected, that person cannot run 4 years later. The 10 years allows for a Vice President to run 2 times after taking over for a President who leaves office or dies during his term; provided there are less than 2 years left to the term. Both houses of congress need to have a maximum of 12 years for it's respective members. 6 terms for the House, and 2 terms for the senate. This will guarantee more access to people and less corporate influence. Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after? Allard Lowenstein, the first member of congress to criticize our involvement in Viet Nam. he did many other great things. Of course, I do not wish to be as assassinated as he was. Elijah Cummings, John Lewis, Seymour Halpern. Mr. Halpern was an extremely liberal Republican from New York City. His voting record and beliefs were as liberal as any Democrat. As a student I had met with him in his Washington, DC office, and also at events in New York City's borough of Queens. He was part of the northeast and specifically New York liberal Republicans who chose the Republican party because of mid 20th century rampant corruption in New York's Democrat party. Both sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful? I was told recently that some people liked me, but could not vote Democratic. I feel this proves I am the guy to bridge the divide. Tell us your favorite joke. My jokes are best told in person. I Have many. As of late, due to the incredible lack of respect many drivers in Greater Baltimore have for traffic lights, here goes: A guy is driving along with a passenger to his right. He approaches a red light and bolts right through the intersection. The passenger screams: \"Hey, it's a red light\". The driver says, \"don't worry, my brother drives this way and he taught me everything I know\". He comes to another red light, and again flies right through it. The passenger says:\"Hey, again! Another red light.\". The driver says: \"I told you My brother taught me how to drive and he always drives this way\". The driver comes to a green light and slams on his brakes, the passenger spills the coffee he was trying to sip all over his tie and shirt, and screams:\"What are you doing? It's a green light.\" The driver says:\" My brother might be coming the other way\". Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking? Certain matters need compromise. Some issues are not for negotiating. I also make the decision, and maintain I will be unwavering in my support on some matters, but bend on others. I will never compromise my personal principles, morality or humanity. Furthermore, I will never violate my oath, the Constitution or the American ethic. The Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. What role would this power play in your priorities if elected? It is the basis of compromise. If the opposition wants some funding for something for their district, we will vote for it, within reason, but they must first support our goals. Specifically: Medicare for all; !5.00 per hour minimum wage; open borders; expanded SNAP ( food stamps), etc. How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers? We need to rid our government of corruption, foreign interests and big moneyed interests. Also, get a grip on organized crime. What committees interest you? Foreign Affairs, Homeland Security, Judiciary, Agriculture, Ways and Means, What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability? All finances of the government and elected officials must be transparent, and easily accessed by the public. We are a democracy, and as such the government and its employees, especially elected office holders work for the people and must be completely accountable.\nNote: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.\n\nGary Schuman did not complete Ballotpedia's 2020 Candidate Connection survey."}]