Russell Brooksbank

[{"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>Russell Brooksbank 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 Brooksbank'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-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading-bio-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWho are you? Tell us about yourself.\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-bio-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tRussell is a libertarian activist who has been in the political trenches since 2012. During this time he has fought for the rights of all by speaking out against injustice, running for office, being a watchdog in his community, and holding our elected officials feet to the fire. He believes that we all have a right to good government. He believes we all have a responsibility to educate ourselves and get involved in the political process. \r\nRussell is a veteran of the U.S. Army Reserve. Spending 6 1/2 years as a Combat Engineer. He is a concrete truck driver by trade. He is a Teamster and has been a Chief Steward for over 14 years. He is a father of 3 and grandfather of 2.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading-key-message-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tPlease list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-key-message-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>There is no such thing as government money. It's your money. They have taken it from you. I support the end of taxation and instead am a proponent of voluntary donations by the citizens to provide for the common good.</li><li>Government is too big. If we want to get money out of politics then we have to shrink the size and scope of government. As long as there is influence to buy there will be people lined up outside the door of our representatives to buy that influence. I'm an advocate for less government and more freedom. I trust my neighbor with freedom more than I trust the government with power.</li><li>Nobody owns you, your labor, or your justly acquired property. Society does not have a claim. Neither does the government. You should be free to live your life, keep the fruits of your labor, and use your property how you see fit, provided you aren't violating someone's rights in the process. Government's role is to secure our rights. Nothing more. Nothing less.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading1-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading1-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI'm passionate about shrinking the size and scope of government. I'm also passionate about bringing our troops home.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading2-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWho do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading2-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tMy dad. He was a patriot, a good friend, a good neighbor, a good Christian, and a good father. He was loved by all he came in contact with. He showed me how to love my fellow man, take care of my family, and how to persevere through hard times.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading3-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIs there a 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=\"heading3-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThere is a book titled \"Uncommon Sense: A Real American Manifesto\" by William Murray that I believe should be required reading.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading4-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading4-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI believe the most important characteristics for an elected official are integrity and courage. You must have the integrity to do what you said you were going to do regardless of political outcome. You also need the courage to stand for what is right, reach across the aisle, and admit when you are wrong.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading5-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading5-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tBeing able to find common ground with anyone and build from there is one quality that I believe would make me a success. Another is my work ethic. I give 100%. I'm also honest to a fault. Don't ask me a question you don't want answered truthfully, lol.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading6-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading6-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe core responsibility of someone elected to office is to secure our rights.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading7-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat legacy would you like to leave?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading7-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI want to leave my grandchildren a government of the people, by the people, and for the people instead of a government of the lobbyist, by the lobbyist, and for the lobbyist. I want to leave a legacy of service to your fellow man. I want to leave a legacy of love.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading8-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse8-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading8-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse8-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe first historical event I can remember is the death of Elvis Presley. I was 6 years old. We were vacationing in the Smokies. I remember coming in from swimming and hearing it on the news.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading9-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse9-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat was your very first job? How long did you have it?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading9-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse9-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tMy first job was putting signs on the city busses. I was 14, I believe. I worked there for about 6 months and have had a job ever since.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading10-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse10-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is your favorite book? Why?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading10-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse10-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI would have to say that the Bible is my favorite book. It is filled with so much wisdom for daily living.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading11-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse11-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-251337-2024-10-05\" 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=\"heading11-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse11-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tScrooge Mcduck. I mean, who wouldn't want to swim in piles of gold, lol.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading12-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse12-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat was the last song that got stuck in your head?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading12-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse12-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\t\"This is the song that never ends\" by Lambchop\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading13-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse13-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is something that has been a struggle in your life?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading13-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse13-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI have lived with depression my entire life. It took hitting rock bottom to finally reach out for help. I:m glad I did and pray that others will do the same. There is no shame in asking for help.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading14-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse14-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading14-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse14-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tIt holds the purse strings. No money is spent without their approval. This is a lot of power.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading15-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse15-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-251337-2024-10-05\" 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=\"heading15-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse15-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI do not. I actually think it's a detriment. When I was a trainer I always liked training people who had no idea what they were doing versus the guy who has done it for twenty years. New people come in with zero expectations about how things are done. The \"veteran\" comes in with preconceived notions. We need new and innovative approaches to solving our issues. Not more of the same.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading16-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse16-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading16-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse16-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI believe our greatest challenges center around our national debt. I believe it is the thing most likely to end the country.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading17-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse17-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-251337-2024-10-05\" 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=\"heading17-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse17-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tYes\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading18-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse18-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat are your thoughts on term limits?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading18-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse18-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tWe have the ability to limit the terms of our representatives every November. We should use that. I believe in the citizen legislator.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading19-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse19-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIs there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading19-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse19-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tRon Paul\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading20-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse20-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tTell us your favorite joke.\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading20-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse20-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\t\"Two guys walk into a bar.....the third guy ducks!\" I know it's corny, but I like it, lol.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading21-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse21-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-251337-2024-10-05\" 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=\"heading21-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse21-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThat depends. I don't think people should compromise on core principles. The right to life is an example. It is important though for officials to be able to listen to and address the concerns of other policy makers. As a union steward I have been involved with many contract negotiations. I have found that the best contracts are ones where both sides walk away feeling like they got something out of it. We need to stop with the tribalism and start respecting each others input.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading22-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse22-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-251337-2024-10-05\" 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=\"heading22-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse22-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tIt would play a huge role. My goal is to shrink government. The best way to do that is t o shrink the amount of our money they have to spend.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse23-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading23-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse23-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse23-251337-2024-10-05\" 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=\"heading23-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse23-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tCarefully.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse24-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading24-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse24-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse24-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading24-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse24-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tPro Life Libertarian Caucus\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse25-251337-2024-10-05\" id=\"heading25-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse25-251337-2024-10-05\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse25-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading25-251337-2024-10-05\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse25-251337-2024-10-05\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tMy views are simple. Everything should be transparent and government should be held accountable for everything they do.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div></div>\n<div class=\"small\" data-nosnippet=\"\"><p><i><b>Note:</b> Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.</i></p></div>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"></div>\n<p>Russell Brooksbank did not complete <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's 2020 Candidate Connection</a> survey.\n</p>\n<p>Brooksbank submitted the following statement to Ballotpedia:<sup class=\"reference\" id=\"cite_ref-bio_7-0\"><a href=\"#cite_note-bio-7\">[7]</a></sup>\n</p>", "answer_text": "See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection\n\nRussell Brooksbank completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Brooksbank's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. Russell is a libertarian activist who has been in the political trenches since 2012. During this time he has fought for the rights of all by speaking out against injustice, running for office, being a watchdog in his community, and holding our elected officials feet to the fire. He believes that we all have a right to good government. He believes we all have a responsibility to educate ourselves and get involved in the political process. \r\nRussell is a veteran of the U.S. Army Reserve. Spending 6 1/2 years as a Combat Engineer. He is a concrete truck driver by trade. He is a Teamster and has been a Chief Steward for over 14 years. He is a father of 3 and grandfather of 2. 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? There is no such thing as government money. It's your money. They have taken it from you. I support the end of taxation and instead am a proponent of voluntary donations by the citizens to provide for the common good. Government is too big. If we want to get money out of politics then we have to shrink the size and scope of government. As long as there is influence to buy there will be people lined up outside the door of our representatives to buy that influence. I'm an advocate for less government and more freedom. I trust my neighbor with freedom more than I trust the government with power. Nobody owns you, your labor, or your justly acquired property. Society does not have a claim. Neither does the government. You should be free to live your life, keep the fruits of your labor, and use your property how you see fit, provided you aren't violating someone's rights in the process. Government's role is to secure our rights. Nothing more. Nothing less. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? I'm passionate about shrinking the size and scope of government. I'm also passionate about bringing our troops home. Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why? My dad. He was a patriot, a good friend, a good neighbor, a good Christian, and a good father. He was loved by all he came in contact with. He showed me how to love my fellow man, take care of my family, and how to persevere through hard times. Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy? There is a book titled \"Uncommon Sense: A Real American Manifesto\" by William Murray that I believe should be required reading. What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? I believe the most important characteristics for an elected official are integrity and courage. You must have the integrity to do what you said you were going to do regardless of political outcome. You also need the courage to stand for what is right, reach across the aisle, and admit when you are wrong. What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder? Being able to find common ground with anyone and build from there is one quality that I believe would make me a success. Another is my work ethic. I give 100%. I'm also honest to a fault. Don't ask me a question you don't want answered truthfully, lol. What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office? The core responsibility of someone elected to office is to secure our rights. What legacy would you like to leave? I want to leave my grandchildren a government of the people, by the people, and for the people instead of a government of the lobbyist, by the lobbyist, and for the lobbyist. I want to leave a legacy of service to your fellow man. I want to leave a legacy of love. What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time? The first historical event I can remember is the death of Elvis Presley. I was 6 years old. We were vacationing in the Smokies. I remember coming in from swimming and hearing it on the news. What was your very first job? How long did you have it? My first job was putting signs on the city busses. I was 14, I believe. I worked there for about 6 months and have had a job ever since. What is your favorite book? Why? I would have to say that the Bible is my favorite book. It is filled with so much wisdom for daily living. If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be? Scrooge Mcduck. I mean, who wouldn't want to swim in piles of gold, lol. What was the last song that got stuck in your head? \"This is the song that never ends\" by Lambchop What is something that has been a struggle in your life? I have lived with depression my entire life. It took hitting rock bottom to finally reach out for help. I:m glad I did and pray that others will do the same. There is no shame in asking for help. What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution? It holds the purse strings. No money is spent without their approval. This is a lot of power. Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics? I do not. I actually think it's a detriment. When I was a trainer I always liked training people who had no idea what they were doing versus the guy who has done it for twenty years. New people come in with zero expectations about how things are done. The \"veteran\" comes in with preconceived notions. We need new and innovative approaches to solving our issues. Not more of the same. What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade? I believe our greatest challenges center around our national debt. I believe it is the thing most likely to end the country. Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives? Yes What are your thoughts on term limits? We have the ability to limit the terms of our representatives every November. We should use that. I believe in the citizen legislator. Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after? Ron Paul Tell us your favorite joke. \"Two guys walk into a bar.....the third guy ducks!\" I know it's corny, but I like it, lol. Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking? That depends. I don't think people should compromise on core principles. The right to life is an example. It is important though for officials to be able to listen to and address the concerns of other policy makers. As a union steward I have been involved with many contract negotiations. I have found that the best contracts are ones where both sides walk away feeling like they got something out of it. We need to stop with the tribalism and start respecting each others input. 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? It would play a huge role. My goal is to shrink government. The best way to do that is t o shrink the amount of our money they have to spend. How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers? Carefully. What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign? Pro Life Libertarian Caucus What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability? My views are simple. Everything should be transparent and government should be held accountable for everything they do.\nNote: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.\n\nRussell Brooksbank did not complete Ballotpedia's 2020 Candidate Connection survey.\nBrooksbank submitted the following statement to Ballotpedia: [7]"}]