The June 4th Primary Election Day is less than a week away.
The Political Action Committee contacted the candidates in all the contested races in Des Moines and asked them to submit a 90-second video and respond to 6 questions about issues important to the Black community.
If you know someone who lives in the districts with contested races, please send the links to them so they can also be an informed voter.
Angela's 90 seconds: (Angela did not submit a video)
Angela's Q & A's:
Question 1: In light of recent legislative actions that have expanded funding for Iowa's private school voucher program and passed legislation to provide legal and civil immunity to armed school staff in the event of a shooting, there are growing concerns about the impact on equity, safety, and accountability in our public education system. Considering the NAACP's commitment to equitable access to quality education, how do you plan to address the consequences of diverting public funds to private schools through these voucher programs? Moreover, regarding the new law now permitting the arming of school staff, what measures will you advocate for to ensure the safety and well-being of all students and staff in Iowa's schools while also upholding accountability and transparency?
Answer: The voucher program is not just for private schools it is for both public and private schools. If a child wanted to go to another district they could take their funds with them. Having said that I do realize that we do need to create opportunities in the public schools as well. Charter schools are one way to do that. More charter schools within the districts would be beneficial. Arming teachers is an option that each district can decide. If they decide to allow their teachers to be armed they have to go through the same background checks plus they have to go through specific training to be able to be an armed teacher.
Question 2: Recent legislative actions, notably the passage of HF 2319, which seeks to ban basic income programs in Iowa, have sparked significant concern regarding their impact on low-income and working-class communities. These measures appear to be part of a wider effort to dismantle support systems essential for marginalized populations. As a candidate for the Iowa House, how do you plan to respond to these concerns? Specifically, what strategies will you propose to ensure that all Iowans, especially the most vulnerable, have access to resources and opportunities that foster economic stability and promote social mobility?
Answer: I don't believe that we are removing any basic income programs that were in place pre COVID. Government is not very efficient at these programs any way. Private sector noon profits are better at doing this.
Question 3: The recent passage of Senate File 2385 has raised serious concerns, as it is perceived as a setback to Iowa's rich civil rights history. This legislation weakens civil and human rights agencies and abolishes specific commissions aimed at protecting marginalized groups. Alongside other bills that limit diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, there appears to be a diminishing state commitment to the rights and dignity of all Iowans. How do you intend to counteract this erosion of civil rights protections and ensure continued voice and representation for marginalized communities in our state government? Furthermore, what specific actions will you take to preserve Iowa's historical role as a champion of civil rights and equality, and how will you actively promote policies that combat discrimination and uphold equality for all residents?
Answer: You State that you want to protect all Iowans yet you don't. Diversity doesn't just mean non whites or the LBGTQ+. It should include ALL. Identity politics has no place in any government. A person should want to get something based on their merit not the color of their skin or their sexual orientation or identity.
Question 4: Effective legislation often depends not just on public speeches but on strategic actions during the early stages of a bill and building relationships with key influencers. Given the pivotal role of bipartisan cooperation, are you willing to work across the aisle and can you share examples of how you forge productive relationships with colleagues, particularly those with whom you have significant differences?
Answer: If the bill it the cause is good for ALL Iowans I have no issue with working with Democrats. I would look at ways to see how the bill could instead of helping a few could help all. I would work for a common ground solution.
Question 5: Many residents remain civically disengaged, often due to the demands of their daily lives and efforts to make ends meet. If elected, these individuals will be among your constituents. How do you plan to actively engage with these hardworking individuals? What strategies will you employ to ensure their concerns are heard and effectively represented in your legislative work?
Answer: I would meet with people at churches, community centers or in backyards. I would talk with everyone and listen to their concerns and I would try an propose a different way of looking at it than just throwing money at it. Change doesn't happen overnight and there are different ways of doing things that don't necessarily have to be a handout but a hand up.
Question 6: Immigration has shaped Iowa's community landscape from its early days as a state, bringing diverse groups who sought new opportunities in response to both 'push' and 'pull' factors. As the NAACP, we advocate for humane and inclusive immigration policies that recognize the dignity of all people. How will you collaborate with relevant community stakeholders to promote fair and just immigration policies in Iowa, ensuring that immigrants and refugees are treated with respect and dignity? Additionally, given Iowa's rich history of welcoming various immigrant waves, how will you address the specific challenges faced by today's immigrant communities in areas such as healthcare, education, and employment to ensure they are integrated and supported within our state?
Answer: Immigration is the top issue in the entire country. However, Washington DC hasn't helped anyone by keeping the border wide open and not enforced the laws that are in place. Those that have come illegally need to be deported. If the crossed the border without a visa or refugee status they need to be deported. The ones that are here legally it through refugee status have always gotten the help needed. They have added a rich culture to Iowa. We need to get schools that will teach them English. Help them to understand the laws that we have. Give them a hand up and not a hand out. A hand up gives them pride and self worth.
Other Iowa House District 35 candidates:
Comments