Bernard Flowers

[{"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>Bernard Flowers completed <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a> survey in 2026. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Flowers' 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-403434-2026-01-25\" id=\"heading-bio-403434-2026-01-25\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-403434-2026-01-25\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-403434-2026-01-25\" 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-403434-2026-01-25\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-403434-2026-01-25\" 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\tBerney Flowers is a Republican candidate for U.S. Congress in Maryland’s 3rd District. A retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel, he served nearly 21 years on active duty, including an assignment to the Pentagon on September 11, 2001. His career included deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, and Ukraine, with missions across 22 countries and 43 states. After military service, Berney worked in banking, then returned to the Department of Defense as a civil servant, helping stand up U.S. Cyber Command and later serving as NORAD and U.S. Northern Command’s Senior Technical Advisor to Ft Meade. Before retiring from DoD, he supported refugee resettlement and border defense efforts as a Senior Advisor to DHS. Married for over 38 years, Berney is a father, grandfather, longtime community volunteer, author, and podcast host.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-403434-2026-01-25\" id=\"heading-key-message-403434-2026-01-25\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-403434-2026-01-25\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-403434-2026-01-25\" 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-403434-2026-01-25\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-403434-2026-01-25\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>Our Nation's Founding Principles Are Under Attack. I Intend To Protect Freedom, Faith And Family</li><li>After 21 Years Of Active Duty Military Service And 13 Years As A Senior Civil Servant, Berney Knows How To Defend America.</li><li>Berney Intends To Empower Parents and Restore Excellence In Education. Berney Will Protect Parental Rights And Promote Education, Not Indoctrination.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-403434-2026-01-25\" id=\"heading1-403434-2026-01-25\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-403434-2026-01-25\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-403434-2026-01-25\" 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=\"heading1-403434-2026-01-25\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-403434-2026-01-25\" 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\tNational Defense, Immigration Reform, Middle Class Affordability, Fiscal Reform, Term Limits, and Infrastructure Renewal.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-403434-2026-01-25\" id=\"heading2-403434-2026-01-25\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-403434-2026-01-25\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-403434-2026-01-25\" 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=\"heading2-403434-2026-01-25\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-403434-2026-01-25\" 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\tVeterans For America First\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>Bernard Flowers did not complete <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's 2024 Candidate Connection</a> survey.\n</p>", "answer_text": "See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection\n\nBernard Flowers completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2026. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Flowers' responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. Berney Flowers is a Republican candidate for U.S. Congress in Maryland’s 3rd District. A retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel, he served nearly 21 years on active duty, including an assignment to the Pentagon on September 11, 2001. His career included deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, and Ukraine, with missions across 22 countries and 43 states. After military service, Berney worked in banking, then returned to the Department of Defense as a civil servant, helping stand up U.S. Cyber Command and later serving as NORAD and U.S. Northern Command’s Senior Technical Advisor to Ft Meade. Before retiring from DoD, he supported refugee resettlement and border defense efforts as a Senior Advisor to DHS. Married for over 38 years, Berney is a father, grandfather, longtime community volunteer, author, and podcast host. 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? Our Nation's Founding Principles Are Under Attack. I Intend To Protect Freedom, Faith And Family After 21 Years Of Active Duty Military Service And 13 Years As A Senior Civil Servant, Berney Knows How To Defend America. Berney Intends To Empower Parents and Restore Excellence In Education. Berney Will Protect Parental Rights And Promote Education, Not Indoctrination. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? National Defense, Immigration Reform, Middle Class Affordability, Fiscal Reform, Term Limits, and Infrastructure Renewal. What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign? Veterans For America First\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\nBernard Flowers did not complete Ballotpedia's 2024 Candidate Connection survey."}, {"question": "Campaign website", "answer_html": "<p>Flowers' 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>People Before Politics:<br/>\nPrioritize people over party, address the economy, amplify voices, tackle immigration, term limits, and fiscal responsibility.\n</p><p>I will always keep People before Politics. I will fight for Term Limits, Fiscal Responsibility and Collaboration for a better future!\n</p><p>Empowerment Through Education:<br/>\nDepoliticize public schools, empower parents, teachers, and local communities.<br/>\nI recognize the transformative power of education in shaping the future of our nation. I am committed to supporting parental rights, delivering access to Charter School Vouchers, and expanding Technical Education opportunities while focusing on School Safety.\n</p><p>Prioritizing America’s Security:<br/>\nEnd endless wars, and focus on domestic security.\n</p><p>In an ever-changing world, a strong and secure America is paramount. As a veteran and retired Civil Servant, I am dedicated to bolstering our national security. With a constitutional focus on securing our borders, I promise to uphold the principles that make America the land of the free and stop the criminal influence that is overwhelming our neighborhoods.\n</p><p>Building Prosperity:<br/>\nEncourage home ownership, protect against predatory lending, support small businesses, diversify credit-building methods, and promote domestic manufacturing.<br/>\nEconomic prosperity is a key to America’s future! By eliminating Government Waste, Lowering Taxes, and Promoting US Manufacturing, Small Businesses, and Employment, I will create an economic landscape that benefits all Americans! I will also lead the fight against the growing predatory-style lending that is on the rise as struggling Americans fight Joe Biden’s steep inflation. Together, we can build a nation where everyone has the opportunity to achieve the American Dream.\n</p><p>Enhance Family-Focused Policies:<br/>\nIncrease childcare tax credits, invest in school repairs, and foster innovation hubs connecting educational institutions with federal R&amp;D.\n</p><p>At the heart of my campaign is a commitment to policies that strengthen American families. I understand the importance of creating an environment where every family can thrive and respecting family values. I will fight for increased Childcare Tax Credits.<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;\">—Bernard Flowers' 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>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"></div>\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>Bernard Flowers completed <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a> survey in 2022. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Flowers' 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-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading-bio-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-107754-2022-03-16\" 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-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-107754-2022-03-16\" 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\tWhy am I running for Congress? I love America. I owe it greatly and as a retired military officer, I swore to keep it from harm. In January 2022, I was a senior DoD civil servant with over 13 years of high level, successful service. Before that, I served nearly 21 years in the US Air Force, deploying to Iraq, Afghanistan, S. Korea and even the Ukraine. Today, I am a candidate for Congress because I didn't like the direction in which our country is headed. So, I quit my job to pursue the fight against the incumbent Congressman in District 2, who I believe is no longer working effectively for his constituents, after over 19 years in office. \r\nVery Respectfully/Berney Flowers\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading-key-message-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-107754-2022-03-16\" 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-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>We Believe In Strong Connected Families</li><li>We Believe In Freedom Of Individual Choice</li><li>We Believe Responsible, Limited Government Working For Citizens.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading1-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-107754-2022-03-16\" 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=\"heading1-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-107754-2022-03-16\" 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 Are Passionate About Improving Public Eduction In Maryland. <br/><br/>\n<p>We Are Passionate About Reducing Crime, Specifically In Great Baltimore.<br/><br/>\n</p>\nWe Are Passionate About Supporting Legal Immigration And Stopping Illegal Immigration.<br/></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading2-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-107754-2022-03-16\" 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=\"heading2-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-107754-2022-03-16\" 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\tAbraham Lincoln freed my ancestors and preserved the union.<br/><br/>\n<p>MLK was the greatest humanitarian I have known. His non-violent protests were courageous and dignified, and showed the world that American Black people were to be taken seriously.<br/><br/>\r\nFredrick Douglas showed courage and dignity to all Americans, but especially Black Americans.<br/><br/>\n</p>\nGeneral Smedley Butler retired as the most decorated soldier of his generation. He reminds me that we should be careful to avoid foreign wars. War should be used only to defend our country and our allies. It should be declared by Congress. It should not be used to line the pockets of big business.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading3-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-107754-2022-03-16\" 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=\"heading3-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-107754-2022-03-16\" 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\tNo.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading4-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-107754-2022-03-16\" 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=\"heading4-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-107754-2022-03-16\" 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\tCalmness, Rational thought, and resoluteness in decision making and responsibility to the taxpayers.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading5-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-107754-2022-03-16\" 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=\"heading5-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-107754-2022-03-16\" 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 a very extensive background working at some the highest levels of government over the past 34 years. I decided that I personally, should try to make a positive change in the direction of our government. My time in the Federal bureaucracy allows me to know \"where the bones are buried\" so to speak. I understand the budget process, and how agencies are supposed to work with Congress.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading6-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-107754-2022-03-16\" 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=\"heading6-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-107754-2022-03-16\" 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 responsibility to the taxpayers.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading7-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-107754-2022-03-16\" 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=\"heading7-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-107754-2022-03-16\" 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 was a good man who cared about his country.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading8-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse8-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-107754-2022-03-16\" 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=\"heading8-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse8-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI remember the run up to the 1972 Nixon election. I was 6 years old and remember my family discussing its conservative values. They all voted for Nixon.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading9-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse9-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-107754-2022-03-16\" 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=\"heading9-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse9-107754-2022-03-16\" 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\tCleaning my local church was my Mom's way of bringing in extra money. The whole family cleaned our local church every Saturday in my home town, until I got big enough to do farm work. I have always had a job of some sort.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading10-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse10-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-107754-2022-03-16\" 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=\"heading10-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse10-107754-2022-03-16\" 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\tWar Is A Racket, by Gen Smedley Butler\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading11-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse11-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-107754-2022-03-16\" 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=\"heading11-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse11-107754-2022-03-16\" 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.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading12-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse12-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-107754-2022-03-16\" 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=\"heading12-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse12-107754-2022-03-16\" 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 Whale Song.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading13-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse13-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-107754-2022-03-16\" 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=\"heading13-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse13-107754-2022-03-16\" 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 too many struggles in my life to county.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading14-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse14-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-107754-2022-03-16\" 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=\"heading14-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse14-107754-2022-03-16\" 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's the people's house and should represent the citizens point of view. Right now, I don't see that to be true.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading15-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse15-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-107754-2022-03-16\" 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=\"heading15-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse15-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI believe that good people do not need to have previous political experience to succeed in politics. It helps to have a working knowledge of government like I have, but I also believe in term limits. POTUS has 50 years in government and his decision-making skills have not helped the American people at all. It's time for new blood in our government, to include the civil service.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading16-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse16-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-107754-2022-03-16\" 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=\"heading16-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse16-107754-2022-03-16\" 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 must stop this divisive thinking. It's tearing our country apart. Critical Race Theory and the idea that people should be judged by their respective skin color, ideology or sexual preferences must be stopped. \"A House Divided Cannot Stand\".\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading17-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse17-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-107754-2022-03-16\" 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 are not a current representative, are there certain committees that you would want to be a part of?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading17-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse17-107754-2022-03-16\" 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 will serve where Maryland needs me to serve.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading18-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse18-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-107754-2022-03-16\" 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 are a current representative, why did you join your current committees?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading18-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse18-107754-2022-03-16\" 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\tn/a\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading19-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse19-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-107754-2022-03-16\" 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=\"heading19-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse19-107754-2022-03-16\" 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 I believe that 4 years would be a more appropriate term for Congressional Reps. The current 2 year term makes rep have to constantly beg for money, and thus become ineffective.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading20-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse20-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-107754-2022-03-16\" 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=\"heading20-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse20-107754-2022-03-16\" 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 totally support them. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading21-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse21-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-107754-2022-03-16\" 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=\"heading21-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse21-107754-2022-03-16\" 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\tNo.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading22-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse22-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tBoth sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading22-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse22-107754-2022-03-16\" 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\tNo.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse23-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading23-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse23-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse23-107754-2022-03-16\" 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=\"heading23-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse23-107754-2022-03-16\" 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 don't know any jokes.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse24-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading24-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse24-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse24-107754-2022-03-16\" 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=\"heading24-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse24-107754-2022-03-16\" 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 depends on the situation. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse25-107754-2022-03-16\" id=\"heading25-107754-2022-03-16\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse25-107754-2022-03-16\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse25-107754-2022-03-16\" 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=\"heading25-107754-2022-03-16\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse25-107754-2022-03-16\" 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 use that power to reign in the bureaucracy in the executive branch.\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": "Flowers' campaign website stated the following:\n“ People Before Politics: Prioritize people over party, address the economy, amplify voices, tackle immigration, term limits, and fiscal responsibility. I will always keep People before Politics. I will fight for Term Limits, Fiscal Responsibility and Collaboration for a better future! Empowerment Through Education: Depoliticize public schools, empower parents, teachers, and local communities. I recognize the transformative power of education in shaping the future of our nation. I am committed to supporting parental rights, delivering access to Charter School Vouchers, and expanding Technical Education opportunities while focusing on School Safety. Prioritizing America’s Security: End endless wars, and focus on domestic security. In an ever-changing world, a strong and secure America is paramount. As a veteran and retired Civil Servant, I am dedicated to bolstering our national security. With a constitutional focus on securing our borders, I promise to uphold the principles that make America the land of the free and stop the criminal influence that is overwhelming our neighborhoods. Building Prosperity: Encourage home ownership, protect against predatory lending, support small businesses, diversify credit-building methods, and promote domestic manufacturing. Economic prosperity is a key to America’s future! By eliminating Government Waste, Lowering Taxes, and Promoting US Manufacturing, Small Businesses, and Employment, I will create an economic landscape that benefits all Americans! I will also lead the fight against the growing predatory-style lending that is on the rise as struggling Americans fight Joe Biden’s steep inflation. Together, we can build a nation where everyone has the opportunity to achieve the American Dream. Enhance Family-Focused Policies: Increase childcare tax credits, invest in school repairs, and foster innovation hubs connecting educational institutions with federal R&D. At the heart of my campaign is a commitment to policies that strengthen American families. I understand the importance of creating an environment where every family can thrive and respecting family values. I will fight for increased Childcare Tax Credits. [2] ” —Bernard Flowers' campaign website (2024) [3]\n\n\nBernard Flowers completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2022. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Flowers' responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. Why am I running for Congress? I love America. I owe it greatly and as a retired military officer, I swore to keep it from harm. In January 2022, I was a senior DoD civil servant with over 13 years of high level, successful service. Before that, I served nearly 21 years in the US Air Force, deploying to Iraq, Afghanistan, S. Korea and even the Ukraine. Today, I am a candidate for Congress because I didn't like the direction in which our country is headed. So, I quit my job to pursue the fight against the incumbent Congressman in District 2, who I believe is no longer working effectively for his constituents, after over 19 years in office. \r\nVery Respectfully/Berney Flowers 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? We Believe In Strong Connected Families We Believe In Freedom Of Individual Choice We Believe Responsible, Limited Government Working For Citizens. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? We Are Passionate About Improving Public Eduction In Maryland. We Are Passionate About Reducing Crime, Specifically In Great Baltimore. We Are Passionate About Supporting Legal Immigration And Stopping Illegal Immigration. Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why? Abraham Lincoln freed my ancestors and preserved the union. MLK was the greatest humanitarian I have known. His non-violent protests were courageous and dignified, and showed the world that American Black people were to be taken seriously. Fredrick Douglas showed courage and dignity to all Americans, but especially Black Americans. General Smedley Butler retired as the most decorated soldier of his generation. He reminds me that we should be careful to avoid foreign wars. War should be used only to defend our country and our allies. It should be declared by Congress. It should not be used to line the pockets of big business. Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy? No. What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? Calmness, Rational thought, and resoluteness in decision making and responsibility to the taxpayers. What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder? I have a very extensive background working at some the highest levels of government over the past 34 years. I decided that I personally, should try to make a positive change in the direction of our government. My time in the Federal bureaucracy allows me to know \"where the bones are buried\" so to speak. I understand the budget process, and how agencies are supposed to work with Congress. What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office? responsibility to the taxpayers. What legacy would you like to leave? That I was a good man who cared about his country. What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time? I remember the run up to the 1972 Nixon election. I was 6 years old and remember my family discussing its conservative values. They all voted for Nixon. What was your very first job? How long did you have it? Cleaning my local church was my Mom's way of bringing in extra money. The whole family cleaned our local church every Saturday in my home town, until I got big enough to do farm work. I have always had a job of some sort. What is your favorite book? Why? War Is A Racket, by Gen Smedley Butler If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be? Superman. What was the last song that got stuck in your head? The Whale Song. What is something that has been a struggle in your life? I have too many struggles in my life to county. What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution? It's the people's house and should represent the citizens point of view. Right now, I don't see that to be true. Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics? I believe that good people do not need to have previous political experience to succeed in politics. It helps to have a working knowledge of government like I have, but I also believe in term limits. POTUS has 50 years in government and his decision-making skills have not helped the American people at all. It's time for new blood in our government, to include the civil service. What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade? We must stop this divisive thinking. It's tearing our country apart. Critical Race Theory and the idea that people should be judged by their respective skin color, ideology or sexual preferences must be stopped. \"A House Divided Cannot Stand\". If you are not a current representative, are there certain committees that you would want to be a part of? I will serve where Maryland needs me to serve. If you are a current representative, why did you join your current committees? n/a Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives? I believe that 4 years would be a more appropriate term for Congressional Reps. The current 2 year term makes rep have to constantly beg for money, and thus become ineffective. What are your thoughts on term limits? I totally support them. Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after? No. Both sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful? No. Tell us your favorite joke. I don't know any jokes. Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking? It depends on the situation. The Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. What role would this power play in your priorities if elected? I would use that power to reign in the bureaucracy in the executive branch.\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."}]