Jazmin J. Robinson

[{"question": "Video for Ballotpedia", "answer_html": "<div style=\"float:left\">\n<table cellpadding=\"5\" cellspacing=\"0\" class=\"wikitable\" width=\"205\">\n<tbody><tr>\n<td><div class=\"thumb embedvideo autoResize\" style=\"width: 258px;\"><!--\n--><div class=\"embedvideo autoResize\" style=\"\"><!--\n--><div class=\"embedvideowrap youtube\" style=\"width: 250px\"><iframe allow=\"accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" frameborder=\"0\" height=\"141\" loading=\"lazy\" modestbranding=\"1\" src=\"//www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/hbuPr8ihh2s\" width=\"250\"></iframe></div><!--\n--></div><!--\n--></div><span style=\"font-size:80%\">Video submitted to Ballotpedia<br/>Released September 12, 2025</span>\n</td></tr></tbody></table></div>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"></div>", "answer_text": "Video submitted to Ballotpedia Released September 12, 2025"}, {"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>Jazmin Robinson 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 Robinson'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-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading-bio-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-361943-2025-09-09\" 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-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-361943-2025-09-09\" 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 Jazmin J. Robinson, and I’m running for U.S. House of Representatives in Illinois’ 7th District. For over a decade, I’ve worked in corporate America as a Human Resources leader focused on making workplaces fairer for employees. I built systems to ensure equal pay, negotiated with healthcare providers to secure better benefits, and designed policies that supported people through major life changes. I’ve also seen H.R.’s shortcomings and pushed for equity and accountability from within.\r\n<p>The policy I’m running on, the H.E.A.L. Act (free universal Health Care, Education including childcare, college, and trade schools, Access to Government &amp; Fair Markets, and a Living Wage), is essentially a benefit package I designed for the American people, just like I’ve done for employees throughout my career. It’s funded fairly by asking millionaires, billionaires, and big corporations to finally pay their share in taxes. My goal is simple: build a government that works for everyday people, not just the wealthy few.\r\n</p><p>Outside of HR, I’m also a comedian and improviser, performing at places like Second City, iO, and now on iO’s first BIPOC house team, D.A.R.E Dropouts. Comedy has taught me the power of listening, quick thinking, and connecting with people.\r\n</p>\nPersonally, I’m happily married to my husband of eight years, with two spoiled cats. I’m a proud aunt, a blue belt in jiu jitsu, and someone who loves trying new things, from horseback riding to summer softball.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading-key-message-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-361943-2025-09-09\" 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-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>The H.E.A.L. Act puts people over the 1%. It ends billionaire, corporate, and lobbyist control of our government and invests in Americans for the long term. My goal is to lock this in as a constitutional amendment so it lasts for generations.</li><li>Investing in people is the best investment. When we fund healthcare, education, and fair wages, we improve well-being, spark innovation, and build stronger communities.</li><li>The H.E.A.L. Act is for all Americans. Even if you don’t live in my district, share it with your representatives. Real change only happens when we unite and demand a government that works for everyone, not just the wealthy few.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading1-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-361943-2025-09-09\" 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=\"heading1-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-361943-2025-09-09\" 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 any public policy that invests in the American people and strengthens our communities. My signature plan, the H.E.A.L. Act (free Health Care, Education, Access to Government &amp; Fair Markets, and a Living Wage), reflects that vision. I care deeply about:<br/><br/>\n<p>Health care — ensuring every American has access to free, high-quality care.<br/><br/>\r\nEducation &amp; childcare — from free pre-K to tuition-free public colleges and trade schools.<br/><br/>\r\nAccess to Government &amp; Fair Markets: ending corporate and lobbyist control of politics and returning power to voters. Breaking down monopolies that hurt small businesses and raise prices for all Americans.<br/><br/>\n</p>\nLiving Wage: tying paychecks to the true cost of living and supporting small businesses.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading2-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-361943-2025-09-09\" 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=\"heading2-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-361943-2025-09-09\" 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 list is endless and keeps growing. I look up to my grandpa, who taught me kindness and empathy; my mom, who has the strongest work ethic I’ve ever seen; and all my Tías, who taught me that life isn’t just about work, you need to have fun too. I also draw inspiration from friends, coworkers, and mentors I’ve met along the way.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading3-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-361943-2025-09-09\" 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=\"heading3-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-361943-2025-09-09\" 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\tFor me, the most important qualities are transparency, communication, and partnership. Voters deserve quarterly updates on what their representatives are doing, the progress being made, and how they can get involved. Education is also key, people should know their rights and how to advocate for themselves so they can help shape the government they want. At the end of the day, elected officials must work in true partnership with both their colleagues and their constituents.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading4-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-361943-2025-09-09\" 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=\"heading4-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-361943-2025-09-09\" 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 responsibility of a Representative is to uphold our Constitution and democracy while ensuring government works for the American people, not just the wealthy few. Just like any job, it also means doing what voters hired you to do, fulfilling your campaign promises, and staying accountable to the people you represent.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading5-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-361943-2025-09-09\" 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=\"heading5-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tTo be honest, I’ve never thought much about leaving a legacy. I just try to live by kindness, empathy, and grace. I don’t know what anyone else is going through, but if I can make someone’s day a little easier, or even make them laugh, that’s a win, and hopefully they’ll pass that kindness on to someone else.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading6-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-361943-2025-09-09\" 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=\"heading6-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-361943-2025-09-09\" 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 major event I remember is the 9/11 terrorist attacks. I was a freshman in high school, sitting in algebra class. Our teacher had the TV on a news channel but eventually turned it off and tried to return to the lesson. None of us could really focus, and looking back, I think the teacher was just trying to create a sense of normalcy in a moment when no one knew what to do.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading7-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-361943-2025-09-09\" 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=\"heading7-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-361943-2025-09-09\" 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 first job was at PetSmart because I love animals. I learned so much there, like how sweet a bearded dragon can be, and that I’d never own a goldfish (they’re way too much work!).\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading8-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse8-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-361943-2025-09-09\" 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=\"heading8-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse8-361943-2025-09-09\" 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 can’t choose just one! Some of my favorites are Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, anything by David Sedaris, Clever Girl Finance by Bola Sokunbi, A ComedySportz Games Manual by Matthew Russell, A Very Punchable Face by Colin Jost, The Confidence Gap by Dr. Russ Harris, The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron, Invisible Women by Caroline Criado Perez, anything by Mark Rashid, Leslie F*cking Jones by Leslie Jones, Finding Me by Viola Davis, and countless others. I love books that make me laugh, help me grow, or let me see the world through a different point of view.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading9-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse9-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-361943-2025-09-09\" 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=\"heading9-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse9-361943-2025-09-09\" 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’d love to be a Doctor Who companion and travel through space and time. Or Nightcrawler from X-Men, because teleportation is the ultimate power. Or maybe even a Muppet so I could hang out with Pepé the King Prawn, look, I know he’s not perfect, but he is hilarious.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading10-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse10-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-361943-2025-09-09\" 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=\"heading10-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse10-361943-2025-09-09\" 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\tStruggles change as people grow. For me, I work through challenges by de-escalating, problem-solving, and reminding myself that I’m human, I’ll make mistakes and stumble along the way. One ongoing struggle is accepting that I can’t do everything. Life is full of amazing experiences like travel, books, movies, music, games, and more, but I have to accept that I can’t experience them all. That’s hard for me, but it’s also a reminder to be present and appreciate the things I do get to enjoy.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading11-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse11-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading11-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse11-361943-2025-09-09\" 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 House originates all tax and revenue bills. That’s critical because the H.E.A.L. Act is funded by fair taxes on the ultra-wealthy and corporations. As a Representative, I would use that power to move this plan forward.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading12-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse12-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-361943-2025-09-09\" 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=\"heading12-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse12-361943-2025-09-09\" 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\tEvery member of Congress has a team of lawyers, economists, and policy experts to help guide them through government systems. That means prior political experience can be helpful, but it isn’t required to succeed. Even career politicians moving from local to federal office need time to adjust, like any new job, it typically takes 6–12 months to get fully acclimated.<br/><br/>\n<p>Limiting leadership to only career politicians reduces diversity and fresh ideas. Leaders like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Jasmine Crockett, Lauren Underwood, and Maxwell Frost all came from outside traditional government paths and changed the conversation in Congress.<br/><br/>\n</p>\nI bring real-world experience negotiating with major healthcare companies, building national benefit plans, and managing global compliance programs, skills Congress needs to create policies that work for everyday Americans.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading13-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse13-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-361943-2025-09-09\" 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=\"heading13-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse13-361943-2025-09-09\" 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 greatest challenge is that government is too often controlled by corporations, lobbyists, and PACs instead of the people. That’s why we can’t get progress on healthcare, education, wages, or gun reform. The H.E.A.L. Act changes that by ending special-interest money and restoring power to voters.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading14-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse14-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-361943-2025-09-09\" 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=\"heading14-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse14-361943-2025-09-09\" 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\tYes. If members aren’t doing their job, voters should have the chance to replace them quickly. The H.E.A.L. Act also requires quarterly town halls and reports so voters can see progress in real time, not just at election time.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading15-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse15-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-361943-2025-09-09\" 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=\"heading15-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse15-361943-2025-09-09\" 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 support lifetime appointees or lifetime seats in government. The President’s two-term limit is important and should remain in place. For Congress, though, term limits create more problems than they solve. Like any new job, it typically takes 6–12 months for a member to get fully acclimated, and constant turnover would slow progress on bills and policies by forcing retraining and erasing valuable institutional knowledge. Term limits would also weaken expertise and give lobbyists even more influence.<br/><br/>\r\nInstead of arbitrary limits, the H.E.A.L. Act plan tackles the real concerns behind term-limit debates by making elections fairer with ranked-choice voting, banning corporate money, and publicly funding campaigns so voters, not special interests, decide who serves and for how long.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading16-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse16-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-361943-2025-09-09\" 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=\"heading16-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse16-361943-2025-09-09\" 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 draw inspiration from leaders like Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Bernie Sanders, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Jasmine Crockett, Lauren Underwood, and Maxwell Frost, representatives who put the American people ahead of the wealthy few. I also learn from leaders I may not align with. They remind me of what I don’t stand for and challenge me to respond with facts, transparency, and solutions that keep people at the center.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading17-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse17-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tBoth sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading17-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse17-361943-2025-09-09\" 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\tYes, I’ve heard countless stories that stay with me. People working multiple jobs and still unable to afford healthcare. Neighbors with good careers spending $60,000 a year on daycare. Students shut out of education by cost. Residents forced to choose between rent and food. These struggles aren’t unique to Illinois, they’re happening across the country. That’s why I created the H.E.A.L. Act: to guarantee free healthcare, childcare, and education (college and trade school), and to ensure a living wage so everyone can thrive, not just survive.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading18-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse18-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-361943-2025-09-09\" 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=\"heading18-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse18-361943-2025-09-09\" 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\tYes, feedback is a gift, and I will listen and compromise when it makes a policy better. But I will not compromise on protecting people. I won’t support any bill that harms Americans’ wellbeing or freedoms.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading19-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse19-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-361943-2025-09-09\" 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=\"heading19-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse19-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tIt’s central. The H.E.A.L. Act uses this power to raise revenue by taxing millionaires, billionaires, and corporations fairly. Those funds will provide universal healthcare, childcare, and tuition-free education, while also reducing the deficit by more than $1 trillion a year.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading20-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse20-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-361943-2025-09-09\" 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=\"heading20-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse20-361943-2025-09-09\" 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\tOversight is essential to maintaining trust in government. The House must investigate abuses of power, whether corruption, corporate misconduct, or crimes like those tied to Jeffrey Epstein. Accountability should apply equally: no one, no matter how wealthy or well-connected, is above the law.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading21-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse21-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tCandidates hear many personal stories from voters. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching or memorable?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading21-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse21-361943-2025-09-09\" 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\tYes, I’ve heard so many stories that stay with me. People working multiple jobs and still unable to afford healthcare. Neighbors with good careers spending $60,000 a year on daycare. Students shut out of education by cost. Residents forced to choose between rent and food. Farmers losing their farms and livelihoods. These struggles aren’t unique to Illinois, they’re happening across the country. That’s why I created the H.E.A.L. Act: to guarantee free healthcare, childcare, education (college and trade school), and a living wage so everyone can thrive, not just survive.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading22-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse22-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-361943-2025-09-09\" 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 an accomplishment that you are proud of?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading22-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse22-361943-2025-09-09\" 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 try to practice gratitude and see the positive side of things. I don’t ignore the hard or negative parts of life, I treat them as opportunities to learn. To me, failures are lessons and challenges are chances to grow. I’m proud of the person I’ve become by embracing that mindset and leaning into exposure therapy: trying new, scary, or uncomfortable things until they become second nature. It’s taught me resilience, confidence, and how to keep moving forward.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse23-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading23-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse23-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse23-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat role should the United States government have in the development or use of artificial intelligence?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading23-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse23-361943-2025-09-09\" 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 government’s role should be oversight, setting guardrails to ensure Artificial intelligence (AI) is safe, factual, and cannot be misused to harm people.<br/><br/>\n<p>AI must be regulated so it cannot be used to harm people. We’ve already seen tragic cases where AI has been misused, and we need strong safeguards to prevent self-harm, bias, or misinformation. Since people often use AI like a search engine, it should be fact-based and reliable, not just another platform that spreads unchecked opinions.<br/><br/>\r\nThe environmental impact is also critical. AI relies on massive data centers that consume enormous amounts of water and electricity, creating risks of water scarcity and a large carbon footprint. We need solutions that allow us to leverage this technology without harming communities or the environment.<br/><br/>\r\nAt the same time, AI is a revolutionary invention. Its knowledge base comes from people, everything we’ve put on the internet, from research to art, so credit and fair compensation should go back to the people. AI should remain free and accessible, not controlled by just a few corporations.<br/><br/>\r\nWhen used responsibly, AI has enormous potential:<br/>\r\n1. Identifying new antibiotics and accelerating medical research.<br/>\r\n2. Helping detect cancer and other diseases earlier and more accurately.<br/>\r\n3. Improving climate modeling and renewable energy systems.<br/>\r\n4. Supporting accessibility tools like speech-to-text, real-time translation, and assistive devices for people with disabilities.<br/>\r\n5. Streamlining work in fields from education to small business, freeing up time for creativity and innovation.<br/><br/>\n</p>\nWith the right guardrails, AI can transform lives for the better, but the government’s job is to make sure it works for people, not against them.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse24-361943-2025-09-09\" id=\"heading24-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse24-361943-2025-09-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse24-361943-2025-09-09\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat legislation would you enact related to election administration in the United States?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading24-361943-2025-09-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse24-361943-2025-09-09\" 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 pass laws that make our elections more fair, transparent, and accountable. The H.E.A.L. Act includes reforms like ending the Electoral College, establishing ranked-choice voting for federal races, banning corporate and lobbyist money, and replacing it with public campaign funding. It also requires real-time disclosure of donations, quarterly town halls, and quick special elections to fill vacancies. These changes ensure government is accountable to the people, not special interests, and that every vote truly counts.\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\nJazmin Robinson completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Robinson's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. I’m Jazmin J. Robinson, and I’m running for U.S. House of Representatives in Illinois’ 7th District. For over a decade, I’ve worked in corporate America as a Human Resources leader focused on making workplaces fairer for employees. I built systems to ensure equal pay, negotiated with healthcare providers to secure better benefits, and designed policies that supported people through major life changes. I’ve also seen H.R.’s shortcomings and pushed for equity and accountability from within. The policy I’m running on, the H.E.A.L. Act (free universal Health Care, Education including childcare, college, and trade schools, Access to Government & Fair Markets, and a Living Wage), is essentially a benefit package I designed for the American people, just like I’ve done for employees throughout my career. It’s funded fairly by asking millionaires, billionaires, and big corporations to finally pay their share in taxes. My goal is simple: build a government that works for everyday people, not just the wealthy few. Outside of HR, I’m also a comedian and improviser, performing at places like Second City, iO, and now on iO’s first BIPOC house team, D.A.R.E Dropouts. Comedy has taught me the power of listening, quick thinking, and connecting with people. Personally, I’m happily married to my husband of eight years, with two spoiled cats. I’m a proud aunt, a blue belt in jiu jitsu, and someone who loves trying new things, from horseback riding to summer softball. 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? The H.E.A.L. Act puts people over the 1%. It ends billionaire, corporate, and lobbyist control of our government and invests in Americans for the long term. My goal is to lock this in as a constitutional amendment so it lasts for generations. Investing in people is the best investment. When we fund healthcare, education, and fair wages, we improve well-being, spark innovation, and build stronger communities. The H.E.A.L. Act is for all Americans. Even if you don’t live in my district, share it with your representatives. Real change only happens when we unite and demand a government that works for everyone, not just the wealthy few. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? I’m passionate about any public policy that invests in the American people and strengthens our communities. My signature plan, the H.E.A.L. Act (free Health Care, Education, Access to Government & Fair Markets, and a Living Wage), reflects that vision. I care deeply about: Health care — ensuring every American has access to free, high-quality care. Education & childcare — from free pre-K to tuition-free public colleges and trade schools. Access to Government & Fair Markets: ending corporate and lobbyist control of politics and returning power to voters. Breaking down monopolies that hurt small businesses and raise prices for all Americans. Living Wage: tying paychecks to the true cost of living and supporting small businesses. Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why? My list is endless and keeps growing. I look up to my grandpa, who taught me kindness and empathy; my mom, who has the strongest work ethic I’ve ever seen; and all my Tías, who taught me that life isn’t just about work, you need to have fun too. I also draw inspiration from friends, coworkers, and mentors I’ve met along the way. What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? For me, the most important qualities are transparency, communication, and partnership. Voters deserve quarterly updates on what their representatives are doing, the progress being made, and how they can get involved. Education is also key, people should know their rights and how to advocate for themselves so they can help shape the government they want. At the end of the day, elected officials must work in true partnership with both their colleagues and their constituents. What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office? The core responsibility of a Representative is to uphold our Constitution and democracy while ensuring government works for the American people, not just the wealthy few. Just like any job, it also means doing what voters hired you to do, fulfilling your campaign promises, and staying accountable to the people you represent. What legacy would you like to leave? To be honest, I’ve never thought much about leaving a legacy. I just try to live by kindness, empathy, and grace. I don’t know what anyone else is going through, but if I can make someone’s day a little easier, or even make them laugh, that’s a win, and hopefully they’ll pass that kindness on to someone else. What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time? The first major event I remember is the 9/11 terrorist attacks. I was a freshman in high school, sitting in algebra class. Our teacher had the TV on a news channel but eventually turned it off and tried to return to the lesson. None of us could really focus, and looking back, I think the teacher was just trying to create a sense of normalcy in a moment when no one knew what to do. What was your very first job? How long did you have it? My first job was at PetSmart because I love animals. I learned so much there, like how sweet a bearded dragon can be, and that I’d never own a goldfish (they’re way too much work!). What is your favorite book? Why? I can’t choose just one! Some of my favorites are Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, anything by David Sedaris, Clever Girl Finance by Bola Sokunbi, A ComedySportz Games Manual by Matthew Russell, A Very Punchable Face by Colin Jost, The Confidence Gap by Dr. Russ Harris, The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron, Invisible Women by Caroline Criado Perez, anything by Mark Rashid, Leslie F*cking Jones by Leslie Jones, Finding Me by Viola Davis, and countless others. I love books that make me laugh, help me grow, or let me see the world through a different point of view. If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be? I’d love to be a Doctor Who companion and travel through space and time. Or Nightcrawler from X-Men, because teleportation is the ultimate power. Or maybe even a Muppet so I could hang out with Pepé the King Prawn, look, I know he’s not perfect, but he is hilarious. What is something that has been a struggle in your life? Struggles change as people grow. For me, I work through challenges by de-escalating, problem-solving, and reminding myself that I’m human, I’ll make mistakes and stumble along the way. One ongoing struggle is accepting that I can’t do everything. Life is full of amazing experiences like travel, books, movies, music, games, and more, but I have to accept that I can’t experience them all. That’s hard for me, but it’s also a reminder to be present and appreciate the things I do get to enjoy. What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution? The House originates all tax and revenue bills. That’s critical because the H.E.A.L. Act is funded by fair taxes on the ultra-wealthy and corporations. As a Representative, I would use that power to move this plan forward. Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics? Every member of Congress has a team of lawyers, economists, and policy experts to help guide them through government systems. That means prior political experience can be helpful, but it isn’t required to succeed. Even career politicians moving from local to federal office need time to adjust, like any new job, it typically takes 6–12 months to get fully acclimated. Limiting leadership to only career politicians reduces diversity and fresh ideas. Leaders like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Jasmine Crockett, Lauren Underwood, and Maxwell Frost all came from outside traditional government paths and changed the conversation in Congress. I bring real-world experience negotiating with major healthcare companies, building national benefit plans, and managing global compliance programs, skills Congress needs to create policies that work for everyday Americans. What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade? Our greatest challenge is that government is too often controlled by corporations, lobbyists, and PACs instead of the people. That’s why we can’t get progress on healthcare, education, wages, or gun reform. The H.E.A.L. Act changes that by ending special-interest money and restoring power to voters. Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives? Yes. If members aren’t doing their job, voters should have the chance to replace them quickly. The H.E.A.L. Act also requires quarterly town halls and reports so voters can see progress in real time, not just at election time. What are your thoughts on term limits? I do not support lifetime appointees or lifetime seats in government. The President’s two-term limit is important and should remain in place. For Congress, though, term limits create more problems than they solve. Like any new job, it typically takes 6–12 months for a member to get fully acclimated, and constant turnover would slow progress on bills and policies by forcing retraining and erasing valuable institutional knowledge. Term limits would also weaken expertise and give lobbyists even more influence. Instead of arbitrary limits, the H.E.A.L. Act plan tackles the real concerns behind term-limit debates by making elections fairer with ranked-choice voting, banning corporate money, and publicly funding campaigns so voters, not special interests, decide who serves and for how long. Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after? I draw inspiration from leaders like Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Bernie Sanders, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Jasmine Crockett, Lauren Underwood, and Maxwell Frost, representatives who put the American people ahead of the wealthy few. I also learn from leaders I may not align with. They remind me of what I don’t stand for and challenge me to respond with facts, transparency, and solutions that keep people at the center. Both sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful? Yes, I’ve heard countless stories that stay with me. People working multiple jobs and still unable to afford healthcare. Neighbors with good careers spending $60,000 a year on daycare. Students shut out of education by cost. Residents forced to choose between rent and food. These struggles aren’t unique to Illinois, they’re happening across the country. That’s why I created the H.E.A.L. Act: to guarantee free healthcare, childcare, and education (college and trade school), and to ensure a living wage so everyone can thrive, not just survive. Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking? Yes, feedback is a gift, and I will listen and compromise when it makes a policy better. But I will not compromise on protecting people. I won’t support any bill that harms Americans’ wellbeing or freedoms. 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? It’s central. The H.E.A.L. Act uses this power to raise revenue by taxing millionaires, billionaires, and corporations fairly. Those funds will provide universal healthcare, childcare, and tuition-free education, while also reducing the deficit by more than $1 trillion a year. How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers? Oversight is essential to maintaining trust in government. The House must investigate abuses of power, whether corruption, corporate misconduct, or crimes like those tied to Jeffrey Epstein. Accountability should apply equally: no one, no matter how wealthy or well-connected, is above the law. Candidates hear many personal stories from voters. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching or memorable? Yes, I’ve heard so many stories that stay with me. People working multiple jobs and still unable to afford healthcare. Neighbors with good careers spending $60,000 a year on daycare. Students shut out of education by cost. Residents forced to choose between rent and food. Farmers losing their farms and livelihoods. These struggles aren’t unique to Illinois, they’re happening across the country. That’s why I created the H.E.A.L. Act: to guarantee free healthcare, childcare, education (college and trade school), and a living wage so everyone can thrive, not just survive. What is an accomplishment that you are proud of? I try to practice gratitude and see the positive side of things. I don’t ignore the hard or negative parts of life, I treat them as opportunities to learn. To me, failures are lessons and challenges are chances to grow. I’m proud of the person I’ve become by embracing that mindset and leaning into exposure therapy: trying new, scary, or uncomfortable things until they become second nature. It’s taught me resilience, confidence, and how to keep moving forward. What role should the United States government have in the development or use of artificial intelligence? The government’s role should be oversight, setting guardrails to ensure Artificial intelligence (AI) is safe, factual, and cannot be misused to harm people. AI must be regulated so it cannot be used to harm people. We’ve already seen tragic cases where AI has been misused, and we need strong safeguards to prevent self-harm, bias, or misinformation. Since people often use AI like a search engine, it should be fact-based and reliable, not just another platform that spreads unchecked opinions. The environmental impact is also critical. AI relies on massive data centers that consume enormous amounts of water and electricity, creating risks of water scarcity and a large carbon footprint. We need solutions that allow us to leverage this technology without harming communities or the environment. At the same time, AI is a revolutionary invention. Its knowledge base comes from people, everything we’ve put on the internet, from research to art, so credit and fair compensation should go back to the people. AI should remain free and accessible, not controlled by just a few corporations. When used responsibly, AI has enormous potential: 1. Identifying new antibiotics and accelerating medical research. 2. Helping detect cancer and other diseases earlier and more accurately. 3. Improving climate modeling and renewable energy systems. 4. Supporting accessibility tools like speech-to-text, real-time translation, and assistive devices for people with disabilities. 5. Streamlining work in fields from education to small business, freeing up time for creativity and innovation. With the right guardrails, AI can transform lives for the better, but the government’s job is to make sure it works for people, not against them. What legislation would you enact related to election administration in the United States? I would pass laws that make our elections more fair, transparent, and accountable. The H.E.A.L. Act includes reforms like ending the Electoral College, establishing ranked-choice voting for federal races, banning corporate and lobbyist money, and replacing it with public campaign funding. It also requires real-time disclosure of donations, quarterly town halls, and quick special elections to fill vacancies. These changes ensure government is accountable to the people, not special interests, and that every vote truly counts.\nNote: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. 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