Matt Shoemaker

[{"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>Matt Shoemaker completed <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a> survey in 2023. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Shoemaker'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-202569-2023-08-21\" id=\"heading-bio-202569-2023-08-21\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-202569-2023-08-21\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-202569-2023-08-21\" 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-202569-2023-08-21\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-202569-2023-08-21\" 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\tOne of the most rewarding things I've done is volunteer with my miniature dachshund, Bruno, at children's hospitals in the cancer section so the kids can play with him. Hearing a mom say \"I haven't seen my son laugh in 6 months\" makes it all worth it. \r\n<p>But I'm from a proud military &amp; law enforcement family that has served this country for as long as I can remember. My father’s family goes back 7 generations of Americans all the way back to my ancestors serving in the Colonial militia in the American Revolution. My mother’s family were refugees from Europe after World War 2, fleeing Soviet communist persecution. \r\n</p><p>As a kid, I wanted to be a fighter pilot, but God had other plans for me &amp; I never lost my devotion to defend my country. After earning a master’s in Philosophy &amp; in the midst of my PhD work in Nuclear War Strategy at King’s College London, I saw American decline because of weak &amp; inept leadership--first, when Russia invaded Crimea &amp; then when ISIS almost took over Iraq. \r\n</p><p>I was station in Quantico, Virginia as a Counterintelligence Officer, protecting our country’s most guarded secrets from Russia &amp; China. While overseas with European Command, I became a Naval Officer in the Navy Reserve. As an intelligence officer, I’ve seen the best this country has to offer &amp; I’ve seen some of the most wasteful &amp; inept as well. I know what it will take to root out the rot that some have allowed to take hold. I am nobody’s ‘yes man’ &amp; I will stand up for North Carolina. \r\n</p>\n</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-202569-2023-08-21\" id=\"heading-key-message-202569-2023-08-21\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-202569-2023-08-21\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-202569-2023-08-21\" 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-202569-2023-08-21\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-202569-2023-08-21\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>For too long our politicians have been more interested in making a point rather than making a difference. It’s time for principled, decent people to serve their country rather than extremist ideologues more interested in making a name for themselves.</li><li>Despite all the divides us, despite all the corruption, people that I’ve spoken to Democrats and Republicans alike still believe in the inherent goodness of the American system. Defending our rights, liberties, and hard won freedoms has never been so important.</li><li>We North Carolinians are famous for our courage. More North Carolinians volunteered to fight for freedom in Iraq and Afghanistan than from any state of its size. More North Carolinians served in the War on Terror than any state of its size; and more North Carolinians gave their lives in those wars than from any other state of its size. It’s time we send someone to Washington who will show our country the best of what North Carolina has to offer.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-202569-2023-08-21\" id=\"heading1-202569-2023-08-21\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-202569-2023-08-21\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-202569-2023-08-21\" 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=\"heading1-202569-2023-08-21\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-202569-2023-08-21\" 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 two particular areas of policy: the first is parent rights in education. I don't co-parent with anyone else, let alone the government and I believe every parent has the right and the obligation to know what is best for their child at school. I am going to Washington to deliver on that, to bring federal dollars to North Carolina so every child can be educated where and how his or her parents want them to be educated.<br/><br/>\r\nThe second policy area I'm passionate about is with our military. My brothers and sisters in uniform hold a place close to my heart which is why I’m incensed that the Pentagon expects our service members to fight for their country while 25% of them reported being on food stamps or food insecure. All the while the Defense Department has no idea and does not track where over $500 billion of its $850 budget is spent. As a patriotic American, I don’t mind paying for a world class military as long as that cost is wisely spent and we get a good return on investment. I will hold these corrupt and inept officials accountable for the waste, fraud, and abuse they are allowing to spread in the federal government. Anyone in any department of government whether it be the Defense Department, Justice Department, or other, watch out. You will be held accountable for any corruption or waste you have allowed to grow. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-202569-2023-08-21\" id=\"heading2-202569-2023-08-21\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-202569-2023-08-21\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-202569-2023-08-21\" 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=\"heading2-202569-2023-08-21\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-202569-2023-08-21\" 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\tTwo people I admire are Margaret Thatcher and General George Patton. Thatcher for her iron resolve and her calm, steady conservative approach; Patton because of his integrity and his love for his country during World War 2. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-202569-2023-08-21\" id=\"heading3-202569-2023-08-21\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-202569-2023-08-21\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-202569-2023-08-21\" 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=\"heading3-202569-2023-08-21\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-202569-2023-08-21\" 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\tA Man for All Seasons\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-202569-2023-08-21\" id=\"heading4-202569-2023-08-21\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-202569-2023-08-21\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-202569-2023-08-21\" 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=\"heading4-202569-2023-08-21\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-202569-2023-08-21\" 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\tCS Lewis' Space Trilogy. CS Lewis is my favorite author. He wrote The Chronicles of Narnia, Screwtape Letters, and others. The Space Trilogy is a great fictional book written in the 1940s when there were still glimmers of hope that there might be other creatures on other planets in our solar system. It's about a man who travels to Mars and Venus and meets the creatures who are there. It's a fun, easily accessible series that I can read over and over. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-202569-2023-08-21\" id=\"heading5-202569-2023-08-21\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-202569-2023-08-21\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-202569-2023-08-21\" 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=\"heading5-202569-2023-08-21\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-202569-2023-08-21\" 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\tUptown Girl\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-202569-2023-08-21\" id=\"heading6-202569-2023-08-21\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-202569-2023-08-21\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-202569-2023-08-21\" 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=\"heading6-202569-2023-08-21\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-202569-2023-08-21\" 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\tFirm believer in term limits. I believe it's reasonable for politicians to be limited to 6 terms in the House and 2 terms in the Senate. If someone cannot achieve what they set out to do in 12 years, they shouldn't be there. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-202569-2023-08-21\" id=\"heading7-202569-2023-08-21\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-202569-2023-08-21\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-202569-2023-08-21\" 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=\"heading7-202569-2023-08-21\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-202569-2023-08-21\" 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 model myself after Trey Gowdy because I have a great deal of respect for the way he represented his constituents in our sister state of South Carolina. His wit and prosecutorial demeanor in holding bureaucrats accountable is something I will strive to model myself after. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-202569-2023-08-21\" id=\"heading8-202569-2023-08-21\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse8-202569-2023-08-21\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-202569-2023-08-21\" 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=\"heading8-202569-2023-08-21\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse8-202569-2023-08-21\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tInvestigative powers are there so Congress can craft better legislation and to hold people entrusted with authority accountable. I believe people in government have not been held accountable for their actions. Not only has no one been fired, reprimanded, or punished for the disastrous fall of Afghanistan, neither has anyone been held accountable for the collapse in our border security, or the failure of the government's response in Hawaii or East Palestine, Ohio. Congress can and must use its authority to hold these bureaucrats accountable when the White House refuses to. \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\nMatt Shoemaker completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2023. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Shoemaker's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. One of the most rewarding things I've done is volunteer with my miniature dachshund, Bruno, at children's hospitals in the cancer section so the kids can play with him. Hearing a mom say \"I haven't seen my son laugh in 6 months\" makes it all worth it. But I'm from a proud military & law enforcement family that has served this country for as long as I can remember. My father’s family goes back 7 generations of Americans all the way back to my ancestors serving in the Colonial militia in the American Revolution. My mother’s family were refugees from Europe after World War 2, fleeing Soviet communist persecution. As a kid, I wanted to be a fighter pilot, but God had other plans for me & I never lost my devotion to defend my country. After earning a master’s in Philosophy & in the midst of my PhD work in Nuclear War Strategy at King’s College London, I saw American decline because of weak & inept leadership--first, when Russia invaded Crimea & then when ISIS almost took over Iraq. I was station in Quantico, Virginia as a Counterintelligence Officer, protecting our country’s most guarded secrets from Russia & China. While overseas with European Command, I became a Naval Officer in the Navy Reserve. As an intelligence officer, I’ve seen the best this country has to offer & I’ve seen some of the most wasteful & inept as well. I know what it will take to root out the rot that some have allowed to take hold. I am nobody’s ‘yes man’ & I will stand up for North Carolina. 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? For too long our politicians have been more interested in making a point rather than making a difference. It’s time for principled, decent people to serve their country rather than extremist ideologues more interested in making a name for themselves. Despite all the divides us, despite all the corruption, people that I’ve spoken to Democrats and Republicans alike still believe in the inherent goodness of the American system. Defending our rights, liberties, and hard won freedoms has never been so important. We North Carolinians are famous for our courage. More North Carolinians volunteered to fight for freedom in Iraq and Afghanistan than from any state of its size. More North Carolinians served in the War on Terror than any state of its size; and more North Carolinians gave their lives in those wars than from any other state of its size. It’s time we send someone to Washington who will show our country the best of what North Carolina has to offer. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? I'm passionate about two particular areas of policy: the first is parent rights in education. I don't co-parent with anyone else, let alone the government and I believe every parent has the right and the obligation to know what is best for their child at school. I am going to Washington to deliver on that, to bring federal dollars to North Carolina so every child can be educated where and how his or her parents want them to be educated. The second policy area I'm passionate about is with our military. My brothers and sisters in uniform hold a place close to my heart which is why I’m incensed that the Pentagon expects our service members to fight for their country while 25% of them reported being on food stamps or food insecure. All the while the Defense Department has no idea and does not track where over $500 billion of its $850 budget is spent. As a patriotic American, I don’t mind paying for a world class military as long as that cost is wisely spent and we get a good return on investment. I will hold these corrupt and inept officials accountable for the waste, fraud, and abuse they are allowing to spread in the federal government. Anyone in any department of government whether it be the Defense Department, Justice Department, or other, watch out. You will be held accountable for any corruption or waste you have allowed to grow. Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why? Two people I admire are Margaret Thatcher and General George Patton. Thatcher for her iron resolve and her calm, steady conservative approach; Patton because of his integrity and his love for his country during World War 2. Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy? A Man for All Seasons What is your favorite book? Why? CS Lewis' Space Trilogy. CS Lewis is my favorite author. He wrote The Chronicles of Narnia, Screwtape Letters, and others. The Space Trilogy is a great fictional book written in the 1940s when there were still glimmers of hope that there might be other creatures on other planets in our solar system. It's about a man who travels to Mars and Venus and meets the creatures who are there. It's a fun, easily accessible series that I can read over and over. What was the last song that got stuck in your head? Uptown Girl What are your thoughts on term limits? Firm believer in term limits. I believe it's reasonable for politicians to be limited to 6 terms in the House and 2 terms in the Senate. If someone cannot achieve what they set out to do in 12 years, they shouldn't be there. Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after? I would model myself after Trey Gowdy because I have a great deal of respect for the way he represented his constituents in our sister state of South Carolina. His wit and prosecutorial demeanor in holding bureaucrats accountable is something I will strive to model myself after. How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers? Investigative powers are there so Congress can craft better legislation and to hold people entrusted with authority accountable. I believe people in government have not been held accountable for their actions. Not only has no one been fired, reprimanded, or punished for the disastrous fall of Afghanistan, neither has anyone been held accountable for the collapse in our border security, or the failure of the government's response in Hawaii or East Palestine, Ohio. Congress can and must use its authority to hold these bureaucrats accountable when the White House refuses to.\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>Shoemaker’s campaign website stated the following:\n</p>\n<div style=\"height:400px;overflow:scroll;border:1px solid gray;margin:20px;padding:10px;\">\n<table data-nosnippet=\"\" style=\"border-collapse: collapse; border: none;background-color: transparent; auto; ;\">\n<tbody><tr>\n<td style=\"border:none; color:#B2B7F2;font-size:35px;font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-weight: bold; text-align: left; padding: 10px 3px;\" valign=\"top\" width=\"20\">“\n</td>\n<td style=\"border: none; padding: 4px 10px;\" valign=\"top\">\n<p><b>Economy and Inflation Impacts</b><br/>\nIt's time for change. We see our grocery bills and gas prices continue to rise in North Carolina. Together, we feel the impact of a weak dollar. Home ownership is unreachable, businesses are downsizing, and basic goods consume our budget. We must unleash the true potential of our economy by implementing pro-growth conservative policies and end the crushing inflationary scheme of Bidenomics. We will reignite the engine of American ingenuity and empower a thriving economy for the middle class by prioritizing energy independence, reducing oppressive regulations, and cutting wasteful spending. \n</p>\n<dl><dd>Increasing Costs</dd>\n<dd>Democrats' inflationary policies are crushing young workers and fixed-income elderly alike, threatening to destroy the lives of millions of Americans. Prices continue to spiral upward and all because government is too big and spends too much of our money. You can send a message that you want a new beginning.</dd></dl>\n<dl><dd>Debt Crisis</dd>\n<dd>The Federal budget is out of control. You and I can live beyond our means, take on more debt, open new credit cards, but only for a short time. Why should we think our nation is not bound by the same restriction? The era of rising interest rates and low growth can end but we must act today to save tomorrow.</dd></dl>\n<dl><dd>Job Market</dd>\n<dd>Democrats claim to tax businesses as a sneaky way to increase our taxes. But businesses don't pay taxes, they pass on taxes imposed on them to us consumers. Leftist tax policies are crushing American workers. We will lower tax rates to stimulate productivity and slash government spending to reduce unemployment and inflation.</dd></dl>\n<p><b>Border Security equals Family Security</b><br/>\nRising crime rate and the crisis of illegal immigration threaten the very fabric of our nation. A secure and prosperous America begins with reestablish the rule of law rather than the arbitary rule of man of recent years. Preserving the sovereignty and security of our great nation is the cornerstone of every government. While America has always been a land of opportunity and refuge, it is crucial that we uphold the rule of law and maintain a fair and orderly immigration system. As a nation built on the principles of freedom and opportunity, we welcome those who come to our shores through legal means, while also safeguarding our borders from illegal entry. \n</p>\n<dl><dd>Drugs</dd>\n<dd>As a candidate for Congress, my heart goes out to every family that has experienced the devastating effects of fentanyl abuse. The addiction to this drug is debilitating and can destroy not only the person using it, but also their family and loved ones. I am committed to taking action against this epidemic and bringing relief to those affected.</dd></dl>\n<dl><dd>Crime</dd>\n<dd>To make our streets safe we must defend our law enforcement not defund them. Crime thrives in communities when we have more sympathy for the criminal than the victim. Nor should we be ashamed to uphold our constitutional 1st and 2nd Amendment rights as law abiding citizens. We will uphold the rule of law and embrace the principles that have made America a nation where safety and sovereignty reign supreme.</dd></dl>\n<dl><dd>Human Trafficking</dd>\n<dd>If only our politicians cared as much about protecting our border as they do about defending Ukraine's borders. Democrats' open border policy has encouraged human traffickers to make the US the trafficking capital of the world. Each year, 300,000 American children are at risk of human trafficking. That ends now.</dd></dl>\n<p><b>Military and Foreign Wars Imapcts</b><br/>\n<b>America's Enemies are Emboldened. Biden set the world on fire with weakness and appeasement of our enemies, Vote Matt Shoemaker for Congress in NC 13</b><br/>\nAs a former intel officer, a strong and capable military is the cornerstone of a secure and prosperous nation. We must rebuild our armed forces with the focus on competency and lethality--not woke ideology. We will have a military ready to defend our country and its values. The world is becoming a more dangerous place and the need for a robust military and unwavering commitment to national security remains constant. Today, it is crucial that we honor the legacy of a strong defense and carry forward the principles that made America the land of the free and the home of the brave. Together, let us unite in bolstering our military might, fortify our alliances, and safeguard our nation.My Campaign\" Matt Shoemaker for Congress\"adopted the slogan \"Send intelligence to DC\".\n</p>\n<dl><dd>Foreign Wars, International Chaos</dd>\n<dd>America retreats from Afghanistan leaving their own behind. Russia Invades Ukraine, testing NATO, taunting America, proving UN worthless. Iran sanctions eased enabling the financing of global terror cells Hamas attacks Israel, committing acts of evil upon civilians not seen since the dark ages.</dd></dl>\n<dl><dd>China pushes global dominance strategy, flexing military power over Taiwan, economic leadership by belittling the USA on the global stage, trade routes, and construction of bases in the Western Hemisphere.</dd></dl>\n<dl><dd>To characterize the past 3 years as a litany of catastrophes is an insult to the millions of innocents dead, from weak and feckless polices or worse an administration compromised by foreign money.</dd></dl>\n<dl><dd>Joe Biden and the Democrats’ appeasement strategies foster weakness and universal instability. Having served our nation in uniform, I take General Schwarzkopf’s words to heart that “Any soldier worth his salt should be antiwar. And still there are things worth fighting for.”</dd></dl>\n<dl><dd>China Aggression</dd>\n<dd>Today, China's dangerous military buildup threatens global stability and our cherished values. From militarizing the South China Sea, stealing American company intellectual property, to violating our territorial integrity with secret police stations and spy balloons, we must stand united against Communist China's primitive philosophy that might makes right. We will prevent members of the Chinese Communist Party from obtaining visas to come to the United States, buying property, or funding schools to spy on us and promote their ideology.</dd></dl>\n<dl><dd>America's Military Readiness</dd>\n<dd>Demanding immediate reform of The Defense Department must be an imperative action item for Congress.</dd></dl>\n<dl><dd>25% of our armed forces, those volunteering to serve report being on food stamps or are food insecure. We permit our troops and their families to starve meanwhile the Pentagon claims ignorance for accountability of 60% of its $850 billion budget is spent. Compromised leadership compounds this stupidity and wonton conduct with implementing diversity and gender targets hoping this will terrify any enemy into immediate surrender. By investing in innovation and technology, upholding accountable, and rebuilding the American Military culture, will yield the return of our military being the most lethal and capable force for democracy.<sup class=\"reference\" id=\"cite_ref-quotedisclaimer_2-0\"><a href=\"#cite_note-quotedisclaimer-2\">[2]</a></sup></dd></dl>\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;\">—Matt Shoemaker’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>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"></div>\n<p>Matt Shoemaker did not complete <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's 2022 Candidate Connection</a> survey.\n</p>", "answer_text": "Shoemaker’s campaign website stated the following:\n“ Economy and Inflation Impacts It's time for change. We see our grocery bills and gas prices continue to rise in North Carolina. Together, we feel the impact of a weak dollar. Home ownership is unreachable, businesses are downsizing, and basic goods consume our budget. We must unleash the true potential of our economy by implementing pro-growth conservative policies and end the crushing inflationary scheme of Bidenomics. We will reignite the engine of American ingenuity and empower a thriving economy for the middle class by prioritizing energy independence, reducing oppressive regulations, and cutting wasteful spending. Increasing Costs Democrats' inflationary policies are crushing young workers and fixed-income elderly alike, threatening to destroy the lives of millions of Americans. Prices continue to spiral upward and all because government is too big and spends too much of our money. You can send a message that you want a new beginning. Debt Crisis The Federal budget is out of control. You and I can live beyond our means, take on more debt, open new credit cards, but only for a short time. Why should we think our nation is not bound by the same restriction? The era of rising interest rates and low growth can end but we must act today to save tomorrow. Job Market Democrats claim to tax businesses as a sneaky way to increase our taxes. But businesses don't pay taxes, they pass on taxes imposed on them to us consumers. Leftist tax policies are crushing American workers. We will lower tax rates to stimulate productivity and slash government spending to reduce unemployment and inflation. Border Security equals Family Security Rising crime rate and the crisis of illegal immigration threaten the very fabric of our nation. A secure and prosperous America begins with reestablish the rule of law rather than the arbitary rule of man of recent years. Preserving the sovereignty and security of our great nation is the cornerstone of every government. While America has always been a land of opportunity and refuge, it is crucial that we uphold the rule of law and maintain a fair and orderly immigration system. As a nation built on the principles of freedom and opportunity, we welcome those who come to our shores through legal means, while also safeguarding our borders from illegal entry. Drugs As a candidate for Congress, my heart goes out to every family that has experienced the devastating effects of fentanyl abuse. The addiction to this drug is debilitating and can destroy not only the person using it, but also their family and loved ones. I am committed to taking action against this epidemic and bringing relief to those affected. Crime To make our streets safe we must defend our law enforcement not defund them. Crime thrives in communities when we have more sympathy for the criminal than the victim. Nor should we be ashamed to uphold our constitutional 1st and 2nd Amendment rights as law abiding citizens. We will uphold the rule of law and embrace the principles that have made America a nation where safety and sovereignty reign supreme. Human Trafficking If only our politicians cared as much about protecting our border as they do about defending Ukraine's borders. Democrats' open border policy has encouraged human traffickers to make the US the trafficking capital of the world. Each year, 300,000 American children are at risk of human trafficking. That ends now. Military and Foreign Wars Imapcts America's Enemies are Emboldened. Biden set the world on fire with weakness and appeasement of our enemies, Vote Matt Shoemaker for Congress in NC 13 As a former intel officer, a strong and capable military is the cornerstone of a secure and prosperous nation. We must rebuild our armed forces with the focus on competency and lethality--not woke ideology. We will have a military ready to defend our country and its values. The world is becoming a more dangerous place and the need for a robust military and unwavering commitment to national security remains constant. Today, it is crucial that we honor the legacy of a strong defense and carry forward the principles that made America the land of the free and the home of the brave. Together, let us unite in bolstering our military might, fortify our alliances, and safeguard our nation.My Campaign\" Matt Shoemaker for Congress\"adopted the slogan \"Send intelligence to DC\". Foreign Wars, International Chaos America retreats from Afghanistan leaving their own behind. Russia Invades Ukraine, testing NATO, taunting America, proving UN worthless. Iran sanctions eased enabling the financing of global terror cells Hamas attacks Israel, committing acts of evil upon civilians not seen since the dark ages. China pushes global dominance strategy, flexing military power over Taiwan, economic leadership by belittling the USA on the global stage, trade routes, and construction of bases in the Western Hemisphere. To characterize the past 3 years as a litany of catastrophes is an insult to the millions of innocents dead, from weak and feckless polices or worse an administration compromised by foreign money. Joe Biden and the Democrats’ appeasement strategies foster weakness and universal instability. Having served our nation in uniform, I take General Schwarzkopf’s words to heart that “Any soldier worth his salt should be antiwar. And still there are things worth fighting for.” China Aggression Today, China's dangerous military buildup threatens global stability and our cherished values. From militarizing the South China Sea, stealing American company intellectual property, to violating our territorial integrity with secret police stations and spy balloons, we must stand united against Communist China's primitive philosophy that might makes right. We will prevent members of the Chinese Communist Party from obtaining visas to come to the United States, buying property, or funding schools to spy on us and promote their ideology. America's Military Readiness Demanding immediate reform of The Defense Department must be an imperative action item for Congress. 25% of our armed forces, those volunteering to serve report being on food stamps or are food insecure. We permit our troops and their families to starve meanwhile the Pentagon claims ignorance for accountability of 60% of its $850 billion budget is spent. Compromised leadership compounds this stupidity and wonton conduct with implementing diversity and gender targets hoping this will terrify any enemy into immediate surrender. By investing in innovation and technology, upholding accountable, and rebuilding the American Military culture, will yield the return of our military being the most lethal and capable force for democracy. [2] ” —Matt Shoemaker’s campaign website (2024) [3]\n\nMatt Shoemaker did not complete Ballotpedia's 2022 Candidate Connection survey."}]