Thomas Zmich

[{"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>Thomas Zmich 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 Zmich'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-242424-2024-04-15\" id=\"heading-bio-242424-2024-04-15\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-242424-2024-04-15\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-242424-2024-04-15\" 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-242424-2024-04-15\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-242424-2024-04-15\" 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\tHusband,Father, Union Member, Veteran\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-242424-2024-04-15\" id=\"heading-key-message-242424-2024-04-15\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-242424-2024-04-15\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-242424-2024-04-15\" 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-242424-2024-04-15\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-242424-2024-04-15\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>national security/crime/drugs/immigration/public safety</li><li>education/civic knowledge</li><li>foreign policy/economic development/ domestic jobs</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-242424-2024-04-15\" id=\"heading1-242424-2024-04-15\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-242424-2024-04-15\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-242424-2024-04-15\" 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=\"heading1-242424-2024-04-15\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-242424-2024-04-15\" 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\tnational security\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-242424-2024-04-15\" id=\"heading2-242424-2024-04-15\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-242424-2024-04-15\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-242424-2024-04-15\" 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=\"heading2-242424-2024-04-15\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-242424-2024-04-15\" 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\tMovie- \"Go tell the Spartans\"\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-242424-2024-04-15\" id=\"heading3-242424-2024-04-15\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-242424-2024-04-15\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-242424-2024-04-15\" 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=\"heading3-242424-2024-04-15\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-242424-2024-04-15\" 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\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-242424-2024-04-15\" id=\"heading4-242424-2024-04-15\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-242424-2024-04-15\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-242424-2024-04-15\" 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=\"heading4-242424-2024-04-15\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-242424-2024-04-15\" 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\tdefend/respect and represent the people\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-242424-2024-04-15\" id=\"heading5-242424-2024-04-15\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-242424-2024-04-15\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-242424-2024-04-15\" 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=\"heading5-242424-2024-04-15\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-242424-2024-04-15\" 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\tA fair and honest judicial system, upholding Constitutional Rights.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-242424-2024-04-15\" id=\"heading6-242424-2024-04-15\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-242424-2024-04-15\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-242424-2024-04-15\" 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=\"heading6-242424-2024-04-15\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-242424-2024-04-15\" 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\tWoodstock- 5yrs old\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-242424-2024-04-15\" id=\"heading7-242424-2024-04-15\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-242424-2024-04-15\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-242424-2024-04-15\" 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=\"heading7-242424-2024-04-15\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-242424-2024-04-15\" 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 most direct federal line/s of communicating to people in districts they represent\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-242424-2024-04-15\" id=\"heading8-242424-2024-04-15\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse8-242424-2024-04-15\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-242424-2024-04-15\" 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=\"heading8-242424-2024-04-15\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse8-242424-2024-04-15\" 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\tNot necessarily, but might be some experience in political/ business that is required. Life experience matters.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-242424-2024-04-15\" id=\"heading9-242424-2024-04-15\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse9-242424-2024-04-15\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-242424-2024-04-15\" 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=\"heading9-242424-2024-04-15\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse9-242424-2024-04-15\" 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 invasion.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-242424-2024-04-15\" id=\"heading10-242424-2024-04-15\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse10-242424-2024-04-15\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-242424-2024-04-15\" 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=\"heading10-242424-2024-04-15\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse10-242424-2024-04-15\" 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\tNo, should be changed to 3 yrs.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-242424-2024-04-15\" id=\"heading11-242424-2024-04-15\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse11-242424-2024-04-15\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-242424-2024-04-15\" 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=\"heading11-242424-2024-04-15\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse11-242424-2024-04-15\" 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 program on Term limits is as follows-<br/>\n<p>Senate- (3) 6year terms , with majority leader, minority leader (1) EXTRA TERM<br/>\r\nHouse - (8) terms -16 yrs, with leaders granted 2 extra terms.<br/>\n</p>\nAll elected officials- maximum, 25 year limit.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-242424-2024-04-15\" id=\"heading12-242424-2024-04-15\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse12-242424-2024-04-15\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-242424-2024-04-15\" 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=\"heading12-242424-2024-04-15\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse12-242424-2024-04-15\" 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\tRon Paul\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-242424-2024-04-15\" id=\"heading13-242424-2024-04-15\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse13-242424-2024-04-15\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-242424-2024-04-15\" 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=\"heading13-242424-2024-04-15\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse13-242424-2024-04-15\" 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, the tragic stories of relatives that have died in nursing homes, alone, during the COVID crisis.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-242424-2024-04-15\" id=\"heading14-242424-2024-04-15\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse14-242424-2024-04-15\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-242424-2024-04-15\" 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=\"heading14-242424-2024-04-15\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse14-242424-2024-04-15\" 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\tAbsolutely .\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-242424-2024-04-15\" id=\"heading15-242424-2024-04-15\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse15-242424-2024-04-15\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-242424-2024-04-15\" 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=\"heading15-242424-2024-04-15\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse15-242424-2024-04-15\" 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 use of line item vetoes, consolidating of debts, cancelling of Pork Barrel programs, investigations of misappropriated funds.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-242424-2024-04-15\" id=\"heading16-242424-2024-04-15\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse16-242424-2024-04-15\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-242424-2024-04-15\" 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=\"heading16-242424-2024-04-15\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse16-242424-2024-04-15\" 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\tRequests of DOJ, investigations and special prosecutors.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-242424-2024-04-15\" id=\"heading17-242424-2024-04-15\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse17-242424-2024-04-15\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-242424-2024-04-15\" 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=\"heading17-242424-2024-04-15\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse17-242424-2024-04-15\" 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\tVeterans<br/>\n<p>Science<br/>\r\nEducation<br/>\n</p>\nEnvironmental\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-242424-2024-04-15\" id=\"heading18-242424-2024-04-15\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse18-242424-2024-04-15\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-242424-2024-04-15\" 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=\"heading18-242424-2024-04-15\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse18-242424-2024-04-15\" 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\tWaste, Fraud, and abuse of Gov't programs need to be streamlined and investigated.\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<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>Thomas Zmich completed <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a> survey in 2022. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Zmich'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-147894-2022-08-08\" id=\"heading-bio-147894-2022-08-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-147894-2022-08-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-147894-2022-08-08\" 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-147894-2022-08-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-147894-2022-08-08\" 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 running for the United States Congress in CD6 Queens, NY to help save America. I am a veteran of the US Army Reserves, who was deployed in the First Gulf War, from a military family, including a grandfather who served in WW1, father in WW2, and a Brother in Vietnam. I also was a active union member for 35 years in BAC Local 1 NY (Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Local 1) and retired in good standing. I have worked my entire career in construction and construction management, and understand the critical issues facing our infrastructure and small businesses.\r\nI want to Reduce Waste and Governmental Spending while Increasing Tax Cuts for American Workers. Support Education Vouchers and Choice to give families options for quality education. As the husband of a Latina immigrant, I have an understanding of our broken immigration system and want to Implement a Simple and Common Sense New Immigration System. To create a Council Housing Plan for the Working Poor and Homeless. And American energy independence through new Sustainable Energy sources, and to Fund Research and Development of alternative energy sources such as Hydrogen, Thorium, and more. And supporting Law Enforcement and reducing crime\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-147894-2022-08-08\" id=\"heading-key-message-147894-2022-08-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-147894-2022-08-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-147894-2022-08-08\" 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-147894-2022-08-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-147894-2022-08-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>As a Veteran myself, I understand the struggles and stigma of coming home from war. Vets are heroes, yet for some finding a job and simple daily tasks are a struggle. I will fight to increase federal programming to help veterans get on their fee and find jobs, find affordable housing, better services for helping them with college and trade schools, increase and expand mental health services and availability, increase support to the VA, and other services, so they can live a great life in this great Country that they fought for. We must fight for our Service men and women and for our Veterans, as they fought for our freedom!</li><li>The Education System need to work for our children. Common Core needs to end, and allow for common sense curriculum. Parents need to be provided with real choices of education for their children-allowing charter schools and increasing vouchers for private schools. Parents should not be stuck sending their children to underperforming government schools, and be given the choice to decide what is best for their child. I will fight to increase competition of schools so that the best schools are enhanced and those that are failing will be fixed. We need to build our Nations future through our children and grandchildren!</li><li>We need to do more to help small business in America. Small businesses and contractors are over regulated, with high barriers of entry, putting a strain on the American Dream. We need to create a tax code and regulatory system that places small businesses above big corporations. We need to make it easier to open small businesses, easier to allow them to expand, and to thrive. Small businesses and contractors are the backbone of our economy, and the vanguard of the American Dream. As someone who came from the construction sector, I am familiar with small businesses and contractors and the vital services they provide to major projects. They must come first, not corporation, and we need to make change in policy to affect that.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-147894-2022-08-08\" id=\"heading1-147894-2022-08-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-147894-2022-08-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-147894-2022-08-08\" 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=\"heading1-147894-2022-08-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-147894-2022-08-08\" 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 many issues that affect our community and country. As a veteran, ensuring those who serves are properly taken care of when they come home is critical. Support for Israel, America's loyal ally and the sole Democracy in the Middle East, and ensuring her security and peace. Defending our law enforcement and helping in the fighting against crime is of vital importance. Supporting small businesses and reducing taxes on working Americans is critical. Providing educational choice to provide better services to our children, and build a brighter future. And I am passionate about defending our constitutional rights from government encroachment and stopping the radical left's agenda which opposes our rights, children, and future. This and more are what I am passionate about to help build a brighter future for America\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-147894-2022-08-08\" id=\"heading2-147894-2022-08-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-147894-2022-08-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-147894-2022-08-08\" 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=\"heading2-147894-2022-08-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-147894-2022-08-08\" 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\tHonesty, integrity and a genuine care and love for our community.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-147894-2022-08-08\" id=\"heading3-147894-2022-08-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-147894-2022-08-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-147894-2022-08-08\" 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=\"heading3-147894-2022-08-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-147894-2022-08-08\" 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\tThat I helped secure a brighter and better future for America\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-147894-2022-08-08\" id=\"heading4-147894-2022-08-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-147894-2022-08-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-147894-2022-08-08\" 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=\"heading4-147894-2022-08-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-147894-2022-08-08\" 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\tThat is is proportional to the people, allowing local communities to make their voices heard through their local representative. Also such a large body allows for a wider range of opinions, backgrounds, and views, to ensure a vibrant Democracy.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-147894-2022-08-08\" id=\"heading5-147894-2022-08-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-147894-2022-08-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-147894-2022-08-08\" 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=\"heading5-147894-2022-08-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-147894-2022-08-08\" 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 can be beneficial under certain circumstances to have previous experience as an elected official. The things that require the experience are all done by staffers who are the career people. We need representatives from a wide range of backgrounds and professions to ensure proper representation of the people, and to bring a diverse range of experience and views to congress. When we elect so many career politicians to congress, it creates a group-think mindset and a cliquish attitude, which leads to policies based on the political systems needs, not the people. It can be be, but is far from a necessity. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-147894-2022-08-08\" id=\"heading6-147894-2022-08-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-147894-2022-08-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-147894-2022-08-08\" 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 are not a current representative, are there certain committees that you would want to be a part of?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading6-147894-2022-08-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-147894-2022-08-08\" 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\tVeteran Affairs, Foreign Affairs, Ways and Means, Education and Labor, Small Business\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-147894-2022-08-08\" id=\"heading7-147894-2022-08-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-147894-2022-08-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-147894-2022-08-08\" 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=\"heading7-147894-2022-08-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-147894-2022-08-08\" 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, this allows for people to easily switch if they feel their representative does not do what they need to do, and allows for a healthy democratic process.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-147894-2022-08-08\" id=\"heading8-147894-2022-08-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse8-147894-2022-08-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-147894-2022-08-08\" 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=\"heading8-147894-2022-08-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse8-147894-2022-08-08\" 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\tTerm Limits are important to help create competition for congressional seats to ensure a more vibrant democracy.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-147894-2022-08-08\" id=\"heading9-147894-2022-08-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse9-147894-2022-08-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-147894-2022-08-08\" 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=\"heading9-147894-2022-08-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse9-147894-2022-08-08\" 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\tCompromise is necessary at times to get good legislation to pass. While compromising on one's core values is never good, compromise of specific issues for the greater good is a necessity in Congress, though it prevents good bills from being great legislation.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-147894-2022-08-08\" id=\"heading10-147894-2022-08-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse10-147894-2022-08-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-147894-2022-08-08\" 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=\"heading10-147894-2022-08-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse10-147894-2022-08-08\" 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\tTo ensure all bills are properly funded before being passes, so we do not have to borrow. To provide greater transparency on funding for bills, and a more open actuarial and accounting process for the public.\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>Thomas Zmich did not complete <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's 2021 Candidate Connection</a> survey.\n</p>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"></div>\n<p>Thomas Zmich 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\nThomas Zmich completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Zmich's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. Husband,Father, Union Member, Veteran 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? national security/crime/drugs/immigration/public safety education/civic knowledge foreign policy/economic development/ domestic jobs What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? national security Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy? Movie- \"Go tell the Spartans\" What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? integrity What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office? defend/respect and represent the people What legacy would you like to leave? A fair and honest judicial system, upholding Constitutional Rights. What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time? Woodstock- 5yrs old What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution? It is the most direct federal line/s of communicating to people in districts they represent Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics? Not necessarily, but might be some experience in political/ business that is required. Life experience matters. What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade? Foreign invasion. Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives? No, should be changed to 3 yrs. What are your thoughts on term limits? My program on Term limits is as follows- Senate- (3) 6year terms , with majority leader, minority leader (1) EXTRA TERM House - (8) terms -16 yrs, with leaders granted 2 extra terms. All elected officials- maximum, 25 year limit. Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after? Ron Paul 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? Yes, the tragic stories of relatives that have died in nursing homes, alone, during the COVID crisis. Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking? Absolutely . 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? The use of line item vetoes, consolidating of debts, cancelling of Pork Barrel programs, investigations of misappropriated funds. How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers? Requests of DOJ, investigations and special prosecutors. What committees interest you? Veterans Science Education Environmental What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability? Waste, Fraud, and abuse of Gov't programs need to be streamlined and investigated.\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\n\nThomas Zmich completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2022. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Zmich's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. I am running for the United States Congress in CD6 Queens, NY to help save America. I am a veteran of the US Army Reserves, who was deployed in the First Gulf War, from a military family, including a grandfather who served in WW1, father in WW2, and a Brother in Vietnam. I also was a active union member for 35 years in BAC Local 1 NY (Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Local 1) and retired in good standing. I have worked my entire career in construction and construction management, and understand the critical issues facing our infrastructure and small businesses.\r\nI want to Reduce Waste and Governmental Spending while Increasing Tax Cuts for American Workers. Support Education Vouchers and Choice to give families options for quality education. As the husband of a Latina immigrant, I have an understanding of our broken immigration system and want to Implement a Simple and Common Sense New Immigration System. To create a Council Housing Plan for the Working Poor and Homeless. And American energy independence through new Sustainable Energy sources, and to Fund Research and Development of alternative energy sources such as Hydrogen, Thorium, and more. And supporting Law Enforcement and reducing crime 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? As a Veteran myself, I understand the struggles and stigma of coming home from war. Vets are heroes, yet for some finding a job and simple daily tasks are a struggle. I will fight to increase federal programming to help veterans get on their fee and find jobs, find affordable housing, better services for helping them with college and trade schools, increase and expand mental health services and availability, increase support to the VA, and other services, so they can live a great life in this great Country that they fought for. We must fight for our Service men and women and for our Veterans, as they fought for our freedom! The Education System need to work for our children. Common Core needs to end, and allow for common sense curriculum. Parents need to be provided with real choices of education for their children-allowing charter schools and increasing vouchers for private schools. Parents should not be stuck sending their children to underperforming government schools, and be given the choice to decide what is best for their child. I will fight to increase competition of schools so that the best schools are enhanced and those that are failing will be fixed. We need to build our Nations future through our children and grandchildren! We need to do more to help small business in America. Small businesses and contractors are over regulated, with high barriers of entry, putting a strain on the American Dream. We need to create a tax code and regulatory system that places small businesses above big corporations. We need to make it easier to open small businesses, easier to allow them to expand, and to thrive. Small businesses and contractors are the backbone of our economy, and the vanguard of the American Dream. As someone who came from the construction sector, I am familiar with small businesses and contractors and the vital services they provide to major projects. They must come first, not corporation, and we need to make change in policy to affect that. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? I am passionate about many issues that affect our community and country. As a veteran, ensuring those who serves are properly taken care of when they come home is critical. Support for Israel, America's loyal ally and the sole Democracy in the Middle East, and ensuring her security and peace. Defending our law enforcement and helping in the fighting against crime is of vital importance. Supporting small businesses and reducing taxes on working Americans is critical. Providing educational choice to provide better services to our children, and build a brighter future. And I am passionate about defending our constitutional rights from government encroachment and stopping the radical left's agenda which opposes our rights, children, and future. This and more are what I am passionate about to help build a brighter future for America What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder? Honesty, integrity and a genuine care and love for our community. What legacy would you like to leave? That I helped secure a brighter and better future for America What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution? That is is proportional to the people, allowing local communities to make their voices heard through their local representative. Also such a large body allows for a wider range of opinions, backgrounds, and views, to ensure a vibrant Democracy. Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics? It can be beneficial under certain circumstances to have previous experience as an elected official. The things that require the experience are all done by staffers who are the career people. We need representatives from a wide range of backgrounds and professions to ensure proper representation of the people, and to bring a diverse range of experience and views to congress. When we elect so many career politicians to congress, it creates a group-think mindset and a cliquish attitude, which leads to policies based on the political systems needs, not the people. It can be be, but is far from a necessity. If you are not a current representative, are there certain committees that you would want to be a part of? Veteran Affairs, Foreign Affairs, Ways and Means, Education and Labor, Small Business Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives? Yes, this allows for people to easily switch if they feel their representative does not do what they need to do, and allows for a healthy democratic process. What are your thoughts on term limits? Term Limits are important to help create competition for congressional seats to ensure a more vibrant democracy. Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking? Compromise is necessary at times to get good legislation to pass. While compromising on one's core values is never good, compromise of specific issues for the greater good is a necessity in Congress, though it prevents good bills from being great legislation. 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? To ensure all bills are properly funded before being passes, so we do not have to borrow. To provide greater transparency on funding for bills, and a more open actuarial and accounting process for the public.\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\nThomas Zmich did not complete Ballotpedia's 2021 Candidate Connection survey.\n\nThomas Zmich did not complete Ballotpedia's 2020 Candidate Connection survey."}]