Leonard Perkins

Leonard Perkins was born in Memphis, Texas. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1973 to 1977. He earned a bachelor's degree from Crichton College in 1995 and a graduate degree from the Memphis Theological Seminary in 2012. He also earned a military citation from the Air Force School of Applied Aerospace Sciences in 1974. His career experience includes working in the clergy.[1][2]

Perkins has been affiliated with the following organizations:[1]

Memphis Library Foundation Board

Baptist Hospice Care Volunteer

Memphis Baptist Ministerial Association

Vietnam Veterans of America

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a retired former Air Traffic Controller, 25yr pastor, Clergy Ambassador for MPD, Hospice Care Volunteer, Memphis Library foundation Board

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 pro farmer and rancher, an advocate for women's rights, veterans and survivors, and Medicare.I will struggle to protect the vulnerable such as the elderly and children.I want to be part of the team that restores the rule of law and holds accountable those who commit crimes against this nation.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Defense and Homeland Security.

Social Security.

Border Control and a pathway to Immigration.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

U.S. Air Force retired Air Traffic Controller

24-year pastor, retired

BS from Crichton College

MDiv from Memphis Theological Seminary

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?

End the toxicity in the House which distracts us from the major threats to our democracy. Veterans' issues need to be addressed to improve recruitment. Recruiting problems potentially weaken our nation.I will fight strenuously to return women's rights.Champion for human rights, labor and farmers.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Veterans, Women,Labor,farmers

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

I look to many because of their positive character traits.

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

Martin Niemoller., And Then They Came.

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

honesty and integrity.

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

I am a good communicator, honest and have a high sense of national security.

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

To defend our Constitution and protect this nation from enemies foreign and domestic.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I would like to leave an overall legacy as a man of integrity and a good steward.

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

I was eight years old when our President John F. Kennedy was assassinated.

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

Stock boy. 2 years.

What is your favorite book? Why?

The Bible because it is the foundation of my life.

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

I never think of myself in terms of fiction.

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

I can't remember one getting stuck lately.

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

Helping homeless veterans and widows.

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

It is where funding is created.

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

No. When there are other redeeming qualities. Teamwork requires many different skills.

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

Domestic Terrorism.

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

This area has to be researched more.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

It is worth examining.

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

No.

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?

John Lewis spoke about preaching to the chickens. I did that when I was a mere lad.

Tell us your favorite joke.

I don't have one.

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

Of course, when possible.

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?

This area requires much research. However, this "power" should be managed with good stewardship and without improper influence.

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

Within the scope of legality, common sense and fairness.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

TEAMSTERS

What committees interest you?

Veterans Affairs

Ways and Means

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

It is a must with few exceptions.

Campaign website

Perkins' campaign website stated the following:

WHY LEONARD PERKINS IS A CANDIDATE FOR TN DISTRICT 8 CONGRESSMAN POSITION:

Kustoff has funneled federal funds to Germantown, Collierville.

All the smaller counties North and North East of Shelby County are suffering from:

No help with roads, bridges, potholes, public education, and more.

Kustoff votes with TRUMP on every issue.

I will vote for Voting rights, Women's rights, Organized Labor, better veteran benefits and survivors benefits, stop book banning, decrease student debt, promote small business, and protect our Democracy.

My desire is to make life better for ALL TN District 8 constituents. 19 Counties[3]

—Leonard Perkins' campaign website (2024)[4]