Erika Cashin

Erika Cashin was born in Duluth, Minnesota. As of April 2020, Cashin had served in the United States Air Force since 1996. She earned an undergraduate degree from the University of Minnesota Duluth in 1992 and she earned a graduate degree from Troy University in 1993. Cashin's career experience includes working as a field grade military officer.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I'm new to politics...an outsider. However, I'm not new to leadership. I'm an innovator, a disruptor of the status quo. And I've used these skills to rally people together, to fight to achieve a shared goal. I've done it my entire life, from grassroots to international efforts, recognized by leaders including the Secretary of Defense. I've honorably served presidents from both parties.

For over 24 years, I've proudly served our country, taking the oath to defend our constitution, and founding principles. As a result, I've been honored to have had the opportunity to share my experience and been profiled in various national events and media.

During the past decade, our political system has lost focus. Our country continues to be increasingly fragmented, challenging the foundation of our democratic republic. This is not the country our founders created without apology. We need to do better.

Some people go to Congress to BE someone, and some go to Congress to DO something. I'm a do-er.

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?

As a 24 year senior military officer, I posess extensive leadership experience and Federal perspective.Having spent time in the corporate community, I compliment my miltiary and veteran experience with private sector knowledge.I represent many of the populations in this district and can speak to a breadth of perspectives including military, veteran, corporate, parenthood, education, college tuition, immigration, foreign policy and national defense.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am personally passionate about Foreign Policy, National Defense and fiscal responsibility.

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

Integrity is by far the most important principle for an elected official. It is the foundation for all other characteristics, as it is the moral compass all decisions will be based upon.

As a seasoned leader, and 24-year military officer, I have made many difficult and unpopular decisions based on my moral compass. In Congress, I will continue to base decisions based on integrity and the spirit of the Constitution, rather than be influenced by outside forces.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I would like to leave a legacy of service for my children, and all future generations of Americans. One of the three Core Values of the Air Force is Service Before Self. I have lived my entire adult life with this perspective, and continue to reach back to emerging leaders to help them pave their way.

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

I was a young girl at the tail end of the Vietnam War. I remember a similar divisive tone in our national politics, that we are experiencing today. That has left an everlasting impression on me, and is a part of why I'm running for Congress.

What is your favorite book? Why?

My current favorite book is Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell. It speaks to the power and importance of connection.

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

I believe experience in government can be useful but is definitely not required.

Experience in politics can be detrimental; as we are in an age of career politicians that have become elitist and out of touch with the American people.

We need representatives in Congress who will represent the needs of the people, over the interests of the "elites."

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

Our greatest challenge will be Foreign Policy and our future relationship with China. Current issues include, trade, dependence on drug and other manufacturing from China, and National Defense.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

In an era where many Senators and Representatives have more in common with each other, rather than the people, term limits should be a serious consideration. I propose a system that supports 6-term Representatives, and 2-term Senators.

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