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NAME: Ryan Huffman
POSITION FOR WHICH YOU ARE A CANDIDATE:
US Congress District (6)
1. Why are you seeking this position?
I’m running for this office because I am outraged by the political cowardice of the 6th District’s current representative, Peter Roskam. Donald Trump is taking our country down a dark and dangerous path, attacking our democratic institutions simply to settle scores and enrich himself. We need leaders in Congress who will fight back against Trump, and actually work towards solving the problems facing their constituents. Roskam has shown no interest in doing either. If elected, I will be a champion for progressive reform, fighting every day to get money out of politics, expand health coverage to all Americans, combat climate change, and reform our student loan system.
2. What experience and background do you have which qualifies you for this position?
I have a degree in journalism from Northwestern University, and a Master’s degree in public policy from the University of Chicago. I’ve interned at the White House, whipped votes on Capitol Hill, and analyzed the electric vehicle market for the Department of Energy. With my combination of policy expertise and Capitol Hill experience, I believe I would be a very effective legislator.
3. What will be your greatest challenge if elected?
My greatest challenge will arise from defying a political system that expects freshman Representatives to spend 4-5 hours a day on the phone calling donors. I have not made one phone call to a wealthy donor during this campaign, and I’m not about to start when I’m in office. I’m certain that party leaders will try to apply whatever pressure they can to convince me to play their game. They’ll threaten to pour money into a primary opponent’s campaign so they can replace me with a “team player.” My challenge will be to please my constituents so thoroughly that I am able to overcome the Democratic party’s dissatisfaction with my tactics and wield significant political power anyway.
Will you attend the 3/6 Dundee candidate forum? Yes, I will attend the forum
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