John Edgar

John Edgar was born in Roseau, Minnesota. Edgar earned a bachelor's degree from Southwest Texas State University in 2000. His career experience includes working as an entrepreneur and real estate investor.[1]

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Video submitted to BallotpediaReleased February 4, 2024

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I grew up in a working-class family on the outskirts of Houston. My father, an elementary music teacher, and my mother, who worked in a dental office, faced financial challenges. Despite this, they instilled the values of hard work, education, and embracing life's opportunities in my brother and me. My dad, passionate about small business, experienced the financial devastation of a failed venture in the mid-'80s, only to achieve success in his next endeavor a decade later.

After high school, I worked two jobs, saving diligently, and attended one year of community college before transferring to Southwest Texas State University. There, I graduated with honors in finance ahead of schedule. Following graduation, I started working for a multinational equipment rental company. A promotion and relocation brought me to Colorado Springs.

In the 20+ years since arriving in Colorado Springs, I became an entrepreneur, invested in local real estate, married, started a family, and contributed through volunteer work and the creation of scholarships at my alma mater.

A nearly fatal accident forced me to reevaluate my priorities. During this reflection, I realized that life is about more than chasing personal fortune.

In a world facing significant challenges, our government is broken and requires a change of course. Committed to being part of the solution, I refuse to be an idle spectator to the calamity.

Together, we can fix our government and demand COMMON SENSE OVER CHAOS!

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?

Philosophy:

The authority of government is derived from us, the people. We willingly accept governance under the condition that the government fulfills its most fundamental duty: to safeguard our natural rights and uphold the constitution. If, at any point, the government falls short of this essential obligation, it becomes our responsibility as citizens to bring about change through the power vested in us, through the electoral process.

Belief:

Instead of working to secure Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness for us and future generations, we have a chaotic government that works solely for their own self interests. They tell us our problems are with each other. They try to create hate, anger and division amongst everyday citizens. Transparency and Accountability:

With our national debt nearing 35 trillion and an additional trillion added annually, the legacy we're leaving for future generations is unacceptable. They should not bear the cost of a failed, broken government that we allowed to persist.

I am unwavering in my commitment to promoting transparency and accountability within our government. Citizens deserve a clear view into decision-making processes and a government that is answerable for its actions. As your representative, I will tirelessly advocate for policies that enhance government transparency and ensure accountability to the people.

The urgency of our current crisis demands immediate corrective action. Let us choose COMMON SENSE.

Inclusive Representation and Unity:

Our government must mirror the voices, experiences, and perspectives within our diverse society. I commit to representing every citizen in a way that prioritizes unity over division.

I will support an inclusive economy that empowers all individuals to pursue their dreams. I advocate for an economy that benefits an increasing number of people, challenging the status quo where success seems reserved for fewer and fewer.

We need a skilled, educated and capable workforce that contributes not only to personal growth but also to the collective good of our nation.

This vision stands as a cornerstone for a society that is not only diverse but also united in its pursuit of shared success and well-being.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Education: I advocate for universal pre-K for 3, 4, and 5-year-olds to ensure readiness on day 1 of Kindergarten to set the foundation for lifelong success.

Fiscal Responsibility: We must create a transparent framework for a balanced budget, making hard choices and eliminating waste, fraud and abuse.

Economy: We need a broad-based, growing economy that lifts all segments of society.

Veterans: We should offer comprehensive assistance – from helping them understand their benefits and connecting them with employers to addressing mental health issues and preventing homelessness, substance abuse, and suicide.

Environment: We must commit to environmental protection, advocating for sustainable policies that safeguard our planet.

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

Aristotle's 'Politics'. Read only once, way back in college, it left a lasting impression on my political perspective. The enduring takeaway, over two decades later, centers on Aristotle's assertion that a society's well-being relies on 'good': good people and good governance. This resonates strongly with the challenges we face today. Our government, unfortunately, feels broken and not aligned with the concept of 'good.' This disconnect is impacting the moral fabric of our society, as we often mimic the behavior of our leaders. Aristotle's wisdom serves as a stark reminder that without virtuous leaders committed to doing good, we risk a moral breakdown and the erosion of goodness within our society. I commit to representing this district with virtue and I hope that resonates.

Justice: What's the Right Thing to Do? by Michael Sandel. The book discusses ethical dilemmas, moral reasoning, and the foundations of justice in society. The main theme revolves around the question of what constitutes a just society and how individuals should make moral and ethical decisions. It examines prominent theories of justice, including utilitarianism, libertarianism.

While not a contribution to my governing philosophy, I want to ask almost every member of Congress right now a line used in the '90s classic movie, 'Office Space'. When one of the Bobs is doing interviews he asks, 'What would you say... you do here?' We, the people who have to witness an ineffective government saddling us with more debt, should be posing that question to our elected officials.

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

The most vital qualities for an elected official encompass virtue, integrity, and an unwavering dedication to serving a cause greater than oneself. Adherence to the constitution is paramount, ensuring governance within established principles. Careful stewardship of taxpayer dollars is crucial, with spending prioritizing a measurable return on investment.

Moderation and a commitment to compromise are essential, fostering collaboration even with those in disagreement. Representing everyone in the district, irrespective of their background or voting preferences, is fundamental. Ensuring equal representation for the rich and poor, old and young, and those who supported or opposed me is at the heart of effective representation. In summary, a public servant should embody these principles to faithfully serve and uplift the entire community.

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

Ability to negotiate, compromise and forgive.

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

1. Legislation: Introducing, debating, amending, and voting on bills that impact national policies and laws.

2. Representation: Advocating for the interests and concerns of their constituents in the House.

3. Oversight: Conducting oversight of the executive branch to ensure laws are faithfully executed.

4. Constituent Services: Assisting constituents with issues related to federal agencies and navigating government services.

5. Committee Work: Serving on committees to delve into specific policy areas, conduct investigations, and contribute to the legislative process.

6. Budgetary Authority: Participating in the budget process and approving federal spending and taxation.

7. Constitutional Duties and Protection of Individual Rights: Members have a duty to uphold the Constitution, taking an oath to support and defend it. This includes a commitment to safeguarding individual rights, acknowledging the social contract wherein citizens consent to governance as long as their government fulfills its obligations to protect fundamental rights: Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.

8. Communication: Keeping constituents informed about legislative activities and addressing their concerns.

9. Casework: Handling individual cases and concerns brought forward by constituents.

10. Representing District Interests: Advancing the interests and needs of their specific congressional district.

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

The Reagan-Mondale race of 1984. We were living in Texas, my parents were lifelong democrats from Minnesota and it felt like they were the only people not supporting Reagan. Texas economy crashed hard the next few years, counter to the rest of the country but I felt like they were on the right side of that election.

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

Mr. E's Sno-hut (one of my dads sno-cone stand). One week and then he fired me.

2nd job was at a grocery store where I got promoted.

3rd job was a Golf Course where I got promoted.

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

That's the Way the World Goes 'Round - John Prine

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

No. I think its more beneficial for representatives to have had real life experiences as ordinary citizens.

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

1. Ending Government Dysfunction: To bridge the growing divide between the people and their government, we must address the dysfunction that hampers effective governance.

2. Eliminating Polarization: Both among those serving in government and within the populace, reducing polarization is essential for fostering unity and cooperation.

3. Preventing Democratic Backsliding: Vigilance is required to avoid the democratic backsliding observed in long-established democracies worldwide.

4. Addressing Fiscal Insolvency: Tackling fiscal insolvency is crucial to ensure the economic stability and future prosperity of the nation.

5. Fixing Social Security: Taking proactive measures to secure the future of Social Security, preventing insolvency and ensuring its sustainability.

6. Revamping Healthcare: Addressing the high costs of healthcare is paramount to create a more accessible and efficient healthcare system.

7. Improving Education: Enhancing the education system, including the implementation of universal pre-K, is vital for preparing our youth to compete in the global economy.

8. Protecting Individual Rights: Striking a balance between protecting individual rights and limiting government power is essential, including codifying a woman's right to choose.

9. Preserving Separation of Church and State: Upholding the fundamental principle of the separation of church and state to maintain religious freedom and government neutrality.

10. Environmental Protection: Taking decisive action to protect the environment and promote sustainable practices is crucial for the well-being of our planet.

11. Veterans Affairs: Ensuring comprehensive and accessible support for veterans, including healthcare, education, and transition assistance, to honor to honor their service adequately.

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

Yes. A short term allows us to change our government is if its not serving us well. The problem is fundraising takes up half the term.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

One of the challenges in government is the prevalence of lifelong politicians or those aspiring to be lifelong politicians. Individuals who believe they are the sole qualified candidates for elected positions are completely disconnected from reality. Our government functions best when elected officials come from the real world, possessing diverse experience in various fields. They work diligently for a limited time and then return to their ordinary lives. Anyone asserting that only they can fulfill a particular role should be viewed with skepticism. I believe an appropriate tenure for House members is 6-10 years or 3 to 5 terms. Personally, I will not seek office beyond the 2030 election due to my desire to be present for my son's high school years.

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

Absolutely. What comes out of congress should be the best version possible of a policy that represents all of us, not just the rigid, loudest hardliners.

What committees interest you?

House Committee on Armed

House Committee on Small Business

House Financial Services Committee

House Committee on Energy and Commerce

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Authority without Accountability leads to Abuse. Transparency is what allows us to hold Authority Accountable. It is the peoples money that the government spends, we must demand transparency.

With our national debt nearing 35 trillion and an additional trillion added annually, the legacy we're leaving for future generations is unacceptable. They should not bear the cost of a failed, broken government that we allowed to persist.

I am unwavering in my commitment to promoting transparency and accountability within our government. Citizens deserve a clear view into decision-making processes and a government that is answerable for its actions. As your representative, I will tirelessly advocate for policies that enhance government transparency and ensure accountability to the people.