Dan Schwartz

Dan Schwartz was born in New York, New York. He graduated from Hall High School. He earned a bachelor's degree from George Washington University in 2010. His career experience includes working for the Conference of State Bank Supervisors.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a dad, husband, outdoorsman, and lifelong consumer advocate. I've spent my 14 year career working with state and federal regulators to protect consumers from financial misconduct and abuse. I believe government should work for people instead of monetizing people. I know we can cut red-tape and foster economic development but protecting consumers and families is non-negotiable.

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?

I will be laser focused on affordability and the economy. I will fight dangerous policies like spending freezes and tariffs that make it impossible for families to save, and small businesses to plan for the future.I will improve and protect access to affordable healthcare and support vital public health research that's been recklessly cut by the Trump Administration and DOGE.I will fight for investments in Maryland’s future and protect its environment so working families can live in our state and benefit from its amazing natural resources.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Consumer protection, environmental protection, human rights, campaign finance reform, infrastructure and public safety/support for medical professionals and first responders

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

Abundance by Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson

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

Integrity, transparency, honesty, self-awareness, tolerance, patience, and understanding.

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

1) Listening to and working on behalf of constituents rather than special interests. 2) Respecting the rule of law and our courts. 3) Respect for human rights and due process, a critical bedrock of our judicial system. 4) Support science and data driven policy making

What legacy would you like to leave?

A better world for my children and children all over the world.

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 in 6th grade. 13 years old.

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

I worked in an ice cream shop as a 15 year old.

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

I believe it is important to have experience in a related field, or aspect of government. My experience is in state regulation of bank and nonbank financial services.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

I've spent my career trying to get 50 states to agree with each other. I believe there are no black and white solutions to the key issues we face as a nation. Instead, the answers are in nuanced understanding of the issues--and most often, in the middle. Bipartisanship and compromise are key to progress in government.

How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers?

To hold the executive branch accountable when they violate the law.

What committees interest you?

Financial Services

Agriculture

Foreign Affairs

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Financial transparency is critically important. Members of Congress should represent their constituents rather than billionaires and special interests. In addition, they should not be allowed to use inside information to enrich themselves while in Congress. I support a ban on members of Congress trading equities, options and crypto.

The government should execute when it says it will do something. For example, they should not take away peoples social security benefits--a benefit that is earned by the American people who have paid into the system over the course of their careers.