Jeromie Patrick Whalen

[{"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>Jeromie Whalen 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 Whalen'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-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading-bio-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-359795-2025-11-17\" 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-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-359795-2025-11-17\" 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\tJeromie Whalen is a lifelong Western Massachusetts resident shaped by the values of hard work, respect, and community. Raised in Belchertown and now living in South Hadley with his wife, he has spent more than a decade as a high school teacher, mentor, and community builder. He earned three degrees from UMass Amherst and built his career around helping young people grow, solving real problems, and lifting others up.\r\nHe is running for Congress because he believes this district deserves a representative rooted in the community, not in special interests. His vision focuses on fairness, integrity, and bringing hope and energy back into public service. Jeromie sees this campaign as a movement built by and for the people of Western and Central Massachusetts, and he is committed to showing up, listening, and fighting for a better future for everyone.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading-key-message-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-359795-2025-11-17\" 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-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>Lower taxes and raise them on billionaires. Raise the tax threshold for working and middle class: Create a Cost of Living Exemption so that federal taxes do not apply to income up to a realistic cost of living for a single adult, set around $45,000 per year. Surcharge on the ultra wealthy: Add a 3 percent surtax on income over $1 million, and an 8 percent surtax on income over $15 million. Close the stepped up basis loophole: End the “buy, borrow, die” system that lets the ultra wealthy avoid taxes while their assets grow.</li><li>Make healthcare work. Implement Medicare for All to guarantee healthcare for every American through a single payer system with full coverage. Expand access to mental health services and preventative care to stop problems early, and cap prescription drug prices so essential medications like insulin stay affordable. Strengthen support for nurses and frontline healthcare staff by raising pay, improving staffing ratios, and ensuring safe working conditions. Finally, bolster EMS services by addressing staff shortages, rising call volumes, and the financial strain facing first responders across Western Massachusetts.</li><li>Empower public education. Raise teacher pay to attract and retain strong educators, and restore the Department of Education so it can set national standards, protect student rights, and promote equity. Guarantee universal, high quality Pre K so every child gets an equal start and working families have reliable early education options. Fully fund public schools instead of diverting money to private institutions, including proper support for special education. Make community college and vocational training tuition free so every American can access higher education, job training, and real paths to economic mobility.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading1-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-359795-2025-11-17\" 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=\"heading1-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-359795-2025-11-17\" 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\tEducation, economy, healthcare, technology.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading2-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-359795-2025-11-17\" 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=\"heading2-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-359795-2025-11-17\" 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 my campaign team and volunteers, and to everyone who has helped me get to where I am today. The amount of work and selflessness they show, and the belief they have in me, is something I am forever grateful for.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading3-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-359795-2025-11-17\" 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=\"heading3-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-359795-2025-11-17\" 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\tIntegrity, accessibility, responsiveness, determination, action, leadership, advocacy, charitableness, relatability.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading4-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-359795-2025-11-17\" 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=\"heading4-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-359795-2025-11-17\" 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\tListening to constituents, meeting them in the community where they are, understanding their questions and concerns, and advocating for the specific needs of the communities you represent.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading5-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-359795-2025-11-17\" 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=\"heading5-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-359795-2025-11-17\" 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 matter what, I gave it my absolute all, and my intentions were always good.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading6-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-359795-2025-11-17\" 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=\"heading6-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-359795-2025-11-17\" 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\tMaybe not the very first, but I remember 9/11 clearly. I was in Spanish class when the teacher got the news and became frantic, speaking so fast in Spanish none of us could follow. In her panic, she drew two rectangles on the board, then erased them, then turned on the television. That was when we saw everything unfolding. The world changed from that moment on.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading7-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat was your very first job? How long did you have it?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading7-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-359795-2025-11-17\" 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\tStocking beer at a local package store. I used to break apart 30 packs and turn them into six packs, and I got pretty damn fast at it. Fun fact, I learned how to whistle while working in the back refrigerator stocking Natty Light. Had it for two years.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading8-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse8-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-359795-2025-11-17\" 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 your favorite book? Why?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading8-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse8-359795-2025-11-17\" 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\tAnything by Steinbeck. The simplicity and the depth of his writing get me every time.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading9-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse9-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-359795-2025-11-17\" 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=\"heading9-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse9-359795-2025-11-17\" 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\tProbably Gandalf. First, he has been around for literal ages. Second, he fought and beat a Balrog. Third, he played a crucial role in the survival of Middle Earth. And finally, he got to spend eternity in the Grey Havens. He also routinely sacrificed himself for the greater good.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading10-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse10-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-359795-2025-11-17\" 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 something that has been a struggle in your life?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading10-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse10-359795-2025-11-17\" 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\tSaying no. I’m a yes person, and that can stretch you thin if you do not surround yourself with people you can rely on to share responsibilities and help guide the vision.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading11-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse11-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat 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=\"heading11-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse11-359795-2025-11-17\" 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 see the House of Representatives as the branch that best reflects democratic principles. Its representation by population, combined with the number of people a member interacts with, makes it more closely aligned with genuine, responsive representation than the Senate. This gives you the ability to truly embrace the individuality of your district and the people who live in it.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading12-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse12-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-359795-2025-11-17\" 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=\"heading12-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse12-359795-2025-11-17\" 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\tAbsolutely not. At this point it’s more of a liability than a benefit. Congress and the Democratic Party are at historic lows in approval, and a major reason is the corporatism tied to long term politicians and their relationships with wealthy donors. We need real people who understand our communities, who can reflect actual needs, and who bring grounded perspective to the work.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading13-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse13-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-359795-2025-11-17\" 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 perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading13-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse13-359795-2025-11-17\" 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\tAffordability, addressing healthcare inequities, and overcoming political divides.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading14-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse14-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat are your thoughts on term limits?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading14-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse14-359795-2025-11-17\" 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 support term limits because they help keep our government accountable and connected to the people it serves. When officials stay in office for too long, they can become disconnected from everyday realities and too tied to special interests. They also reduce the power of career politicians and keep public service focused on service, not self preservation.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading15-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse15-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-359795-2025-11-17\" 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=\"heading15-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse15-359795-2025-11-17\" 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\tThere was a long-time representative in Western MA named Silvio Conte, who was beloved for his visibility and accessibility. He was succeeded by John Olver, who continued that tradition of connecting with every part of the district. I have tremendous respect for leaders who show up, stay engaged, and are truly embedded in the community.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading16-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse16-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-359795-2025-11-17\" 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=\"heading16-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse16-359795-2025-11-17\" 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 recently at a healthcare summit and listened as a woman, in tears, described how a certified nursing assistant she worked with, here on a valid visa, suddenly disappeared after being taken by ICE. He had proper documentation, yet he was gone without warning, leaving behind patients who relied on him and coworkers who cared about him. She went on to explain that Massachusetts already faces a shortage of CNAs, and losing him was not only morally wrong but carried economic consequences for their facility and the people they serve. The current immigration crackdown is both fiscally irresponsible and inhumane.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading17-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse17-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-359795-2025-11-17\" 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=\"heading17-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse17-359795-2025-11-17\" 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 always needed in policymaking.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading18-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse18-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-359795-2025-11-17\" 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=\"heading18-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse18-359795-2025-11-17\" 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 House needs to step up its game and raise more hell when a president thinks he is above what the legislature appropriates.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading19-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse19-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-359795-2025-11-17\" 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=\"heading19-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse19-359795-2025-11-17\" 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\tObjectively, but frequently when faced with issues.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading20-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse20-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading20-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse20-359795-2025-11-17\" 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\tTrack AIPAC, Progressive Democrats of America\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading21-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse21-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-359795-2025-11-17\" 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=\"heading21-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse21-359795-2025-11-17\" 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\tThere are some truly beautiful people out there, let me tell you. There is a woman who occasionally sends me photos of the sunrise or sunset, no context, just something beautiful she wanted to share. There is also a man who sends me short poems every week. Both are essentially strangers, yet their small gestures remind me how interconnected we all are, and how we can appreciate one another in simple, quiet, and profound ways.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading22-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse22-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-359795-2025-11-17\" 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 an accomplishment that you are proud of?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading22-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse22-359795-2025-11-17\" 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\tWinning an Emmy. It was a Boston/New England Regional Emmy, and I earned it with a crew of students and volunteers, using equipment borrowed from a community media center and working with a zero dollar budget. We were up against massive, multi million dollar media companies, and we won. It shows how far you can go when you know what you are doing and the people around you believe in you.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse23-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading23-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse23-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse23-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat role should the United States government have in the development or use of artificial intelligence?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading23-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse23-359795-2025-11-17\" 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 government needs to regulate artificial intelligence and become far more informed about how technology actually works. Right now we have an aging group of legislators who are out of touch with modern tech, yet they are the ones responsible for protecting our privacy and security. Half of Congress can barely remember their passwords, yet they are expected to make decisions that shape the digital future.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse24-359795-2025-11-17\" id=\"heading24-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse24-359795-2025-11-17\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse24-359795-2025-11-17\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat legislation would you enact related to election administration in the United States?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading24-359795-2025-11-17\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse24-359795-2025-11-17\" 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\tCurrently, Jim McGovern (MA-02) is pushing for a constitutional amendment to overturn Citizens United and get corporate money out of politics. That is a great start.\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\nJeromie Whalen completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Whalen's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. Jeromie Whalen is a lifelong Western Massachusetts resident shaped by the values of hard work, respect, and community. Raised in Belchertown and now living in South Hadley with his wife, he has spent more than a decade as a high school teacher, mentor, and community builder. He earned three degrees from UMass Amherst and built his career around helping young people grow, solving real problems, and lifting others up.\r\nHe is running for Congress because he believes this district deserves a representative rooted in the community, not in special interests. His vision focuses on fairness, integrity, and bringing hope and energy back into public service. Jeromie sees this campaign as a movement built by and for the people of Western and Central Massachusetts, and he is committed to showing up, listening, and fighting for a better future for everyone. 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? Lower taxes and raise them on billionaires. Raise the tax threshold for working and middle class: Create a Cost of Living Exemption so that federal taxes do not apply to income up to a realistic cost of living for a single adult, set around $45,000 per year. Surcharge on the ultra wealthy: Add a 3 percent surtax on income over $1 million, and an 8 percent surtax on income over $15 million. Close the stepped up basis loophole: End the “buy, borrow, die” system that lets the ultra wealthy avoid taxes while their assets grow. Make healthcare work. Implement Medicare for All to guarantee healthcare for every American through a single payer system with full coverage. Expand access to mental health services and preventative care to stop problems early, and cap prescription drug prices so essential medications like insulin stay affordable. Strengthen support for nurses and frontline healthcare staff by raising pay, improving staffing ratios, and ensuring safe working conditions. Finally, bolster EMS services by addressing staff shortages, rising call volumes, and the financial strain facing first responders across Western Massachusetts. Empower public education. Raise teacher pay to attract and retain strong educators, and restore the Department of Education so it can set national standards, protect student rights, and promote equity. Guarantee universal, high quality Pre K so every child gets an equal start and working families have reliable early education options. Fully fund public schools instead of diverting money to private institutions, including proper support for special education. Make community college and vocational training tuition free so every American can access higher education, job training, and real paths to economic mobility. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? Education, economy, healthcare, technology. Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why? I look up to my campaign team and volunteers, and to everyone who has helped me get to where I am today. The amount of work and selflessness they show, and the belief they have in me, is something I am forever grateful for. What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? Integrity, accessibility, responsiveness, determination, action, leadership, advocacy, charitableness, relatability. What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office? Listening to constituents, meeting them in the community where they are, understanding their questions and concerns, and advocating for the specific needs of the communities you represent. What legacy would you like to leave? No matter what, I gave it my absolute all, and my intentions were always good. What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time? Maybe not the very first, but I remember 9/11 clearly. I was in Spanish class when the teacher got the news and became frantic, speaking so fast in Spanish none of us could follow. In her panic, she drew two rectangles on the board, then erased them, then turned on the television. That was when we saw everything unfolding. The world changed from that moment on. What was your very first job? How long did you have it? Stocking beer at a local package store. I used to break apart 30 packs and turn them into six packs, and I got pretty damn fast at it. Fun fact, I learned how to whistle while working in the back refrigerator stocking Natty Light. Had it for two years. What is your favorite book? Why? Anything by Steinbeck. The simplicity and the depth of his writing get me every time. If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be? Probably Gandalf. First, he has been around for literal ages. Second, he fought and beat a Balrog. Third, he played a crucial role in the survival of Middle Earth. And finally, he got to spend eternity in the Grey Havens. He also routinely sacrificed himself for the greater good. What is something that has been a struggle in your life? Saying no. I’m a yes person, and that can stretch you thin if you do not surround yourself with people you can rely on to share responsibilities and help guide the vision. What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution? I see the House of Representatives as the branch that best reflects democratic principles. Its representation by population, combined with the number of people a member interacts with, makes it more closely aligned with genuine, responsive representation than the Senate. This gives you the ability to truly embrace the individuality of your district and the people who live in it. Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics? Absolutely not. At this point it’s more of a liability than a benefit. Congress and the Democratic Party are at historic lows in approval, and a major reason is the corporatism tied to long term politicians and their relationships with wealthy donors. We need real people who understand our communities, who can reflect actual needs, and who bring grounded perspective to the work. What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade? Affordability, addressing healthcare inequities, and overcoming political divides. What are your thoughts on term limits? I support term limits because they help keep our government accountable and connected to the people it serves. When officials stay in office for too long, they can become disconnected from everyday realities and too tied to special interests. They also reduce the power of career politicians and keep public service focused on service, not self preservation. Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after? There was a long-time representative in Western MA named Silvio Conte, who was beloved for his visibility and accessibility. He was succeeded by John Olver, who continued that tradition of connecting with every part of the district. I have tremendous respect for leaders who show up, stay engaged, and are truly embedded in the community. 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? I was recently at a healthcare summit and listened as a woman, in tears, described how a certified nursing assistant she worked with, here on a valid visa, suddenly disappeared after being taken by ICE. He had proper documentation, yet he was gone without warning, leaving behind patients who relied on him and coworkers who cared about him. She went on to explain that Massachusetts already faces a shortage of CNAs, and losing him was not only morally wrong but carried economic consequences for their facility and the people they serve. The current immigration crackdown is both fiscally irresponsible and inhumane. Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking? Compromise is always needed in policymaking. 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? The House needs to step up its game and raise more hell when a president thinks he is above what the legislature appropriates. How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers? Objectively, but frequently when faced with issues. What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign? Track AIPAC, Progressive Democrats of America Candidates hear many personal stories from voters. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching or memorable? There are some truly beautiful people out there, let me tell you. There is a woman who occasionally sends me photos of the sunrise or sunset, no context, just something beautiful she wanted to share. There is also a man who sends me short poems every week. Both are essentially strangers, yet their small gestures remind me how interconnected we all are, and how we can appreciate one another in simple, quiet, and profound ways. What is an accomplishment that you are proud of? Winning an Emmy. It was a Boston/New England Regional Emmy, and I earned it with a crew of students and volunteers, using equipment borrowed from a community media center and working with a zero dollar budget. We were up against massive, multi million dollar media companies, and we won. It shows how far you can go when you know what you are doing and the people around you believe in you. What role should the United States government have in the development or use of artificial intelligence? The government needs to regulate artificial intelligence and become far more informed about how technology actually works. Right now we have an aging group of legislators who are out of touch with modern tech, yet they are the ones responsible for protecting our privacy and security. Half of Congress can barely remember their passwords, yet they are expected to make decisions that shape the digital future. What legislation would you enact related to election administration in the United States? Currently, Jim McGovern (MA-02) is pushing for a constitutional amendment to overturn Citizens United and get corporate money out of politics. That is a great start.\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."}]