Shaun Joseph Greene

[{"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>Shaun Greene completed <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a> survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Greene'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-235623-2024-06-14\" id=\"heading-bio-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-235623-2024-06-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-235623-2024-06-14\" 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-235623-2024-06-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-235623-2024-06-14\" 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 was born and raised in South Florida, where I went to Florida Atlantic University and received my B.A. in Social Studies education in 2012. I taught 7th grade civics in Florida for 5 years before moving to Tennessee with my wife in 2017. Since then, my wife and I celebrated having a son who has become my inspiration, joy, and comedic relief. I live a simple life and never imagined I would end up running for Congress. \r\nIn January 2024 I had enough of the political games the House of Representatives was playing and decided to look at who was running for District 7. I was not happy with either of my choices and could not help but feel I could do a better job. So, I set out to begin the process to start a formal campaign for office. It has been an eye-opening experience, but at every twist and turn it has only energized me. I started this grassroots campaign to end party politics and champion the voices of the voters of District 7. My goal is to unite people by building on common ground, finding solutions, and bringing open honest conversation. Together we can take back the power and put it back where it belongs, with the people.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-235623-2024-06-14\" id=\"heading-key-message-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-235623-2024-06-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-235623-2024-06-14\" 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-235623-2024-06-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>As an independent I am responsible only to the voters of District 7. I have an obligation to stand for everyone within my district, that includes my supporters but also those who did not vote and even those who voted for a different candidate. I want to help end the partisan tribalism and limit the influence of money in politics to stop special interests' groups from drowning out the voices of the people.</li><li>Our national debt and deficit need to be dealt with now. Since the 2008 financial crisis, congress has failed to hold banks accountable and has resorted to printing money to \"kick the can down the road\". This had led to unimaginable national debt and soaring wealth inequality. We can fix this; it must be done now. The only thing missing is for congress to stop fighting and do their job! Congress cannot simply throw money at every problem and hope it goes away, nor can we allow the wealthiest 1% to avoid paying hundreds of billions in taxes. We need to approach this problem from both sides; tax reform and responsible budgeting.</li><li>Education is one of the most important investments any government can make in the future. Helping young people fulfill their potential benefits everyone. Right now, our kids need our help, fighting over who is at fault and pointing fingers doesn't solve problems. It's time to step back, take a breathe and have honest conversations about where we are and where we want to go. Then we can create a plan to get there. Our kids deserve better.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-235623-2024-06-14\" id=\"heading1-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-235623-2024-06-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-235623-2024-06-14\" 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=\"heading1-235623-2024-06-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-235623-2024-06-14\" 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\tPublic Education, National debt/deficit, Wealth Inequality, Health Care, and Science\\Technology.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-235623-2024-06-14\" id=\"heading2-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-235623-2024-06-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-235623-2024-06-14\" 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=\"heading2-235623-2024-06-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-235623-2024-06-14\" 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 person who had the greatest impact on my life was my Grandfather, he was an inspiration and wealth of knowledge. I pestered him with questions from a very early age. I wanted to know all about the world and how it worked, and he would patiently sit and explain. He did not give me over simplified answers, instead he took the time to give me a complete answer with context to better understand how that answer fit in with the wider world. More than anything he listened to me and made me feel valued. He helped foster my curiosity and shared his wisdom freely. I learned many things but most importantly I learned how when we actually listen to one another we gain so much more. I miss him every day, but if he could see me now, I know he would be proud. <br/><br/>\r\nMore recently I have been reading \"Meditations\" by Marcus Aurelius, during the pandemic when we all became so isolated, and the world seemed so bleak. His words have helped me shake off the gloom and see the problems of the world around me as challenges and opportunities. If you have not read it already, I highly recommend it; it is short but packs so much into each line.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-235623-2024-06-14\" id=\"heading3-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-235623-2024-06-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading3-235623-2024-06-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-235623-2024-06-14\" 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\tElected officials must work for the benefit of the people, not corporations, not the ultra wealthy. In order to achieve this there must be open honest communication with the public and all public officials need to be held to the highest standards of accountability and ethics.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-235623-2024-06-14\" id=\"heading4-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-235623-2024-06-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading4-235623-2024-06-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-235623-2024-06-14\" 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\tOpen minded curiosity: I love to learn, and I love to help others learn, that is why I became a teacher. When I see something, I disagree with or something I know nothing/too little about, I go out of my way to find out more. I deeply believe that we need to frequently challenge our own beliefs and values, so we do not become trapped in echo chambers. I feel it is important to not just look for new information but when we do find it, reevaluate and if necessary, adjust our beliefs based on that new information. I think this is an especially important quality for a representative because I am being empowered by the voters not to push my own ideology and beliefs but to represent theirs. In an age with such a contentious political environment we need more people who are willing to acknowledge opposing views as valid and not simply shut out people we disagree with.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-235623-2024-06-14\" id=\"heading5-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-235623-2024-06-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading5-235623-2024-06-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-235623-2024-06-14\" 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 role of the House of Representatives, is to represent the people of your district. To have frequent, open dialog with voters and use that input to make better decisions about legislation. They also have a responsibility to drive civic engagement and strength the bonds within our community.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-235623-2024-06-14\" id=\"heading6-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-235623-2024-06-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat legacy would you like to leave?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading6-235623-2024-06-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-235623-2024-06-14\" 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\"A society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in\". I want to leave the world in a better state than when I came into it.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-235623-2024-06-14\" id=\"heading7-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-235623-2024-06-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading7-235623-2024-06-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe first event I can remember was Desert Storm, although I was only 4 at the time I loved military aircraft. I remember watching the news and seeing the jets launching off aircraft carriers.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-235623-2024-06-14\" id=\"heading8-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse8-235623-2024-06-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat was your very first job? How long did you have it?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading8-235623-2024-06-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse8-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI worked for Circuit City when I was in high school. I don't remember, 4-5 years?\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-235623-2024-06-14\" id=\"heading9-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse9-235623-2024-06-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is your favorite book? Why?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading9-235623-2024-06-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse9-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tMy all time favorite is the Hobbit, I love Middle Earth, the characters, setting, and the way the story draws you in. I read it in Elementary school and have continued to reread it every couple of years since. I am not a fan of the movie unfortunately.<br/><br/>\r\nThe newest book that I am obsessed with is \"Fourth Wing\" by Rebecca Yarros. Violet Sorrengail is such an amazing character and I absolutely love how she refuses to let others hold her back or tell her what she is incapable of.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-235623-2024-06-14\" id=\"heading10-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse10-235623-2024-06-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-235623-2024-06-14\" 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=\"heading10-235623-2024-06-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse10-235623-2024-06-14\" 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\tTony Stark?\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-235623-2024-06-14\" id=\"heading11-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse11-235623-2024-06-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-235623-2024-06-14\" 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=\"heading11-235623-2024-06-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse11-235623-2024-06-14\" 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\"Cheeseburger in paradise\" by Jimmy Buffett\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-235623-2024-06-14\" id=\"heading12-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse12-235623-2024-06-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-235623-2024-06-14\" 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=\"heading12-235623-2024-06-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse12-235623-2024-06-14\" 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\tDepression, I have struggled with it since I was young. I worry about the future, and I see problems all around me, so I turn inward and turn against myself. It was only after my son was born that I started to build the tools and support that I needed to deal with it. Mental health is something so many people are also facing, and I want people to know they are not alone. If you or someone you know needs help, ask for help. There are many programs and organizations with millions of people who want to help, find one that fits your needs and start today.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-235623-2024-06-14\" id=\"heading13-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse13-235623-2024-06-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-235623-2024-06-14\" 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=\"heading13-235623-2024-06-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse13-235623-2024-06-14\" 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 Constitution begins with \"We the People\", it is clear that our government was always intended to be made from and serve the people of the United States. At a time when confidence in our elected officials is at their lowest we need people we can trust. Many Americans no longer feel they can trust public officials and to address this we need to bring in new independent voices to bring transparency and accountability. Together we can bring back the confidence of the people and solve our most pressing issues.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-235623-2024-06-14\" id=\"heading14-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse14-235623-2024-06-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-235623-2024-06-14\" 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=\"heading14-235623-2024-06-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse14-235623-2024-06-14\" 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\tOur healthcare system is broken and literally killing us. Americans are paying more for healthcare than any other developed nation and we have some of the worst medical outcomes. Millions of people have no health insurance. If they do have it, many cannot afford to go to the doctor or skip treatment because of the cost of medication. Many of the leading causes of death in the country are preventable, instead our system focuses on treating people after they become sick and only if they can afford it. Even from an economic point of view, we are wasting trillions of dollars and losing productivity to a system that largely has no accountability. Addressing the health-care crisis will go a long way in dealing with so many other national issues. We should be encouraging new companies to help break up the bloated monopolies by using AI and innovative technology that reduces the cost of healthcare.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-235623-2024-06-14\" id=\"heading15-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse15-235623-2024-06-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-235623-2024-06-14\" 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=\"heading15-235623-2024-06-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse15-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI do not, I would like to see the length of terms extended to 3 years with a term limit of 3 terms. As it is now House members are perpetually campaigning for re-election. This means raising money and spending large parts of their time not focused on solving problems. Extending the term limit would shrink the influence of large donors and allow members to spend more of their time focused on legislation.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-235623-2024-06-14\" id=\"heading16-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse16-235623-2024-06-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-235623-2024-06-14\" 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=\"heading16-235623-2024-06-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse16-235623-2024-06-14\" 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 support setting term limits for both the House and Senate.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-235623-2024-06-14\" id=\"heading17-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse17-235623-2024-06-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-235623-2024-06-14\" 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=\"heading17-235623-2024-06-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse17-235623-2024-06-14\" 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 look to representative David Schweikert (AZ) and Jeff Jackson (NC) as role models for what kind of representative I want to be. They have made considerable efforts to have open and honest discussions with the public about what is going on in the Country. We need more elected officials like them, that can have a civilized discussion and listen to different points of view so that we can achieve a common goal.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-235623-2024-06-14\" id=\"heading18-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse18-235623-2024-06-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-235623-2024-06-14\" 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=\"heading18-235623-2024-06-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse18-235623-2024-06-14\" 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\tYou should never trust and atom. They make everything up. :)\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-235623-2024-06-14\" id=\"heading19-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse19-235623-2024-06-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-235623-2024-06-14\" 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=\"heading19-235623-2024-06-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse19-235623-2024-06-14\" 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\tWithout compromise we cannot function as a society. Compromise should not be looked at as a failure to stick to your principles but as a successfully building on common ground toward a common goal.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-235623-2024-06-14\" id=\"heading20-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse20-235623-2024-06-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-235623-2024-06-14\" 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=\"heading20-235623-2024-06-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse20-235623-2024-06-14\" 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\tOur skyrocketing debt and deficient can not be allowed to continue, the longer we wait to take action the hard it will be and the more devastating the consequence will be. We need to be more responsible with our spending while at the same time looking at how to increase federal revenue. The IRS is predicting a \"tax gap\" of 625 billion dollars! The vast majority of this gap comes from unclaimed profits from only 1% of Americans. We need to tackle this problem in as many ways possible. Future generations will pay the price if we fail to act.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-235623-2024-06-14\" id=\"heading21-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse21-235623-2024-06-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat committees interest you?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading21-235623-2024-06-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse21-235623-2024-06-14\" 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\tAppropriations, Armed Services, Budget, Education/Labor, Science/Technology, and the Ways &amp; Means committees.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-235623-2024-06-14\" id=\"heading22-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse22-235623-2024-06-14\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-235623-2024-06-14\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading22-235623-2024-06-14\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse22-235623-2024-06-14\" 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\tWhen you are elected to a federal office like the House, you have pledged to put aside your personal ambitions and become a public servant. All members of Congress should have complete public transparency and should not be allowed to use their position for financial gains. I support the Spanberger's TRUST in Congress Act.\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\nShaun Greene completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Greene's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. I was born and raised in South Florida, where I went to Florida Atlantic University and received my B.A. in Social Studies education in 2012. I taught 7th grade civics in Florida for 5 years before moving to Tennessee with my wife in 2017. Since then, my wife and I celebrated having a son who has become my inspiration, joy, and comedic relief. I live a simple life and never imagined I would end up running for Congress. \r\nIn January 2024 I had enough of the political games the House of Representatives was playing and decided to look at who was running for District 7. I was not happy with either of my choices and could not help but feel I could do a better job. So, I set out to begin the process to start a formal campaign for office. It has been an eye-opening experience, but at every twist and turn it has only energized me. I started this grassroots campaign to end party politics and champion the voices of the voters of District 7. My goal is to unite people by building on common ground, finding solutions, and bringing open honest conversation. Together we can take back the power and put it back where it belongs, with the people. 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? As an independent I am responsible only to the voters of District 7. I have an obligation to stand for everyone within my district, that includes my supporters but also those who did not vote and even those who voted for a different candidate. I want to help end the partisan tribalism and limit the influence of money in politics to stop special interests' groups from drowning out the voices of the people. Our national debt and deficit need to be dealt with now. Since the 2008 financial crisis, congress has failed to hold banks accountable and has resorted to printing money to \"kick the can down the road\". This had led to unimaginable national debt and soaring wealth inequality. We can fix this; it must be done now. The only thing missing is for congress to stop fighting and do their job! Congress cannot simply throw money at every problem and hope it goes away, nor can we allow the wealthiest 1% to avoid paying hundreds of billions in taxes. We need to approach this problem from both sides; tax reform and responsible budgeting. Education is one of the most important investments any government can make in the future. Helping young people fulfill their potential benefits everyone. Right now, our kids need our help, fighting over who is at fault and pointing fingers doesn't solve problems. It's time to step back, take a breathe and have honest conversations about where we are and where we want to go. Then we can create a plan to get there. Our kids deserve better. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? Public Education, National debt/deficit, Wealth Inequality, Health Care, and Science\\Technology. Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why? The person who had the greatest impact on my life was my Grandfather, he was an inspiration and wealth of knowledge. I pestered him with questions from a very early age. I wanted to know all about the world and how it worked, and he would patiently sit and explain. He did not give me over simplified answers, instead he took the time to give me a complete answer with context to better understand how that answer fit in with the wider world. More than anything he listened to me and made me feel valued. He helped foster my curiosity and shared his wisdom freely. I learned many things but most importantly I learned how when we actually listen to one another we gain so much more. I miss him every day, but if he could see me now, I know he would be proud. More recently I have been reading \"Meditations\" by Marcus Aurelius, during the pandemic when we all became so isolated, and the world seemed so bleak. His words have helped me shake off the gloom and see the problems of the world around me as challenges and opportunities. If you have not read it already, I highly recommend it; it is short but packs so much into each line. What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? Elected officials must work for the benefit of the people, not corporations, not the ultra wealthy. In order to achieve this there must be open honest communication with the public and all public officials need to be held to the highest standards of accountability and ethics. What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder? Open minded curiosity: I love to learn, and I love to help others learn, that is why I became a teacher. When I see something, I disagree with or something I know nothing/too little about, I go out of my way to find out more. I deeply believe that we need to frequently challenge our own beliefs and values, so we do not become trapped in echo chambers. I feel it is important to not just look for new information but when we do find it, reevaluate and if necessary, adjust our beliefs based on that new information. I think this is an especially important quality for a representative because I am being empowered by the voters not to push my own ideology and beliefs but to represent theirs. In an age with such a contentious political environment we need more people who are willing to acknowledge opposing views as valid and not simply shut out people we disagree with. What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office? The role of the House of Representatives, is to represent the people of your district. To have frequent, open dialog with voters and use that input to make better decisions about legislation. They also have a responsibility to drive civic engagement and strength the bonds within our community. What legacy would you like to leave? \"A society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in\". I want to leave the world in a better state than when I came into it. What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time? The first event I can remember was Desert Storm, although I was only 4 at the time I loved military aircraft. I remember watching the news and seeing the jets launching off aircraft carriers. What was your very first job? How long did you have it? I worked for Circuit City when I was in high school. I don't remember, 4-5 years? What is your favorite book? Why? My all time favorite is the Hobbit, I love Middle Earth, the characters, setting, and the way the story draws you in. I read it in Elementary school and have continued to reread it every couple of years since. I am not a fan of the movie unfortunately. The newest book that I am obsessed with is \"Fourth Wing\" by Rebecca Yarros. Violet Sorrengail is such an amazing character and I absolutely love how she refuses to let others hold her back or tell her what she is incapable of. If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be? Tony Stark? What was the last song that got stuck in your head? \"Cheeseburger in paradise\" by Jimmy Buffett What is something that has been a struggle in your life? Depression, I have struggled with it since I was young. I worry about the future, and I see problems all around me, so I turn inward and turn against myself. It was only after my son was born that I started to build the tools and support that I needed to deal with it. Mental health is something so many people are also facing, and I want people to know they are not alone. If you or someone you know needs help, ask for help. There are many programs and organizations with millions of people who want to help, find one that fits your needs and start today. Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics? The Constitution begins with \"We the People\", it is clear that our government was always intended to be made from and serve the people of the United States. At a time when confidence in our elected officials is at their lowest we need people we can trust. Many Americans no longer feel they can trust public officials and to address this we need to bring in new independent voices to bring transparency and accountability. Together we can bring back the confidence of the people and solve our most pressing issues. What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade? Our healthcare system is broken and literally killing us. Americans are paying more for healthcare than any other developed nation and we have some of the worst medical outcomes. Millions of people have no health insurance. If they do have it, many cannot afford to go to the doctor or skip treatment because of the cost of medication. Many of the leading causes of death in the country are preventable, instead our system focuses on treating people after they become sick and only if they can afford it. Even from an economic point of view, we are wasting trillions of dollars and losing productivity to a system that largely has no accountability. Addressing the health-care crisis will go a long way in dealing with so many other national issues. We should be encouraging new companies to help break up the bloated monopolies by using AI and innovative technology that reduces the cost of healthcare. Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives? I do not, I would like to see the length of terms extended to 3 years with a term limit of 3 terms. As it is now House members are perpetually campaigning for re-election. This means raising money and spending large parts of their time not focused on solving problems. Extending the term limit would shrink the influence of large donors and allow members to spend more of their time focused on legislation. What are your thoughts on term limits? I support setting term limits for both the House and Senate. Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after? I look to representative David Schweikert (AZ) and Jeff Jackson (NC) as role models for what kind of representative I want to be. They have made considerable efforts to have open and honest discussions with the public about what is going on in the Country. We need more elected officials like them, that can have a civilized discussion and listen to different points of view so that we can achieve a common goal. Tell us your favorite joke. You should never trust and atom. They make everything up. :) Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking? Without compromise we cannot function as a society. Compromise should not be looked at as a failure to stick to your principles but as a successfully building on common ground toward a common goal. 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? Our skyrocketing debt and deficient can not be allowed to continue, the longer we wait to take action the hard it will be and the more devastating the consequence will be. We need to be more responsible with our spending while at the same time looking at how to increase federal revenue. The IRS is predicting a \"tax gap\" of 625 billion dollars! The vast majority of this gap comes from unclaimed profits from only 1% of Americans. We need to tackle this problem in as many ways possible. Future generations will pay the price if we fail to act. What committees interest you? Appropriations, Armed Services, Budget, Education/Labor, Science/Technology, and the Ways & Means committees. What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability? When you are elected to a federal office like the House, you have pledged to put aside your personal ambitions and become a public servant. All members of Congress should have complete public transparency and should not be allowed to use their position for financial gains. I support the Spanberger's TRUST in Congress Act.\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."}]