Rashaad Jones

Rashaad Jones began serving in the U.S. Army in 2013.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a husband, loving son, dog dad, health enthusiast and a proud veteran, driven by a lifelong commitment to serve others. My candidacy isn't about me; it's about us, our shared values, and our collective vision for a better future. I am Committed to representing the voices of my community, motivated by a single goal - to ensure everyone around me feels heard, valued, and supported.

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?

Equitable Opportunities for AllEffective Representation and AccountabilityAdvocating for Sustainable and Progressive Policies

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Economic Policies, Education Advancement/ Modernization, Veteran Affairs, Affordable Housing, Food Insecurity, Gun Laws.

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

I was in Elementary School (9) at the time and I remember Y2K or the " Millennium Bug" being a huge deal.

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

I got my first job at 16 at a movie theater. It allowed me to play football and track due to the theaters closing later.

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

All bills for raising revenue, such as taxes, must originate in the House of Representatives. This clause in the Constitution reflects the historical sentiment that the "power of the purse" should be held by the body of government closest to the people.

The Constitution requires members of the House to be at least 25 years old, compared to 30 for senators. This lower age limit was designed to allow for a broader range of representation.

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

No, it's not necessarily beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics. A representative's role is to understand and advocate for the needs and interests of their constituents. This task does not strictly require previous political experience.

They can provide insights that career politicians might overlook, particularly when it comes to issues that directly affect everyday people, such as education, healthcare, and employment

The principle of a representative democracy is that anyone, regardless of their background, should be able to serve in government. This inclusivity encourages a broader range of people to participate in public service, which can enrich the democratic process

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

Polarization and compassion for one another.

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

While the two-year term for Representatives is rooted in the founding principles of our democracy, it does present some challenges in today's political landscape. With such short terms, Representatives often find themselves in a continuous cycle of fundraising and campaigning, which can detract from their primary responsibility – representing and supporting the people who elected them.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

Term limits can prevent the entrenchment of outdated ideologies and promote fresh, forward-thinking ideas, which are critical for addressing the rapidly evolving challenges of the 21st century.

Term limits can also enhance the diversity of our representation by creating more opportunities for new voices to be heard, including those of younger candidates, women, and minority groups. This aligns with the progressive values of equality, inclusivity, and innovation.

Term limits can act as a check against excessive power concentration and potential corruption, fostering a healthier, more accountable democracy that is more responsive to the needs and aspirations of all citizens.

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

Lawmakers can address the concerns and needs of multiple constituents, creating laws that are more broadly acceptable and durable over time. Additionally, compromise encourages dialogue and understanding, fostering a more cooperative political climate. While it's possible to pass laws without compromise, particularly when one party has a substantial majority, doing so can risk alienating a large portion of the populace and fostering division. Hence, while not always necessary, compromise can be a valuable ingredient in the recipe for effective and sustainable policymaking.