David Mandel

[{"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>David Mandel 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 Mandel'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-214491-2024-02-05\" id=\"heading-bio-214491-2024-02-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-214491-2024-02-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-214491-2024-02-05\" 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-214491-2024-02-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-214491-2024-02-05\" 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 Sacramentan since 1985, I have been involved for more than five decades as a participant and organizer in struggles for justice and peace in the United States and abroad. An elected member of the state and county Democratic Party central committees, I have led efforts to pass resolutions, legislative stances and platform planks supporting Palestinian human rights while also working alongside fellow progressives on worker rights, single-payer healthcare, greatly expanded affordable housing, stopping climate change, ending racism, patriarchy and predatory capitalism, and getting dirty money out of politics, among other priorities. I am not a career politician, but for decades I’ve been an advocate for honesty, peace and social justice, as a partner, father and grandparent, in my work as a journalist and an attorney for the disadvantaged and oppressed, and as a dedicated volunteer with numerous organizations carrying on the fight for a better world. I have campaigned for many like-minded candidates will work to mobilize the best parts of the movements they inspired, joining with the growing number in Congress determined to create a better country and world, while I continue to help building people’s movements in our neighborhoods, at workplaces and in the streets.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-214491-2024-02-05\" id=\"heading-key-message-214491-2024-02-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-214491-2024-02-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-214491-2024-02-05\" 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-214491-2024-02-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-214491-2024-02-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>Ceasefire Now! Freedom &amp; Justicefor All Palestinians: Use U.S. leverage to enforce an immediate, permanent cease-fire in Gaza, enabling negotiations to free all Israeli hostages and all Palestinian political prisoners, many being held without charges or evidence. Rush massive humanitarian aid to Gaza, then employ multilateral diplomacy to rebuild it. Demand self-determination for Palestinians, full human rights under international law, and an end Israeli occupation and apartheid with military “aid” and diplomatic backing against the will of most of the world. Use diplomacy to insist on full equality for all and restorative justice to bring peace and safety to Israeli Jews and Palestinians alike.</li><li>Environment &amp; Climate: Commit to aggressive environmental protection and climate change initiatives, including transitioning to renewable energy, ending fracking, and advocating for sustainable, environmentally responsible trade policies. End our dependence on fossil fuels and break the influence of the energy lobby. Promote sustainable trade based on environmental responsibility. Address the environmental impact of militarism.</li><li>Healthcare for &amp; All Public Health: Recognize healthcare as a fundamental human right, pushing for universal, single-payer healthcare systems, and restructuring the healthcare sector to prioritize public health over profit. Bring down the cost medication and regulate the for-profit pharmacudical industry. Restructure the healthcare sector to prioritize public health.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-214491-2024-02-05\" id=\"heading1-214491-2024-02-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-214491-2024-02-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-214491-2024-02-05\" 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=\"heading1-214491-2024-02-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-214491-2024-02-05\" 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 personally have been passionate about peace for Israeli Jews and Palestinians and working towards this goal for decades. join the demand – supported by a large majority of Americans -- for an immediate cease-fire and massive amounts of humanitarian aid, to be followed by a diplomatic process to ensure self-determination, equality, human rights, restorative justice and safety for Palestinians and Israeli Jews alike.<br/><br/>\r\nI am not a career politician, but for decades I’ve been an advocate for honesty, peace and social justice, as a partner, father and grandparent, in my work as a journalist and an attorney for the disadvantaged and oppressed, and as a dedicated volunteer with numerous organizations carrying on the fight for a better world. I have campaigned for many like-minded candidates will work to mobilize the best parts of the movements they inspired, joining with the growing number in Congress determined to create a better country and world, while I continue to help building people’s movements in our neighborhoods, at workplaces and in the streets.<br/><br/></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-214491-2024-02-05\" id=\"heading2-214491-2024-02-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-214491-2024-02-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-214491-2024-02-05\" 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=\"heading2-214491-2024-02-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-214491-2024-02-05\" 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\tAt the moment, I most look up to Bernie Sanders. Though I don't agree with everything he’s done and every stance he takes, he has been an important voice of conscience and clarity in a time of rampant corruption and abuse of power. For many progressives and leftists, young and old, the Bernie Sanders campaign was the first time they felt that it was possible to have a President (and a government on the whole) that might represent the will of the people without being held to corporate interests. I plan to carry that torch, to be an unwavering voice for justice and progress, and provide solidarity not only to my fellow progressives in Congress but to every American. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-214491-2024-02-05\" id=\"heading3-214491-2024-02-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-214491-2024-02-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-214491-2024-02-05\" 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=\"heading3-214491-2024-02-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-214491-2024-02-05\" 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 most important characteristics for an elected official are honesty, transparency, and an unwavering dedication to the interests of the working people. <br/></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-214491-2024-02-05\" id=\"heading4-214491-2024-02-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-214491-2024-02-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-214491-2024-02-05\" 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=\"heading4-214491-2024-02-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-214491-2024-02-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI would be a successful representative because of my curiosity, persistence, and commitment to service. I have an innate appetite for learning about issues and how they affect people firsthand, delving into the details and seeking the full picture so I can fight for solutions that not only solve the problem, but serve the needs of those most impacted. I have a track record of being a persistent fighter for justice in my work as a journalist, as an attorney for the disadvantaged and oppressed, and as a dedicated volunteer with numerous organizations carrying on the fight for a better world. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-214491-2024-02-05\" id=\"heading5-214491-2024-02-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-214491-2024-02-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-214491-2024-02-05\" 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=\"heading5-214491-2024-02-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-214491-2024-02-05\" 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 when I was 5 years old, my parents sat me down in front of the TV where some old man was droning on and on. Later I realized that this was the inauguration of Dwight D. Eisenhower. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-214491-2024-02-05\" id=\"heading6-214491-2024-02-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-214491-2024-02-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-214491-2024-02-05\" 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=\"heading6-214491-2024-02-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-214491-2024-02-05\" 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 very first serious job was as a typesetter my junior and senior years of college. I worked at that job for around 18 months, and it helped spark my passion for journalism and speaking truth to power. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-214491-2024-02-05\" id=\"heading7-214491-2024-02-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-214491-2024-02-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-214491-2024-02-05\" 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=\"heading7-214491-2024-02-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-214491-2024-02-05\" 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\tUsually it's whatever Beethoven quartet I've played lately!\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-214491-2024-02-05\" id=\"heading8-214491-2024-02-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse8-214491-2024-02-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-214491-2024-02-05\" 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=\"heading8-214491-2024-02-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse8-214491-2024-02-05\" 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 believe that the United States' greatest challenge in the next decade will be mobilizing to aggressively take action to prevent climate catastrophe for America and the world. Every other struggle, from the fight for racial equality to pursuing international peace, is intertwined in the fight for our climate. In one of Bernie Sanders' early debates in 2016, he was asked what the biggest security challenge facing the United States was. While other candidates answered Russia, China, or terrorism, Bernie answered \"climate catastrophe\". I agree wholeheartedly. We cannot have a safe and secure state while our lands are eroding, natural disasters destroy entire communities, and increasingly scarce water and arable land lead to violent clashes. <br/><br/></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-214491-2024-02-05\" id=\"heading9-214491-2024-02-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse9-214491-2024-02-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-214491-2024-02-05\" 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=\"heading9-214491-2024-02-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse9-214491-2024-02-05\" 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 plan to model myself after Representative Rashida Tlaib. She stands as a beacon in the darkness and a leading voice of moral clarity on all issues of human rights, including calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. <br/><br/>\n<p>Last June, I, along with 100 Jewish Voice for Peace members from around the country visited Washington to lobby for, among other things, the Palestinian Children and Families act, which would stop U.S. funds from being used to arrest kids, demolish homes and support illegal settlements; against a number of measures that falsely label criticism of Israel as antisemitism; and for a resolution recognizing the historical fact of the Nakba – the expulsion of most Palestinians from what became Israel in 1948. It has continued ever since, now more horrifically than ever before, in Gaza. My meetings on our lobby day were with California members and staff, butI was back in the area a couple of days later and decided to see if I could meet the person who I consider my my real representative -- who truly represents my interests: Rashida Tlaib. To my good fortune, she took the time to chat for 15 minutes or so, about Palestine, politics, and our families. I came out starstruck.<br/><br/>\n</p>\nThere are plenty of causes to fight for in Washington: Green New Deal, healthcare, housing, education as human rights for all, cut the military budget progressive tax policy … and much more. Rashida is leading on all of these issues too, and I plan to join her. I will stand beside Rashida Tlaib in her fight for justice, freedom, and dignity for every living human being.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-214491-2024-02-05\" id=\"heading10-214491-2024-02-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse10-214491-2024-02-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-214491-2024-02-05\" 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=\"heading10-214491-2024-02-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse10-214491-2024-02-05\" 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\tIn the last few months, as I have traveled around the district meeting with members of my community, my life has been changed by the stories I have heard from my Palestinian neighbors about their experiences in the last few months of Israel's relentless attack, as well as over the years. One man I spoke to lost 74 members of his family just in the last four months. And though our neighbors are grieving, our local representatives refuse to even meet with us. None of our region’s representatives stand on the right side of this issue and other measures, let alone use their power and privilege to speak out on Palestine. <br/><br/>\r\nAlthough I have long campaigned for justice, peace, and freedom for Palestine, hearing these stories in recent months has strengthened my resolve. Sacramento, and the United States as a whole, deserves representatives who are committed to fighting for human rights at home and abroad. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-214491-2024-02-05\" id=\"heading11-214491-2024-02-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse11-214491-2024-02-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-214491-2024-02-05\" 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=\"heading11-214491-2024-02-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse11-214491-2024-02-05\" 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\tWellstone Democrats of Sacramento, California Progressive Alliance, Green Party of Sacramento, Our Revolution\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>", "answer_text": "See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection\n\nDavid Mandel completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Mandel's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. A Sacramentan since 1985, I have been involved for more than five decades as a participant and organizer in struggles for justice and peace in the United States and abroad. An elected member of the state and county Democratic Party central committees, I have led efforts to pass resolutions, legislative stances and platform planks supporting Palestinian human rights while also working alongside fellow progressives on worker rights, single-payer healthcare, greatly expanded affordable housing, stopping climate change, ending racism, patriarchy and predatory capitalism, and getting dirty money out of politics, among other priorities. I am not a career politician, but for decades I’ve been an advocate for honesty, peace and social justice, as a partner, father and grandparent, in my work as a journalist and an attorney for the disadvantaged and oppressed, and as a dedicated volunteer with numerous organizations carrying on the fight for a better world. I have campaigned for many like-minded candidates will work to mobilize the best parts of the movements they inspired, joining with the growing number in Congress determined to create a better country and world, while I continue to help building people’s movements in our neighborhoods, at workplaces and in the streets. 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? Ceasefire Now! Freedom & Justicefor All Palestinians: Use U.S. leverage to enforce an immediate, permanent cease-fire in Gaza, enabling negotiations to free all Israeli hostages and all Palestinian political prisoners, many being held without charges or evidence. Rush massive humanitarian aid to Gaza, then employ multilateral diplomacy to rebuild it. Demand self-determination for Palestinians, full human rights under international law, and an end Israeli occupation and apartheid with military “aid” and diplomatic backing against the will of most of the world. Use diplomacy to insist on full equality for all and restorative justice to bring peace and safety to Israeli Jews and Palestinians alike. Environment & Climate: Commit to aggressive environmental protection and climate change initiatives, including transitioning to renewable energy, ending fracking, and advocating for sustainable, environmentally responsible trade policies. End our dependence on fossil fuels and break the influence of the energy lobby. Promote sustainable trade based on environmental responsibility. Address the environmental impact of militarism. Healthcare for & All Public Health: Recognize healthcare as a fundamental human right, pushing for universal, single-payer healthcare systems, and restructuring the healthcare sector to prioritize public health over profit. Bring down the cost medication and regulate the for-profit pharmacudical industry. Restructure the healthcare sector to prioritize public health. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? I personally have been passionate about peace for Israeli Jews and Palestinians and working towards this goal for decades. join the demand – supported by a large majority of Americans -- for an immediate cease-fire and massive amounts of humanitarian aid, to be followed by a diplomatic process to ensure self-determination, equality, human rights, restorative justice and safety for Palestinians and Israeli Jews alike. I am not a career politician, but for decades I’ve been an advocate for honesty, peace and social justice, as a partner, father and grandparent, in my work as a journalist and an attorney for the disadvantaged and oppressed, and as a dedicated volunteer with numerous organizations carrying on the fight for a better world. I have campaigned for many like-minded candidates will work to mobilize the best parts of the movements they inspired, joining with the growing number in Congress determined to create a better country and world, while I continue to help building people’s movements in our neighborhoods, at workplaces and in the streets. Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why? At the moment, I most look up to Bernie Sanders. Though I don't agree with everything he’s done and every stance he takes, he has been an important voice of conscience and clarity in a time of rampant corruption and abuse of power. For many progressives and leftists, young and old, the Bernie Sanders campaign was the first time they felt that it was possible to have a President (and a government on the whole) that might represent the will of the people without being held to corporate interests. I plan to carry that torch, to be an unwavering voice for justice and progress, and provide solidarity not only to my fellow progressives in Congress but to every American. What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? The most important characteristics for an elected official are honesty, transparency, and an unwavering dedication to the interests of the working people. What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder? I would be a successful representative because of my curiosity, persistence, and commitment to service. I have an innate appetite for learning about issues and how they affect people firsthand, delving into the details and seeking the full picture so I can fight for solutions that not only solve the problem, but serve the needs of those most impacted. I have a track record of being a persistent fighter for justice in my work as a journalist, as an attorney for the disadvantaged and oppressed, and as a dedicated volunteer with numerous organizations carrying on the fight for a better world. What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time? I remember when I was 5 years old, my parents sat me down in front of the TV where some old man was droning on and on. Later I realized that this was the inauguration of Dwight D. Eisenhower. What was your very first job? How long did you have it? My very first serious job was as a typesetter my junior and senior years of college. I worked at that job for around 18 months, and it helped spark my passion for journalism and speaking truth to power. What was the last song that got stuck in your head? Usually it's whatever Beethoven quartet I've played lately! What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade? I believe that the United States' greatest challenge in the next decade will be mobilizing to aggressively take action to prevent climate catastrophe for America and the world. Every other struggle, from the fight for racial equality to pursuing international peace, is intertwined in the fight for our climate. In one of Bernie Sanders' early debates in 2016, he was asked what the biggest security challenge facing the United States was. While other candidates answered Russia, China, or terrorism, Bernie answered \"climate catastrophe\". I agree wholeheartedly. We cannot have a safe and secure state while our lands are eroding, natural disasters destroy entire communities, and increasingly scarce water and arable land lead to violent clashes. Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after? I plan to model myself after Representative Rashida Tlaib. She stands as a beacon in the darkness and a leading voice of moral clarity on all issues of human rights, including calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. Last June, I, along with 100 Jewish Voice for Peace members from around the country visited Washington to lobby for, among other things, the Palestinian Children and Families act, which would stop U.S. funds from being used to arrest kids, demolish homes and support illegal settlements; against a number of measures that falsely label criticism of Israel as antisemitism; and for a resolution recognizing the historical fact of the Nakba – the expulsion of most Palestinians from what became Israel in 1948. It has continued ever since, now more horrifically than ever before, in Gaza. My meetings on our lobby day were with California members and staff, butI was back in the area a couple of days later and decided to see if I could meet the person who I consider my my real representative -- who truly represents my interests: Rashida Tlaib. To my good fortune, she took the time to chat for 15 minutes or so, about Palestine, politics, and our families. I came out starstruck. There are plenty of causes to fight for in Washington: Green New Deal, healthcare, housing, education as human rights for all, cut the military budget progressive tax policy … and much more. Rashida is leading on all of these issues too, and I plan to join her. I will stand beside Rashida Tlaib in her fight for justice, freedom, and dignity for every living human being. 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? In the last few months, as I have traveled around the district meeting with members of my community, my life has been changed by the stories I have heard from my Palestinian neighbors about their experiences in the last few months of Israel's relentless attack, as well as over the years. One man I spoke to lost 74 members of his family just in the last four months. And though our neighbors are grieving, our local representatives refuse to even meet with us. None of our region’s representatives stand on the right side of this issue and other measures, let alone use their power and privilege to speak out on Palestine. Although I have long campaigned for justice, peace, and freedom for Palestine, hearing these stories in recent months has strengthened my resolve. Sacramento, and the United States as a whole, deserves representatives who are committed to fighting for human rights at home and abroad. What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign? Wellstone Democrats of Sacramento, California Progressive Alliance, Green Party of Sacramento, Our Revolution\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."}, {"question": "Campaign website", "answer_html": "<p>Mandel’s campaign website stated the following:\n</p>\n<div style=\"height:400px;overflow:scroll;border:1px solid gray;margin:20px;padding:10px;\">\n<table data-nosnippet=\"\" style=\"border-collapse: collapse; border: none;background-color: transparent; auto; ;\">\n<tbody><tr>\n<td style=\"border:none; color:#B2B7F2;font-size:35px;font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-weight: bold; text-align: left; padding: 10px 3px;\" valign=\"top\" width=\"20\">“\n</td>\n<td style=\"border: none; padding: 4px 10px;\" valign=\"top\">\n<p><b>Ceasefire Now! Freedom &amp; Justicefor All Palestinians</b><br/>\nUse U.S. leverage to enforce an immediate, permanent cease-fire in Gaza, enabling negotiations to free all Israeli hostages and all Palestinian political prisoners, many being held without charges or evidence. Rush massive humanitarian aid to Gaza, then employ multilateral diplomacy to rebuild it. Demand self-determination for Palestinians, full human rights under international law, and an end Israeli occupation and apartheid with military “aid” and diplomatic backing against the will of most of the world. Use diplomacy to insist on full equality for all and restorative justice to bring peace and safety to Israeli Jews and Palestinians alike.\n</p><p><b>Foreign Policy &amp; International Justice:</b><br/>\nFocus on promoting human rights, peace, diplomacy, international cooperation, and fostering equitable trade practices that will promote environmental sustainability. Assume a human-rights-based foreign policy that includes no U.S. weapons sales, militray aid, or political cover for any human rights-violating governments or entity. Pursue multilateral, diplomatic solutions, including through the United Nations, instead of unilateral or military intervention. Pursue international agreements for fair trade and their right to unionize. Advocate for equitable trade practices that respect human rights and the environment.\n</p><p><b>Environment &amp; Climate</b><br/>\nCommit to aggressive environmental protection and climate change initiatives, including transitioning to renewable energy, ending fracking, and advocating for sustainable, environmentally responsible trade policies. End our dependence on fossil fuels and break the influence of the energy lobby. Promote sustainable trade based on environmental responsibility. Address the environmental impact of militarism.\n</p><p><b>Social Justice &amp; Equity:</b><br/>\nAddress comprehensive social justice issues, including immigration reform, disability rights, gender equality, reproductive rights, and racial justice, emphasizing inclusivity, equal rights, and comprehensive reforms. Implement comprehensive immigration and refugee support policies. Ensure disability rights and equal access. Overcome gender and sexual orientation discrimination.\n</p><p><b>Domestic Policy &amp; Human Rights:</b><br/>\nAdvocate for fundamental human rights in housing and education, along with police reform that the fosters true public safety, focusing on creating equitable and supportive domestic policies. Advocate for affordable housing and tenant rights. Increase investment in public education. Reform policing practices and enhance public safety measures.\n</p><p><b>Healthcare for &amp; All Public Health:</b><br/>\nRecognize healthcare as a fundamental human right, pushing for universal, single-payer healthcare systems, and restructuring the healthcare sector to prioritize public health over profit. Bring down the cost medication and regulate the for-profit pharmacudical industry. Restructure the healthcare sector to prioritize public health.\n</p><p><b>Fair Market Economy &amp; Labor Rights:</b><br/>\nPromote economic justice and labor rights, focusing on fair wage policies, tax reforms, workers' rights to unionize, and support for small and cooperatively owned businesses, the development of economic models that serve the broader population. Overhaul tax laws for economic fairness. Strengthen labor rights and support unionization. Raise the minimum wage\n</p><p><b>Governance &amp; Democracy Reform:</b><br/>\nEmphasize the importance of voting rights, election fairness, and democratic governance, including campaign finance reform, voting technology improvements, and the elimination of undemocratic practices like the Electoral College. Ensure easy and secure voting access. Reform campaign finance to reduce monetary influence. Promote electoral reforms that promote democracy.\n</p><p><b>Public Safety and Gun Control:</b><br/>\nAddress public safety through comprehensive gun control measures and police reform, aiming to reduce gun violence and ensure community-based approaches to public safety. Implement comprehensive gun control measures. Focus on community-based, including restorative justice approaches to public safety.<sup class=\"reference\" id=\"cite_ref-quotedisclaimer_3-0\"><a href=\"#cite_note-quotedisclaimer-3\">[3]</a></sup>\n</p>\n</td>\n<td style=\"border: none; color: #B2B7F2; font-size: 35px; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-weight: bold; text-align: right; padding: 10px 1px;\" valign=\"bottom\" width=\"20\">”\n</td></tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"cquotecite\" colspan=\"3\" style=\"border: none; padding-right: 4%\"><cite style=\"font-style: normal;font-size: smaller; float: right;\">—David Mandel’s campaign website (2024)<sup class=\"reference\" id=\"cite_ref-4\"><a href=\"#cite_note-4\">[4]</a></sup></cite>\n</td></tr></tbody></table>\n</div>", "answer_text": "Mandel’s campaign website stated the following:\n“ Ceasefire Now! Freedom & Justicefor All Palestinians Use U.S. leverage to enforce an immediate, permanent cease-fire in Gaza, enabling negotiations to free all Israeli hostages and all Palestinian political prisoners, many being held without charges or evidence. Rush massive humanitarian aid to Gaza, then employ multilateral diplomacy to rebuild it. Demand self-determination for Palestinians, full human rights under international law, and an end Israeli occupation and apartheid with military “aid” and diplomatic backing against the will of most of the world. Use diplomacy to insist on full equality for all and restorative justice to bring peace and safety to Israeli Jews and Palestinians alike. Foreign Policy & International Justice: Focus on promoting human rights, peace, diplomacy, international cooperation, and fostering equitable trade practices that will promote environmental sustainability. Assume a human-rights-based foreign policy that includes no U.S. weapons sales, militray aid, or political cover for any human rights-violating governments or entity. Pursue multilateral, diplomatic solutions, including through the United Nations, instead of unilateral or military intervention. Pursue international agreements for fair trade and their right to unionize. Advocate for equitable trade practices that respect human rights and the environment. Environment & Climate Commit to aggressive environmental protection and climate change initiatives, including transitioning to renewable energy, ending fracking, and advocating for sustainable, environmentally responsible trade policies. End our dependence on fossil fuels and break the influence of the energy lobby. Promote sustainable trade based on environmental responsibility. Address the environmental impact of militarism. Social Justice & Equity: Address comprehensive social justice issues, including immigration reform, disability rights, gender equality, reproductive rights, and racial justice, emphasizing inclusivity, equal rights, and comprehensive reforms. Implement comprehensive immigration and refugee support policies. Ensure disability rights and equal access. Overcome gender and sexual orientation discrimination. Domestic Policy & Human Rights: Advocate for fundamental human rights in housing and education, along with police reform that the fosters true public safety, focusing on creating equitable and supportive domestic policies. Advocate for affordable housing and tenant rights. Increase investment in public education. Reform policing practices and enhance public safety measures. Healthcare for & All Public Health: Recognize healthcare as a fundamental human right, pushing for universal, single-payer healthcare systems, and restructuring the healthcare sector to prioritize public health over profit. Bring down the cost medication and regulate the for-profit pharmacudical industry. Restructure the healthcare sector to prioritize public health. Fair Market Economy & Labor Rights: Promote economic justice and labor rights, focusing on fair wage policies, tax reforms, workers' rights to unionize, and support for small and cooperatively owned businesses, the development of economic models that serve the broader population. Overhaul tax laws for economic fairness. Strengthen labor rights and support unionization. Raise the minimum wage Governance & Democracy Reform: Emphasize the importance of voting rights, election fairness, and democratic governance, including campaign finance reform, voting technology improvements, and the elimination of undemocratic practices like the Electoral College. Ensure easy and secure voting access. Reform campaign finance to reduce monetary influence. Promote electoral reforms that promote democracy. Public Safety and Gun Control: Address public safety through comprehensive gun control measures and police reform, aiming to reduce gun violence and ensure community-based approaches to public safety. Implement comprehensive gun control measures. Focus on community-based, including restorative justice approaches to public safety. [3] ” —David Mandel’s campaign website (2024) [4]"}]