Benjamin Weislogel

Benjamin Weislogel (Democratic Party) ran for election to the U.S. House to represent Ohio's 12th Congressional District. He did not appear on the ballot for the Democratic primary on April 28, 2020.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

My name is Ben Weislogel. I am a working class Ohioan and live in Columbus, Ohio. I was born in Hilliard and grew up in and around Columbus. My parents were divorced and struggled to put food on the table, my father lost a home to the 2008 financial crisis, and my mother was forced to use government assistance to support myself and my younger siblings. I understand what living a working class life is like, and I know the struggle of living paycheck to paycheck. I worked at a local tech store as a salesman from 2015 to 2019. In 2016 I was inspired to pursue politics, and began my dive into political theory and philosophy. I am currently in school, finishing my Associates at Columbus State, and will be pursuing a Bachelors degree at OSU, which I intend to finish. I believe there is no more time to waste when it comes to combating the climate emergency and solving economic injustice. I am a socialist, which means I believe that workers should receive full compensation for their labor, and that the mentality of minimizing wages while maximizing productivity leads to an unstable and unsustainable economy.

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?

Working people should not have to struggle to have their basic needs met, including food, housing, and healthcare.We must give economic power back to working people so they are properly compensated for their labor.We must end the stranglehold that the wealthy elite have on our democracy and our economy.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Economic Justice, Creating a Cooperative Economy, Ethical Consumption, Ethical Election and Campaign Reform, Combating the Climate Emergency, Universal Healthcare, Affordable Housing, LGBTQ+ Rights, Criminal Justice Reform, Combating Police Brutality, Ending Regime Change Wars, Stopping the Global Tide of Fascism

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

Democracy At Work: A Cure for Capitalism by Prof. Richard D. Wolff

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

A well grounded Ethical philosophy, the intent to honestly represent their constituents, and a determination to ensure progress is made within society.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Representing the people that voted for them, fighting for the rights of the disenfranchised, and ensuring they create legislation that aims to progress society towards a better, more egalitarian, and more just future.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

I was seven when I watched the World Trade Center fall on the TV in my parents bedroom. My mother had pulled me out of school after the first plane hit. I didn't understand what was going on, but I remember being scared and confused.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My first job was a seasonal retail position in a clothing store at a local mall that ended shortly after the holiday season.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Stick Up - Grandson

What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?

Today the House of Representatives is probably one of the most corrupt Neoliberal establishments in America's history. I am to change that.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?

Political experience can be helpful in drafting legislation, but I believe too much time spent in the system can lead one to become assimilated with it and forget what being a working class American is like. If a candidate doesn't enter politics intending to fight corruption to the bitter end they will inevitably become part of the problem.

What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?

The greatest yet most necessary challenge the United States faces will be the complete overhaul of our consumer society in moving away from unsustainable materials and devastation of our planet that we have allowed to persist in the name of corporate profits.

If you are not a current representative, are there certain committees that you would want to be a part of?

I would aim to be included on any of the following committees: Education and Labor, Energy and Commerce, Ethics, Science Space and Technology, or the Joint Economic Committee.

Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives?

I don't necessarily believe two years is an ideal term length. I believe it creates too much of a focus on reelection, as every other year House Representatives will be focused on campaigning and spending less time doing more productive work.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

I would support temporary term limitations, as in every 2-3 terms you must wait 1-2 terms for re-election to the same office.

Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

I respect Bernie Sanders' devotion to his positions and his morals, and would aim to uphold the same consistency and reliability.

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