John Bowman

John Bowman was born in Omaha, Nebraska. Bowman's professional experience includes working as an engineer. He began serving in the U.S. Navy in 2009. Bowman earned an associate degree from Vatterott College in 2014.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I'm a Navy veteran and current reservist looking to change the way Missouri's 5th district is represented. The United States of America started with "We The People" and that's exact where we need to be. No platforms, no agendas, no big pharma; just the voice of an average Joe speaking for the rest of the Joe's and Jane's.

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 the people; what do you want? Bring democracy back not personal opinions.How can someone speak for you when they don't live like you. The rich never have the best interest for the middle class or poor.It's time for change! Almost 20 years has passed and we need a fresh face with new ideas. It's time for the younger generation to represent themselves.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I'm passionate about listening to people. I think we have strayed away from our delegates representing the people they were elected by and need to get back on that track. To many people or companies whisper in the ears of those on the hill that are suppose to be listening to your needs or desires.

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

My parents; they are still madly in love, never lost their sense of humor, and constantly remind me that without them I wouldn't be who I am today.

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

Honesty, empathy, ability to think and shift views, willing to listen, and putting aside personal feelings or opinions and truly act on behalf of the people.

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

I'm honest and open, I have the ability to listen and shift my views, I can admit when I'm wrong and learn from that, My military background had given me a sense of duty and understanding of our constitution.

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

Listen to your district and be their voice. The whole reason they are call "representatives" is because they are suppose to represent their district, not there personal agenda.

What legacy would you like to leave?

That people took the office back into their hands. That someone spoke up and acted on behalf of them like a true democracy should be. For someone to look back and not remember me from a political party but by name for the deeds I did for my district.

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

The first one that I remember that had significant remembrance to me would be 9/11. I was 16 at the time and I just seemed so unreal that day and all the days after.

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

Hy-vee in Gladstone, MO working as a bagger. I stayed there a few more years going to cashier then frozen dairy stocker.

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

Pretty People by Dillion Francis

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

Learning how to take control of my life and be a better person. Being open and honest with others in the face of fear or doubt.

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

Representatives introduce bills and resolutions, offer amendments and serve on committees.

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

I would say it's beneficial not not necessary. It's similar to job experience; yes it might make you seem like a better candidate on paper for a job but sometimes the person who has more to learn will end up giving more back to the company.

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

At our current path I think human rights and economical growth.

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

I feel this should be a little bit higher, possibly 4 years to match the Senate. In 2 years time your spending most of that getting acquainted to job and the people, it can leave leave little time to make progress.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

There should definitely be term limits. Career politicians were never suppose to be a thing but we have some people on capital hill that have been in place for over 20-30 years and are well past a cognitive age point.

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

Absolutely! I think that is what make the 2 party system so hard. Republicans refuse to shift their ideals towards Democrats and the Democrats do the same thing. You should be willing to compromise and not have your our opinions matter when policies are effecting your constituents.