Cornelius Shea

[{"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>Cornelius Shea 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 Shea'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-266054-2024-08-19\" id=\"heading-bio-266054-2024-08-19\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-266054-2024-08-19\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-266054-2024-08-19\" 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-266054-2024-08-19\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-266054-2024-08-19\" 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 name is Cornelius Shea. I was born in Springfield Mass, and raised in Worcester Massachusetts. Unlike a lot of career politicians, I believe that I have a well rounded background that will prove beneficial in Congress. I am a 20 year Marine Corps Veteran with experience in the enlisted and officer ranks. I worked in the corporate world for five years at AT&amp;T, as an Account Executive and as a Sales Manager. My last job was that of a Teacher at The Worcester Alternative School. I helped over a thousand of the most at risk students receive a high school diploma. To learn more about me go to shea4congress.com.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-266054-2024-08-19\" id=\"heading-key-message-266054-2024-08-19\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-266054-2024-08-19\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-266054-2024-08-19\" 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-266054-2024-08-19\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-266054-2024-08-19\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>I will be a strong defender of The Constitution of The United States against all enemies foreign and domestic.</li><li>Ensure that my constituents know that I work for them.</li><li>Scope of government. Always keep in mind that the larger government gets, individual freedoms diminish.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-266054-2024-08-19\" id=\"heading1-266054-2024-08-19\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-266054-2024-08-19\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-266054-2024-08-19\" 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=\"heading1-266054-2024-08-19\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-266054-2024-08-19\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI am and will be passionate about securing our nation's borders, implementing term limits, Public Education, and a strong national defense.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-266054-2024-08-19\" id=\"heading2-266054-2024-08-19\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-266054-2024-08-19\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-266054-2024-08-19\" 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=\"heading2-266054-2024-08-19\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-266054-2024-08-19\" 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 admire my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Although I am imperfect, I strive to follow his example.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-266054-2024-08-19\" id=\"heading3-266054-2024-08-19\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-266054-2024-08-19\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-266054-2024-08-19\" 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=\"heading3-266054-2024-08-19\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-266054-2024-08-19\" 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\tDuctus Exemplo Leadership by Example.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-266054-2024-08-19\" id=\"heading4-266054-2024-08-19\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-266054-2024-08-19\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-266054-2024-08-19\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading4-266054-2024-08-19\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-266054-2024-08-19\" 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\tHumility, Perseverance, Loyalty, and Integrity.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-266054-2024-08-19\" id=\"heading5-266054-2024-08-19\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-266054-2024-08-19\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-266054-2024-08-19\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading5-266054-2024-08-19\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-266054-2024-08-19\" 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\tMake the lives of your constituents better.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-266054-2024-08-19\" id=\"heading6-266054-2024-08-19\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-266054-2024-08-19\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-266054-2024-08-19\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat legacy would you like to leave?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading6-266054-2024-08-19\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-266054-2024-08-19\" 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 I tried my hardest to leave a better America for my children and grandchildren.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-266054-2024-08-19\" id=\"heading7-266054-2024-08-19\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-266054-2024-08-19\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-266054-2024-08-19\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading7-266054-2024-08-19\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-266054-2024-08-19\" 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 assassination of John Fitzgerald Kennedy. I was 5 years old.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-266054-2024-08-19\" id=\"heading8-266054-2024-08-19\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse8-266054-2024-08-19\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-266054-2024-08-19\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat was your very first job? How long did you have it?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading8-266054-2024-08-19\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse8-266054-2024-08-19\" 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 a summer at the Mount Tom State Reservation.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-266054-2024-08-19\" id=\"heading9-266054-2024-08-19\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse9-266054-2024-08-19\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-266054-2024-08-19\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is your favorite book? Why?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading9-266054-2024-08-19\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse9-266054-2024-08-19\" 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 New Testament. It gives me assurance that when we die our spirit lives on.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-266054-2024-08-19\" id=\"heading10-266054-2024-08-19\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse10-266054-2024-08-19\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-266054-2024-08-19\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat kind of skills or expertise do you believe would be the most helpful for the holders of this office to possess?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading10-266054-2024-08-19\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse10-266054-2024-08-19\" 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 experience life in the real world. It is difficult if not impossible for career politicians to understand what the common man is going through. They get sheltered in Washington D.C. and really don't get to see some of the negative effects of their decisions.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-266054-2024-08-19\" id=\"heading11-266054-2024-08-19\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse11-266054-2024-08-19\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-266054-2024-08-19\" 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=\"heading11-266054-2024-08-19\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse11-266054-2024-08-19\" 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 seems the ones who talk the most about transparency do the most hiding.\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\nCornelius Shea completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Shea's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. My name is Cornelius Shea. I was born in Springfield Mass, and raised in Worcester Massachusetts. Unlike a lot of career politicians, I believe that I have a well rounded background that will prove beneficial in Congress. I am a 20 year Marine Corps Veteran with experience in the enlisted and officer ranks. I worked in the corporate world for five years at AT&T, as an Account Executive and as a Sales Manager. My last job was that of a Teacher at The Worcester Alternative School. I helped over a thousand of the most at risk students receive a high school diploma. To learn more about me go to shea4congress.com. 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? I will be a strong defender of The Constitution of The United States against all enemies foreign and domestic. Ensure that my constituents know that I work for them. Scope of government. Always keep in mind that the larger government gets, individual freedoms diminish. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? I am and will be passionate about securing our nation's borders, implementing term limits, Public Education, and a strong national defense. Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why? I admire my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Although I am imperfect, I strive to follow his example. What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? Ductus Exemplo Leadership by Example. What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder? Humility, Perseverance, Loyalty, and Integrity. What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office? Make the lives of your constituents better. What legacy would you like to leave? That I tried my hardest to leave a better America for my children and grandchildren. What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time? The assassination of John Fitzgerald Kennedy. I was 5 years old. What was your very first job? How long did you have it? I worked a summer at the Mount Tom State Reservation. What is your favorite book? Why? The New Testament. It gives me assurance that when we die our spirit lives on. What kind of skills or expertise do you believe would be the most helpful for the holders of this office to possess? To experience life in the real world. It is difficult if not impossible for career politicians to understand what the common man is going through. They get sheltered in Washington D.C. and really don't get to see some of the negative effects of their decisions. What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability? It seems the ones who talk the most about transparency do the most hiding.\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>Shea’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>At least 5 issues most Americans are concerned about are directly related to an open Southern Border. Those problems identified are illegal immigration, drug overdoses, possibility of future terrorist attacks in U.S., federal spending and health care costs.\n</p><p>Since January 2021 until October 2023, some 2.7 million illegal migrants have been released into the United States. At the same time there were at least 1.5 million \" got aways\". As of October 2023 the illegal population is around 12.8 million and growing fast. As you can imagine this rapid increase in illegals is putting a major burden on our housing, public education, welfare benefit programs, hospital emergency rooms, along with our overall fiscal budget. It now seems that all of the 48 continental states are border states.\n</p><p>In an effort to safe guard the vote, the SAVE Act was brought before Congress. The Act's goal was to ensure that only citizens can vote. The Act simply required voters to provide proof of citizenship at the time of registration. My opponent, Jim McGovern voted against this act. One would have to wonder why?\n</p><p>Well over 250,000 fentanyl overdose deaths have occurred in the United States since January 2021. Everyday about 200 people die from fentanyl. One kilogram (2.2 pounds) of fentanyl has the potential to kill 500,000 people. The Mexican drug cartels are taking advantage of an open Southern Border and intimidating migrants to transport the narcotic into America.\n</p><p>American's concern of future terrorist attacks is realistic. In one year from October 2022 to September 2023 169 people whose names matched those on the terrorist watch list were arrested at the Southern Border. The increase of potential terrorists reflects a surge in migrant crossings and the number of people arriving from countries all over the world.\n</p><p>What is going on at the Southern Border is a national disgrace. Numerous migrants are being exploited, raped, and killed. Unaccompanied children are the most vulnerable. Some of these children are being sent into prostitution and sweatshops.\n</p><p>President Biden created a lot of the Southern Border problems when he removed Trump's Remain in Mexico policy. One has to wonder why President Biden encouraged so many migrants to make the dangerous trek to America. Are the millions of undocumented migrants entering America in our best interest?\n</p><p>For the most part, America is a nation of immigrants. On average we welcome about 800,000 new citizens each year. They are vetted and have to pass a citizenship test. We need to get a handle on all the undocumented migrants presently in America.The record breaking pace of migrants entering America is both dangerous and not sustainable. \n</p><p><big><b>Term Limits</b></big><br/>\nOur Founding Fathers never intended for politicians to go down to the Nations Capitol and become career politicians. They knew a 30 to 40 or more year career in government could lead to arrogance and corruption. After a politician gets entrenched in the system they begin to feel as though the people work for them. Working that long in The House or Senate, representatives and senators don't get the opportunity to experience the effects of their policies. They become sheltered.\n</p><p>I believe our founding fathers wanted people to work their lives and go down to the capitol with experience and give back to the country that was so beneficial to them. I would support and recommend a total of 12 years in Congress, six 2 year terms, and 12 years in the Senate two 6 year terms.\n</p><p><big><b>Border Control</b></big><br/>\nAt least 5 issues most Americans are concerned about are directly related to an open Southern Border. Those problems identified are illegal immigration, drug , possibility of future terrorist attacks in U.S., federal spending and health care costs.\n</p><p>Since January 2021 until October 2023, some 2.7 million undocumented migrants have been released into the United States. At the same time there were at least 1.5 million \" got aways\". As of October 2023 the migrant population is around 12.8 million and growing fast. As you can imagine this rapid increase in illegals is putting a major burden on our housing, public education, welfare benefit programs, hospital emergency rooms, along with our overall fiscal budget. It now seems that all of the 48 continental states are border states.\n</p><p>In an effort to safe guard the vote, the SAVE Act was brought before Congress. The Act's goal wasnto ensure that only citizens can vote. The Act simply required voters to provide proof of citienship at the time of registration. My opponent, Jim McGovern voted against this act. One would have to wonder why?\n</p><p>Well over 250,000 fentanyl overdose deaths have occured in the United States since January 2021. Everyday about 200 people die from fentanyl. One kilogram (2.2 pounds) of fentanyl has the potential to kill 500,000 people. The Mexican drug cartels are taking advantage of an open Southern Border and intimidating migrants to transport the narcotic into America.\n</p><p>American's concern of future terrorist attacks is realistic. In one year from October 2022 to September 2023 169 people whose names matched those on the terrorist watch list were arrested at the Southern Border. The increase of potential terrorists reflects a surge in migrant crossings and the number of people arriving from countries all over the world.\n</p><p>What is going on at the Southern Border is a national disgrace. Numerous migrants are being exploited, raped, and killed. Unaccompanied children are the most vulnerable. Some of these children are being sent into prostitution and sweatshops.\n</p><p>President Biden created a lot of the Southern Border problems when he removed Trump's Remain in Mexico policy. One has to wonder why President Biden encouraged so many migrants to make the dangerous trek to America. Are the millions of undocumented migrants entering America in our best interest?\n</p><p>For the most part, America is a nation of immigrants. On average we welcome about 800,000 new citizens each year. They are vetted and have to pass a citizenship test. We need to get a handle on all the undocumented migrants presently in America.The record breaking pace of migrants entering America is both dangerous and not sustainable. \n</p><p><big><u><b>Inflation</b></u></big><br/>\nThis issue is personal. My pension has been reduced by about 30% in buying power over the last 3 years. \n</p><p><big><u><b>Gun Control</b></u></big><br/>\nThe Democrats have to realize that they can pass strict control rules, but criminals will not be lining up at police stations turning in their guns.\n</p><p><big><b>Scope of Government</b></big><br/>\nRonald Reagan once said that the nine most terrifying words in the English language are: \" I'm from the Government, and I'm here to help\". The progressive democrats, who control the party, are always looking to raise taxes and create bigger Government. The problem is that when Government expands individual freedoms diminish. I believe that the federal government needs to be significantly reduced and that a lot of the current federal programs would be better served at the state level.\n</p><p><big><u><b>Armed Forces</b></u></big><br/>\nAll decisions and funding of the military should be towards one purpose. That is to make the military as lethal as possible. Leaders should all work to ensure that America has an overwhelming advantage in any fight.\n</p><p><big><u><b>Public Education</b></u></big><br/>\nPublic Schools should concentrate on teaching Reading, Writing, Arithmetic, and the Sciences. The Department of Education should not hold school districts captive by threatening to withhold money if they don't implement their progressive agenda. Parents should be encouraged to attend School Board meetings and play an active part in their children's education.\n</p><p><big><b>Social Security Windfall Elimination Provision</b></big><br/>\nI began working for the Worcester Public Schools in 1992. Every election the politicians state that they are going to get rid of this provision. Well that provision is still very much in place. The only difference is that now it is directly affecting my Social Security Check each month to the tune of $558 dollars. \n</p><p>As state, city and town public employees know, we fund our own pensions in the form of an annuity. Every pay check we had 11% of our money placed into our retirement fund. Many of us had to work second jobs to support our families. In those second jobs, we paid into Social Security. That is our money. The government does not have the right to hold back our money that is owed to us. What good are our powerful congressmen if they can't correct this injustice. <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;\">—Cornelius Shea’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": "Shea’s campaign website stated the following:\n“ At least 5 issues most Americans are concerned about are directly related to an open Southern Border. Those problems identified are illegal immigration, drug overdoses, possibility of future terrorist attacks in U.S., federal spending and health care costs. Since January 2021 until October 2023, some 2.7 million illegal migrants have been released into the United States. At the same time there were at least 1.5 million \" got aways\". As of October 2023 the illegal population is around 12.8 million and growing fast. As you can imagine this rapid increase in illegals is putting a major burden on our housing, public education, welfare benefit programs, hospital emergency rooms, along with our overall fiscal budget. It now seems that all of the 48 continental states are border states. In an effort to safe guard the vote, the SAVE Act was brought before Congress. The Act's goal was to ensure that only citizens can vote. The Act simply required voters to provide proof of citizenship at the time of registration. My opponent, Jim McGovern voted against this act. One would have to wonder why? Well over 250,000 fentanyl overdose deaths have occurred in the United States since January 2021. Everyday about 200 people die from fentanyl. One kilogram (2.2 pounds) of fentanyl has the potential to kill 500,000 people. The Mexican drug cartels are taking advantage of an open Southern Border and intimidating migrants to transport the narcotic into America. American's concern of future terrorist attacks is realistic. In one year from October 2022 to September 2023 169 people whose names matched those on the terrorist watch list were arrested at the Southern Border. The increase of potential terrorists reflects a surge in migrant crossings and the number of people arriving from countries all over the world. What is going on at the Southern Border is a national disgrace. Numerous migrants are being exploited, raped, and killed. Unaccompanied children are the most vulnerable. Some of these children are being sent into prostitution and sweatshops. President Biden created a lot of the Southern Border problems when he removed Trump's Remain in Mexico policy. One has to wonder why President Biden encouraged so many migrants to make the dangerous trek to America. Are the millions of undocumented migrants entering America in our best interest? For the most part, America is a nation of immigrants. On average we welcome about 800,000 new citizens each year. They are vetted and have to pass a citizenship test. We need to get a handle on all the undocumented migrants presently in America.The record breaking pace of migrants entering America is both dangerous and not sustainable. Term Limits Our Founding Fathers never intended for politicians to go down to the Nations Capitol and become career politicians. They knew a 30 to 40 or more year career in government could lead to arrogance and corruption. After a politician gets entrenched in the system they begin to feel as though the people work for them. Working that long in The House or Senate, representatives and senators don't get the opportunity to experience the effects of their policies. They become sheltered. I believe our founding fathers wanted people to work their lives and go down to the capitol with experience and give back to the country that was so beneficial to them. I would support and recommend a total of 12 years in Congress, six 2 year terms, and 12 years in the Senate two 6 year terms. Border Control At least 5 issues most Americans are concerned about are directly related to an open Southern Border. Those problems identified are illegal immigration, drug , possibility of future terrorist attacks in U.S., federal spending and health care costs. Since January 2021 until October 2023, some 2.7 million undocumented migrants have been released into the United States. At the same time there were at least 1.5 million \" got aways\". As of October 2023 the migrant population is around 12.8 million and growing fast. As you can imagine this rapid increase in illegals is putting a major burden on our housing, public education, welfare benefit programs, hospital emergency rooms, along with our overall fiscal budget. It now seems that all of the 48 continental states are border states. In an effort to safe guard the vote, the SAVE Act was brought before Congress. The Act's goal wasnto ensure that only citizens can vote. The Act simply required voters to provide proof of citienship at the time of registration. My opponent, Jim McGovern voted against this act. One would have to wonder why? Well over 250,000 fentanyl overdose deaths have occured in the United States since January 2021. Everyday about 200 people die from fentanyl. One kilogram (2.2 pounds) of fentanyl has the potential to kill 500,000 people. The Mexican drug cartels are taking advantage of an open Southern Border and intimidating migrants to transport the narcotic into America. American's concern of future terrorist attacks is realistic. In one year from October 2022 to September 2023 169 people whose names matched those on the terrorist watch list were arrested at the Southern Border. The increase of potential terrorists reflects a surge in migrant crossings and the number of people arriving from countries all over the world. What is going on at the Southern Border is a national disgrace. Numerous migrants are being exploited, raped, and killed. Unaccompanied children are the most vulnerable. Some of these children are being sent into prostitution and sweatshops. President Biden created a lot of the Southern Border problems when he removed Trump's Remain in Mexico policy. One has to wonder why President Biden encouraged so many migrants to make the dangerous trek to America. Are the millions of undocumented migrants entering America in our best interest? For the most part, America is a nation of immigrants. On average we welcome about 800,000 new citizens each year. They are vetted and have to pass a citizenship test. We need to get a handle on all the undocumented migrants presently in America.The record breaking pace of migrants entering America is both dangerous and not sustainable. Inflation This issue is personal. My pension has been reduced by about 30% in buying power over the last 3 years. Gun Control The Democrats have to realize that they can pass strict control rules, but criminals will not be lining up at police stations turning in their guns. Scope of Government Ronald Reagan once said that the nine most terrifying words in the English language are: \" I'm from the Government, and I'm here to help\". The progressive democrats, who control the party, are always looking to raise taxes and create bigger Government. The problem is that when Government expands individual freedoms diminish. I believe that the federal government needs to be significantly reduced and that a lot of the current federal programs would be better served at the state level. Armed Forces All decisions and funding of the military should be towards one purpose. That is to make the military as lethal as possible. Leaders should all work to ensure that America has an overwhelming advantage in any fight. Public Education Public Schools should concentrate on teaching Reading, Writing, Arithmetic, and the Sciences. The Department of Education should not hold school districts captive by threatening to withhold money if they don't implement their progressive agenda. Parents should be encouraged to attend School Board meetings and play an active part in their children's education. Social Security Windfall Elimination Provision I began working for the Worcester Public Schools in 1992. Every election the politicians state that they are going to get rid of this provision. Well that provision is still very much in place. The only difference is that now it is directly affecting my Social Security Check each month to the tune of $558 dollars. As state, city and town public employees know, we fund our own pensions in the form of an annuity. Every pay check we had 11% of our money placed into our retirement fund. Many of us had to work second jobs to support our families. In those second jobs, we paid into Social Security. That is our money. The government does not have the right to hold back our money that is owed to us. What good are our powerful congressmen if they can't correct this injustice. [2] ” —Cornelius Shea’s campaign website (2024) [3]"}]