Steven Erbeck

[{"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>Steven Erbeck 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 Erbeck'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-369642-2025-10-06\" id=\"heading-bio-369642-2025-10-06\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-369642-2025-10-06\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-369642-2025-10-06\" 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-369642-2025-10-06\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-369642-2025-10-06\" 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\tBorn and raised in Mason, Ohio, Steven Erbeck has the experience and values necessary to lead our community in Southwest Ohio to a more promising future. Growing up on a farm, Steven learned the importance of hard work at an early age. Steven’s attended The Ohio State University, where he studied Business and Biology. Inspired by his family’s legacy in dentistry, he later enrolled at New York University’s College of Dentistry.\r\n<p>Driven by gratitude and a strong sense of legacy, Steven made his way back to Cincinnati to take the reins of the family business. As a fourth-generation dentist (his great-grandfather was Mason’s first dentist), Steven expanded his family’s century-old business, The Cincinnati Dental Group, into a state-of-the-art, multi-doctor practice with offices in both Mason and Montgomery.\r\n</p>\nSteven is dedicated to his family, his faith, and his community. He resides in Madeira with his wife, Sydney, their six-month-old daughter, Georgia, and their golden retriever, Winston. Steven is a parishioner of St. Gertrude’s Church, and is active in his community . As a small business owner and a passionate healthcare advocate, Steven has regularly attended lobbying sessions on Capitol Hill to push for greater healthcare access and combat the opioid epidemic. Rooted in a passion for the great state of Ohio’s families, freedom, and the future, Steven proudly represents his community with integrity and is dedicated to creating a stronger, brighter Ohio for the next generation.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-369642-2025-10-06\" id=\"heading-key-message-369642-2025-10-06\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-369642-2025-10-06\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-369642-2025-10-06\" 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-369642-2025-10-06\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-369642-2025-10-06\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>Reviving the American Dream starts with making life affordable again for everyday Americans. Steven believes the federal government’s imprudent spending has driven inflation to historic highs, making it harder for families to pay for groceries, gas, housing, and basic necessities. To fix this, Steven supports responsible budgeting proposals in Washington and policies that stabilize the economy and strengthen the dollar. Steven also supports bringing back pro-growth economic policies that create real job opportunities. By creating a low-tax, business-friendly environment, we can bring jobs back to Southwest Ohio, rebuild the middle class, and make sure every American has a real chance to succeed.</li><li>Steven believes that every American deserves to live in a safe and secure community, free from violence, fear, and lawlessness. He supports fully funding law enforcement and giving police the tools, training, and resources they need to do their jobs effectively and safely. Steven also believes in restoring respect for the rule of law by holding repeat offenders accountable and ending soft-on-crime policies that put criminals back on the streets. He is deeply concerned about the troubling gun violence and violent crime across the city. He supports tougher penalties for violent offenders and repeat criminals, and he will work to reverse soft-on-crime policies that keep dangerous individuals off the streets ensuring our families remain safe.</li><li>Housing affordability is a growing challenge for too many families in our community. Steven believes that everyone deserves a safe, affordable place to call home. Not long ago homeownership was seen as the foundation of the American Dream, a dream that feels increasingly out of reach for many. To tackle this crisis, Steven supports free market policies that encourage responsible development, reduce unnecessary regulations, and expand the housing supply, especially for first-time buyers and working families. He will work to increase access to affordable housing by promoting public-private partnerships and streamlining the permitting process so new homes can be built faster and more efficiently.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-369642-2025-10-06\" id=\"heading1-369642-2025-10-06\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-369642-2025-10-06\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-369642-2025-10-06\" 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=\"heading1-369642-2025-10-06\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-369642-2025-10-06\" 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\tAs a healthcare practitioners who sees patients everyday, improving healthcare outcomes is one of Steven's top priorities. He has dedicated his career to helping thousands of patients receive better care despite the complexity of the healthcare system. Steven has also successfully lobbied Congress to address the systemic barriers that prevent patients from getting the treatment they need. Another concern Steven has is the growing indebtedness of our country, as he has children of his own and he knows that future generations will pay the consequences of Washington's reckless spending. Working on real, sustainable solutions to the country's debt and deficit spending is a top priority Steven will address in Congress.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-369642-2025-10-06\" id=\"heading2-369642-2025-10-06\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-369642-2025-10-06\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-369642-2025-10-06\" 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=\"heading2-369642-2025-10-06\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-369642-2025-10-06\" 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\tAn effective elected official must hold tightly a set of core values based in integrity, accountability, competence, and a deep commitment to public service.<br/><br/>\r\nIntegrity is the foundation of ethical leadership. An elected official must act with honesty and consistency, ensuring their decisions are guided by what is right, not what is politically expedient. Accountability ensures that officials remain answerable to the people they serve. This involves being transparent about decisions, accepting responsibility for outcomes, and being open to public scrutiny. Accountability also means acknowledging mistakes and taking corrective action, rather than deflecting blame or hiding behind political rhetoric. Competence is equally important. A good elected official must understand the issues they face, be willing to engage with experts, and use evidence to inform decisions. While popularity might win elections, it is competence that leads to effective governance. An official must be capable of navigating complex systems, managing public resources responsibly, and enacting policies that address real needs. Lastly and most important is a genuine commitment to public service. The role of an elected official is not to gain personal wealth or prestige, but to serve the community's needs. This principle requires putting the needs of constituents before anything else. It also involves being accessible, listening to diverse perspectives, and making decisions that reflect the values of the community as a whole.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-369642-2025-10-06\" id=\"heading3-369642-2025-10-06\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-369642-2025-10-06\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-369642-2025-10-06\" 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=\"heading3-369642-2025-10-06\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-369642-2025-10-06\" 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\tOf all the roles I’ve taken on in life, none compare to being a husband and a father. These titles aren’t just responsibilities, they’re my greatest sources of pride. They shape who I am every day and remind me of what truly matters.<br/><br/>\n<p>Being a husband means being a life partner, a listener, and a best friend. I’m proud of the way I’ve grown in this role, learning to communicate better, to support without jumping to solutions, and to be present in both the ordinary and the extraordinary moments. Marriage has taught us about patience, resilience, and the value of lifelong commitment. We are deeply rooted in our Catholic faith and feel that God plays a large role in a healthy marriage. <br/><br/>\r\nFatherhood has brought an even deeper sense of purpose. Watching my baby girl grow, learn, and develop into her own unique self fills me with a kind of joy that’s hard to put into words. Whether it’s through Dr Suess bedtime stories, trying new foods or watching her take her first steps, I don’t strive to be a perfect father, but rather a present and loving one.<br/><br/>\n</p>\nTogether, these roles anchor me. They remind me that success isn’t always measured by titles or accomplishments, but by love, trust, and the example I set for those who surround me. Being a husband and father gives my life its deepest meaning, and I carry that pride with me every single day.\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>\n<div><div style=\"margin-bottom:1.5rem\"><h4>Campaign website</h4><p>Erbeck's campaign website stated the following:</p><div style=\"max-height:400px;overflow-y:auto;border:1px solid #ccc;padding:10px;margin:20px\"><blockquote style=\"margin:0px\"><h3>Reviving the American Dream</h3><p>Reviving the American Dream starts with making life affordable again for everyday Americans. Steven believes the federal government’s imprudent spending has driven inflation to historic highs, making it harder for families to pay for groceries, gas, housing, and basic necessities. To fix this, Steven supports responsible budgeting proposals in Washington, cutting unnecessary spending, and promoting policies that stabilize the economy and strengthen the dollar.</p><p><br/></p><p>Steven also supports bringing back pro-growth economic policies that create real job opportunities. He points to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act as a model, lowering taxes for working families and small businesses, and simplifying the tax code to reward hard work and entrepreneurship. Steven believes we must reduce burdensome regulations that are holding back industries like manufacturing and agriculture, in both urban and rural communities.</p><p><br/></p><p>In addition, Steven emphasizes the need for energy independence to reduce utility costs and support job growth. He supports expanding American oil, gas, and nuclear energy production to lower prices at the pump and ensure long-term economic security. By creating a low-tax, business-friendly environment, we can bring jobs back to Southwest Ohio, rebuild the middle class, and make sure every American has a real chance to succeed.</p><h3>Protecting Family Values</h3><p>Steven believes protecting family values is essential to preserving the foundation of America. He knows that strong families are the core of strong communities, and that America thrives when parents are empowered to raise their children with moral guidance, faith, and personal responsibility. In his view, government should support families, not replace them. That starts with defending parental rights in education and ensuring that parents have full transparency and control over what their children are being taught in schools.</p><p><br/></p><p>On broader cultural issues, Steven is a strong supporter of religious liberty and the right of people to live out their faith without fear of government punishment or social censorship. He believes in protecting the sanctity of life and supports policies that uplift families. He also believes the traditional family structure is built on marriage, commitment, and shared responsibility, and these values should be encouraged, not undermined. Steven supports expanding access to affordable childcare so that working parents have real choices and families can thrive without having to choose between career and family stability. He believes the path to national renewal begins at home, around the dinner table, and in communities where parents are trusted, children are protected, and families are free to live according to their beliefs.</p><h3>Affordable Healthcare</h3><p>Nearly two-thirds of personal bankruptcies in the U.S. are tied to medical issues, a reality Dr. Erbeck knows all too well. He has dedicated his career to helping thousands of patients receive better care despite the complexity of the healthcare system. He is committed to expanding access to affordable healthcare in both urban and rural communities. Steven has also successfully lobbied Congress to address the systemic barriers that prevent patients from getting the treatment they need. As someone who sees these challenges every day, improving healthcare access is one of his top priorities.</p><p><br/></p><p>Steven believes that America needs a healthcare system that prioritizes patients and doctors, not government administrators or insurance companies. He believes healthcare decisions should be made between individuals and their doctors, not dictated by politicians in Washington. To fix the system, Steven supports expanding Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), increasing price transparency, and allowing insurance to be sold across state lines to boost competition and drive down costs. He opposes government-run healthcare systems like Medicare for All, which he believes would lead to higher taxes, longer wait times, and fewer choices for patients. Instead, Steven advocates for free-market solutions that empower individuals to choose the coverage that best fits their needs. He supports protecting coverage for people with pre-existing conditions while giving states more flexibility to innovate and manage Medicaid programs in ways that effectively serve their local communities.</p><p><br/></p><p>Steven also wants to lower prescription drug costs by increasing competition, cracking down on pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) middlemen, and promoting access to generic drugs. He supports expanding telehealth services, especially in rural areas, and investing in mental health care so families can access the support they need without bureaucratic delays. For Steven, a strong healthcare system must prioritize affordability, access, and personal freedom. It should maintain high quality of care without sacrificing economic stability or burdening the next generation with unsustainable debt.</p><h3>Safe Communities</h3><p>Steven believes that every American deserves to live in a safe and secure community, free from violence, fear, and lawlessness. He supports fully funding law enforcement and giving police the tools, training, and resources they need to do their jobs effectively and safely. Steven also believes in restoring respect for the rule of law by holding repeat offenders accountable and ending soft-on-crime policies that put criminals back on the streets.</p><p><br/></p><p>Steven is deeply concerned about the troubling gun violence and violent crime across the city. He supports tougher penalties for violent offenders and repeat criminals, and he will work to reverse soft-on-crime policies that keep dangerous individuals on the streets. He also spent time trying to expand task forces to combat the fentanyl crisis that has devastated families in Southwest Ohio.</p><p><br/></p><p>Steven also believes in supporting mental health and rehabilitation programs that can reduce recidivism and help individuals turn their lives around. Emphasis should be placed on creating and promoting meaningful youth engagement opportunities. For him, public safety is not a partisan issue, it’s a basic responsibility of government. He will work tirelessly to make sure Southwest Ohio is a place where businesses can grow, kids can play outside, and families can build their futures without fear.</p><h3>Protecting our Country</h3><p>Steven believes that a strong national defense is essential to preserving America’s freedom, security, and global leadership. He supports a peace-through-strength approach and believes that a fully funded, modernized military is critical to confronting emerging threats from adversaries around the world. Steven stands with our service members and veterans and will fight to ensure they receive the training, equipment, and long-term support they need, both in uniform and after returning home.</p><p><br/></p><p>When it comes to protecting our borders, Steven believes national security starts at home. He supports enforcing immigration laws, increasing border personnel, and deploying advanced surveillance technology to stop illegal crossings. Steven is especially focused on stopping the flow of fentanyl and other deadly drugs pouring across the southern border, which are devastating families and communities across Ohio.</p><p><br/></p><p>He also believes America must fix its broken immigration system and ensure that those who want to come here do so legally, fairly, and through a process that prioritizes the national interest and public safety.</p><p><br/></p><p>For Steven, defending the nation means securing the homeland, standing up to foreign threats, and ensuring America is never dependent on hostile regimes for critical resources or technology. He believes lasting peace comes through strength and that protecting the American people will always be his top priority, at home and abroad.</p><h3>Housing Affordability</h3><p>Housing affordability is a growing challenge for too many families in our community. Steven believes that everyone deserves a safe, affordable place to call home. Not long ago homeownership was seen as the foundation of the American Dream, a dream that feels increasingly out of reach for many. To tackle this crisis, Steven supports policies that encourage responsible development, reduce unnecessary regulations, and expand the housing supply, especially for first-time buyers and working families. He will work to increase access to affordable housing by promoting public-private partnerships and streamlining the permitting process so new homes can be built faster and more efficiently. Steven also supports preserving existing affordable housing and investing in programs that help people stay in their homes. By balancing smart growth with community needs, Steven is committed to making housing more affordable and accessible for all. </p><h3>Providing Quality Education</h3><p>Education is very personal for Steven. Having spent many years working hard to achieve his own academic goals, he is often reminded that education is the cornerstone of creating a better life. Steven believes every child deserves a high-quality education that prepares them for success in life, regardless of the circumstances they are born into. He supports giving families more options—whether public, charter, private, or technical schools—so parents can choose what works best for their children.</p><p><br/></p><p>He is committed to strengthening core academics while ensuring students develop critical thinking, digital literacy, and real-world skills needed to thrive in today’s world. Steven advocates for local control of education, greater transparency for parents, and the full integration of skilled trades and career training programs into school systems. He also believes that keeping schools safe, supporting dedicated teachers, and making sure education funding is spent wisely are essential to providing a well-rounded education.</p><h3>Law Enforcement &amp; Veterans</h3><p>Steven proudly stands with our law enforcement officers and military veterans, supporting individuals who have dedicated their lives to protecting our communities and defending our nation. He believes they deserve not only our respect, but also the resources and support needed to thrive during and after their service. During his advanced dental rotations, Steven worked in several veterans’ hospitals, treating many servicemen and women and witnessing their sacrifices firsthand. That experience deepened his commitment to those who serve.</p><p><br/></p><p>Steven is dedicated to ensuring police departments are properly funded and trained to keep our neighborhoods safe. He also champions expanded access to healthcare, job opportunities, and mental health services for our veterans. For Steven, supporting those who serve is not just a policy position, it’s a deeply held priority rooted in gratitude and responsibility.</p><p><br/></p><p><br/></p></blockquote><div style=\"text-align: right; font-size: 0.9em; color: #555; margin-top: 0.5em;\"><p style=\"font-size:0.9em;color:#555\">— Steven Erbeck's <a href=\"https://www.erbeckforcongress.com/\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">campaign website</a> (April 21, 2026)</p></div></div></div><div style=\"text-align: center; font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0.5em;\"><i>Note: This text is quoted verbatim from the original source. Any inconsistencies are attributable to the original source.</i></div></div>", "answer_text": "See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection\n\nSteven Erbeck completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Erbeck's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. Born and raised in Mason, Ohio, Steven Erbeck has the experience and values necessary to lead our community in Southwest Ohio to a more promising future. Growing up on a farm, Steven learned the importance of hard work at an early age. Steven’s attended The Ohio State University, where he studied Business and Biology. Inspired by his family’s legacy in dentistry, he later enrolled at New York University’s College of Dentistry. Driven by gratitude and a strong sense of legacy, Steven made his way back to Cincinnati to take the reins of the family business. As a fourth-generation dentist (his great-grandfather was Mason’s first dentist), Steven expanded his family’s century-old business, The Cincinnati Dental Group, into a state-of-the-art, multi-doctor practice with offices in both Mason and Montgomery. Steven is dedicated to his family, his faith, and his community. He resides in Madeira with his wife, Sydney, their six-month-old daughter, Georgia, and their golden retriever, Winston. Steven is a parishioner of St. Gertrude’s Church, and is active in his community . As a small business owner and a passionate healthcare advocate, Steven has regularly attended lobbying sessions on Capitol Hill to push for greater healthcare access and combat the opioid epidemic. Rooted in a passion for the great state of Ohio’s families, freedom, and the future, Steven proudly represents his community with integrity and is dedicated to creating a stronger, brighter Ohio for the next generation. 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? Reviving the American Dream starts with making life affordable again for everyday Americans. Steven believes the federal government’s imprudent spending has driven inflation to historic highs, making it harder for families to pay for groceries, gas, housing, and basic necessities. To fix this, Steven supports responsible budgeting proposals in Washington and policies that stabilize the economy and strengthen the dollar. Steven also supports bringing back pro-growth economic policies that create real job opportunities. By creating a low-tax, business-friendly environment, we can bring jobs back to Southwest Ohio, rebuild the middle class, and make sure every American has a real chance to succeed. Steven believes that every American deserves to live in a safe and secure community, free from violence, fear, and lawlessness. He supports fully funding law enforcement and giving police the tools, training, and resources they need to do their jobs effectively and safely. Steven also believes in restoring respect for the rule of law by holding repeat offenders accountable and ending soft-on-crime policies that put criminals back on the streets. He is deeply concerned about the troubling gun violence and violent crime across the city. He supports tougher penalties for violent offenders and repeat criminals, and he will work to reverse soft-on-crime policies that keep dangerous individuals off the streets ensuring our families remain safe. Housing affordability is a growing challenge for too many families in our community. Steven believes that everyone deserves a safe, affordable place to call home. Not long ago homeownership was seen as the foundation of the American Dream, a dream that feels increasingly out of reach for many. To tackle this crisis, Steven supports free market policies that encourage responsible development, reduce unnecessary regulations, and expand the housing supply, especially for first-time buyers and working families. He will work to increase access to affordable housing by promoting public-private partnerships and streamlining the permitting process so new homes can be built faster and more efficiently. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? As a healthcare practitioners who sees patients everyday, improving healthcare outcomes is one of Steven's top priorities. He has dedicated his career to helping thousands of patients receive better care despite the complexity of the healthcare system. Steven has also successfully lobbied Congress to address the systemic barriers that prevent patients from getting the treatment they need. Another concern Steven has is the growing indebtedness of our country, as he has children of his own and he knows that future generations will pay the consequences of Washington's reckless spending. Working on real, sustainable solutions to the country's debt and deficit spending is a top priority Steven will address in Congress. What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? An effective elected official must hold tightly a set of core values based in integrity, accountability, competence, and a deep commitment to public service. Integrity is the foundation of ethical leadership. An elected official must act with honesty and consistency, ensuring their decisions are guided by what is right, not what is politically expedient. Accountability ensures that officials remain answerable to the people they serve. This involves being transparent about decisions, accepting responsibility for outcomes, and being open to public scrutiny. Accountability also means acknowledging mistakes and taking corrective action, rather than deflecting blame or hiding behind political rhetoric. Competence is equally important. A good elected official must understand the issues they face, be willing to engage with experts, and use evidence to inform decisions. While popularity might win elections, it is competence that leads to effective governance. An official must be capable of navigating complex systems, managing public resources responsibly, and enacting policies that address real needs. Lastly and most important is a genuine commitment to public service. The role of an elected official is not to gain personal wealth or prestige, but to serve the community's needs. This principle requires putting the needs of constituents before anything else. It also involves being accessible, listening to diverse perspectives, and making decisions that reflect the values of the community as a whole. What is an accomplishment that you are proud of? Of all the roles I’ve taken on in life, none compare to being a husband and a father. These titles aren’t just responsibilities, they’re my greatest sources of pride. They shape who I am every day and remind me of what truly matters. Being a husband means being a life partner, a listener, and a best friend. I’m proud of the way I’ve grown in this role, learning to communicate better, to support without jumping to solutions, and to be present in both the ordinary and the extraordinary moments. Marriage has taught us about patience, resilience, and the value of lifelong commitment. We are deeply rooted in our Catholic faith and feel that God plays a large role in a healthy marriage. Fatherhood has brought an even deeper sense of purpose. Watching my baby girl grow, learn, and develop into her own unique self fills me with a kind of joy that’s hard to put into words. Whether it’s through Dr Suess bedtime stories, trying new foods or watching her take her first steps, I don’t strive to be a perfect father, but rather a present and loving one. Together, these roles anchor me. They remind me that success isn’t always measured by titles or accomplishments, but by love, trust, and the example I set for those who surround me. Being a husband and father gives my life its deepest meaning, and I carry that pride with me every single day.\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.\nCampaign website Erbeck's campaign website stated the following: Reviving the American Dream Reviving the American Dream starts with making life affordable again for everyday Americans. Steven believes the federal government’s imprudent spending has driven inflation to historic highs, making it harder for families to pay for groceries, gas, housing, and basic necessities. To fix this, Steven supports responsible budgeting proposals in Washington, cutting unnecessary spending, and promoting policies that stabilize the economy and strengthen the dollar. Steven also supports bringing back pro-growth economic policies that create real job opportunities. He points to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act as a model, lowering taxes for working families and small businesses, and simplifying the tax code to reward hard work and entrepreneurship. Steven believes we must reduce burdensome regulations that are holding back industries like manufacturing and agriculture, in both urban and rural communities. In addition, Steven emphasizes the need for energy independence to reduce utility costs and support job growth. He supports expanding American oil, gas, and nuclear energy production to lower prices at the pump and ensure long-term economic security. By creating a low-tax, business-friendly environment, we can bring jobs back to Southwest Ohio, rebuild the middle class, and make sure every American has a real chance to succeed. Protecting Family Values Steven believes protecting family values is essential to preserving the foundation of America. He knows that strong families are the core of strong communities, and that America thrives when parents are empowered to raise their children with moral guidance, faith, and personal responsibility. In his view, government should support families, not replace them. That starts with defending parental rights in education and ensuring that parents have full transparency and control over what their children are being taught in schools. On broader cultural issues, Steven is a strong supporter of religious liberty and the right of people to live out their faith without fear of government punishment or social censorship. He believes in protecting the sanctity of life and supports policies that uplift families. He also believes the traditional family structure is built on marriage, commitment, and shared responsibility, and these values should be encouraged, not undermined. Steven supports expanding access to affordable childcare so that working parents have real choices and families can thrive without having to choose between career and family stability. He believes the path to national renewal begins at home, around the dinner table, and in communities where parents are trusted, children are protected, and families are free to live according to their beliefs. Affordable Healthcare Nearly two-thirds of personal bankruptcies in the U.S. are tied to medical issues, a reality Dr. Erbeck knows all too well. He has dedicated his career to helping thousands of patients receive better care despite the complexity of the healthcare system. He is committed to expanding access to affordable healthcare in both urban and rural communities. Steven has also successfully lobbied Congress to address the systemic barriers that prevent patients from getting the treatment they need. As someone who sees these challenges every day, improving healthcare access is one of his top priorities. Steven believes that America needs a healthcare system that prioritizes patients and doctors, not government administrators or insurance companies. He believes healthcare decisions should be made between individuals and their doctors, not dictated by politicians in Washington. To fix the system, Steven supports expanding Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), increasing price transparency, and allowing insurance to be sold across state lines to boost competition and drive down costs. He opposes government-run healthcare systems like Medicare for All, which he believes would lead to higher taxes, longer wait times, and fewer choices for patients. Instead, Steven advocates for free-market solutions that empower individuals to choose the coverage that best fits their needs. He supports protecting coverage for people with pre-existing conditions while giving states more flexibility to innovate and manage Medicaid programs in ways that effectively serve their local communities. Steven also wants to lower prescription drug costs by increasing competition, cracking down on pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) middlemen, and promoting access to generic drugs. He supports expanding telehealth services, especially in rural areas, and investing in mental health care so families can access the support they need without bureaucratic delays. For Steven, a strong healthcare system must prioritize affordability, access, and personal freedom. It should maintain high quality of care without sacrificing economic stability or burdening the next generation with unsustainable debt. Safe Communities Steven believes that every American deserves to live in a safe and secure community, free from violence, fear, and lawlessness. He supports fully funding law enforcement and giving police the tools, training, and resources they need to do their jobs effectively and safely. Steven also believes in restoring respect for the rule of law by holding repeat offenders accountable and ending soft-on-crime policies that put criminals back on the streets. Steven is deeply concerned about the troubling gun violence and violent crime across the city. He supports tougher penalties for violent offenders and repeat criminals, and he will work to reverse soft-on-crime policies that keep dangerous individuals on the streets. He also spent time trying to expand task forces to combat the fentanyl crisis that has devastated families in Southwest Ohio. Steven also believes in supporting mental health and rehabilitation programs that can reduce recidivism and help individuals turn their lives around. Emphasis should be placed on creating and promoting meaningful youth engagement opportunities. For him, public safety is not a partisan issue, it’s a basic responsibility of government. He will work tirelessly to make sure Southwest Ohio is a place where businesses can grow, kids can play outside, and families can build their futures without fear. Protecting our Country Steven believes that a strong national defense is essential to preserving America’s freedom, security, and global leadership. He supports a peace-through-strength approach and believes that a fully funded, modernized military is critical to confronting emerging threats from adversaries around the world. Steven stands with our service members and veterans and will fight to ensure they receive the training, equipment, and long-term support they need, both in uniform and after returning home. When it comes to protecting our borders, Steven believes national security starts at home. He supports enforcing immigration laws, increasing border personnel, and deploying advanced surveillance technology to stop illegal crossings. Steven is especially focused on stopping the flow of fentanyl and other deadly drugs pouring across the southern border, which are devastating families and communities across Ohio. He also believes America must fix its broken immigration system and ensure that those who want to come here do so legally, fairly, and through a process that prioritizes the national interest and public safety. For Steven, defending the nation means securing the homeland, standing up to foreign threats, and ensuring America is never dependent on hostile regimes for critical resources or technology. He believes lasting peace comes through strength and that protecting the American people will always be his top priority, at home and abroad. Housing Affordability Housing affordability is a growing challenge for too many families in our community. Steven believes that everyone deserves a safe, affordable place to call home. Not long ago homeownership was seen as the foundation of the American Dream, a dream that feels increasingly out of reach for many. To tackle this crisis, Steven supports policies that encourage responsible development, reduce unnecessary regulations, and expand the housing supply, especially for first-time buyers and working families. He will work to increase access to affordable housing by promoting public-private partnerships and streamlining the permitting process so new homes can be built faster and more efficiently. Steven also supports preserving existing affordable housing and investing in programs that help people stay in their homes. By balancing smart growth with community needs, Steven is committed to making housing more affordable and accessible for all. Providing Quality Education Education is very personal for Steven. Having spent many years working hard to achieve his own academic goals, he is often reminded that education is the cornerstone of creating a better life. Steven believes every child deserves a high-quality education that prepares them for success in life, regardless of the circumstances they are born into. He supports giving families more options—whether public, charter, private, or technical schools—so parents can choose what works best for their children. He is committed to strengthening core academics while ensuring students develop critical thinking, digital literacy, and real-world skills needed to thrive in today’s world. Steven advocates for local control of education, greater transparency for parents, and the full integration of skilled trades and career training programs into school systems. He also believes that keeping schools safe, supporting dedicated teachers, and making sure education funding is spent wisely are essential to providing a well-rounded education. Law Enforcement & Veterans Steven proudly stands with our law enforcement officers and military veterans, supporting individuals who have dedicated their lives to protecting our communities and defending our nation. He believes they deserve not only our respect, but also the resources and support needed to thrive during and after their service. During his advanced dental rotations, Steven worked in several veterans’ hospitals, treating many servicemen and women and witnessing their sacrifices firsthand. That experience deepened his commitment to those who serve. Steven is dedicated to ensuring police departments are properly funded and trained to keep our neighborhoods safe. He also champions expanded access to healthcare, job opportunities, and mental health services for our veterans. For Steven, supporting those who serve is not just a policy position, it’s a deeply held priority rooted in gratitude and responsibility. — Steven Erbeck's campaign website (April 21, 2026) Note: This text is quoted verbatim from the original source. Any inconsistencies are attributable to the original source."}]