John Hsu

[{"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>John Hsu completed <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a> survey in 2026. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Hsu'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-359799-2026-04-21\" id=\"heading-bio-359799-2026-04-21\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-359799-2026-04-21\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-359799-2026-04-21\" 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-359799-2026-04-21\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-359799-2026-04-21\" 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\tJohn Hsu is a labor, environmental, and human rights activist. He was a Bernie Sanders delegate, former chair of Our Revolution New Jersey and former chair of the Edison Democratic Organization Progressive Caucus. As a contractor for the Department of Education who worked on international testing and the Report Card, he is eager to remedy what he witnessed firsthand: The dismantling of the federal government by DOGE, sanctioned by the current administration to avoid accountability and oversight. As a Rutgers graduate with degrees in Computer Science and Business Administration (MBA), he has the unique experience to tackle our modern challenges: unregulated AI's threats to the environment, jobs and right to privacy, and profitable corporations taking over our institutions and raising the cost of living with impunity.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-359799-2026-04-21\" id=\"heading-key-message-359799-2026-04-21\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-359799-2026-04-21\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-359799-2026-04-21\" 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-359799-2026-04-21\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-359799-2026-04-21\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>Healthcare, not Bombs - I oppose the Iran war and the military aid we have given to Israel the last 2 and half years. The Iran war never should have started and we have contributed to a genocide in Gaza as proclaimed by numerous organizations including Amnesty International and that was a violation of our own Leahy law. We should be directly investing in America instead of spending billions of dollars in endless wars that accomplish nothing but death and suffering. We should spend the money we spend on killing people on universal healthcare instead. No one should die from a treatable illness or injury just because they don’t have enough money. I will fight to end the endless wars and fight for Medicare for All.</li><li>Address AI - AI has massive implications for our society. It is being used for surveillance which can be used to target for example people who oppose ICE. It could lead to loss of jobs. It is contributing to the reduction in the overall cognitive abilities of our young people. It is the main driver of the rise in electricity costs. We need to make big tech pay for their electricity usage, we need to prepare for a society where there are going to be less jobs and we need to figure out how we can not allow technology to hurt the critical thinking skills of our young people.</li><li>Abolish ICE - ICE is not an old agency; it was created in 2003 and it doesn’t make us safer, it makes us less safe. ICE has operated like a paramilitary organization, with near impunity, as we saw with the shooting of Renee Nicole Good. ICE has also been used to limit free speech such as against Mahmoud Khalil of Columbia University and Rümeysa Öztürk of Tufts University. Immigrants and undocumented people should not live in fear. We can pivot to a more humane immigrant policy. I will fight to create laws that remove red tape that slows down the process of non-citizens becoming citizens and fight for the federal government to hire more immigration judges to make the slow process of processing cases of asylum much faster.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-359799-2026-04-21\" id=\"heading1-359799-2026-04-21\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-359799-2026-04-21\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-359799-2026-04-21\" 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=\"heading1-359799-2026-04-21\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-359799-2026-04-21\" 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 already discussed AI/Tech, Healthcare, Foreign Affairs. Below are other public policy areas that I am passionate about.<br/><br/>\n<p>Housing Affordability<br/>\r\nI want to stop wealthy developers and private equity companies from continuing to manipulate the housing market to keep prices high. <br/><br/>\r\nAffordability<br/>\r\nI want a strong FTC to combat corporate use of monopoly power keeping prices high.<br/><br/>\r\nEnvironment<br/>\r\nI oppose pesticides, poisons in our food and cooking materials. I want to support public transportation to reduce fossil fuel usage and make it accessible to all. <br/><br/>\r\nFarming<br/>\r\nI want to support small farmers and encourage regenerative farming. <br/><br/>\r\nTax Policy<br/>\n</p>\nI want a fairer tax system which includes abolishing the Trump tax cuts and the Bush tax cuts.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-359799-2026-04-21\" id=\"heading2-359799-2026-04-21\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-359799-2026-04-21\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-359799-2026-04-21\" 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=\"heading2-359799-2026-04-21\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-359799-2026-04-21\" 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\tWhile I don't always agree with Bernie Sanders, I appreciate his consistent message and his ability to inspire people to imagine and fight for a better world.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-359799-2026-04-21\" id=\"heading3-359799-2026-04-21\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-359799-2026-04-21\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-359799-2026-04-21\" 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=\"heading3-359799-2026-04-21\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-359799-2026-04-21\" 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\tThey should have belief in principles, not make decisions based on what is popular at the time. For example, opposing the Iraq was the right position to take at the time despite the pressure to support it.<br/><br/>\n<p>They should put the public over themselves. One should not be willing to sell out people in order to enrich oneself.<br/><br/>\n</p>\nThey should be steadfast. Getting good things done sometimes takes a long time so pushing them through requires someone who is willing to stick with it for the long haul.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-359799-2026-04-21\" id=\"heading4-359799-2026-04-21\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-359799-2026-04-21\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-359799-2026-04-21\" 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=\"heading4-359799-2026-04-21\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-359799-2026-04-21\" 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\tLearning about issues through seeking information from credible sources, listening to the concerns of constituents.<br/><br/>\n<p>They should be willing to put in hard work which includes reading and understand the bills being voted on and their implications.<br/><br/>\n</p>\nThey should lead. Sometimes the public is not fully aware of implications of war, AI or private equity etc. They should explain what they are to build public support to address these issues.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-359799-2026-04-21\" id=\"heading5-359799-2026-04-21\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-359799-2026-04-21\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-359799-2026-04-21\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading5-359799-2026-04-21\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-359799-2026-04-21\" 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\tOur Revolution NJ, Track AIPAC, Piscataway Youth Progressive Organization, Larry Hamm, Perth Amboy For Palestine, NJ Youth Coalition, Mr. Beat, Hot Girls for Jersey, NJ Pal Calendar, South Jersey Progressive Democrats, Piscataway Progressive Democratic Organization, Citizens’ Impeachment\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>John Hsu did not complete <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's 2024 Candidate Connection</a> survey.\n</p>", "answer_text": "See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection\n\nJohn Hsu completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2026. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Hsu's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. John Hsu is a labor, environmental, and human rights activist. He was a Bernie Sanders delegate, former chair of Our Revolution New Jersey and former chair of the Edison Democratic Organization Progressive Caucus. As a contractor for the Department of Education who worked on international testing and the Report Card, he is eager to remedy what he witnessed firsthand: The dismantling of the federal government by DOGE, sanctioned by the current administration to avoid accountability and oversight. As a Rutgers graduate with degrees in Computer Science and Business Administration (MBA), he has the unique experience to tackle our modern challenges: unregulated AI's threats to the environment, jobs and right to privacy, and profitable corporations taking over our institutions and raising the cost of living with impunity. 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? Healthcare, not Bombs - I oppose the Iran war and the military aid we have given to Israel the last 2 and half years. The Iran war never should have started and we have contributed to a genocide in Gaza as proclaimed by numerous organizations including Amnesty International and that was a violation of our own Leahy law. We should be directly investing in America instead of spending billions of dollars in endless wars that accomplish nothing but death and suffering. We should spend the money we spend on killing people on universal healthcare instead. No one should die from a treatable illness or injury just because they don’t have enough money. I will fight to end the endless wars and fight for Medicare for All. Address AI - AI has massive implications for our society. It is being used for surveillance which can be used to target for example people who oppose ICE. It could lead to loss of jobs. It is contributing to the reduction in the overall cognitive abilities of our young people. It is the main driver of the rise in electricity costs. We need to make big tech pay for their electricity usage, we need to prepare for a society where there are going to be less jobs and we need to figure out how we can not allow technology to hurt the critical thinking skills of our young people. Abolish ICE - ICE is not an old agency; it was created in 2003 and it doesn’t make us safer, it makes us less safe. ICE has operated like a paramilitary organization, with near impunity, as we saw with the shooting of Renee Nicole Good. ICE has also been used to limit free speech such as against Mahmoud Khalil of Columbia University and Rümeysa Öztürk of Tufts University. Immigrants and undocumented people should not live in fear. We can pivot to a more humane immigrant policy. I will fight to create laws that remove red tape that slows down the process of non-citizens becoming citizens and fight for the federal government to hire more immigration judges to make the slow process of processing cases of asylum much faster. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? I already discussed AI/Tech, Healthcare, Foreign Affairs. Below are other public policy areas that I am passionate about. Housing Affordability I want to stop wealthy developers and private equity companies from continuing to manipulate the housing market to keep prices high. Affordability I want a strong FTC to combat corporate use of monopoly power keeping prices high. Environment I oppose pesticides, poisons in our food and cooking materials. I want to support public transportation to reduce fossil fuel usage and make it accessible to all. Farming I want to support small farmers and encourage regenerative farming. Tax Policy I want a fairer tax system which includes abolishing the Trump tax cuts and the Bush tax cuts. Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why? While I don't always agree with Bernie Sanders, I appreciate his consistent message and his ability to inspire people to imagine and fight for a better world. What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? They should have belief in principles, not make decisions based on what is popular at the time. For example, opposing the Iraq was the right position to take at the time despite the pressure to support it. They should put the public over themselves. One should not be willing to sell out people in order to enrich oneself. They should be steadfast. Getting good things done sometimes takes a long time so pushing them through requires someone who is willing to stick with it for the long haul. What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office? Learning about issues through seeking information from credible sources, listening to the concerns of constituents. They should be willing to put in hard work which includes reading and understand the bills being voted on and their implications. They should lead. Sometimes the public is not fully aware of implications of war, AI or private equity etc. They should explain what they are to build public support to address these issues. What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign? Our Revolution NJ, Track AIPAC, Piscataway Youth Progressive Organization, Larry Hamm, Perth Amboy For Palestine, NJ Youth Coalition, Mr. Beat, Hot Girls for Jersey, NJ Pal Calendar, South Jersey Progressive Democrats, Piscataway Progressive Democratic Organization, Citizens’ Impeachment\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\nJohn Hsu did not complete Ballotpedia's 2024 Candidate Connection survey."}, {"question": "Campaign website", "answer_html": "<p>Hsu’s campaign website stated the following:\n</p>\n<div style=\"height:400px;overflow:scroll;border:1px solid gray;margin:20px;padding:10px;\">\n<table data-nosnippet=\"\" style=\"border-collapse: collapse; border: none;background-color: transparent; auto; ;\">\n<tbody><tr>\n<td style=\"border:none; color:#B2B7F2;font-size:35px;font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-weight: bold; text-align: left; padding: 10px 3px;\" valign=\"top\" width=\"20\">“\n</td>\n<td style=\"border: none; padding: 4px 10px;\" valign=\"top\">\n<p><b>Ranked Choice Voting</b>\n</p><p>What is Ranked Choice Voting?\n</p><p>Ranked Choice Voting (RCV), also known as instant-runoff voting or preferential voting, is an electoral system that enables voters to rank candidates in order of preference rather than casting a vote for a single candidate. This method is particularly advantageous in elections where there are more than two candidates, as it often results in a winner who reflects a broader consensus of the electorate. \n</p><p>How Ranked Choice Voting Works\n</p><p>Ranking Candidates: On the ballot, voters see a list of candidates and have the option to rank them in order of preference: first, second, third, and so on. Voters can rank as many or as few candidates as they wish, depending on the rules of the particular election.\n</p><p>Counting Votes: Initially, only the first-choice votes are counted. If a candidate receives a majority (more than 50%) of these first-preference votes, they are declared the winner.\n</p><p>Redistributing Votes: If no candidate wins an outright majority in the first round, the candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated. Voters who selected the eliminated candidate as their first choice then have their votes reallocated to their second choice. This process of elimination and redistribution continues in subsequent rounds until one candidate secures a majority.\n</p><p>Final Result: The process ensures that the winning candidate has a majority support from the voters, reflecting a consensus among the electorate.\n</p><p>Benefits of Ranked Choice Voting\n</p>\n<ul><li>Reduces Negative Campaigning: Since candidates aim to gather not just first-choice votes but also second and third choices, there is an incentive to maintain a more positive, broad-appealing campaign to avoid alienating potential supporters.</li></ul>\n<ul><li>Discourages Strategic Voting: Voters can honestly rank candidates according to their true preferences without worrying that their vote might be \"wasted\" on a less popular candidate. This reduces the need for voting strategically for a less preferred but more viable candidate.</li></ul>\n<ul><li>Promotes Majority Support: By eliminating candidates in sequential rounds and redistributing their votes, RCV ensures that the winner has majority support. This is in contrast to the plurality system, where a candidate can win with less than majority support if the vote is split among many candidates.</li></ul>\n<ul><li>Increases Voter Engagement: Knowing that their vote can still influence the outcome even if their top choice doesn’t win may encourage greater voter participation and satisfaction.</li></ul>\n<ul><li>Supports Diverse Candidates: RCV can help diverse candidates who might otherwise struggle to overcome a split vote in a crowded field. It allows them to demonstrate broader appeal across different voter groups.</li></ul>\n<p><br/>\n<b>Labor</b>\n</p><p>I am a dedicated advocate for unions and workers' rights, emphasizing the importance of strong unions in achieving economic balance and fair treatment for workers. I actively involved in rallies, public demonstrations, and supports legislative efforts that promote easier unionization, enhance collective bargaining rights, and improve workers' influence over their work conditions and pay.\n</p><p>I champion the \"right to organize\" across all levels, advocating for the removal of unionization barriers and supporting underrepresented sectors like gig economy workers. I push for labor laws to adapt to new work environments, including remote work, to ensure robust labor protections.\n</p><p>I also focus on economic policies that ensure a living wage, health benefits, and secure retirement plans, advocating that these factors boost productivity and overall economic health. I consistently engages with union leaders and workers to align his policies with their needs, aiming for both immediate improvements and long-term\n</p><p><br/>\n<b>Housing</b>\n</p><p>I am committed to addressing the critical issue of housing affordability and accessibility. One significant aspect of my approach is the implementation of stringent policies that restrict corporate ownership of housing. Corporations, particularly large investment entities, often purchase residential properties en masse, treating these homes primarily as vehicles for substantial financial returns. This practice can lead to a number of community issues, including inflated real estate prices, reduced housing availability for actual residents, and destabilization of community cohesion. By limiting corporate ownership, we ensure that homes serve their primary purpose: providing a place for people to live. This policy will help stabilize housing markets and make housing more affordable, maintaining the integrity and vibrancy of communities.\n</p><p>Additionally, I advocate for a ban on foreign ownership of residential properties that are used solely as safe havens for wealth accumulation. This practice, often termed as speculative buying, involves foreign investors purchasing homes not to reside in, but to store wealth, which can significantly inflate housing prices. Such speculative investment makes it difficult, if not impossible, for local residents to afford homes in their own neighborhoods, exacerbating the housing crisis and contributing to social inequality.\n</p><p>This policy is designed to curb these speculative activities, thus preventing the runaway inflation of housing prices fueled by foreign capital. By restricting this kind of investment, we aim to create a more equitable housing market where homes are more accessible and affordable for the local population. This, in turn, contributes to the overall stabilization of our communities and supports the economic well-being of our citizens.\n</p><p><br/>\n<b>Finance</b>\n</p><p>I am a firm advocate for enhancing the integrity and transparency of our government. To this end, I strongly support banning stock trading by members of Congress. It is crucial that public officials focus solely on the interests of the citizens they serve, without potential conflicts of interest posed by personal financial investments in the industries and companies they regulate.\n</p><p>Additionally, I propose strengthening the STOCK Act. The original intent of the Act was to prevent insider trading by Congress members and other government employees, but it requires robust enforcement and clearer regulations to ensure it effectively deters unethical behavior. Enhancing disclosure requirements and increasing penalties for violations will help restore public trust in government decision-making.\n</p><p>I also support ending the carried interest loophole that allows venture capitalists and other investment managers to pay taxes at lower capital gains rates, rather than the higher income tax rates. This loophole not only skews economic fairness but also deprives the government of necessary revenue that could be used to fund public services.\n</p><p>Furthermore, transparency must extend to companies owned by venture capitalists. Requiring these companies to be clearly identified will enhance market transparency and allow for more informed decisions by investors and regulators alike. This measure will ensure that financial activities are conducted openly and are accessible to public scrutiny, reinforcing the principles of a fair and equitable economic system.\n</p><p><br/>\n<b>Environmental</b>\n</p><p>I will co-sponsor H.R. 1729, , the Water Affordability, Transparency, Equity, and Reliability Act of 2023. This legislation is designed to tackle critical issues such as lead contamination and the presence of PFAS (forever chemicals) in our water supply, while simultaneously revitalizing our national infrastructure and generating high-quality jobs across the country.\n</p><p>I also support initiatives that create environmental jobs aimed at restoring wetlands and forests, vital for maintaining biodiversity and ecological balance.\n</p><p>Additionally, I advocate for programs like the New Jersey Blue Acres Buyback Program, which offers a proactive solution for neighborhoods ravaged by flood damage, helping communities move towards safer ground.\n</p><p>Lastly, I encourage everyone to support the Farm System Reform Act. Please join me in signing the petition to promote sustainable agriculture and ensure fair practices within our farming communities.\n</p><p><br/>\n<b> Women's rights</b>\n</p><p>I am deeply committed to advancing and protecting the rights of all individuals, which is why I fully support the codification of Roe v. Wade. It is essential to enshrine into law a woman's right to make decisions about her own body, ensuring that these rights cannot be eroded by future political shifts. This step is crucial for safeguarding reproductive rights across the nation, providing consistency and security that every woman can rely on, regardless of where they live.\n</p><p>Additionally, I am dedicated to addressing and closing the pay gap and combating workplace discrimination. It is unacceptable that wage disparities persist based on gender, race, or any other characteristic unrelated to job performance. I support robust legislation that enforces equal pay for equal work, ensuring that all workers are compensated fairly for their efforts and talents. This includes enhancing transparency in how salaries and wages are determined and distributed, as well as strengthening penalties for violations of equal pay laws.\n</p><p>Moreover, combating workplace discrimination is vital for creating an inclusive, respectful, and productive work environment. I advocate for stronger enforcement of anti-discrimination laws and support measures that empower individuals to come forward with their grievances. This involves improving the processes for reporting and addressing discrimination, ensuring they are accessible, efficient, and fair. By promoting these values and policies, we can work towards a more just and equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to succeed without facing barriers related to their personal attributes.\n</p><p><br/>\n<b>Healthcare</b>\n</p><p>As a steadfast advocate for comprehensive healthcare reform, I am committed to championing a single-payer healthcare system—an improved version of Medicare that ensures coverage for everyone. This system will include essential services that are often overlooked, such as vision, dental, and mental health care, as well as home care services, ensuring that all aspects of health are addressed and accessible to every individual.\n</p><p>Furthermore, I will champion and co-sponsor H.R. 2530, The Nurse Staffing Standards for Hospital Patient Safety and Quality Care Act. This critical legislation mandates safe nurse-to-patient staffing ratios, which is fundamental to improving patient care quality and safety in hospitals. By ensuring that our nurses are not overwhelmed, we can provide a better work environment for healthcare professionals and significantly enhance patient outcomes.\n</p><p>This comprehensive approach not only improves health outcomes but also supports our healthcare workers, making our healthcare system more robust and responsive to the needs of the American people.\n</p><p><br/>\n<b>Stance on Palestine</b>\n</p><p>I strongly support H.R. 786 to ensure the United States rigorously enforces the Leahy Laws, which prohibit the U.S. Department of State and Department of Defense from providing military support to foreign security forces guilty of human rights abuses. This critical legislation also advocates for the provision of unrestricted and unconditional humanitarian aid to Gaza, reinforcing our commitment to support vulnerable populations and protect human dignity. This bill embodies our resolve to foster global stability, justice, and respect for human rights.\n</p><p>Additionally, I am resolutely opposed to settler violence, which forcibly displaces individuals and destabilizes communities. Such acts of aggression not only infringe upon fundamental human rights but also threaten the prospects for enduring peace and stability. It is imperative that we confront and curb these violent acts to ensure that all individuals can live securely in their homes, free from the fear of eviction or harassment. Supporting initiatives that combat settler violence is essential in our pursuit of justice, peace, and adherence to international human rights standards.\n</p><p><br/>\n<b>Freedom of the press</b>\n</p><p>I am committed to upholding the fundamental principles of freedom of the press as enshrined in the First Amendment. In this spirit, I will co-sponsor and vote yes on H.R. 934, a resolution expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that regular journalistic activities are protected under the First Amendment. This resolution also asserts that the United States should drop all charges against Julian Assange and cease attempts to extradite him.\n</p><p>The case of Julian Assange has raised significant concerns about the boundaries of journalism and the implications for press freedom, especially concerning the publication of classified information that may be in the public interest. HR 934 acknowledges the crucial role that journalists play in a democratic society, emphasizing that journalistic activities—particularly those that hold governments accountable and inform the public—must be protected.\n</p><p>Supporting this resolution aligns with my dedication to ensuring that our government respects and upholds the freedoms guaranteed by our Constitution. It also underscores the necessity of differentiating between national security risks and the rights of individuals to report on sensitive information when it serves the public good. By advocating for the dismissal of charges against Julian Assange, we send a strong message about our commitment to press freedom and the protection of journalists worldwide.\n</p><p><br/>\n<b>Childcare</b>\n</p><p>Universal childcare is not just a policy priority; it is a critical investment in our future. It ensures that all children, regardless of their family's income or background, have access to safe, nurturing, and stimulating early learning environments. By implementing universal childcare, we can significantly enhance early childhood development, which is crucial for long-term educational and social success.\n</p><p>In addition to providing universal access, it is imperative that we ensure childcare workers are compensated fairly. Childcare providers are the backbone of this service; they nurture, educate, and care for our youngest citizens. Despite their essential role, many childcare workers receive wages that do not reflect the importance and skill of their work. Ensuring that these professionals are paid a living wage is not only a matter of fairness but also a critical step in improving the quality of childcare services. Adequate compensation helps attract and retain skilled professionals, reduces turnover, and increases the overall stability and quality of care provided to children.\n</p><p>To support these objectives, we need comprehensive legislation that subsidizes childcare costs for families and mandates fair wages for childcare workers. Such policies would alleviate financial burdens on families and ensure that childcare professionals receive the respect and remuneration they deserve. This approach acknowledges the dual benefit of universal childcare: supporting workforce participation, particularly among women, and fostering healthy development in children, laying a strong foundation for the future of our society.\n<sup class=\"reference\" id=\"cite_ref-quotedisclaimer_3-0\"><a href=\"#cite_note-quotedisclaimer-3\">[3]</a></sup>\n</p>\n</td>\n<td style=\"border: none; color: #B2B7F2; font-size: 35px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-weight: bold; text-align: right; padding: 10px 1px;\" valign=\"bottom\" width=\"20\">”\n</td></tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"cquotecite\" colspan=\"3\" style=\"border: none; padding-right: 4%\"><cite style=\"font-style: normal;font-size: smaller; float: right;\">—John Hsu’s campaign website (2024)<sup class=\"reference\" id=\"cite_ref-4\"><a href=\"#cite_note-4\">[4]</a></sup></cite>\n</td></tr></tbody></table>\n</div>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"></div>\n<p>John Hsu did not complete <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's 2020 Candidate Connection</a> survey.\n</p>", "answer_text": "Hsu’s campaign website stated the following:\n“ Ranked Choice Voting What is Ranked Choice Voting? Ranked Choice Voting (RCV), also known as instant-runoff voting or preferential voting, is an electoral system that enables voters to rank candidates in order of preference rather than casting a vote for a single candidate. This method is particularly advantageous in elections where there are more than two candidates, as it often results in a winner who reflects a broader consensus of the electorate. How Ranked Choice Voting Works Ranking Candidates: On the ballot, voters see a list of candidates and have the option to rank them in order of preference: first, second, third, and so on. Voters can rank as many or as few candidates as they wish, depending on the rules of the particular election. Counting Votes: Initially, only the first-choice votes are counted. If a candidate receives a majority (more than 50%) of these first-preference votes, they are declared the winner. Redistributing Votes: If no candidate wins an outright majority in the first round, the candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated. Voters who selected the eliminated candidate as their first choice then have their votes reallocated to their second choice. This process of elimination and redistribution continues in subsequent rounds until one candidate secures a majority. Final Result: The process ensures that the winning candidate has a majority support from the voters, reflecting a consensus among the electorate. Benefits of Ranked Choice Voting Reduces Negative Campaigning: Since candidates aim to gather not just first-choice votes but also second and third choices, there is an incentive to maintain a more positive, broad-appealing campaign to avoid alienating potential supporters. Discourages Strategic Voting: Voters can honestly rank candidates according to their true preferences without worrying that their vote might be \"wasted\" on a less popular candidate. This reduces the need for voting strategically for a less preferred but more viable candidate. Promotes Majority Support: By eliminating candidates in sequential rounds and redistributing their votes, RCV ensures that the winner has majority support. This is in contrast to the plurality system, where a candidate can win with less than majority support if the vote is split among many candidates. Increases Voter Engagement: Knowing that their vote can still influence the outcome even if their top choice doesn’t win may encourage greater voter participation and satisfaction. Supports Diverse Candidates: RCV can help diverse candidates who might otherwise struggle to overcome a split vote in a crowded field. It allows them to demonstrate broader appeal across different voter groups. Labor I am a dedicated advocate for unions and workers' rights, emphasizing the importance of strong unions in achieving economic balance and fair treatment for workers. I actively involved in rallies, public demonstrations, and supports legislative efforts that promote easier unionization, enhance collective bargaining rights, and improve workers' influence over their work conditions and pay. I champion the \"right to organize\" across all levels, advocating for the removal of unionization barriers and supporting underrepresented sectors like gig economy workers. I push for labor laws to adapt to new work environments, including remote work, to ensure robust labor protections. I also focus on economic policies that ensure a living wage, health benefits, and secure retirement plans, advocating that these factors boost productivity and overall economic health. I consistently engages with union leaders and workers to align his policies with their needs, aiming for both immediate improvements and long-term Housing I am committed to addressing the critical issue of housing affordability and accessibility. One significant aspect of my approach is the implementation of stringent policies that restrict corporate ownership of housing. Corporations, particularly large investment entities, often purchase residential properties en masse, treating these homes primarily as vehicles for substantial financial returns. This practice can lead to a number of community issues, including inflated real estate prices, reduced housing availability for actual residents, and destabilization of community cohesion. By limiting corporate ownership, we ensure that homes serve their primary purpose: providing a place for people to live. This policy will help stabilize housing markets and make housing more affordable, maintaining the integrity and vibrancy of communities. Additionally, I advocate for a ban on foreign ownership of residential properties that are used solely as safe havens for wealth accumulation. This practice, often termed as speculative buying, involves foreign investors purchasing homes not to reside in, but to store wealth, which can significantly inflate housing prices. Such speculative investment makes it difficult, if not impossible, for local residents to afford homes in their own neighborhoods, exacerbating the housing crisis and contributing to social inequality. This policy is designed to curb these speculative activities, thus preventing the runaway inflation of housing prices fueled by foreign capital. By restricting this kind of investment, we aim to create a more equitable housing market where homes are more accessible and affordable for the local population. This, in turn, contributes to the overall stabilization of our communities and supports the economic well-being of our citizens. Finance I am a firm advocate for enhancing the integrity and transparency of our government. To this end, I strongly support banning stock trading by members of Congress. It is crucial that public officials focus solely on the interests of the citizens they serve, without potential conflicts of interest posed by personal financial investments in the industries and companies they regulate. Additionally, I propose strengthening the STOCK Act. The original intent of the Act was to prevent insider trading by Congress members and other government employees, but it requires robust enforcement and clearer regulations to ensure it effectively deters unethical behavior. Enhancing disclosure requirements and increasing penalties for violations will help restore public trust in government decision-making. I also support ending the carried interest loophole that allows venture capitalists and other investment managers to pay taxes at lower capital gains rates, rather than the higher income tax rates. This loophole not only skews economic fairness but also deprives the government of necessary revenue that could be used to fund public services. Furthermore, transparency must extend to companies owned by venture capitalists. Requiring these companies to be clearly identified will enhance market transparency and allow for more informed decisions by investors and regulators alike. This measure will ensure that financial activities are conducted openly and are accessible to public scrutiny, reinforcing the principles of a fair and equitable economic system. Environmental I will co-sponsor H.R. 1729, , the Water Affordability, Transparency, Equity, and Reliability Act of 2023. This legislation is designed to tackle critical issues such as lead contamination and the presence of PFAS (forever chemicals) in our water supply, while simultaneously revitalizing our national infrastructure and generating high-quality jobs across the country. I also support initiatives that create environmental jobs aimed at restoring wetlands and forests, vital for maintaining biodiversity and ecological balance. Additionally, I advocate for programs like the New Jersey Blue Acres Buyback Program, which offers a proactive solution for neighborhoods ravaged by flood damage, helping communities move towards safer ground. Lastly, I encourage everyone to support the Farm System Reform Act. Please join me in signing the petition to promote sustainable agriculture and ensure fair practices within our farming communities. Women's rights I am deeply committed to advancing and protecting the rights of all individuals, which is why I fully support the codification of Roe v. Wade. It is essential to enshrine into law a woman's right to make decisions about her own body, ensuring that these rights cannot be eroded by future political shifts. This step is crucial for safeguarding reproductive rights across the nation, providing consistency and security that every woman can rely on, regardless of where they live. Additionally, I am dedicated to addressing and closing the pay gap and combating workplace discrimination. It is unacceptable that wage disparities persist based on gender, race, or any other characteristic unrelated to job performance. I support robust legislation that enforces equal pay for equal work, ensuring that all workers are compensated fairly for their efforts and talents. This includes enhancing transparency in how salaries and wages are determined and distributed, as well as strengthening penalties for violations of equal pay laws. Moreover, combating workplace discrimination is vital for creating an inclusive, respectful, and productive work environment. I advocate for stronger enforcement of anti-discrimination laws and support measures that empower individuals to come forward with their grievances. This involves improving the processes for reporting and addressing discrimination, ensuring they are accessible, efficient, and fair. By promoting these values and policies, we can work towards a more just and equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to succeed without facing barriers related to their personal attributes. Healthcare As a steadfast advocate for comprehensive healthcare reform, I am committed to championing a single-payer healthcare system—an improved version of Medicare that ensures coverage for everyone. This system will include essential services that are often overlooked, such as vision, dental, and mental health care, as well as home care services, ensuring that all aspects of health are addressed and accessible to every individual. Furthermore, I will champion and co-sponsor H.R. 2530, The Nurse Staffing Standards for Hospital Patient Safety and Quality Care Act. This critical legislation mandates safe nurse-to-patient staffing ratios, which is fundamental to improving patient care quality and safety in hospitals. By ensuring that our nurses are not overwhelmed, we can provide a better work environment for healthcare professionals and significantly enhance patient outcomes. This comprehensive approach not only improves health outcomes but also supports our healthcare workers, making our healthcare system more robust and responsive to the needs of the American people. Stance on Palestine I strongly support H.R. 786 to ensure the United States rigorously enforces the Leahy Laws, which prohibit the U.S. Department of State and Department of Defense from providing military support to foreign security forces guilty of human rights abuses. This critical legislation also advocates for the provision of unrestricted and unconditional humanitarian aid to Gaza, reinforcing our commitment to support vulnerable populations and protect human dignity. This bill embodies our resolve to foster global stability, justice, and respect for human rights. Additionally, I am resolutely opposed to settler violence, which forcibly displaces individuals and destabilizes communities. Such acts of aggression not only infringe upon fundamental human rights but also threaten the prospects for enduring peace and stability. It is imperative that we confront and curb these violent acts to ensure that all individuals can live securely in their homes, free from the fear of eviction or harassment. Supporting initiatives that combat settler violence is essential in our pursuit of justice, peace, and adherence to international human rights standards. Freedom of the press I am committed to upholding the fundamental principles of freedom of the press as enshrined in the First Amendment. In this spirit, I will co-sponsor and vote yes on H.R. 934, a resolution expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that regular journalistic activities are protected under the First Amendment. This resolution also asserts that the United States should drop all charges against Julian Assange and cease attempts to extradite him. The case of Julian Assange has raised significant concerns about the boundaries of journalism and the implications for press freedom, especially concerning the publication of classified information that may be in the public interest. HR 934 acknowledges the crucial role that journalists play in a democratic society, emphasizing that journalistic activities—particularly those that hold governments accountable and inform the public—must be protected. Supporting this resolution aligns with my dedication to ensuring that our government respects and upholds the freedoms guaranteed by our Constitution. It also underscores the necessity of differentiating between national security risks and the rights of individuals to report on sensitive information when it serves the public good. By advocating for the dismissal of charges against Julian Assange, we send a strong message about our commitment to press freedom and the protection of journalists worldwide. Childcare Universal childcare is not just a policy priority; it is a critical investment in our future. It ensures that all children, regardless of their family's income or background, have access to safe, nurturing, and stimulating early learning environments. By implementing universal childcare, we can significantly enhance early childhood development, which is crucial for long-term educational and social success. In addition to providing universal access, it is imperative that we ensure childcare workers are compensated fairly. Childcare providers are the backbone of this service; they nurture, educate, and care for our youngest citizens. Despite their essential role, many childcare workers receive wages that do not reflect the importance and skill of their work. Ensuring that these professionals are paid a living wage is not only a matter of fairness but also a critical step in improving the quality of childcare services. Adequate compensation helps attract and retain skilled professionals, reduces turnover, and increases the overall stability and quality of care provided to children. To support these objectives, we need comprehensive legislation that subsidizes childcare costs for families and mandates fair wages for childcare workers. Such policies would alleviate financial burdens on families and ensure that childcare professionals receive the respect and remuneration they deserve. This approach acknowledges the dual benefit of universal childcare: supporting workforce participation, particularly among women, and fostering healthy development in children, laying a strong foundation for the future of our society. [3] ” —John Hsu’s campaign website (2024) [4]\n\nJohn Hsu did not complete Ballotpedia's 2020 Candidate Connection survey."}]