Joe Kaufman

Joe Kaufman was born in Detroit, Michigan. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Maryland, College Park in 1993. His career experience includes working as a writer.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I was born in Detroit, raised in Yonkers, NY by my grandparents, and graduated from the University of MD. After college, I moved to South Florida to care for my grandmother as she battled COPD, a debilitating respiratory disease.

I am married to Emily, a Spanish and Hebrew teacher from Peru, and together we are raising our daughter, Ruth.

Professionally, I am a national security and counter-terrorism expert and serve as Chair of Kaufman Security, a nonprofit dedicated to educating the public about these issues. My work has exposed terrorist-linked organizations, shut down terrorist charities, and stopped a pro-Hamas conference from taking place in South Florida. I was sued repeatedly by the conference organizers, including CAIR, and won every time.

For two decades, I have worked with the Iranian opposition, advocating freedom and democracy for the Iranian people and an end to the nuclear Ayatollah regime. 17 years ago, I co-founded Cyrus Force with Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi. I have supported freedom efforts in Venezuela and participated in anti-crime/corruption initiatives for the Caribbean.

In 2018, I was spokesman for a group that advocated for school vouchers in front of then-Congressman Ron DeSantis, who soon would sign one of the nation's largest School Choice expansions as Florida Governor.

In 2024, I was Republican nominee for Congress and received 48% of the vote in Florida's closest race.

I am a Conservative. I am pro-life, pro-gun, and pro-Trump.

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?

Security

As a nationally recognized counter-terrorism expert, I believe the federal government's first responsibility is to protect the American people. Through my S.E.A. Plan -- Security, Economic Prosperity, Affordability -- my campaign is focused on securing our borders, supporting law enforcement, protecting critical infrastructure, and confronting terrorist and foreign threats before they reach our communities. For decades, I have worked to expose extremist networks, shut down terrorist-linked organizations, and defend our national security. South Florida families deserve safe neighborhoods, secure borders, and a representative who understands the threats facing our nation and will work every day to keep our communities safe.Economic Prosperity and Opportunity

South Florida is uniquely positioned to become a national leader in economic growth, innovation, and job creation. Via my S.E.A. Plan -- Security, Economic Prosperity, Affordability -- I support policies that strengthen small businesses, encourage entrepreneurship, expand workforce training, and promote emerging industries, like our region's growing Blue Economy. I believe government should create an environment where businesses succeed and workers prosper. By reducing barriers, supporting investment, and fostering partnerships between the private sector, educational institutions, and government, we can create better-paying jobs, expand opportunity, and help more families achieve financial security.Affordability and the American Dream

Families across South Florida are struggling with rising costs for housing, healthcare, insurance, and everyday necessities. My S.E.A. Plan -- Security, Economic Prosperity, Affordability -- focuses on making life more affordable by expanding healthcare choice, supporting tax relief for homeowners, helping families keep more of what they earn, and making homeownership more attainable. I also support School Choice and expanded vocational education so every student has a pathway to success. The American Dream should not be out of reach for hardworking families. My goal is to lower costs, expand opportunity, and ensure future generations can build successful lives right here in South Florida.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am most passionate about national security, education, economic opportunity, and protecting the American Dream. As a counter-terrorism expert who has spent decades exposing terrorist networks, I believe government’s first responsibility is to keep Americans safe through secure borders, strong law enforcement, and a strong national defense. I am also a strong advocate for School Choice and expanded vocational education so every student can pursue the path that best fits their goals. Finally, I am passionate about policies that lower costs, strengthen small businesses, expand homeownership opportunities, protect seniors, and help hardworking families achieve greater economic security and upward mobility.

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

The people I look up to most are my grandparents, who raised me and instilled in me the values of hard work, personal responsibility, faith, and service to others. Their example taught me that character matters more than titles and that success should be measured by how much you help others. In public life, I also admire leaders such as Ronald Reagan for his optimism, principled leadership, and commitment to freedom, and Winston Churchill for his courage in standing firm against threats to liberty. Their examples remind me that leadership requires conviction, perseverance, and the willingness to do what is right, even when it is difficult.

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

The most important qualities for an elected official are integrity, courage, accountability, and a commitment to public service. Leaders must be willing to put the interests of their constituents and country ahead of politics, keep their promises, listen to the people they represent, and make difficult decisions when necessary. An elected official should be accessible, transparent, and focused on solving problems while upholding the principles of freedom, opportunity, and equal justice under the law.

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

The core responsibilities of a member of Congress are to represent the interests of their constituents, uphold and defend the Constitution, provide oversight of the federal government, and enact policies that strengthen the nation. This includes protecting national security, promoting economic opportunity, ensuring responsible use of taxpayer dollars, and helping address the challenges facing families, businesses, and communities. A representative should also be accessible to constituents and work to ensure their district receives fair attention and resources from the federal government.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I would like to be remembered as someone who made a positive difference in people's lives by helping make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous. Whether through my work in national security, advocacy for freedom movements abroad, or service in public office, I hope my legacy is one of standing up for what is right, defending liberty, and creating greater opportunities for future generations. Most importantly, I hope to leave behind a stronger country for my daughter, her generation, and all Americans who seek to achieve the American Dream.

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

I'm not exactly sure what my first job was. I do remember waiting tables one summer at Margo's Diner in Monticello, New York. Throughout my childhood, I spent my summers there with my grandparents. I also sold rock t-shirts on weekends at the flea market at Yonkers Raceway. The job came with plenty of free shirts, which I proudly wore to school, and the money I earned usually went toward buying records and cassette tapes -- probably Van Halen or KISS. I still love listening to both bands today.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Just like many Floridians, I am concerned about the rising cost of homeowners insurance and property taxes. That's why I strongly support tax relief and allowing homeowners to receive tax deductions for their insurance premiums. Florida is an amazing place to live, but that doesn't mean much if hardworking families can no longer afford to stay here.

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

Because the House faces reelection every two years, it tends to be more accountable to the public and voting population. It also has the sole power to originate tax bills and impeach federal officials, and within it the majority party can pass legislation quickly.

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

I believe the United States faces three major challenges over the next decade: maintaining national security, restoring economic affordability, and preserving national unity.

America must remain vigilant against threats from hostile foreign powers, terrorism, cyberattacks, and an increasingly unstable world. A secure nation is the foundation for prosperity and freedom.

At home, rising costs for housing, healthcare, insurance, and everyday necessities are making it harder for families to achieve the American Dream. We must expand economic opportunity, strengthen small businesses, and help Americans keep more of what they earn.

Finally, our country faces growing political and cultural divisions. While Americans may disagree on policy, we must continue to respect our democratic institutions, defend constitutional freedoms, and remember that we are stronger when united by our shared commitment to liberty, opportunity, and equal justice under the law.

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

Negotiation and finding common ground are important. However, compromise should never come at the expense of one's core principles, values, or moral convictions. Effective leadership requires the ability to work with others while remaining steadfast in defending what you believe is right.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Trump Admin Border Czar Tom Homan: “With his national security background, Joe brings experience and expertise that will make him an asset in Congress. His focus on counter-terrorism and border security makes him a strong partner in advancing America First priorities and protecting national safety.”

Heartbeat bill author Janet Folger Porter: "I trust Joe Kaufman to protect our most vulnerable children in the womb and keep hearts beating. Joe, I endorse you... We need you to win."

Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi: "I've known Joe Kaufman for many years and believe he'll be an exceptional Congressman. His dedication to freedom for Iranian people, integrity, and leadership make him a strong advocate for a democratic Iran and peaceful Middle East."

What was the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember?

The Iran Hostage Crisis. My grandfather brought home the newspaper every day, and I vividly remember the black banner across the top of the front page counting the days Americans were being held hostage in Iran. Seeing that number grow day after day left a lasting impression on me and helped spark my lifelong interest in national security and foreign affairs.

Video for [the profile publisher]

Video submitted to BallotpediaReleased June 29, 2024

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I was born in Detroit and raised by my grandparents in Yonkers, NY. I attended the University of Maryland, where I received a Bachelor’s Degree in Speech Communications. Following the 9/11 attacks, I devoted my life to fighting terrorism. Today, I am a Shillman Fellow at the David Horowitz Freedom Center and write for the center’s publication FrontPage. I am also the Chairman of the Joe Kaufman Security Initiative, a non-profit 501(c)(3) devoted to educating the public on matters of national security. I have assisted Homeland Security, the Defense Department, the Secret Service and the FBI in going after the people who threaten us most. I have been instrumental in getting terrorist charities shut down and terror-related individuals placed behind bars. I led the shutdown of a pro-Hamas conference that was to take place this past January at the Coral Springs Marriott. I was also the one who supplied Florida government agencies with information about radical imam Fadi Kablawi, who recently called for a genocide against Jews. I was concerned that the private school Kablawi was affiliated with receives tens if not hundreds of thousands of dollars of taxpayer-funded vouchers. No organization linked to violent hatred against Jews, Christians or anyone should receive a dime of taxpayers’ funds. Because of my unique background, I will have an immediate impact in Congress on issues concerning national security, counter-terrorism, and foreign policy.

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 am concerned about the current state of America. Our debt is out of control. Our foreign policy is in shambles. I am a product of the 70s and 80s, and I remember the gas lines, the hostage crisis, and the surge in food prices. Today is eerily similar, and I want to be part of the change that brings our nation back to greatness. My background in national security is very needed in Congress. I have experience in dealing with the border situation, and I will have an immediate impact on national security and foreign policy. As well, I am married to someone from Peru, so I have first-hand knowledge of what immigrants who arrive here legally have to go through. It shapes my policy and it will help me in office.District 23 contains one of the largest Jewish populations in the U.S., including a substantial Orthodox Jewish population. Anyone elected to this seat needs to represent this community. As well, there is a fairly large Hispanic population. I represent both, as my wife, daughter and I are a big part of the observant Jewish community. My wife teaches Hebrew and Spanish at one of the most prominent Boca yeshivas, and my daughter goes to Hillel. My wife, as well, grew up in Peru, and we have extended family in and from Venezuela and Cuba. I personally am passionate about and have fought side-by-side with those working to bring democracy to the Hispanic world overseas. As Congressman, I will make it a big part of my mission to do just that.The greatest thing for the environment is to have a great economy to pay for it. People in Third World countries live in squalor, because their economies are non-existent. Fossil fuels are not the enemy. They have actually allowed for the beautification of the environment. They further have helped us lead an Industrial Revolution, get through two world wars, and feed much of the impoverished world. Calling for their abrupt end is shortsighted. While we work towards cleaner energy, we must not destroy that which has allowed our nation to thrive, both economically and militarily.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

*We live in a time when my daughter needs to know BOGO at the supermarket. But BOGO today is just the regular price 2 years ago. We need an economic atmosphere to end inflation, cut taxes & spending, and achieve energy independence & dominance.

In 2018, I was part of a group sent to advocate for School Vouchers with the Trump Admin and then-Congressman Ron DeSantis. Proudly, Gov. DeSantis soon enacted a major School Choice initiative. I wish to expand School Choice. I am also an advocate for nationwide Vocational Training in high schools.

I moved to Florida to care for my grandmother, understanding seniors' struggles firsthand. I will fight for their Social Security and Medicare, and work to reduce high deductibles & premiums.

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

My grandmother Ruth was smart -- both knowledgeable and NY street smart. She was someone you could go to for advice, and I did many times. She was also someone who put others before herself. She was my best friend, and I miss her tremendously. Ruth's mom, my great-grandmother Esther, was a frail woman but was tough. She witnessed terrible horrors in Europe, and she loved being an American. There is an amazing story about her that I would like to tell. My great-grandmother was on a train and witnessed two men threaten to throw a black lady off for sitting in the wrong car. My great-grandmother stood between the men and the lady and told them that, if they throw the lady off the train, they would have to throw her off as well. That day, she saved that woman's life. I had the honor of knowing my great-grandmother Esther till I was 15-years-old. These are the people I look up to, and these are the people I wish to emulate.

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

Rocky!

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

Honesty, accountability, leadership, empathy, good communication, knowledge, transparency, and fiscal responsibility. These are all characteristics that I have exhibited throughout my life. I was raised by my grandparents with values from those of ‘the greatest generation.’ So when my grandmother Ruth was ill with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), I came to Florida to care for her. I needed to be there for my best friend, my grandma. I am thankful I had a daughter to give her my grandmother's good name. When I was my daughter's age, my grandparents used to take me into Manhattan to see the World Trade Center. We called it the Twin Towers. Next to it, I would look up in amazement. When they fell, I took it very personally and devoted my life to fighting terrorism. I did my part, after my nation was attacked. My accomplishments in this field are why I have received so many endorsements from those in the fields of military and security, and I do not take this lightly. As Congressman, I will have an instant impact on national security and protecting our nation’s borders.

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

My background gives me strong counter-terrorism and national security credentials, which of course is immensely important for our country. As well, I have chaired a non-profit for decades, which provides me with the type of leadership skills that are important for Congress. And the fact that I came to Florida to take care of my grandmother shows empathy, which IMO our government is lacking these days. At times, it seems, we care more for those who would wish us harm than we do for our own countrymen and women.

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

As a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, I will be responsible for drafting, debating, and voting on federal legislation that shapes national policy and addresses constituent needs. I will represent District 23 by advocating for local interests and providing essential services. My role will include government oversight, accountability, and transparency. Essentially, being a Congressman is being able to uphold the principles of democracy by acting as a voice for the people. I know that our nation and political parties are very polarized today, but I will make every attempt to work across party lines to build consensus. Of course, there are matters that the other side will never agree with and of which I will never compromise. Ultimately, though, we need to do what is best for America.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I would like to be known as someone who worked tirelessly to protect our nation, both inside our borders and overseas.

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

When the Iran Hostage Crisis. I was nine years old. I was raised by my grandparents, Ruth and George. My grandfather owned an auto parts store in the Bronx. When he would come home, he would bring with him the New York Daily News and the New York Post, mostly for the Sports sections. I remember on the top of the front page of each would be the day of the hostage crisis -- day 200, 201, 202, etc. It was a message that transcended the news and showed that our nation cared. It moves me to this day. And when Ronald Reagan was inaugurated as President, they were immediately released.

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

My mom got me a job selling rock t-shirts at the Sunday flea market, located at Yonkers Race Track. The owner would pick me up early in the morning in his van, we would drive to the warehouse to get the inventory, and then we would head for the flea market. At the end of the day, he would pay me in cash and shirts. The shirts I would wear every day at school, and the money I would use to buy Led Zeppelin, Rolling Stones, and Van Halen cassettes. I don't remember how long I worked there for, but I loved every minute of it.

What is your favorite book? Why?

The Bible, the Tenach! My faith guides me in everything that I do.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

Leonidas from 300!

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

Who can remember, but one song that will always stick in my head is Toby Keith's "Courtesy Of The Red, White And Blue"!

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

I suffered much antisemitism when I was a kid. It ended, when my college dorm roommate greeted me with a large swastika on the wall. That changed my life and turned me into the fighter that I am today -- for my people and America.

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

The U.S. House of Representatives is special because it is directly connected to the people.

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

To some extent, but many times, government corrupts people. It is one of the reasons why I support Term Limits for members of the U.S. Congress.

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

Bringing down our debt and erasing inflation, when our government offers no fiscal responsibility whatsoever. Keeping the cost of healthcare down, when we are threatened by high deductibles and ever-increasing premiums. Being able to compete with other nations, both financially and militarily, in a world that is growing much more hostile. Is there such a thing as diplomacy anymore?!

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

Yes.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

I signed the Term Limits Pledge. While I have much experience and expertise regarding matters of national security to provide to my nation, I will never consider the honor of being a U.S. Congressman to be a lifetime job.

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

There are certain things that I admire from many past and present representatives, but I believe I bring a unique background that is not found in Congress.

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 just met a wonderful lady who recently had a stroke. She told me how active she was and loved going out and doing things, but now her mobility is limited and she finds herself stuck at home. My mom has a similar circumstance. She was the happiest person I knew, before she found out she had Multiple Sclerosis. Since then, she has lost much of her ability to walk and her life is spent in and out of the doctor's office. These are examples of why it is important for our government to continue to provide funding to those in the field of medicine, who are working on finding cures and new treatments. As Congressman, I will always support such initiatives.

Tell us your favorite joke.

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

As I stated previously, there are matters that the other side will never agree with and of which I will never compromise. That said, where you can negotiate and find compromise, you make every attempt to do so. You just can never compromise your ethics.

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?

I would take this responsibility seriously. Too many government representatives think that the taxpayers' money is their own to do as they wish.

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

The House of Representatives acts like a watchdog for the country. They can use their investigative powers to look into how the government is spending money, if laws are being followed fairly, and even if there's wrongdoing by government officials. By holding hearings and questioning witnesses, they can uncover problems and make sure everyone is accountable to the people. This helps keep our government honest and working for everyone.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Trump Admin ICE Director/Border Czar Tom Homan

Pres. of the Presidential Inaugural Prayer Breakfast Rev. Merrie Turner

Lt Colonel & fmr Congressman Allen West

Trump Surrogate & Natl. Director of The Remembrance Project Maria Espinoza

Ret. US Marshall Commander & star of the show "Manhunters: Fugitive Task Force" Lenny DePaul

Working Mothers for Donald Trump International

Natl. Spokesman of Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) Niger Innis

Global Director of Cyrus Force & senior advisor to the son of the Shah of Iran Reza Pahlavi, John Naimi

Chairman of Citizens for National Security Dr. Ken Abramowitz

Palm Beach County leaders Larry & Sue Snowden and Linda Stoch

Former Mayor of North Miami John Stembridge

What committees interest you?

House Committee on Armed Services, House Committee on Foreign Affairs, House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. Anything to do with national security and foreign policy. That is my background, and that is where I am needed.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

A U.S. Congressman should believe in being clear and open about how the government spends money and making sure the government is honest and accountable. This means supporting laws and actions that let the public see how funds are used, ensuring regular checks on government activities, and -- and this is very important -- protecting those who expose wrongdoing. By doing this, we help build trust in government and ensure that taxpayer money is spent wisely and responsibly.

Campaign website

Kaufman's campaign website stated the following:

Dedicated to Our Community!

Serving in public office holds significant responsibility. As a soon-to-be Congressman, I am committed to being accessible and to fighting for our district’s needs. Out of 28 congressional districts in Florida, our district is ranked 24th — near the bottom — in receiving federal funds. I will fight for our community by bringing back these vital resources to the district. I will also prioritize bringing back manufacturing jobs from China, ensuring products are made right here in the USA. By lowering taxes on businesses and workers, we’ll fuel economic growth and prosperity. Additionally, I’m committed to securing our borders, protecting American jobs, and maintaining our sovereignty. Together, let’s build a stronger, more self-reliant America for future generations. I refuse to let my daughter bear the burden of someone else’s irresponsible fiscal and political decisions.

Border Security and Immigration

My wife Emily came to the United States by way of Peru and Israel. She did so the right way – legally. I was with her when she proudly obtained her citizenship. She went through a long process and worked hard for it. Today, there is a huge problem, where individuals cross our borders illegally, in the millions, without background checks. M