Manny Lopez

[{"question": "Video for Ballotpedia", "answer_html": "<div style=\"float:left\">\n<table cellpadding=\"5\" cellspacing=\"0\" class=\"wikitable\" width=\"205\">\n<tbody><tr>\n<td><div class=\"thumb embedvideo autoResize\" style=\"width: 258px;\"><!--\n--><div class=\"embedvideo autoResize\" style=\"\"><!--\n--><div class=\"embedvideowrap youtube\" style=\"width: 250px\"><iframe allow=\"accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" frameborder=\"0\" height=\"141\" loading=\"lazy\" modestbranding=\"1\" src=\"//www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/M43t4GVKFts\" width=\"250\"></iframe></div><!--\n--></div><!--\n--></div><span style=\"font-size:80%\">Video submitted to Ballotpedia<br/>Released July 21, 2024</span>\n</td></tr></tbody></table></div>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"></div>", "answer_text": "Video submitted to Ballotpedia Released July 21, 2024"}, {"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>Manny Lopez 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 Lopez'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-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading-bio-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-206760-2024-07-22\" 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-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-206760-2024-07-22\" 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\tManny Lopez a 3rd generation Key West Floridian. Common Sense Governance with Civility, Principles, and Accountability is my theme. Worked as a First Responder, Educator, Veteran and in Government. Caring, Moderate, Proactive, Compassionate, Strong, Reasonable, Principled, Passionate, and Fighter.\r\n<p>Elected School Board Member, Monroe County Port Authority Board, Executive Board Central Texas Economic Development Council, Hill County Extension Service Chairman, organized and chaired countywide issues convention overseeing 21 task forces, President of the Young Democrats, President of PHI THETA KAPPA honor society and graduated Baylor University. \r\n</p><p>Experienced in dealing with governments, bureaucracy, agencies, and organizations to make government work for the people.\r\n</p><p>Decades activist for Equal Rights Amendment, Women’s rights, Civil Rights, Gay Rights, Desegregation, Anti-Vietnam War, Legalizing Marijuana, Welfare Reforms, Gun Safety, Anti Corporate Greed, and Immigration Reform. \r\n</p><p>7 years captain with the Sarasota &amp; Venice Chalk Festivals, worked relief on many Hurricanes . Worked in food banks, Meals on Wheels, Habitat for Humanity, migrant worker reform, citizen school committees and others.\r\n</p>\nA Scoutmaster, tutor, Big Brother, Youth Coach for baseball, football, and basketball, Organized a countywide co-ed youth basketball league winning the Kiwanian of the Year Award, and school sponsor of the Environmental Club winning the Sarasota Bay Estuary Blue Dolphin Award.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading-key-message-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-206760-2024-07-22\" 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-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>It is imperative that congress Codify Reproductive Rights for abortion, birth control, and reproduction such as IVF. Reproductive Rights decision should be made by the woman, her doctor, &amp; her Family. Government has no right to dictate the health care of anyone. Reproductive Rights is Health Care.</li><li>The Environment &amp; Climate Change affects our Health, Economy, and Nature. \r\n<p>We need to focus on Renewable Energy; solar, wind, biomass, hydro power. As the Sunshine State; we should strive to be the national leader in Solar Energy.\r\nPreserving and protecting our fresh water sources and estuaries is vital to Our Earths' survival.\r\nWe need to make Red Tide prevention the priority to replace the need for clean ups. \r\nFight pollution. \r\nReduce Carbon &amp; Methane Emissions.\r\nCarbon pricing such as carbon taxes will help reduce pollution.\r\nSupport carbon capture programs.\r\nDevelop energy storage technology.\r\nConvert emission lines to advanced conductor lines.\r\nEnergy efficient appliances and lighting.\r\n</p>\nSupport fusion technology development.</li><li>We need to eliminate the Social Security earning cap of $168,000 when people stop paying the Social Security tax. Conservative and liberal think tanks like the Heritage Foundation and the Cato Institute, say this can increase Social Security benefits and expand solvency. We also should stop paying taxes on Social Security. Corporate greed is the deterrent. \r\n\r\nEveryone below the $168,000 cap pays 6.2% while a millionaire pays less than 1% on their earnings. The more one makes the less percent they pay on their earnings. Why should the wealthy pay less at the cost of the working and middle class?\r\n\r\nEliminating the Earnings Cap will increase benefits and solvency for 35 - 75 years, depending on the benefit increases, according to the studies</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading1-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-206760-2024-07-22\" 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=\"heading1-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-206760-2024-07-22\" 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\tPublic policy goals are to make people secure, enhancing social well-being for the good of the whole population. Ensure that citizens are free to fulfill their aspirational opportunities, and contribute to the betterment of society. Policies need to govern national issues.<br/><br/>\n<p>POLOCIES<br/>\n</p>\nProtect Our Democracy, Reproductive Rights, Climate Change, Environment, Freedoms, Rights, Rebuild the Middle Class, Medicare, and Social Security, Term Limits, Affordable Housing, fight Corporate Greed, sensible Gun Safety, Supreme Court Code of Ethics and term limits, National Home Owners Insurance program, end Cuban Embargo, eliminate our dependency of China pharmaceuticals through Puerto Rico drug manufacturing are public policies at my forefront agenda.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading2-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-206760-2024-07-22\" 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=\"heading2-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-206760-2024-07-22\" 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\tMartin Luther King. His ability to speak well on his beliefs of fairness, freedoms, equality, and rights. His actions to stand up for and fight for equality and fairness for all despite the odds against him are examples to follow.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading3-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIs there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading3-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-206760-2024-07-22\" 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 U.S. Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, the Pledge of Allegiance, and the Gettysburg Address demonstrate my political philosophy. <br/><br/>\n<p>The following are fundamental principles of our Democracy I believe. These fundamentals along with the voice of the people will be my guiding light as a Congressman.<br/><br/>\n\"...with Liberty and Justice for all...\", Pledge of Allegiance<br/>\n\"...government of the people, by the people, and for the people...\", Gettysburg Address<br/>\n\"We the people of the United States, in order to from a more perfect union, establish Justice, insure Domestic Tranquility...\", U.S. Constitution<br/>\n\"...unalienable rights...Life Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.\" Declaration of Independence.<br/>\n</p>\nNo state shall deny any person...\"Equal Justice Under the Law\", 14th Amendment.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading4-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading4-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tHonesty, Civility, Accountability, Caring about the people over the party and politics. Focusing on the people and not reelection.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading5-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading5-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-206760-2024-07-22\" 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 care about the people, moderate, compassionate, relentless, passionate, reasonable, strong, and a fighter for what I believe.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading6-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading6-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-206760-2024-07-22\" 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 Congress is to enact laws that represent the voice of the people for the overall public good by providing security, funding government functions and programs, holding hearings to inform the public of the legislative process, provide governmental oversight, and to positively influence the lives of all Americans.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading7-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat legacy would you like to leave?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading7-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-206760-2024-07-22\" 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 served for the betterment of the people and not myself.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading8-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse8-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading8-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse8-206760-2024-07-22\" 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 Cuban Missile Crisis. I was 11 years old 90 miles from Cuba in Key West, Florida. The entire island was a military compound fortress. Hawk missiles surrounded the perimeter island and many interior empty lots. Soldiers and military vehicles were everywhere. The Lower Keys had military sites scattered in many places. We hid under our desk for atomic bomb drills in case of an attack. People talked about it many times daily in school, at home, and in the streets. I was politically tuned in at 11 years old so it was very serious to me.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading9-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse9-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat was your very first job? How long did you have it?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading9-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse9-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI worked for Southern Bell as a telephone man, PBX installer/repairman for three years. I left voluntarily to pursue other interests.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading10-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse10-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is your favorite book? Why?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading10-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse10-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tTo Kill A Mockingbird. Atticus Finch, the lawyer played by Gregory Peck, is a personality to emulate. His pursuit of justice at his sacrificial expense due to ridicule and abuse was a good example of being a fair statesman and doing what is correct for the people.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading11-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse11-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIf you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading11-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse11-206760-2024-07-22\" 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\tSuperman who believed and practiced in \"Truth, Justice, and the American Way\".\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading12-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse12-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat was the last song that got stuck in your head?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading12-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse12-206760-2024-07-22\" 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\tBob Marley, Who the Cap Fits.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading13-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse13-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is something that has been a struggle in your life?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading13-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse13-206760-2024-07-22\" 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\tSeeing Social Injustice.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading14-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse14-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading14-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse14-206760-2024-07-22\" 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 a closer representation of the people compared to the Senate. An argument can be made to increase the number of U.S. House of Representatives. Presently a Representatives serves approximately 750,000 people. Lowering that amount can provide a better, closer, and more direct representation of the people.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading15-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse15-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tDo you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading15-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse15-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tYes, it is beneficial but so are many other combined experiences. The more rounded a congressman is from various experiences the a better they can be as a Representative. Having government and political experience greatly helps in knowing the process of governance but is not an absolute necessity. A variety of life experiences can override the lack of political or government experience but having both is best.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading16-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse16-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading16-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse16-206760-2024-07-22\" 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\tSaving Our Democracy to preserve our Rights and Freedoms, a new BRICS currency that could weaken the power of US sanctions and leading to a further decline in the dollar's value, climate change, National Debt, malicious cyber disruptions, the income gap widening, and war involving our American soldiers. These are our greatest threats over the next decade.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading17-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse17-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tDo you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading17-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse17-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI would like to see two 3 year terms as term limits to help with legislation over fundraising.<br/>\r\nRepresentatives spend most of their 2nd year of their two year term fundraising which is half their term. The result with three 2 year terms is 3 years of legislation and 3 years of fundraising. Representatives should have two three year terms limits which would yield 5 years of legislation and just one year of fundraising at the end of their first 3 year term.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading18-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse18-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat are your thoughts on term limits?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading18-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse18-206760-2024-07-22\" 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\tRepresentatives should be 6 years, Senators 12 years, Supreme Court justices 12-15 years as term limits. <br/><br/><br/><br/><br/>\r\nTerm limits need to be applied to all branches of government. Life long political terms lends itself to making decisions that favor donors, increases corruption, lobbyists dominance of officials, and gives too much advantageous power to incumbents during elections. A constant turnover of fresh blood in qualified leadership leads to dynamic new ideas and results versus stagnation from the old guard. Term limits will improve our government.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading19-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse19-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIs there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading19-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse19-206760-2024-07-22\" 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\tBernie Sanders, Jamie Raskin, Elizabeth Warren, John Lewis, Liz Chaney, and John McCain.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading20-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse20-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tBoth sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading20-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse20-206760-2024-07-22\" 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\tSeniors are the fastest growing homeless group in our District. Young working families can not afford basic housing.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading21-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse21-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-206760-2024-07-22\" 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=\"heading21-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse21-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tYes, working towards common ground when far apart is critical for improvements. A few steps forward is better than none. Further steps can be taken the next time the issues is taking up. Compromise should be used when needed but avoided when possible.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading22-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse22-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-206760-2024-07-22\" 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=\"heading22-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse22-206760-2024-07-22\" 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 in a balanced budget system. The money needed to raise would be determined by the expenses needed. Fiscal accountability and scrutiny in budget development is critical. The budget money needed to rise should be fair and judiciously determined to fill the needs of the people and not the politician.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse23-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading23-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse23-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse23-206760-2024-07-22\" 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=\"heading23-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse23-206760-2024-07-22\" 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\tInvestigative powers should be used for wrong doings and oversight regardless of political parties. Investigations should not be gained for political or personal gains. We need a statesman approach.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse24-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading24-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse24-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse24-206760-2024-07-22\" 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=\"heading24-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse24-206760-2024-07-22\" 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\tFlorida Democratic Environmental Caucus, Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense, Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus, and Andrea Doria Kale my former Congressional opponent.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse25-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading25-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse25-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse25-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat committees interest you?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading25-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse25-206760-2024-07-22\" 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\tEducation and the Workforce, Veteran Affairs, Foreign Affairs, Energy and Commerce are the committees that interest me.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse26-206760-2024-07-22\" id=\"heading26-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse26-206760-2024-07-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse26-206760-2024-07-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading26-206760-2024-07-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse26-206760-2024-07-22\" 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\tTransparency and accountability should be very high in government. Financial and personal accountability is part of congressional oversight responsibility. Financial accountability should include disclosure of al financial donors and gift providers along with the gift. Citizens United circumvents financial accountability and it should be struck down as law.\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\nManny Lopez completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Lopez's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. Manny Lopez a 3rd generation Key West Floridian. Common Sense Governance with Civility, Principles, and Accountability is my theme. Worked as a First Responder, Educator, Veteran and in Government. Caring, Moderate, Proactive, Compassionate, Strong, Reasonable, Principled, Passionate, and Fighter. Elected School Board Member, Monroe County Port Authority Board, Executive Board Central Texas Economic Development Council, Hill County Extension Service Chairman, organized and chaired countywide issues convention overseeing 21 task forces, President of the Young Democrats, President of PHI THETA KAPPA honor society and graduated Baylor University. Experienced in dealing with governments, bureaucracy, agencies, and organizations to make government work for the people. Decades activist for Equal Rights Amendment, Women’s rights, Civil Rights, Gay Rights, Desegregation, Anti-Vietnam War, Legalizing Marijuana, Welfare Reforms, Gun Safety, Anti Corporate Greed, and Immigration Reform. 7 years captain with the Sarasota & Venice Chalk Festivals, worked relief on many Hurricanes . Worked in food banks, Meals on Wheels, Habitat for Humanity, migrant worker reform, citizen school committees and others. A Scoutmaster, tutor, Big Brother, Youth Coach for baseball, football, and basketball, Organized a countywide co-ed youth basketball league winning the Kiwanian of the Year Award, and school sponsor of the Environmental Club winning the Sarasota Bay Estuary Blue Dolphin Award. 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? It is imperative that congress Codify Reproductive Rights for abortion, birth control, and reproduction such as IVF. Reproductive Rights decision should be made by the woman, her doctor, & her Family. Government has no right to dictate the health care of anyone. Reproductive Rights is Health Care. The Environment & Climate Change affects our Health, Economy, and Nature. We need to focus on Renewable Energy; solar, wind, biomass, hydro power. As the Sunshine State; we should strive to be the national leader in Solar Energy.\r\nPreserving and protecting our fresh water sources and estuaries is vital to Our Earths' survival.\r\nWe need to make Red Tide prevention the priority to replace the need for clean ups. \r\nFight pollution. \r\nReduce Carbon & Methane Emissions.\r\nCarbon pricing such as carbon taxes will help reduce pollution.\r\nSupport carbon capture programs.\r\nDevelop energy storage technology.\r\nConvert emission lines to advanced conductor lines.\r\nEnergy efficient appliances and lighting. Support fusion technology development. We need to eliminate the Social Security earning cap of $168,000 when people stop paying the Social Security tax. Conservative and liberal think tanks like the Heritage Foundation and the Cato Institute, say this can increase Social Security benefits and expand solvency. We also should stop paying taxes on Social Security. Corporate greed is the deterrent. \r\n\r\nEveryone below the $168,000 cap pays 6.2% while a millionaire pays less than 1% on their earnings. The more one makes the less percent they pay on their earnings. Why should the wealthy pay less at the cost of the working and middle class?\r\n\r\nEliminating the Earnings Cap will increase benefits and solvency for 35 - 75 years, depending on the benefit increases, according to the studies What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? Public policy goals are to make people secure, enhancing social well-being for the good of the whole population. Ensure that citizens are free to fulfill their aspirational opportunities, and contribute to the betterment of society. Policies need to govern national issues. POLOCIES Protect Our Democracy, Reproductive Rights, Climate Change, Environment, Freedoms, Rights, Rebuild the Middle Class, Medicare, and Social Security, Term Limits, Affordable Housing, fight Corporate Greed, sensible Gun Safety, Supreme Court Code of Ethics and term limits, National Home Owners Insurance program, end Cuban Embargo, eliminate our dependency of China pharmaceuticals through Puerto Rico drug manufacturing are public policies at my forefront agenda. Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why? Martin Luther King. His ability to speak well on his beliefs of fairness, freedoms, equality, and rights. His actions to stand up for and fight for equality and fairness for all despite the odds against him are examples to follow. Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy? The U.S. Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, the Pledge of Allegiance, and the Gettysburg Address demonstrate my political philosophy. The following are fundamental principles of our Democracy I believe. These fundamentals along with the voice of the people will be my guiding light as a Congressman. \"...with Liberty and Justice for all...\", Pledge of Allegiance \"...government of the people, by the people, and for the people...\", Gettysburg Address \"We the people of the United States, in order to from a more perfect union, establish Justice, insure Domestic Tranquility...\", U.S. Constitution \"...unalienable rights...Life Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.\" Declaration of Independence. No state shall deny any person...\"Equal Justice Under the Law\", 14th Amendment. What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? Honesty, Civility, Accountability, Caring about the people over the party and politics. Focusing on the people and not reelection. What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder? I care about the people, moderate, compassionate, relentless, passionate, reasonable, strong, and a fighter for what I believe. What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office? The core responsibilities of Congress is to enact laws that represent the voice of the people for the overall public good by providing security, funding government functions and programs, holding hearings to inform the public of the legislative process, provide governmental oversight, and to positively influence the lives of all Americans. What legacy would you like to leave? I served for the betterment of the people and not myself. What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time? The Cuban Missile Crisis. I was 11 years old 90 miles from Cuba in Key West, Florida. The entire island was a military compound fortress. Hawk missiles surrounded the perimeter island and many interior empty lots. Soldiers and military vehicles were everywhere. The Lower Keys had military sites scattered in many places. We hid under our desk for atomic bomb drills in case of an attack. People talked about it many times daily in school, at home, and in the streets. I was politically tuned in at 11 years old so it was very serious to me. What was your very first job? How long did you have it? I worked for Southern Bell as a telephone man, PBX installer/repairman for three years. I left voluntarily to pursue other interests. What is your favorite book? Why? To Kill A Mockingbird. Atticus Finch, the lawyer played by Gregory Peck, is a personality to emulate. His pursuit of justice at his sacrificial expense due to ridicule and abuse was a good example of being a fair statesman and doing what is correct for the people. If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be? Superman who believed and practiced in \"Truth, Justice, and the American Way\". What was the last song that got stuck in your head? Bob Marley, Who the Cap Fits. What is something that has been a struggle in your life? Seeing Social Injustice. What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution? It is a closer representation of the people compared to the Senate. An argument can be made to increase the number of U.S. House of Representatives. Presently a Representatives serves approximately 750,000 people. Lowering that amount can provide a better, closer, and more direct representation of the people. Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics? Yes, it is beneficial but so are many other combined experiences. The more rounded a congressman is from various experiences the a better they can be as a Representative. Having government and political experience greatly helps in knowing the process of governance but is not an absolute necessity. A variety of life experiences can override the lack of political or government experience but having both is best. What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade? Saving Our Democracy to preserve our Rights and Freedoms, a new BRICS currency that could weaken the power of US sanctions and leading to a further decline in the dollar's value, climate change, National Debt, malicious cyber disruptions, the income gap widening, and war involving our American soldiers. These are our greatest threats over the next decade. Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives? I would like to see two 3 year terms as term limits to help with legislation over fundraising. Representatives spend most of their 2nd year of their two year term fundraising which is half their term. The result with three 2 year terms is 3 years of legislation and 3 years of fundraising. Representatives should have two three year terms limits which would yield 5 years of legislation and just one year of fundraising at the end of their first 3 year term. What are your thoughts on term limits? Representatives should be 6 years, Senators 12 years, Supreme Court justices 12-15 years as term limits. Term limits need to be applied to all branches of government. Life long political terms lends itself to making decisions that favor donors, increases corruption, lobbyists dominance of officials, and gives too much advantageous power to incumbents during elections. A constant turnover of fresh blood in qualified leadership leads to dynamic new ideas and results versus stagnation from the old guard. Term limits will improve our government. Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after? Bernie Sanders, Jamie Raskin, Elizabeth Warren, John Lewis, Liz Chaney, and John McCain. 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? Seniors are the fastest growing homeless group in our District. Young working families can not afford basic housing. Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking? Yes, working towards common ground when far apart is critical for improvements. A few steps forward is better than none. Further steps can be taken the next time the issues is taking up. Compromise should be used when needed but avoided when possible. 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? I believe in a balanced budget system. The money needed to raise would be determined by the expenses needed. Fiscal accountability and scrutiny in budget development is critical. The budget money needed to rise should be fair and judiciously determined to fill the needs of the people and not the politician. How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers? Investigative powers should be used for wrong doings and oversight regardless of political parties. Investigations should not be gained for political or personal gains. We need a statesman approach. What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign? Florida Democratic Environmental Caucus, Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense, Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus, and Andrea Doria Kale my former Congressional opponent. What committees interest you? Education and the Workforce, Veteran Affairs, Foreign Affairs, Energy and Commerce are the committees that interest me. What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability? Transparency and accountability should be very high in government. Financial and personal accountability is part of congressional oversight responsibility. Financial accountability should include disclosure of al financial donors and gift providers along with the gift. Citizens United circumvents financial accountability and it should be struck down as law.\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>Lopez'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>The Forefront of My Agenda:</b>\n</p>\n<ul><li>Rebuilding the middle class by closing the wealth gap between the 90% and 10%. Corporate greed is widening the gap.</li>\n<li>Protecting our environment &amp; drinking water.</li>\n<li>Women's Choice, LGBTQ+, Voters, and “Rights for All” should be safeguarded.</li>\n<li>Preserving &amp; Protecting our democracy.</li>\n<li>Advocating for sensible gun safety measures.</li>\n<li>Reforming insurance.</li>\n<li>Securing Medicare &amp; Social Security.</li>\n<li>Increase FEMA services, funding, and reduce red tape.</li>\n<li>Affordable Housing</li>\n<li>Reform immigration laws.</li>\n<li>Government Reforms; Balanced Budget, Filibuster, Term Limits, Accountability, and Lobbyist Influence.<sup class=\"reference\" id=\"cite_ref-quotedisclaimer_6-0\"><a href=\"#cite_note-quotedisclaimer-6\">[6]</a></sup></li></ul>\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;\">—Manny Lopez's campaign website (2024)<sup class=\"reference\" id=\"cite_ref-7\"><a href=\"#cite_note-7\">[7]</a></sup></cite>\n</td></tr></tbody></table>\n</div>", "answer_text": "Lopez's campaign website stated the following:\n“ The Forefront of My Agenda: Rebuilding the middle class by closing the wealth gap between the 90% and 10%. Corporate greed is widening the gap. Protecting our environment & drinking water. Women's Choice, LGBTQ+, Voters, and “Rights for All” should be safeguarded. Preserving & Protecting our democracy. Advocating for sensible gun safety measures. Reforming insurance. Securing Medicare & Social Security. Increase FEMA services, funding, and reduce red tape. Affordable Housing Reform immigration laws. Government Reforms; Balanced Budget, Filibuster, Term Limits, Accountability, and Lobbyist Influence. [6] ” —Manny Lopez's campaign website (2024) [7]"}]