Mary Baechler

[{"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>Mary Baechler 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 Baechler'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-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading-bio-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-244445-2024-07-08\" 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-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-244445-2024-07-08\" 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\tMary Baechler has been a businesswoman, an entrepreneur and a grass roots community organizer with almost 40 years in the Yakima Valley. She was one of the co-founders and CEO of the Baby Jogger Company, Yakima’s innovative stroller business, creating more than 400 jobs in 18 years. Baby Jogger employees provided extraordinary customer service and built world class running strollers. Mary has worked as a community organizer, focusing on voting and water issues in the Yakima area; she also worked as the Planner in Economic Development for Yakama Nation, and during the Covid-19 pandemic, worked for Public Health as a Communicable Disease investigator. Mary brings a wealth of experience and a focus on job creation. Mary ran for Congress in the 4th Congressional District in 2012, running against incumbent Doc Hastings.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading-key-message-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-244445-2024-07-08\" 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-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>Families First\r\nWe all want a good future for our children. We need to protect our planet for our children; we need to address climate change, and this will create green new jobs. Remember the smoke from the wildfires every summer? None of us wants that. We can take positive steps, like planting trees, with organizations like Sugi. We need to work to stop climate change to protect families, family farms and the farmworkers.</li><li>Preserve Women’s Rights\r\nWomen should be free to make their healthcare decisions without interference. By funding contraceptive access and comprehensive sexual health education, we can reduce the need for accidental pregnancies and abortions. The countries with the lowest abortion rates are the ones that have comprehensive healthcare, including OB/GYN services.</li><li>Affordable Housing\r\nHousing is expensive and scarce. We have been let down by career politicians, but we can help builders with simplified regulations and incentives for housing.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading1-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-244445-2024-07-08\" 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=\"heading1-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-244445-2024-07-08\" 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\tClimate Change - we must take every step possible to reverse climate change.<br/>\n<p>Women's right for reproductive freedom<br/>\r\nReducing costs on food, housing, gas, childcare for families<br/>\n</p>\nLowering taxes for middle class American families\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading2-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWho do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading2-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-244445-2024-07-08\" 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 look up to President Obama, and Senator Bernie Sanders. For each of them, because they really reached people, they gave hope that America could be better, that we could be our best selves.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading3-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading3-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official are the ability to listen deeply, especially to opposing views, being able to uunderstand complex problems or situations, and understanding that we are here to be of service, we are here to help each other.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading4-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-244445-2024-07-08\" 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=\"heading4-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe qualities that I have that would make me a successful representative are that I believe in service to community; I am able to digest and learn large amounts of information quickly; I am not stuck and I am able to change my mind if new information comes up. My backgound as CEO was shaped by also being a kitchen-table entrepreneur (we started the Baby Jogger Co. from a kitchen table); we should all be able to take out the trash, answer a phone, help a customer. I believe in extraordinary customer service, and always trying to do the right thing.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading5-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading5-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe core responsibilities of a Representative are to represent the people of their District by working on legislation that will improve their lives and the lives of all Americans. This includes legislation to support the basic human needs for clean air, food, water, housing, to be safe, to have employment, to support health, to support community, to support the arts and especially human rights and the basic rights of the Constitution. Other responsibilities are to represent their Congressional District, to help their constituents, to be present for legislative voting and to develop new legislation, and to serve on committees and caucuses. Serving in Congress is a privilege and a chance to provide extraordinary customer service. to the people we serve.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading6-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-244445-2024-07-08\" 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=\"heading6-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe legacy that I would like to leave is that I protected women''s right for reproductive freedom, that I helped to turn climate change around so our world can heal, and that I loved my family.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading7-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading7-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-244445-2024-07-08\" 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 remember watching the Beatles on a black and white tv, on the Ed Sullivan Show.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading8-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse8-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat was your very first job? How long did you have it?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading8-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse8-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tMy first job was at age 16, at a riding school. It was a super fun job! And I learned a good work ethic.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading9-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse9-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is your favorite book? Why?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading9-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse9-244445-2024-07-08\" 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\tKa-Mi-Akin, the Last Hero of the Yakimas, by A.J. Splawn. Published in 1917, it is a breathtaking record of Ka-Mi-Akin and the Yakama people, how they lived, how they fought to save their land and their families. A.J. Splawn came through the Yakima (Washington State) area as a young man of age 16 in 1861; every page reads like a great adventure, someone trying to kill him, usually an Indian saving him. He wrote this book to present the Indian side of the Wars of 1865-1868. The first night I found this book, I was up reading until 2 am.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading10-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse10-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat was the last song that got stuck in your head?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading10-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse10-244445-2024-07-08\" 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\tSting's Brand New Day\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading11-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse11-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is something that has been a struggle in your life?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading11-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse11-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI have been wealthy, and I have been poor. I am glad I went through being poor, because I understand how hard it is if you struggle to pay bills, or avoid going to the doctor because you don't have medical insurance, or you pay excessive fees on auto payments because you lost your income. These are all real to me, and the struggles of people to get housing or feed their families (or just themselves) are real to me. I am really grateful for all my experiences.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading12-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse12-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-244445-2024-07-08\" 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=\"heading12-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse12-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe framers of the Constitution designed Congress so the House is to represent the will of the people. Another unique characteristic is that one vote, one Congressperson, may be enough to make a huge change in federal law and programs, hopefully using that power for good.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading13-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse13-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-244445-2024-07-08\" 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=\"heading13-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse13-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tIt is very beneficial to have previous experience. Each Congressman or Congresswoman was new, at one point. It is very helpful to have experience with legal issues, local, state and federal laws or regulations, or to have previous elected experience. My background as the CEO of the Baby Jogger company gave me experience with regulations and government requirements in the U.S., Taiwan, China, and the 20+ countries we sold our strollers in.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading14-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse14-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading14-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse14-244445-2024-07-08\" 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\tWomen's right for reproductive freedom; climate change is a serious threat to our well-being and national security, the Supreme Court's apparent bias to the Republican Party (and taking large gifts from beneficaries of their rulings), affordable housing, the high costs of food and consumer goods, making education in college and trade schools affordable, healthcare should be structure like Medicare for All, and protecting the social security system. We need to restructure taxes, making it easier for small businesses to succeed, and ensuring large corporations and billionaires pay a fair share.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading15-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse15-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-244445-2024-07-08\" 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=\"heading15-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse15-244445-2024-07-08\" 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\tIdeally the House might be four years, so that each Congressperson spends more time serving their constituents and the people of the United States, and less time campaigning.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading16-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse16-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-244445-2024-07-08\" 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=\"heading16-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse16-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI have mixed feelings regarding term limits. I support term limits for the Supreme Court judges; and term limits would be a way to bring younger representation into Congress. On the other hand, Congressional leaders who the voters bring back over and over, accumulate knowledge and the ability to really focus on legislation; they are able to really help their District.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading17-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse17-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIs there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading17-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse17-244445-2024-07-08\" 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 love that Senator Bernie Sanders is so bold and fearless. If elected, I hope to be bold and fearless, in service to the people we serve.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading18-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse18-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tBoth sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading18-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse18-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI have a good friend who is a Japanese American, with an organic farm in the Wapato area. He and his family have been farming there 20+ years, seliing in farmers markets back when they first started; just beautiful produce, picked for the best tasting lettuce, cucumbers, all kinds of beautiful fruits and vegetables.. This summer I went to visit his booth and he wasn't there. So I called, and my friend related that he had junior water rights, he has not been able to irrigate, even though he lives right next to the Yakima River. He said about 25 farmers in his irrigation district, they all have had to stop their crops, stop farming, because they cannot get water this year. This is climate change. We need to address climate change in every way possible, so our farmers have the water they need for food crops.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading19-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse19-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-244445-2024-07-08\" 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=\"heading19-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse19-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tIt is especially important to listen, understand the other points of view, and to work on bipartisan bills.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading20-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse20-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-244445-2024-07-08\" 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=\"heading20-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse20-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe House can intiate revenue comes via taxation. We need a minimum 15% tax on large corporations, so they pay their fair share; I agree with Senator Bernie Sanders that we need a wealth tax on the wealthiest Americans, the top 0.1% (this tax would only start if your net worth was more than $32 million) . A waitress or a school teacher should not be paying a higher tax rate than the wealthiest corporations or billionaires. At the same time we need to incentivise small businesses, for example businessses with less than $20 million a year in revenues, to help them grow, create equity and create jobs.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading21-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse21-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tHow should the U.S. House use its investigative powers?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading21-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse21-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe House should use its investigative powers fairly, without partisan bias.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading22-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse22-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading22-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse22-244445-2024-07-08\" 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 endorse by Richland County Democrats and awaiting for other possible endorsements. When I previously ran, 2012, same office, after making it through the Primary, I was endorse by all counties in the 4th Congressional District, unions, WSLC, WEA and the WA State Democrats.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse23-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading23-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse23-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse23-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat committees interest you?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading23-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse23-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe House Select Committee on Cllimate Change; I would love to see that restarted. TheEnergy and Commerce- Health Subcommittee , and the Natural Resources - subcommittee on Indians and Insular Affairs\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse24-244445-2024-07-08\" id=\"heading24-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse24-244445-2024-07-08\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse24-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading24-244445-2024-07-08\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse24-244445-2024-07-08\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe government and people who work in it should always have financial transparency and accountability.\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<p>According to her website, Baechler's campaign platform included the following issues<sup class=\"reference\" id=\"cite_ref-6\"><a href=\"#cite_note-6\">[6]</a></sup>:\n</p>\n<ul><li>Protect Social Security and Medicare</li>\n<li>Help the economy through fair taxation</li>\n<li>Full health care and equal pay for women</li></ul>", "answer_text": "See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection\n\nMary Baechler completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Baechler's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. Mary Baechler has been a businesswoman, an entrepreneur and a grass roots community organizer with almost 40 years in the Yakima Valley. She was one of the co-founders and CEO of the Baby Jogger Company, Yakima’s innovative stroller business, creating more than 400 jobs in 18 years. Baby Jogger employees provided extraordinary customer service and built world class running strollers. Mary has worked as a community organizer, focusing on voting and water issues in the Yakima area; she also worked as the Planner in Economic Development for Yakama Nation, and during the Covid-19 pandemic, worked for Public Health as a Communicable Disease investigator. Mary brings a wealth of experience and a focus on job creation. Mary ran for Congress in the 4th Congressional District in 2012, running against incumbent Doc Hastings. 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? Families First\r\nWe all want a good future for our children. We need to protect our planet for our children; we need to address climate change, and this will create green new jobs. Remember the smoke from the wildfires every summer? None of us wants that. We can take positive steps, like planting trees, with organizations like Sugi. We need to work to stop climate change to protect families, family farms and the farmworkers. Preserve Women’s Rights\r\nWomen should be free to make their healthcare decisions without interference. By funding contraceptive access and comprehensive sexual health education, we can reduce the need for accidental pregnancies and abortions. The countries with the lowest abortion rates are the ones that have comprehensive healthcare, including OB/GYN services. Affordable Housing\r\nHousing is expensive and scarce. We have been let down by career politicians, but we can help builders with simplified regulations and incentives for housing. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? Climate Change - we must take every step possible to reverse climate change. Women's right for reproductive freedom Reducing costs on food, housing, gas, childcare for families Lowering taxes for middle class American families Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why? I look up to President Obama, and Senator Bernie Sanders. For each of them, because they really reached people, they gave hope that America could be better, that we could be our best selves. What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? The characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official are the ability to listen deeply, especially to opposing views, being able to uunderstand complex problems or situations, and understanding that we are here to be of service, we are here to help each other. What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder? The qualities that I have that would make me a successful representative are that I believe in service to community; I am able to digest and learn large amounts of information quickly; I am not stuck and I am able to change my mind if new information comes up. My backgound as CEO was shaped by also being a kitchen-table entrepreneur (we started the Baby Jogger Co. from a kitchen table); we should all be able to take out the trash, answer a phone, help a customer. I believe in extraordinary customer service, and always trying to do the right thing. What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office? The core responsibilities of a Representative are to represent the people of their District by working on legislation that will improve their lives and the lives of all Americans. This includes legislation to support the basic human needs for clean air, food, water, housing, to be safe, to have employment, to support health, to support community, to support the arts and especially human rights and the basic rights of the Constitution. Other responsibilities are to represent their Congressional District, to help their constituents, to be present for legislative voting and to develop new legislation, and to serve on committees and caucuses. Serving in Congress is a privilege and a chance to provide extraordinary customer service. to the people we serve. What legacy would you like to leave? The legacy that I would like to leave is that I protected women''s right for reproductive freedom, that I helped to turn climate change around so our world can heal, and that I loved my family. What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time? I remember watching the Beatles on a black and white tv, on the Ed Sullivan Show. What was your very first job? How long did you have it? My first job was at age 16, at a riding school. It was a super fun job! And I learned a good work ethic. What is your favorite book? Why? Ka-Mi-Akin, the Last Hero of the Yakimas, by A.J. Splawn. Published in 1917, it is a breathtaking record of Ka-Mi-Akin and the Yakama people, how they lived, how they fought to save their land and their families. A.J. Splawn came through the Yakima (Washington State) area as a young man of age 16 in 1861; every page reads like a great adventure, someone trying to kill him, usually an Indian saving him. He wrote this book to present the Indian side of the Wars of 1865-1868. The first night I found this book, I was up reading until 2 am. What was the last song that got stuck in your head? Sting's Brand New Day What is something that has been a struggle in your life? I have been wealthy, and I have been poor. I am glad I went through being poor, because I understand how hard it is if you struggle to pay bills, or avoid going to the doctor because you don't have medical insurance, or you pay excessive fees on auto payments because you lost your income. These are all real to me, and the struggles of people to get housing or feed their families (or just themselves) are real to me. I am really grateful for all my experiences. What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution? The framers of the Constitution designed Congress so the House is to represent the will of the people. Another unique characteristic is that one vote, one Congressperson, may be enough to make a huge change in federal law and programs, hopefully using that power for good. Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics? It is very beneficial to have previous experience. Each Congressman or Congresswoman was new, at one point. It is very helpful to have experience with legal issues, local, state and federal laws or regulations, or to have previous elected experience. My background as the CEO of the Baby Jogger company gave me experience with regulations and government requirements in the U.S., Taiwan, China, and the 20+ countries we sold our strollers in. What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade? Women's right for reproductive freedom; climate change is a serious threat to our well-being and national security, the Supreme Court's apparent bias to the Republican Party (and taking large gifts from beneficaries of their rulings), affordable housing, the high costs of food and consumer goods, making education in college and trade schools affordable, healthcare should be structure like Medicare for All, and protecting the social security system. We need to restructure taxes, making it easier for small businesses to succeed, and ensuring large corporations and billionaires pay a fair share. Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives? Ideally the House might be four years, so that each Congressperson spends more time serving their constituents and the people of the United States, and less time campaigning. What are your thoughts on term limits? I have mixed feelings regarding term limits. I support term limits for the Supreme Court judges; and term limits would be a way to bring younger representation into Congress. On the other hand, Congressional leaders who the voters bring back over and over, accumulate knowledge and the ability to really focus on legislation; they are able to really help their District. Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after? I love that Senator Bernie Sanders is so bold and fearless. If elected, I hope to be bold and fearless, in service to the people we serve. Both sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful? I have a good friend who is a Japanese American, with an organic farm in the Wapato area. He and his family have been farming there 20+ years, seliing in farmers markets back when they first started; just beautiful produce, picked for the best tasting lettuce, cucumbers, all kinds of beautiful fruits and vegetables.. This summer I went to visit his booth and he wasn't there. So I called, and my friend related that he had junior water rights, he has not been able to irrigate, even though he lives right next to the Yakima River. He said about 25 farmers in his irrigation district, they all have had to stop their crops, stop farming, because they cannot get water this year. This is climate change. We need to address climate change in every way possible, so our farmers have the water they need for food crops. Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking? It is especially important to listen, understand the other points of view, and to work on bipartisan bills. 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 House can intiate revenue comes via taxation. We need a minimum 15% tax on large corporations, so they pay their fair share; I agree with Senator Bernie Sanders that we need a wealth tax on the wealthiest Americans, the top 0.1% (this tax would only start if your net worth was more than $32 million) . A waitress or a school teacher should not be paying a higher tax rate than the wealthiest corporations or billionaires. At the same time we need to incentivise small businesses, for example businessses with less than $20 million a year in revenues, to help them grow, create equity and create jobs. How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers? The House should use its investigative powers fairly, without partisan bias. What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign? I am endorse by Richland County Democrats and awaiting for other possible endorsements. When I previously ran, 2012, same office, after making it through the Primary, I was endorse by all counties in the 4th Congressional District, unions, WSLC, WEA and the WA State Democrats. What committees interest you? The House Select Committee on Cllimate Change; I would love to see that restarted. TheEnergy and Commerce- Health Subcommittee , and the Natural Resources - subcommittee on Indians and Insular Affairs What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability? The government and people who work in it should always have financial transparency and accountability.\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.\nAccording to her website, Baechler's campaign platform included the following issues [6] :\nProtect Social Security and Medicare Help the economy through fair taxation Full health care and equal pay for women"}]