Meri Lizet Gomez

[{"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>Meri Gomez completed <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a> survey in 2023. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Gomez'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-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading-bio-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-202702-2023-12-22\" 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-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-202702-2023-12-22\" 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\tSingle Mom from South Texas who decided to get my degree in Accountancy and became a taxation consultant. 15 years of tax practice specializing in IRS compliance matters.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading-key-message-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-202702-2023-12-22\" 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-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>What is your platform?…..Ummm, what isn’t my platform!? So much to do in Washington D.C.</li><li>Taxes, taxes, TAXES! Let’s fix our tax code. From individual taxpayers to large corporation.</li><li>Let’s secure social security, and health care for ALL!</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading1-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-202702-2023-12-22\" 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=\"heading1-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-202702-2023-12-22\" 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\tTax Reform is so important to me. We must find a better solution to help from individual taxpayers all the way to large corporations. My tax plan will finally put an accountants perspective into play for a more fair tax system. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading2-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-202702-2023-12-22\" 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=\"heading2-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-202702-2023-12-22\" 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 Mom and Dad, Who have been married for 44 years. Their unwavering faith and hard work ethics have shaped who I am today. I would like to follow their example because as immigrants they never let any obstacle prevent their success in life, business, and community. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading3-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-202702-2023-12-22\" 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 book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading3-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-202702-2023-12-22\" 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\tMovie: Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken, Disney<br/>\r\nBook: Good to Great, Sam Walton<br/></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading4-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-202702-2023-12-22\" 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=\"heading4-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-202702-2023-12-22\" 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\tFocus on issues, it is important for someone to remain focused on the plan to help all. <br/>\n<p>Leading by example, when people see that I can do it, they feel empowered to try themselves. <br/>\n</p>\nLove what you do. It is with passion that we can overcome what we might feel is not achievable, so love will give someone the extra push to remain steadfast. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading5-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading5-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-202702-2023-12-22\" 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\tMotivated, compassionate, experienced, and selflessness.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading6-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-202702-2023-12-22\" 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=\"heading6-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-202702-2023-12-22\" 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\tThinking outside the box. Without allowing ourselves to try new things we will never achieve new adventures. Proposing new tax law can change the economy. Also providing oversite of the management of taxpayer money is necessary. The problem is we do not have enough accountants. I am here now. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading7-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-202702-2023-12-22\" 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=\"heading7-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-202702-2023-12-22\" 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\tA thriving economy is what I would like to leave a legacy of.<br/>\r\nSelf-empowerment to see the people of America thrive.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading8-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse8-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-202702-2023-12-22\" 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=\"heading8-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse8-202702-2023-12-22\" 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\t9/11- I was 18 years old sitting in my college dorm room.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading9-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse9-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-202702-2023-12-22\" 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=\"heading9-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse9-202702-2023-12-22\" 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\tWaitress- Olive Garden Summer of 1999.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading10-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse10-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-202702-2023-12-22\" 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=\"heading10-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse10-202702-2023-12-22\" 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\tGood to Great, it talks about self improvement.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading11-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse11-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-202702-2023-12-22\" 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=\"heading11-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse11-202702-2023-12-22\" 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\tPink Panther\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading12-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse12-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat was the last song that got stuck in your head?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading12-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse12-202702-2023-12-22\" 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\tGrupo Frontera- un x100to\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading13-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse13-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-202702-2023-12-22\" 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=\"heading13-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse13-202702-2023-12-22\" 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\tBeing a single mom, I have struggled with self-doubt, being told I was not good enough, smart enough, or strong enough to overcome. I did and still continue to! \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading14-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse14-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading14-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse14-202702-2023-12-22\" 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\t1.) We must support small business. Small businesses are the back bone of America and having a tax code that works for the better of all would benefit all. <br/>\n<p>2.) Securing Social Security. We must make sure that this program will remain and I want to ensure maximum benefits to improve quality of life. <br/>\n</p>\n3.) Health Care for all. The Affordable Care Act was a great start to a healthier America. We need to make it better. Let’s revisit the premium tax credit allocation and expand it to include vision and dental. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading15-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse15-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-202702-2023-12-22\" 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=\"heading15-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse15-202702-2023-12-22\" 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\tTerm limits are necessary. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading16-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse16-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-202702-2023-12-22\" 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. Senate possess that makes it unique as an institution?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading16-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse16-202702-2023-12-22\" 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\tWorking on federal matters is what I am familiar with. As a tax consultant I have worked with all types of American tax situations. The U.S. Senate is the place where tax law is born and I am ready to help.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading17-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse17-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-202702-2023-12-22\" 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 senators to have previous experience in government or politics?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading17-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse17-202702-2023-12-22\" 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\tPrevious experience is necessary and the lack of experience in tax code law is saddening. There are no candidates or elected officials with the tax law experience I have. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading18-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse18-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-202702-2023-12-22\" 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 think of the filibuster?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading18-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse18-202702-2023-12-22\" 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 filibuster is a great way for Ted Cruz to waste our precious time. With a democratic senate majority TEXAS will finally have a seat at the table to move TEXAS forward. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading19-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse19-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-202702-2023-12-22\" 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 senator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading19-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse19-202702-2023-12-22\" 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\tLloyd Millard Bentsen Jr. &lt;3\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading20-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse20-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tTell us your favorite joke.\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading20-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse20-202702-2023-12-22\" 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\tMe: Boss, someone in the office is possessed by an Owl!<br/>\n<p>Boss: WHO?<br/>\n</p>\nMe: ::Smiles::\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading21-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse21-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tHow would you evaluate a judicial nominee?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading21-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse21-202702-2023-12-22\" 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\tEthical situations and experiences\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading22-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse22-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat kind of relationships would you build with other senators?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading22-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse22-202702-2023-12-22\" 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\tAt my job I have both Democratic and Republican clients who can always find common ground when it comes to tax code application and business relations. I look forward to reaching across the isle to find common ground for a better America. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse23-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading23-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse23-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse23-202702-2023-12-22\" 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=\"heading23-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse23-202702-2023-12-22\" 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 desirable\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse24-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading24-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse24-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse24-202702-2023-12-22\" 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. Senate use its investigative powers?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading24-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse24-202702-2023-12-22\" 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\tApplication of the fraud triangle upon immediate assertion of doubt and full transparency for all matters dealing with taxpayer money\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse25-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading25-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse25-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse25-202702-2023-12-22\" 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=\"heading25-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse25-202702-2023-12-22\" 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\tRGV Stonewall Democrats\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse26-202702-2023-12-22\" id=\"heading26-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse26-202702-2023-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse26-202702-2023-12-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat criteria would you apply when deciding whether to confirm presidential appointees to their Cabinet?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading26-202702-2023-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse26-202702-2023-12-22\" 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\tEthical education and experiences. As a tax consultant we take many hours of ethics training and as someone builds their professional careers that knowledge base is helpful. \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\nMeri Gomez completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2023. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Gomez's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. Single Mom from South Texas who decided to get my degree in Accountancy and became a taxation consultant. 15 years of tax practice specializing in IRS compliance matters. 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? What is your platform?…..Ummm, what isn’t my platform!? So much to do in Washington D.C. Taxes, taxes, TAXES! Let’s fix our tax code. From individual taxpayers to large corporation. Let’s secure social security, and health care for ALL! What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? Tax Reform is so important to me. We must find a better solution to help from individual taxpayers all the way to large corporations. My tax plan will finally put an accountants perspective into play for a more fair tax system. Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why? My Mom and Dad, Who have been married for 44 years. Their unwavering faith and hard work ethics have shaped who I am today. I would like to follow their example because as immigrants they never let any obstacle prevent their success in life, business, and community. Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy? Movie: Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken, Disney Book: Good to Great, Sam Walton What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? Focus on issues, it is important for someone to remain focused on the plan to help all. Leading by example, when people see that I can do it, they feel empowered to try themselves. Love what you do. It is with passion that we can overcome what we might feel is not achievable, so love will give someone the extra push to remain steadfast. What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder? Motivated, compassionate, experienced, and selflessness. What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office? Thinking outside the box. Without allowing ourselves to try new things we will never achieve new adventures. Proposing new tax law can change the economy. Also providing oversite of the management of taxpayer money is necessary. The problem is we do not have enough accountants. I am here now. What legacy would you like to leave? A thriving economy is what I would like to leave a legacy of. Self-empowerment to see the people of America thrive. What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time? 9/11- I was 18 years old sitting in my college dorm room. What was your very first job? How long did you have it? Waitress- Olive Garden Summer of 1999. What is your favorite book? Why? Good to Great, it talks about self improvement. If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be? Pink Panther What was the last song that got stuck in your head? Grupo Frontera- un x100to What is something that has been a struggle in your life? Being a single mom, I have struggled with self-doubt, being told I was not good enough, smart enough, or strong enough to overcome. I did and still continue to! What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade? 1.) We must support small business. Small businesses are the back bone of America and having a tax code that works for the better of all would benefit all. 2.) Securing Social Security. We must make sure that this program will remain and I want to ensure maximum benefits to improve quality of life. 3.) Health Care for all. The Affordable Care Act was a great start to a healthier America. We need to make it better. Let’s revisit the premium tax credit allocation and expand it to include vision and dental. What are your thoughts on term limits? Term limits are necessary. What qualities does the U.S. Senate possess that makes it unique as an institution? Working on federal matters is what I am familiar with. As a tax consultant I have worked with all types of American tax situations. The U.S. Senate is the place where tax law is born and I am ready to help. Do you believe that it’s beneficial for senators to have previous experience in government or politics? Previous experience is necessary and the lack of experience in tax code law is saddening. There are no candidates or elected officials with the tax law experience I have. What do you think of the filibuster? The filibuster is a great way for Ted Cruz to waste our precious time. With a democratic senate majority TEXAS will finally have a seat at the table to move TEXAS forward. Is there a particular senator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after? Lloyd Millard Bentsen Jr. <3 Tell us your favorite joke. Me: Boss, someone in the office is possessed by an Owl! Boss: WHO? Me: ::Smiles:: How would you evaluate a judicial nominee? Ethical situations and experiences What kind of relationships would you build with other senators? At my job I have both Democratic and Republican clients who can always find common ground when it comes to tax code application and business relations. I look forward to reaching across the isle to find common ground for a better America. Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking? Compromise is desirable How should the U.S. Senate use its investigative powers? Application of the fraud triangle upon immediate assertion of doubt and full transparency for all matters dealing with taxpayer money What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign? RGV Stonewall Democrats What criteria would you apply when deciding whether to confirm presidential appointees to their Cabinet? Ethical education and experiences. As a tax consultant we take many hours of ethics training and as someone builds their professional careers that knowledge base is helpful.\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."}]