Allen L Spence Jr.

[{"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>Allen Spence completed <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a> survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Spence'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-354271-2025-08-17\" id=\"heading-bio-354271-2025-08-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-354271-2025-08-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-354271-2025-08-17\" 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-354271-2025-08-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-354271-2025-08-17\" 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 Allen Spence, a candidate for the U.S. House in Florida’s 17th Congressional District.\r\n<p>I’m running to bring a practical, pro-growth approach to Washington. Too many families are feeling the pinch, at the grocery store, in housing and insurance. I’ve seen this struggle firsthand with my own parents, who are on a fixed income. I believe government should make your life easier, not more expensive. My opponent is focused on political feuds; I am focused on fiscal solutions.\r\n</p><p>As a finance and operations professional, I'm a problem-solver who believes in transparency and accountability. That’s the mindset I’ll bring to Congress.\r\nMy top priorities are:\r\n</p>\n<pre> Lowering costs. I will fight to end tariff taxes that raise prices on everyday goods and hurt small businesses.\r\n Reforming Social Security &amp; Medicare. I have a plan to reform Social Security and Medicare so that current benefits are protected and the long term program is solvent.\r\n Supporting our local economy. I will champion tourism, cut red tape for entrepreneurs, and invest in workforce development.\r\n</pre>\n<pre> Bipartisan collaboration. I'm committed to working with pragmatic Democrats and Republicans to deliver fiscally responsible solutions.\r\n</pre>\nI will be accessible to every voter Democrat, Republican, and NPA alike. We deserve a representative who is serious about lowering costs, protecting retirements, and growing the economy, not someone who treats politics like a shouting match. I would be honored to earn your vote.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-354271-2025-08-17\" id=\"heading-key-message-354271-2025-08-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-354271-2025-08-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-354271-2025-08-17\" 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-354271-2025-08-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-354271-2025-08-17\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>Tariffs are not just a trade policy; they are a tax on families and businesses. They raise the cost of everything from groceries to car parts, hurting our district’s retirees and small businesses. The U.S. Constitution gives Congress, not the president, the power to lay and collect tariffs. It's time for Congress to reclaim its constitutional authority and put a stop to these hidden taxes that harm our economy. I'll work with anyone, regardless of party, to end these counterproductive tariffs and promote fair trade that benefits the people of Florida.</li><li>My opponent, Greg Steube, supports a political agenda that is directly hurting our local economy. The rhetoric against other Western nations and Trump's tariffs are not a show of strength; they are a tax on our people and an attack on our tourism industry. Our district relies on visitors, and when international relations sour, those tourists choose to go elsewhere. This means fewer jobs, less revenue for our small businesses, and a strain on the very industry that fuels the Suncoast. We need a representative focused on prosperity, not punishment, and on building bridges, not walls.</li><li>Every person in our country, regardless of their background, is protected by the Bill of Rights. The Fourth Amendment's promise against unreasonable searches and seizures is a cornerstone of American liberty. Federal agents, including ICE, must be held to this standard. They cannot enter a home without a proper judicial warrant, and they cannot conduct broad, warrantless searches. We must defend these constitutional principles to protect everyone's privacy and security. I will fight to ensure federal agencies respect the rights of all people and are held accountable to the law.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-354271-2025-08-17\" id=\"heading1-354271-2025-08-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-354271-2025-08-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-354271-2025-08-17\" 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=\"heading1-354271-2025-08-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-354271-2025-08-17\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI am passionate about public policies that directly improve the lives of the people in our district. My main priority is economic prosperity. That means ending the tariff taxes that act as a hidden burden on consumers and small businesses. It means protecting and strengthening Social Security and Medicare, which our retirees have paid into their entire lives. And it means investing in our community's infrastructure and tourism to create jobs and opportunities. My focus is on tangible, bipartisan solutions that put our families and local economy first. I also commit to having townhalls when Congress is out of session multiple times a year.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-354271-2025-08-17\" id=\"heading2-354271-2025-08-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-354271-2025-08-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-354271-2025-08-17\" 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=\"heading2-354271-2025-08-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-354271-2025-08-17\" 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 up to Winston Churchill for his resilience and leadership. While he is most famous for leading the United Kingdom during its \"finest hour\" in World War II, I find his entire career to be a powerful example of perseverance.<br/><br/>\n<p>Churchill experienced significant setbacks and was often on the political fringe. His role in the disastrous Gallipoli Campaign during World War I led to a period of public and political disgrace. Yet, he never gave up. He dedicated his time out of power to study history and military strategy, preparing for a future he knew would be challenging.<br/><br/>\n</p>\nWhen the moment of crisis arrived, his nation turned to him. His strength of conviction, his refusal to surrender, and his ability to rally a nation in its darkest hour are the marks of a truly great leader. He teaches us that failure is not the end of the road. Instead, it can be the proving ground for the leadership that is needed most when it matters. His example shows that a leader can overcome past mistakes and stand strong in the face of immense adversity.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-354271-2025-08-17\" id=\"heading3-354271-2025-08-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-354271-2025-08-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-354271-2025-08-17\" 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=\"heading3-354271-2025-08-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-354271-2025-08-17\" 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 most important principles for an elected official are integrity, accountability, and a commitment to service. An effective leader must be honest and ethical, placing the public interest above personal or partisan gain. This builds the public trust essential for a functioning democracy.<br/><br/>\n<p>Accountability means taking responsibility for one’s actions and decisions, and being transparent with constituents. Elected officials must be accessible, responsive to the needs of the community, and willing to explain their votes and policies. This includes listening to and representing all voters not just those who supported them.<br/><br/>\n</p>\nFinally, a commitment to public service requires a willingness to work collaboratively. An elected official should be a problem-solver who can set aside personal or political differences to build coalitions and find common ground. This pragmatic approach leads to lasting solutions that benefit everyone.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-354271-2025-08-17\" id=\"heading4-354271-2025-08-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-354271-2025-08-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-354271-2025-08-17\" 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=\"heading4-354271-2025-08-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-354271-2025-08-17\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tThe core responsibilities for a US House Representative are centered around representation, legislation, and constituent service.<br/><br/>\n<p>Representation<br/><br/>\r\nA representative's primary role is to serve as the voice of their district in Congress. This means understanding the unique needs, values, and concerns of the people they represent from local small businesses to retirees and working families. This requires being accessible, holding regular town halls, and engaging with diverse community groups to ensure their perspectives are heard in Washington. It also means advocating for the district's interests in federal funding, policy debates, and national discussions.<br/>\r\nLegislation<br/><br/>\r\nThe most fundamental duty of a member of Congress is to make laws. This involves introducing and voting on bills, proposing amendments, and working on committees that shape policy. A representative must be knowledgeable on a wide range of issues, from economic policy and healthcare to environmental protection and infrastructure. They should work to build bipartisan coalitions to pass commonsense legislation that directly benefits their constituents, while also holding the federal government accountable.<br/><br/>\r\nConstituent Service<br/>\n</p>\nMy district office will be the front door to the federal government for the Suncoast. We’ll troubleshoot Social Security, Medicare, VA, passports, and immigration issues, cut through agency red tape, and stay on each case until there’s an answer. The goal is simple make Washington work for people here at home promptly, respectfully, and transparently so that dealing with federal agencies improves daily life rather than adding to the burden.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-354271-2025-08-17\" id=\"heading5-354271-2025-08-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-354271-2025-08-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-354271-2025-08-17\" 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=\"heading5-354271-2025-08-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-354271-2025-08-17\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI want to leave a legacy of principled courage and clear-eyed leadership. History teaches us that an elected official's most important duty is to speak the truth, especially when it is difficult or unpopular. It is easy to go along with the crowd, but it is essential to be on the record when things go wrong or when our core democratic principles are threatened.<br/><br/>\n<p>My goal is to be a voice for integrity and common sense, even if it puts me at odds with my own party or with powerful special interests. I believe a representative must have the moral conviction to stand up for the Constitution, for the rule of law, and for the economic well-being of their constituents.<br/><br/>\n</p>\nI hope my legacy is one of bravery and conviction, where I can say that I always acted in the best interest of the people of our district and our country. I want my constituents to know that I never hesitated to call out policies that harmed our families or rhetoric that divided our communities. That is the kind of leadership I will bring to Congress.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-354271-2025-08-17\" id=\"heading6-354271-2025-08-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-354271-2025-08-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-354271-2025-08-17\" 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=\"heading6-354271-2025-08-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-354271-2025-08-17\" 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 under 10 years old and it was the collapse of the Iron Curtain.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-354271-2025-08-17\" id=\"heading7-354271-2025-08-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-354271-2025-08-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-354271-2025-08-17\" 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=\"heading7-354271-2025-08-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-354271-2025-08-17\" 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 choose to be Uhtred of Bebbanburg, the protagonist of Bernard Cornwell’s historical novels and the \"Last Kingdom\" television series. He is a warrior and a leader who embodies a mix of loyalty, cunning, and an unwavering commitment to his own identity.<br/><br/>\n<p>Uhtred is a Saxon raised by Danes, a man caught between two worlds. This unique position gives him a broad perspective and allows him to see beyond the narrow prejudices of a single group. His ability to navigate complex political and cultural landscapes, all while staying true to his own sense of honor, is what I find most compelling.<br/><br/>\r\nHis character embodies several key principles:<br/>\r\nPragmatism Uhtred is a skilled tactician who understands that victory requires adaptability, not just brute force. He is a master of guerrilla warfare and uses his enemies' overconfidence against them.<br/>\r\nResilience He faces immense betrayal, loss, and hardship but never gives up on his goal of reclaiming his birthright.<br/>\r\nLoyalty Though he often clashes with his allies, his loyalty to those he serves, especially King Alfred, is unwavering, even when his personal code is tested.<br/><br/>\n</p>\nUhtred’s journey teaches us that being an effective leader often means standing between two opposing forces and forging your own path. He is a testament to the idea that one's true strength comes from integrity and a refusal to be defined by others' expectations.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-354271-2025-08-17\" id=\"heading8-354271-2025-08-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse8-354271-2025-08-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-354271-2025-08-17\" 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=\"heading8-354271-2025-08-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse8-354271-2025-08-17\" 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. Prior government experience can be useful, but it’s not a prerequisite for effective representation. What matters most is judgment, integrity, and a track record of solving real problems not time spent in the political game.<br/><br/>\n<p>I come from finance and operations, where results are measurable and accountability is non-negotiable. I’ve managed teams, balanced budgets, navigated complex regulations, and delivered under pressure. That practical experience is exactly what Congress needs people who understand how policies play out for retirees, workers, small businesses, and local communities.<br/><br/>\r\nFresh eyes are a strength. Career politics can reward caution and special-interest thinking; I’ll bring a builder’s mindset define the problem, gather facts, listen to constituents, and then act. I’ll hire seasoned staff to ensure the district office provides best-in-class constituent service, and I’ll hold regular town halls so every voter has a voice.<br/><br/>\n</p>\nExperience in politics isn’t the measure of effectiveness. Character, competence, and accountability are. That’s what I’ll bring to Congress.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-354271-2025-08-17\" id=\"heading9-354271-2025-08-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse9-354271-2025-08-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-354271-2025-08-17\" 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=\"heading9-354271-2025-08-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse9-354271-2025-08-17\" 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\tCompromise is not just desirable; it's essential for effective policy making. Our system of government, with its checks and balances, was designed to require it. No single party or group holds all the power, meaning that to get anything done, we must find common ground. <br/>\n<p>Compromise forces us to listen to different perspectives and build solutions that are more durable and widely supported. When policies are created with input from multiple viewpoints, they are more likely to serve the broader public interest rather than just a narrow, partisan agenda. It’s how we move beyond gridlock and deliver real results for the American people.<br/>\n</p>\nAn all-or-nothing approach to policy leads to stagnation and frustration. It's the reason why critical issues like Social Security reform and infrastructure investment go unaddressed. I believe in a pragmatic approach finding partners who are willing to work on fiscally responsible solutions, even if we don't agree on every single point. It's about progress over perfection. The choice isn't between pure ideological victory and failure it's between a partial win for everyone and a complete loss for all.\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\nAllen Spence completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Spence's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. I'm Allen Spence, a candidate for the U.S. House in Florida’s 17th Congressional District. I’m running to bring a practical, pro-growth approach to Washington. Too many families are feeling the pinch, at the grocery store, in housing and insurance. I’ve seen this struggle firsthand with my own parents, who are on a fixed income. I believe government should make your life easier, not more expensive. My opponent is focused on political feuds; I am focused on fiscal solutions. As a finance and operations professional, I'm a problem-solver who believes in transparency and accountability. That’s the mindset I’ll bring to Congress.\r\nMy top priorities are: Lowering costs. I will fight to end tariff taxes that raise prices on everyday goods and hurt small businesses.\r\n Reforming Social Security & Medicare. I have a plan to reform Social Security and Medicare so that current benefits are protected and the long term program is solvent.\r\n Supporting our local economy. I will champion tourism, cut red tape for entrepreneurs, and invest in workforce development. Bipartisan collaboration. I'm committed to working with pragmatic Democrats and Republicans to deliver fiscally responsible solutions. I will be accessible to every voter Democrat, Republican, and NPA alike. We deserve a representative who is serious about lowering costs, protecting retirements, and growing the economy, not someone who treats politics like a shouting match. I would be honored to earn your vote. 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? Tariffs are not just a trade policy; they are a tax on families and businesses. They raise the cost of everything from groceries to car parts, hurting our district’s retirees and small businesses. The U.S. Constitution gives Congress, not the president, the power to lay and collect tariffs. It's time for Congress to reclaim its constitutional authority and put a stop to these hidden taxes that harm our economy. I'll work with anyone, regardless of party, to end these counterproductive tariffs and promote fair trade that benefits the people of Florida. My opponent, Greg Steube, supports a political agenda that is directly hurting our local economy. The rhetoric against other Western nations and Trump's tariffs are not a show of strength; they are a tax on our people and an attack on our tourism industry. Our district relies on visitors, and when international relations sour, those tourists choose to go elsewhere. This means fewer jobs, less revenue for our small businesses, and a strain on the very industry that fuels the Suncoast. We need a representative focused on prosperity, not punishment, and on building bridges, not walls. Every person in our country, regardless of their background, is protected by the Bill of Rights. The Fourth Amendment's promise against unreasonable searches and seizures is a cornerstone of American liberty. Federal agents, including ICE, must be held to this standard. They cannot enter a home without a proper judicial warrant, and they cannot conduct broad, warrantless searches. We must defend these constitutional principles to protect everyone's privacy and security. I will fight to ensure federal agencies respect the rights of all people and are held accountable to the law. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? I am passionate about public policies that directly improve the lives of the people in our district. My main priority is economic prosperity. That means ending the tariff taxes that act as a hidden burden on consumers and small businesses. It means protecting and strengthening Social Security and Medicare, which our retirees have paid into their entire lives. And it means investing in our community's infrastructure and tourism to create jobs and opportunities. My focus is on tangible, bipartisan solutions that put our families and local economy first. I also commit to having townhalls when Congress is out of session multiple times a year. Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why? I look up to Winston Churchill for his resilience and leadership. While he is most famous for leading the United Kingdom during its \"finest hour\" in World War II, I find his entire career to be a powerful example of perseverance. Churchill experienced significant setbacks and was often on the political fringe. His role in the disastrous Gallipoli Campaign during World War I led to a period of public and political disgrace. Yet, he never gave up. He dedicated his time out of power to study history and military strategy, preparing for a future he knew would be challenging. When the moment of crisis arrived, his nation turned to him. His strength of conviction, his refusal to surrender, and his ability to rally a nation in its darkest hour are the marks of a truly great leader. He teaches us that failure is not the end of the road. Instead, it can be the proving ground for the leadership that is needed most when it matters. His example shows that a leader can overcome past mistakes and stand strong in the face of immense adversity. What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? The most important principles for an elected official are integrity, accountability, and a commitment to service. An effective leader must be honest and ethical, placing the public interest above personal or partisan gain. This builds the public trust essential for a functioning democracy. Accountability means taking responsibility for one’s actions and decisions, and being transparent with constituents. Elected officials must be accessible, responsive to the needs of the community, and willing to explain their votes and policies. This includes listening to and representing all voters not just those who supported them. Finally, a commitment to public service requires a willingness to work collaboratively. An elected official should be a problem-solver who can set aside personal or political differences to build coalitions and find common ground. This pragmatic approach leads to lasting solutions that benefit everyone. What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office? The core responsibilities for a US House Representative are centered around representation, legislation, and constituent service. Representation A representative's primary role is to serve as the voice of their district in Congress. This means understanding the unique needs, values, and concerns of the people they represent from local small businesses to retirees and working families. This requires being accessible, holding regular town halls, and engaging with diverse community groups to ensure their perspectives are heard in Washington. It also means advocating for the district's interests in federal funding, policy debates, and national discussions. Legislation The most fundamental duty of a member of Congress is to make laws. This involves introducing and voting on bills, proposing amendments, and working on committees that shape policy. A representative must be knowledgeable on a wide range of issues, from economic policy and healthcare to environmental protection and infrastructure. They should work to build bipartisan coalitions to pass commonsense legislation that directly benefits their constituents, while also holding the federal government accountable. Constituent Service My district office will be the front door to the federal government for the Suncoast. We’ll troubleshoot Social Security, Medicare, VA, passports, and immigration issues, cut through agency red tape, and stay on each case until there’s an answer. The goal is simple make Washington work for people here at home promptly, respectfully, and transparently so that dealing with federal agencies improves daily life rather than adding to the burden. What legacy would you like to leave? I want to leave a legacy of principled courage and clear-eyed leadership. History teaches us that an elected official's most important duty is to speak the truth, especially when it is difficult or unpopular. It is easy to go along with the crowd, but it is essential to be on the record when things go wrong or when our core democratic principles are threatened. My goal is to be a voice for integrity and common sense, even if it puts me at odds with my own party or with powerful special interests. I believe a representative must have the moral conviction to stand up for the Constitution, for the rule of law, and for the economic well-being of their constituents. I hope my legacy is one of bravery and conviction, where I can say that I always acted in the best interest of the people of our district and our country. I want my constituents to know that I never hesitated to call out policies that harmed our families or rhetoric that divided our communities. That is the kind of leadership I will bring to Congress. What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time? I was under 10 years old and it was the collapse of the Iron Curtain. If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be? I would choose to be Uhtred of Bebbanburg, the protagonist of Bernard Cornwell’s historical novels and the \"Last Kingdom\" television series. He is a warrior and a leader who embodies a mix of loyalty, cunning, and an unwavering commitment to his own identity. Uhtred is a Saxon raised by Danes, a man caught between two worlds. This unique position gives him a broad perspective and allows him to see beyond the narrow prejudices of a single group. His ability to navigate complex political and cultural landscapes, all while staying true to his own sense of honor, is what I find most compelling. His character embodies several key principles: Pragmatism Uhtred is a skilled tactician who understands that victory requires adaptability, not just brute force. He is a master of guerrilla warfare and uses his enemies' overconfidence against them. Resilience He faces immense betrayal, loss, and hardship but never gives up on his goal of reclaiming his birthright. Loyalty Though he often clashes with his allies, his loyalty to those he serves, especially King Alfred, is unwavering, even when his personal code is tested. Uhtred’s journey teaches us that being an effective leader often means standing between two opposing forces and forging your own path. He is a testament to the idea that one's true strength comes from integrity and a refusal to be defined by others' expectations. Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics? No. Prior government experience can be useful, but it’s not a prerequisite for effective representation. What matters most is judgment, integrity, and a track record of solving real problems not time spent in the political game. I come from finance and operations, where results are measurable and accountability is non-negotiable. I’ve managed teams, balanced budgets, navigated complex regulations, and delivered under pressure. That practical experience is exactly what Congress needs people who understand how policies play out for retirees, workers, small businesses, and local communities. Fresh eyes are a strength. Career politics can reward caution and special-interest thinking; I’ll bring a builder’s mindset define the problem, gather facts, listen to constituents, and then act. I’ll hire seasoned staff to ensure the district office provides best-in-class constituent service, and I’ll hold regular town halls so every voter has a voice. Experience in politics isn’t the measure of effectiveness. Character, competence, and accountability are. That’s what I’ll bring to Congress. Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking? Compromise is not just desirable; it's essential for effective policy making. Our system of government, with its checks and balances, was designed to require it. No single party or group holds all the power, meaning that to get anything done, we must find common ground. Compromise forces us to listen to different perspectives and build solutions that are more durable and widely supported. When policies are created with input from multiple viewpoints, they are more likely to serve the broader public interest rather than just a narrow, partisan agenda. It’s how we move beyond gridlock and deliver real results for the American people. An all-or-nothing approach to policy leads to stagnation and frustration. It's the reason why critical issues like Social Security reform and infrastructure investment go unaddressed. I believe in a pragmatic approach finding partners who are willing to work on fiscally responsible solutions, even if we don't agree on every single point. It's about progress over perfection. The choice isn't between pure ideological victory and failure it's between a partial win for everyone and a complete loss for all.\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."}]