Reece Axel-Adams

Reece Axel-Adams was born in Indianapolis, Indiana. Axel-Adams earned a high school diploma from Pendleton Heights High School.

Axel-Adams' career experience includes working as an activist.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

My name is Reece Axel-Adams and I'm running to be your State House Representative. As a Gen-Z'er, I know the struggles of growing up in the 21st Century, most of us don't feel like we have a future; that's why I'm running. I'm building a future that works for all of us, not just a select few. I promise to be a representative for all, regardless of if you voted for me or not.

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?

The future: Weither it be never ending wars, climate change, or the world wide threats to democracy, many young people don't feel like they have a future. I aim to change that. By introducing legislation that helps everyone, I know we can build a future that is brighter than the days we have gone through.Marijuana: Indiana stands alone in a sea of green. Every year we lose thousands of tax dollars to our neighboring states, all because we are stuck in the 20th century. It's high time we legalize pot so Indiana can reap ALL the benefits of pot.Getting money out of politics: simple as that. Money has dominated poltics for too long and its hurting everyone. Nuff said.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Equality/equity, Marijuana, fixing the damn roads, insuring government works for eveyone, unions, the list goes on and on

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

My parents. I wouldn't be who I am without them. They raised me with good morals and values that I carry with me in my Campaign.

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

The Bible: while I'm no longer a Christian, I was raised with strong Christian values. Jesus fed the hungry, housed the homeless, and hung out with those cast out from society. He overturned the tax collectors tables, and preached a simple truth: love thy neighbor.

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

Honesty, integrity, and the willingness to listen to everyone. Putting people over profits and making government work for all, not just a select few.

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

The people are the boss of us. We are elected to carry out their will, not special intrest groups. A representative is meant to listen to their constituents and craft legislation that addresses their problems, no matter how big or small they might be.

What legacy would you like to leave?

A legacy of change. One that lifts everyone up and pushes no one down.

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

Solidarity Forever by Pete Seeger. I love my union/protest songs!

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

Mental health struggles. I've had suicidal ideations and have almost ended my life. I wouldn't be here if it hadn't been for the community that believed in me when I didn't believe in myself.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

The legislature acts as a check on the powers of the Governor. We must be firm in our convictions but make sure to never overstep our powers. The legislature and Governor must have a good working relationship while maintaining independence and the checks and balances written into the state constitution.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Brain drain. We are losing young people left and right as they flee to states thay are more receptive to them. We have to change course if we want to have a vibrant future for this state.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

Ofcouse. We have to work with these people, especially in a super minority like Democrats in the state house. If we want our policies passed, we must be able to work across the aisle.

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

J.D. Ford of Indianapolis

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

No comment

Tell us your favorite joke.

Why did the chicken fall out of the tree?

Cuz it was dead.

Why did the monkey fall out of the tree?

Cuz it was stapled to the chicken.

Why did the elephant fall out of the tree?

Cuz it wanted to be a chicken.

Why did the tree fall down?

Cuz there was just an elephant in it, duh!

What is the first bill you would introduce if elected?

An updated road funding bill. Right now, our road funding formulas only provide for 2 lanes, so if there's a four lane highway, that money is divided in half. I drive up to Michigan a decent amount and I can always tell the moment I cross into Michigan because its smooth sailing. Our roads are a mess; potholes everywhere and continuous construction with no actual improvements. Everyone uses roads, regardless of what party you are a part of, and its damn time we make the roads here drivable. Roads should not be a partisan issue, and I'm confident I can get broad support for my road funding bill.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

I have already pledged to publicly disclose all my financial reports, and that won't stop once I'm elected. I would also push for legislation that requires evey state offical to publicly provide any and all financial disclosures, including any contributions they get while in office.