Joseph Leigh

[{"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>Joseph Leigh completed <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a> survey in 2023. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Leigh'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-212490-2023-12-06\" id=\"heading-bio-212490-2023-12-06\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-212490-2023-12-06\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-212490-2023-12-06\" 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-212490-2023-12-06\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-212490-2023-12-06\" 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\tBorn in 1986, Joseph grew up in Catoosa County, Georgia. He attended Lakeview Fort Oglethorpe High School and graduated in 2005. Joseph began his college career at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and transferred to the Georgia Institute of Technology in 2007 where he majored in Business Management. Joseph earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Georgia Tech in 2010 with highest honors.\r\n<p>In 1995, Joseph’s father, Larry, and longtime business partner and friend, Bernard Westner, formed Architectural Surfaces llc. Joseph remembers summers of working in the shop, on jobsites, and the engineering department. After graduation from Tech, Joseph began his professional career as the General Manager of Architectural Surfaces, managing people, accounting, finance, IT, and all other aspects of the business. From this experience he has met people of all walks of life and socio-economic backgrounds. He hopes to use the experience gained from leading people and bringing people together on decisions when he begins his term in Congress.\r\nJoseph lives in Rossville, Georgia with his Scottish Terrier, Fala. Joseph has attended the Battlefield Parkway Church of the Nazarene since he was 2 weeks old. Above all other things, Joseph enjoys spending time with his friends and family, including his mom, dad, siblings, nieces and, nephews. \r\nJoseph believes firmly that our best days are ahead of us and that is why he is running for Congress.\r\n</p>\n</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-212490-2023-12-06\" id=\"heading-key-message-212490-2023-12-06\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-212490-2023-12-06\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-212490-2023-12-06\" 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-212490-2023-12-06\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-212490-2023-12-06\" 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's time for a new generation of leadership</li><li>Our best days are ahead of us.</li><li>There is more that unites us than divides.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-212490-2023-12-06\" id=\"heading1-212490-2023-12-06\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-212490-2023-12-06\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-212490-2023-12-06\" 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=\"heading1-212490-2023-12-06\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-212490-2023-12-06\" 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\tEconomy, Taxes, and Inflation<br/>\n<p>National Security<br/>\r\nBorder Security and Immigration<br/>\r\nHealth and General Welfare<br/>\n</p>\nEducation<br/></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-212490-2023-12-06\" id=\"heading2-212490-2023-12-06\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-212490-2023-12-06\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-212490-2023-12-06\" 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=\"heading2-212490-2023-12-06\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-212490-2023-12-06\" 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 father, Presidents Lincoln, Franklin Roosevelt, and Kennedy.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-212490-2023-12-06\" id=\"heading3-212490-2023-12-06\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-212490-2023-12-06\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-212490-2023-12-06\" 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=\"heading3-212490-2023-12-06\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-212490-2023-12-06\" 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\tCourage and Character\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-212490-2023-12-06\" id=\"heading4-212490-2023-12-06\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-212490-2023-12-06\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-212490-2023-12-06\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading4-212490-2023-12-06\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-212490-2023-12-06\" 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\tDo what they believe is in the best interest of their district and nation.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-212490-2023-12-06\" id=\"heading5-212490-2023-12-06\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-212490-2023-12-06\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-212490-2023-12-06\" 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=\"heading5-212490-2023-12-06\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-212490-2023-12-06\" 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 first major event was the attacks of September 11th, 2001. I remember seeing the second plane hit and how the nation and world changed forever. I also remember how united we were in the day, weeks, and months following the attacks.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-212490-2023-12-06\" id=\"heading6-212490-2023-12-06\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-212490-2023-12-06\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-212490-2023-12-06\" 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=\"heading6-212490-2023-12-06\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-212490-2023-12-06\" 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\tWorking in my dad's cabinet shop in the summer.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-212490-2023-12-06\" id=\"heading7-212490-2023-12-06\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-212490-2023-12-06\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-212490-2023-12-06\" 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=\"heading7-212490-2023-12-06\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-212490-2023-12-06\" 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\tTeam of Rivals\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-212490-2023-12-06\" id=\"heading8-212490-2023-12-06\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse8-212490-2023-12-06\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-212490-2023-12-06\" 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=\"heading8-212490-2023-12-06\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse8-212490-2023-12-06\" 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 (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=\"#collapse9-212490-2023-12-06\" id=\"heading9-212490-2023-12-06\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse9-212490-2023-12-06\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-212490-2023-12-06\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading9-212490-2023-12-06\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse9-212490-2023-12-06\" 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\tChina\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-212490-2023-12-06\" id=\"heading10-212490-2023-12-06\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse10-212490-2023-12-06\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-212490-2023-12-06\" 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=\"heading10-212490-2023-12-06\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse10-212490-2023-12-06\" 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\tWe have term limits... they are called elections.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-212490-2023-12-06\" id=\"heading11-212490-2023-12-06\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse11-212490-2023-12-06\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-212490-2023-12-06\" 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=\"heading11-212490-2023-12-06\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse11-212490-2023-12-06\" 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\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\nJoseph Leigh completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2023. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Leigh's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. Born in 1986, Joseph grew up in Catoosa County, Georgia. He attended Lakeview Fort Oglethorpe High School and graduated in 2005. Joseph began his college career at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and transferred to the Georgia Institute of Technology in 2007 where he majored in Business Management. Joseph earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Georgia Tech in 2010 with highest honors. In 1995, Joseph’s father, Larry, and longtime business partner and friend, Bernard Westner, formed Architectural Surfaces llc. Joseph remembers summers of working in the shop, on jobsites, and the engineering department. After graduation from Tech, Joseph began his professional career as the General Manager of Architectural Surfaces, managing people, accounting, finance, IT, and all other aspects of the business. From this experience he has met people of all walks of life and socio-economic backgrounds. He hopes to use the experience gained from leading people and bringing people together on decisions when he begins his term in Congress.\r\nJoseph lives in Rossville, Georgia with his Scottish Terrier, Fala. Joseph has attended the Battlefield Parkway Church of the Nazarene since he was 2 weeks old. Above all other things, Joseph enjoys spending time with his friends and family, including his mom, dad, siblings, nieces and, nephews. \r\nJoseph believes firmly that our best days are ahead of us and that is why he is running for Congress. 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's time for a new generation of leadership Our best days are ahead of us. There is more that unites us than divides. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? Economy, Taxes, and Inflation National Security Border Security and Immigration Health and General Welfare Education Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why? My father, Presidents Lincoln, Franklin Roosevelt, and Kennedy. What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? Courage and Character What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office? Do what they believe is in the best interest of their district and nation. What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time? The first major event was the attacks of September 11th, 2001. I remember seeing the second plane hit and how the nation and world changed forever. I also remember how united we were in the day, weeks, and months following the attacks. What was your very first job? How long did you have it? Working in my dad's cabinet shop in the summer. What is your favorite book? Why? Team of Rivals If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be? Superman (truth, justice, and the American way) What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade? China What are your thoughts on term limits? We have term limits... they are called elections. Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking? Yes\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>Leigh’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>ECONOMY, TAXES, AND INFLATION\n</p><p>The goal of our economic policy should be simple: every hardworking American deserves the opportunity for a decent and stable life. Yet, the reality is that many find themselves in a challenging cycle of living paycheck to paycheck, a situation exacerbated by rising inflation. Our approach to tackling this issue needs to be multifaceted and effective.\nBoosting Productivity and Tax Reforms: A key step is to enhance the nation’s productivity. The current federal tax burden, along with state and local taxes, weighs heavily on individuals and businesses alike. Drawing inspiration from President Kennedy’s successful tax cuts and reforms, which led to increased personal incomes, higher consumption, and boosted tax revenues, I believe a similar approach can yield significant benefits today. Sensible tax reforms can stimulate economic growth while ensuring fairness.\nProposed Measures for Economic Growth: To further support our economy and alleviate the burden on families and small businesses, I advocate for the following measures:\n</p>\n<ul><li>Raising the Minimum Wage: Increasing the minimum wage to $15 is a step towards ensuring a living wage for all workers, helping to reduce poverty and stimulate consumer spending.</li>\n<li>Expanding Access to Free Childcare: By providing free childcare, we can alleviate a significant financial burden on working families, enabling more parents, especially mothers, to participate in the workforce.</li>\n<li>Easing Regulations for Small Businesses: Small businesses are the backbone of our economy. Cutting excessive red tape will encourage entrepreneurship, job creation, and economic resilience.</li>\n<li>Securing Our Borders: Effective border management is crucial for economic stability. It impacts various sectors, from labor markets to national security.</li></ul>\n<p>By implementing these measures, we can create an economic environment where growth, stability, and opportunity are accessible to all Americans.\n</p><p>NATIONAL SECURITY\n</p><p>Our experience in the Second World War taught us the dangers of appeasement: it emboldens aggressors and escalates conflicts. This historical lesson shapes my stance on international relations, particularly in supporting freedom everywhere in the world. When the sovereignty of our allies is under threat or when civilians are targeted by terrorists, it isn't just an issue for those countries – it directly impacts our national security as well.\nAddressing the Challenge of China: Looking ahead, it's clear that China represents our most significant global challenge, both economically and militarily. Avoiding conflict with China aligns with the interests of both nations, and diplomatic efforts to maintain peace are crucial. However, peace and preparedness are not mutually exclusive. We must be vigilant and ready to respond to various scenarios, especially given China's ambitions regarding Taiwan. Our strategy should balance diplomatic engagement with robust preparedness to protect our interests and those of our allies.\nOur national security policy must be guided by a clear understanding of historical lessons, a commitment to supporting our allies, and a strategic approach to emerging global challenges. This involves a combination of diplomatic efforts and strong defense capabilities, ensuring that the United States remains a resilient and influential global leader.\n</p><p>BORDER SECURITY AND IMMIGRATION\n</p><p>We have a security and humanitarian crisis on our southern border. For too long, the issue has been mired in political blame games in Washington, with little substantial action being taken. It's important to recognize that while the administration can and should do more, real change depends on the laws enacted by Congress. It's time for us to move beyond partisan divides and address this critical issue together starting with the following:\n</p>\n<ul><li>Strengthening Border Security: We must take decisive steps to prevent illegal immigration, ensuring that our border is secure and managed effectively. This involves not just physical measures but also technological and personnel resources to monitor and protect the border effectively.</li>\n<li>Enhancing Lawful Immigration: Our focus should also be on creating more avenues for lawful immigration. This means reforming our immigration system to make it more accessible, fair, and efficient, allowing those who wish to contribute positively to our society to do so legally and with dignity.</li>\n<li>Disrupting Illegal Cartel Activities: The control exerted by cartels on our southern border poses a significant threat. We need to dismantle their influence and operations through coordinated efforts, involving both border security and international cooperation, to restore safety and order.</li></ul>\n<p>Together, these steps form a comprehensive approach to reforming our immigration system, enhancing border security, and upholding our values as a nation of laws and as a land of opportunity.\n</p><p>HEALTH AND GENERAL WELFARE\n</p><p>The commitment to Social Security and Medicare is a cornerstone of our nation's promise to its citizens. These programs represent more than just benefits; they are a testament to our dedication to the general welfare and well-being of all Americans, particularly our seniors and those in need. It is imperative that we uphold and strengthen these vital social safety nets.\nEnsuring Healthcare for All: In addition to safeguarding Social Security and Medicare, I am a strong advocate for making quality healthcare accessible and affordable for every American. Healthcare should be “a matter of right, not a privilege.” This commitment to the well-being of all Americans is fundamental to the strength and prosperity of the entire nation.\n</p><p>SECOND AMENDMENT\n</p><p>My commitment to upholding the Constitution extends to all its amendments, including the Second Amendment. I firmly believe in the right of every American to self-defense, a principle that is foundational to our nation's values.\nBalancing Rights with Responsibility: While advocating for the right to bear arms, I also recognize the critical need to ensure public safety. It is essential that we implement effective measures to prevent firearms from falling into the hands of violent criminals. This dual approach respects our constitutional rights while addressing the crucial responsibility we have to safeguard our communities.\nI believe we can and we must preserve our freedoms and protect our citizens.\n</p><p>EDUCATION\n</p><p>Education is widely acknowledged as a transformative force, capable of addressing numerous challenges our nation faces. I wholeheartedly endorse this view. A strong educational foundation is essential for the future success of our children and our country.\nInvesting in K-12 Education: The first step is ensuring that our primary and secondary schools are well-equipped. This means providing them with the necessary resources to offer a high-quality education that prepares students for the complexities of the modern world. A well-resourced school system is the backbone of a thriving society.\nMaking Higher Education More Accessible: In parallel, it is crucial to address the affordability of higher education. This includes not only four-year universities but also community and technical colleges, which are vital for many high school graduates seeking practical and specialized skills. We need to work towards a system where higher education is accessible to all, regardless of their financial background. Making college more affordable is not just an investment in individual students; it’s an investment in our nation’s future.\nMy commitment to education is focused on ensuring that every level of our education system, from kindergarten through college, is robust, well-supported, and accessible to all. By investing in education, we invest in the future of our country.\n</p><p>MENTAL HEALTH &amp; DRUG ADDICTION\n</p><p>The United States is confronting a critical mental health crisis. This issue is personal to me, as my family, like so many others across the country, has been deeply affected by the challenges of alcohol and drug addiction. The current approach, often termed the War on Drugs, has proven to be ineffective in addressing the root causes of addiction.\nRethinking Our Approach to Addiction: It's clear that addiction should be treated as a medical issue, not solely a criminal one. Those struggling with addiction need compassionate, professional medical care, rather than incarceration alongside violent offenders. This shift in perspective is vital in developing more effective strategies for dealing with drug addiction and its associated mental health issues.\nIn summary, my vision for addressing the mental health and drug addiction crisis involves a compassionate, healthcare-focused approach. By treating addiction as a health issue, we can provide more effective support and treatment to those in need, ultimately leading to better outcomes for individuals, families, and our communities. This will also lead to citizens who are able to once again contribute to society by working and providing for their loved ones.\n</p><p>DISCLOSURE AND TRANSPARENCY\n</p>\n<ul><li>Full Release of JFK Assassination Records: I strongly advocate for the complete disclosure of all records pertaining to the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, as mandated by the President John F Kennedy Assassination Records Collection Act of 1992. Despite the stipulation for these documents to be made public by October 26, 1992, many records remain undisclosed. The American people deserve full transparency regarding one of the most tragic events in American history.</li>\n<li>UFO Disclosure - The American people deserve to know the full truth regarding unidentified anomalous phenomena. Moreover, it is vital to protect and encourage whistleblowers who wish to come forward and tell their story. For decades, we have not been told the truth on this issue while billions of our tax dollars have funded various UAP projects.</li></ul>\n<p>ABORTION\nWhile I differ from many in the Democratic party on this issue, I believe abortion is primarily a moral issue and the federal government cannot and should not attempt to solve moral issues. Moral questions should primarily be addressed by the people themselves, rather than by the federal government. Here is what I believe:\n</p>\n<ul><li>Upholding the 10th Amendment: In line with the 10th Amendment, which reserves powers not specifically delegated to the federal government to the states or the people, I believe that the decision on how to regulate abortion should rest with the states and the people within them. This approach recognizes the diverse perspectives and values across our nation and allows for decisions that reflect the unique contexts of each state.</li>\n<li>State and Individual Autonomy: A one-size-fits-all national policy on such a complex issue as abortion is unlikely to adequately address the varied beliefs and circumstances across our country. Instead, empowering states and individuals to make their own informed decisions ensures a more nuanced and respectful handling of this sensitive issue. It allows for a range of policies that can be more closely aligned with the values and needs of different communities.</li>\n<li>The health and life of the mother should be protected and no government should interfere with this.</li></ul>\n<p>Our approach to abortion should be one that respects the moral considerations involved, adheres to the constitutional framework of our nation, and recognizes the importance of state and individual autonomy in addressing such deeply personal matters.<sup class=\"reference\" id=\"cite_ref-quotedisclaimer_2-0\"><a href=\"#cite_note-quotedisclaimer-2\">[2]</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;\">—Joseph Leigh’s campaign website (2024)<sup class=\"reference\" id=\"cite_ref-3\"><a href=\"#cite_note-3\">[3]</a></sup></cite>\n</td></tr></tbody></table>\n</div>", "answer_text": "Leigh’s campaign website stated the following:\n“ ECONOMY, TAXES, AND INFLATION The goal of our economic policy should be simple: every hardworking American deserves the opportunity for a decent and stable life. Yet, the reality is that many find themselves in a challenging cycle of living paycheck to paycheck, a situation exacerbated by rising inflation. Our approach to tackling this issue needs to be multifaceted and effective.\nBoosting Productivity and Tax Reforms: A key step is to enhance the nation’s productivity. The current federal tax burden, along with state and local taxes, weighs heavily on individuals and businesses alike. Drawing inspiration from President Kennedy’s successful tax cuts and reforms, which led to increased personal incomes, higher consumption, and boosted tax revenues, I believe a similar approach can yield significant benefits today. Sensible tax reforms can stimulate economic growth while ensuring fairness.\nProposed Measures for Economic Growth: To further support our economy and alleviate the burden on families and small businesses, I advocate for the following measures: Raising the Minimum Wage: Increasing the minimum wage to $15 is a step towards ensuring a living wage for all workers, helping to reduce poverty and stimulate consumer spending. Expanding Access to Free Childcare: By providing free childcare, we can alleviate a significant financial burden on working families, enabling more parents, especially mothers, to participate in the workforce. Easing Regulations for Small Businesses: Small businesses are the backbone of our economy. Cutting excessive red tape will encourage entrepreneurship, job creation, and economic resilience. Securing Our Borders: Effective border management is crucial for economic stability. It impacts various sectors, from labor markets to national security. By implementing these measures, we can create an economic environment where growth, stability, and opportunity are accessible to all Americans. NATIONAL SECURITY Our experience in the Second World War taught us the dangers of appeasement: it emboldens aggressors and escalates conflicts. This historical lesson shapes my stance on international relations, particularly in supporting freedom everywhere in the world. When the sovereignty of our allies is under threat or when civilians are targeted by terrorists, it isn't just an issue for those countries – it directly impacts our national security as well.\nAddressing the Challenge of China: Looking ahead, it's clear that China represents our most significant global challenge, both economically and militarily. Avoiding conflict with China aligns with the interests of both nations, and diplomatic efforts to maintain peace are crucial. However, peace and preparedness are not mutually exclusive. We must be vigilant and ready to respond to various scenarios, especially given China's ambitions regarding Taiwan. Our strategy should balance diplomatic engagement with robust preparedness to protect our interests and those of our allies.\nOur national security policy must be guided by a clear understanding of historical lessons, a commitment to supporting our allies, and a strategic approach to emerging global challenges. This involves a combination of diplomatic efforts and strong defense capabilities, ensuring that the United States remains a resilient and influential global leader. BORDER SECURITY AND IMMIGRATION We have a security and humanitarian crisis on our southern border. For too long, the issue has been mired in political blame games in Washington, with little substantial action being taken. It's important to recognize that while the administration can and should do more, real change depends on the laws enacted by Congress. It's time for us to move beyond partisan divides and address this critical issue together starting with the following: Strengthening Border Security: We must take decisive steps to prevent illegal immigration, ensuring that our border is secure and managed effectively. This involves not just physical measures but also technological and personnel resources to monitor and protect the border effectively. Enhancing Lawful Immigration: Our focus should also be on creating more avenues for lawful immigration. This means reforming our immigration system to make it more accessible, fair, and efficient, allowing those who wish to contribute positively to our society to do so legally and with dignity. Disrupting Illegal Cartel Activities: The control exerted by cartels on our southern border poses a significant threat. We need to dismantle their influence and operations through coordinated efforts, involving both border security and international cooperation, to restore safety and order. Together, these steps form a comprehensive approach to reforming our immigration system, enhancing border security, and upholding our values as a nation of laws and as a land of opportunity. HEALTH AND GENERAL WELFARE The commitment to Social Security and Medicare is a cornerstone of our nation's promise to its citizens. These programs represent more than just benefits; they are a testament to our dedication to the general welfare and well-being of all Americans, particularly our seniors and those in need. It is imperative that we uphold and strengthen these vital social safety nets.\nEnsuring Healthcare for All: In addition to safeguarding Social Security and Medicare, I am a strong advocate for making quality healthcare accessible and affordable for every American. Healthcare should be “a matter of right, not a privilege.” This commitment to the well-being of all Americans is fundamental to the strength and prosperity of the entire nation. SECOND AMENDMENT My commitment to upholding the Constitution extends to all its amendments, including the Second Amendment. I firmly believe in the right of every American to self-defense, a principle that is foundational to our nation's values.\nBalancing Rights with Responsibility: While advocating for the right to bear arms, I also recognize the critical need to ensure public safety. It is essential that we implement effective measures to prevent firearms from falling into the hands of violent criminals. This dual approach respects our constitutional rights while addressing the crucial responsibility we have to safeguard our communities.\nI believe we can and we must preserve our freedoms and protect our citizens. EDUCATION Education is widely acknowledged as a transformative force, capable of addressing numerous challenges our nation faces. I wholeheartedly endorse this view. A strong educational foundation is essential for the future success of our children and our country.\nInvesting in K-12 Education: The first step is ensuring that our primary and secondary schools are well-equipped. This means providing them with the necessary resources to offer a high-quality education that prepares students for the complexities of the modern world. A well-resourced school system is the backbone of a thriving society.\nMaking Higher Education More Accessible: In parallel, it is crucial to address the affordability of higher education. This includes not only four-year universities but also community and technical colleges, which are vital for many high school graduates seeking practical and specialized skills. We need to work towards a system where higher education is accessible to all, regardless of their financial background. Making college more affordable is not just an investment in individual students; it’s an investment in our nation’s future.\nMy commitment to education is focused on ensuring that every level of our education system, from kindergarten through college, is robust, well-supported, and accessible to all. By investing in education, we invest in the future of our country. MENTAL HEALTH & DRUG ADDICTION The United States is confronting a critical mental health crisis. This issue is personal to me, as my family, like so many others across the country, has been deeply affected by the challenges of alcohol and drug addiction. The current approach, often termed the War on Drugs, has proven to be ineffective in addressing the root causes of addiction.\nRethinking Our Approach to Addiction: It's clear that addiction should be treated as a medical issue, not solely a criminal one. Those struggling with addiction need compassionate, professional medical care, rather than incarceration alongside violent offenders. This shift in perspective is vital in developing more effective strategies for dealing with drug addiction and its associated mental health issues.\nIn summary, my vision for addressing the mental health and drug addiction crisis involves a compassionate, healthcare-focused approach. By treating addiction as a health issue, we can provide more effective support and treatment to those in need, ultimately leading to better outcomes for individuals, families, and our communities. This will also lead to citizens who are able to once again contribute to society by working and providing for their loved ones. DISCLOSURE AND TRANSPARENCY Full Release of JFK Assassination Records: I strongly advocate for the complete disclosure of all records pertaining to the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, as mandated by the President John F Kennedy Assassination Records Collection Act of 1992. Despite the stipulation for these documents to be made public by October 26, 1992, many records remain undisclosed. The American people deserve full transparency regarding one of the most tragic events in American history. UFO Disclosure - The American people deserve to know the full truth regarding unidentified anomalous phenomena. Moreover, it is vital to protect and encourage whistleblowers who wish to come forward and tell their story. For decades, we have not been told the truth on this issue while billions of our tax dollars have funded various UAP projects. ABORTION\nWhile I differ from many in the Democratic party on this issue, I believe abortion is primarily a moral issue and the federal government cannot and should not attempt to solve moral issues. Moral questions should primarily be addressed by the people themselves, rather than by the federal government. Here is what I believe: Upholding the 10th Amendment: In line with the 10th Amendment, which reserves powers not specifically delegated to the federal government to the states or the people, I believe that the decision on how to regulate abortion should rest with the states and the people within them. This approach recognizes the diverse perspectives and values across our nation and allows for decisions that reflect the unique contexts of each state. State and Individual Autonomy: A one-size-fits-all national policy on such a complex issue as abortion is unlikely to adequately address the varied beliefs and circumstances across our country. Instead, empowering states and individuals to make their own informed decisions ensures a more nuanced and respectful handling of this sensitive issue. It allows for a range of policies that can be more closely aligned with the values and needs of different communities. The health and life of the mother should be protected and no government should interfere with this. Our approach to abortion should be one that respects the moral considerations involved, adheres to the constitutional framework of our nation, and recognizes the importance of state and individual autonomy in addressing such deeply personal matters. [2] ” —Joseph Leigh’s campaign website (2024) [3]"}]