Joanna Warrens

Joanna Warrens was born in Atlanta, Georgia. Warrens earned a graduate degree from Smith College in 1991 and a graduate degree from the New College of California in 1997. Her career experience includes working in agriculture and teaching English to women immigrating to the U.S. Warrens has been affiliated with Muttville Senior Dog Rescue.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a farmer and educator who will bring government resources to all the residents of CD01. My focus is issues that affect everyday lives such as disaster preparedness and response, rural and small city healthcare, affordable housing and preparing for the future as our climate changes. My opponent does not believe in climate change so he is useless at preparing for the future. In order to solve problems we have to acknowledge that they exist.

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?

We need to prepare for disasters so we can respond and save lives and livelyhoods.All residents of CD01 should have medical care and pharmacies within a 1 hour drive of their homeThe vast resources of the Federal Government should be shared equitably,

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Water and Infrastructure is my jam. However, my priority is solving problems. I am curious about all aspects of government and want to elevate and solve rural issues that are ignored. District 1 has been neglected and overlooked in the past. I will bring government advocacy to everyone.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I find the Fettermans to be very inspiring. They have shown with grace thar being themselves wins hearts and minds.

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

Personal integrity is the hallmark of a sucessful elected official. Tell the truth, serve the district, and advocate for equitable government for all.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I am honest, believe in a life of service and love people. “We can do anything as long as we do it together.” Joe Biden

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

I remember being shown a picture of Richard Nixon in the newspaper and being told he was a crook. I was so excited to learn what a crook actually looked like. To this day when I hear the word “crook” I see Richard Nixon’s face.

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

I washed pots and pans in my dormitory cafeteria. I washed pots and pans for a year and loved it. I met the most amazing people who did the actual work of running a college.

What is your favorite book? Why?

My favorite book is A Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett. The main character Sarah knows her own worth even when her life is in tatters. She taught me to always believe in myself even when life seems difficult.

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

It is the people’s house and we work for them. It needs to be functional so that all the voters can get their needs met.

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

What makes the House of Representatives strong is the different backgrounds that we have. I believe the most important skill is an ability to listen and learn quickly.

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

We are fighting right wing ideologies that want to destroy government and become officially a Christian nation. I believe, as our founders did, that church and state must be seperated. We cannot let religion be used to take away people’s fundamental rights.

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

Two years means that we never stop campaigning. The positive of this is that we remain accountable to our voters. The negative is that there is less time for policy, legislation and advocacy.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

I believe there should be term limits in all Federal Offices.

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

Jackie Spier was an amazing Representative in my district. She was open, warm and cared about her constituents. I loved her call in town halls.

Both sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

I spoke to a woman with young adult children and aging parents. She spoke of the fear she feels for her parents who live in a fire area and need to move out.She was worried about them moving to Chico because of fire risk and a lack of accessible healthcare. We cannot grow this region without adequate healthcare.

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

Politics involves making deals. We may not get everything we want but incremental progress is important. I will work to solve problems with anyone who makes a good faith effort.

The Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. What role would this power play in your priorities if elected?

Raising taxes on corporations and the very wealthy is imperative. They need to pay their fair share

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

Good government is tranparent and accountable. The General Accounting Office is an incredible resource. I want to be on the Oversight and Accountability committee.

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