Steven Holden

Steven Holden was born in Miami, Oklahoma. He served in the U.S. Army from 1998 to 2018. He earned an associate degree from Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College in 1992, a bachelor's degree from the University of Central Oklahoma in 1994, and a graduate degree from Syracuse University in 2007. His career experience includes working as a chief financial officer. He is certified by the federal government as a Defense Financial Manager.[1][2]

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Video submitted to BallotpediaReleased January 31, 2023

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am LTC Steven Holden. I was raised in Oklahoma on my grandfather’s dairy farm, so I understand rural America. I went into the Army and was deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan twice and received three Bronze Stars. I am a retired Lt. Colonel with more than 20 years of service.

Now, I want to deploy to Washington DC to fight for my constituents in NY21, who have largely been ignored by their current representative.

In college, I earned my BA in criminal justice while in the National Guard, then I received my commission and retired as an Army Finance Corps Lieutenant Colonel. I also earned an MBA and an MPA (master’s in public administration) from Syracuse University. While in Syracuse, I met the love of my life, my wife Julie, who also served in the Army. We have three children and one grandchild.

I am the CFO of an organization that helps military veterans win government contracts and I teach finance and mergers and acquisitions. Most recently, I served on the Naming Commission, responsible for renaming or removing military assets with names associated with the Confederate States of America.

I took an oath to defend the Constitution, our country, and our citizens from all enemies, foreign and domestic. I may have retired from the Army, but I remain committed to the oath I made and will continue to observe that oath. This oath begins the story of WHY I have decided to run for public office and to serve as New York’s Congressman in the 21st District.

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?

Deliver Results to NY21 - I will listen to & actively work to deliver results to all constituents of NY21.Restore & Protect our Constitution & Democratic Values - Liberty, Equality, & JusticeProtect Social Security, Medicare/Medicaid, and advance Healthcare for All - A healthy nation is a thriving nation.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Affordable healthcare is a passion for me because it hits close to home. My father recently passed away from cancer. In his last years and months, he was more worried about his medical expenses instead of his health. People have gone into bankruptcy, and have lost everything, from their medical care expenses.

When we look at economic drivers, we cannot ignore the reality that a sick workforce is less productive. When businesses have happy and healthy employees, that business will thrive.

We are the only industrialized nation that ignores the health of our citizens. We can and we MUST do better.

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

We must always be compassionate, and empathetic, and listen actively to understand the needs of our constituents. We must work hard. Like my service in the Army, I won't walk away until the mission is complete.

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

I am an empathic and compassionate person, which allows me to connect with constituents on a personal level and understand their diverse needs. Coupled with my extensive knowledge of Federal and State processes, I am well-equipped to navigate the complexities of governance, ensuring effective representation. My strong work ethic ensures a commitment to addressing issues diligently, while my fairness fosters a balanced and just approach to decision-making. Together, these qualities form a solid foundation for success as an office holder, enabling me to advocate for my constituents with empathy, navigate legislative processes adeptly, and work tirelessly for the betterment of our community with a commitment to fairness and justice.

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

As a member of the House of Representatives, my foremost duty is to attentively listen to the concerns and needs of my constituents, ensuring that their voices are heard in the legislative process. This involves actively engaging with the community, understanding their challenges, and advocating for policies that address their pressing issues. Meeting the needs of my constituents requires a commitment to crafting and supporting legislation that promotes their well-being and addresses the socio-economic challenges they face. Additionally, it is imperative to maintain a principled stance by diligently avoiding conflicts of interest that could compromise the integrity of my duty to represent the people. By prioritizing transparency and accountability, I aim to foster trust with the electorate, upholding the responsibilities entrusted to me as their representative in the House.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I would like to restore Americans' faith in our government institutions, address pressing issues such as racial and economic injustice, and advocate for peaceful solutions to conflicts.

To restore faith in our institutions, it is imperative to prioritize transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct. By fostering an environment of trust, we can engage citizens in the democratic process and demonstrate a genuine dedication to serving their best interests.

The fight against racial and economic injustice demands we address disparities in education, employment, and criminal justice. A legacy focused on equity and justice involves advocating for policies that uplift marginalized communities, eliminate discriminatory practices, and create a more inclusive society.

Working towards peaceful solutions involves diplomacy, collaboration, and a commitment to dialogue over confrontation.

I would like to leave a legacy where I have rebuilt trust through transparent governance, advocated for equity and justice, and actively contributed to global peace efforts.

What is your favorite book? Why?

The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck. Set during the Great Depression, the novel focuses on a poor farming family driven from their Oklahoma home by drought, economic hardship, agricultural industry changes, and bank foreclosures. It is a story of a man evolving from selfishness to selflessness to save his family and about surviving in the face of great hardship.

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

I suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) stemming from my military deployments. Despite the challenges posed by this condition, my aspiration is to serve as a role model for others who may be contending with similar circumstances. It is my firm belief that individuals with PTSD can thrive and contribute meaningfully to society. While managing PTSD is an ongoing journey, I am committed to showcasing that it doesn't hinder my ability to pursue a career in public service. By sharing my experiences and actively participating in public life, I aim to break down the stigma surrounding mental health, encourage open conversations, and inspire others to embrace their journeys towards recovery. My resilience in facing the impacts of PTSD serves not only as a testament to personal strength but also as an opportunity to contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate understanding of mental health challenges within the broader community.

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

The United States House of Representatives wields economic and social influence, as envisioned by our Founding Fathers. Representatives are held accountable for finance and taxation. Being more closely aligned with the people allows us to shape economic policies and social initiatives that serve the nation. The people have a direct say in economic decisions, reinforcing the democratic ideals upon which our nation was built.

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

I firmly believe that effective representation today requires an understanding of how the government functions and can actively contribute from the very first day in office. The recent trend of unqualified members who prioritize personal power and agendas that harm the interests of Americans has underscored the importance of electing experienced leaders who are committed to governance rather than grandstanding. With over two decades of experience working within the Federal Government, I bring a wealth of knowledge about its intricacies and processes. Moreover, my daily engagement in running a small business dedicated to assisting veterans in securing government contracts not only demonstrates my practical understanding of government operations but also reflects a tangible commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of those who have served our country. This unique combination of experience positions me as a candidate ready to navigate the complexities of governance, advocate for the needs of the community, and contribute meaningfully to the welfare of both veterans and the broader public.

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

The United States faces significant challenges in the coming decade, with climate change standing out as a paramount concern. The increasing frequency and intensity of severe weather events have taken a toll on communities nationwide, leading to extensive damages and substantial financial burdens. The nation has already invested billions in providing aid to affected areas, emphasizing the urgent need for proactive and sustainable solutions.

You can read more about my positions on the environment by visiting: https://www.believeinsteve.org/post/mission-priority-protecting-the-planet

What are your thoughts on term limits?

I advocate for the implementation of mandatory term limits, driven by the recognition that prolonged stays in Washington lead to the formation of a "political elite." Over the years, we've witnessed elected officials spending decades in office, and in doing so, they become disconnected from the very constituents they were elected to serve. We have then witnessed elected representatives prioritizing the interests of the wealthy 1% and large corporations over the needs and concerns of the broader population.

Term limits can insure that elected officials remain closely aligned with the communities they represent. Term limits also encourage fresh perspectives and prevent the entrenchment of power within a select few. This approach is designed to counteract the potential for complacency and the loss of focus on the issues that matter most to the people.

In aligning with my commitment to accountable and responsive governance, I pledge to limit my service to a maximum of three terms. By adhering to these limits, I aim to remain directly connected to the concerns and aspirations of the community, prioritizing the welfare of the constituents over the interests of powerful entities.

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

I love the work of California District 33 Representative Ted Lieu. He is a fellow veteran, demonstrates pride in his military service, and fights for important issues, like combating climate change, expanding voting rights, and eliminating student loan debt.

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

Compromise is a commitment to finding commonality amid differences and stands as a testament to the strength of collaborative efforts in the pursuit of a more equitable and inclusive future for all. To achieve collective victories, each side must be willing to yield certain points to secure gains elsewhere. This allows each stakeholder to emerge with victories and, more importantly, where the broader community stands to benefit.

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?

With my more than 20 years of experience working with the Federal budget, I would use my knowledge of the appropriations process to reduce wasteful DoD spending and put it towards peaceful alternatives in DoS and USAID, as well as maintaining social infrastructure spending.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

2023:

Blue America

UAW

CWA

IBEW

NYS AFL CIO

Auburn & Buffalo papers.

Auburn Mayor Quill

Lockport Michelle Roman

2024:

Blue America

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I was raised in Oklahoma on my grandfather’s dairy farm, so I understand rural America. I went into the Army and was deployed to Iraq twice and Afghanistan twice and received three Bronze Stars. I am a retired Lt. Colonel with more than 20 years of service. Now, I want to deploy to Washington DC to fight for my constituents in Congress, so that everyone in NY24 can Make it in America.

My mother is of Cherokee descent; my father worked on Modoc Nation lands. I went to college and received a BA in criminal justice while in the National Guard, then I received my commission and retired as an Army Finance Corps Lieutenant Colonel. I also earned an MBA and an MPA (master’s in public administration) from Syracuse University.

While in Syracuse, I met the love of my life, my wife Julie, who served in the Army, too. We have three children, and one grandchild.

I am the CFO of an organization that helps military veterans win government contracts and I teach finance and mergers and acquisitions.

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?

Defending the Right to Choose - Reproductive rights are under attack. As the Representative for NY24—the birthplace of the women’s rights movement--I will fight for reproductive freedom. Because reproductive rights are human rights.Spurring Economic Development - Our rural communities need to be rebuilt with investments to bring high-speed broadband to every home; to fix roads and bridges so our farmers can get their products to market; to bring high-paying, union-based manufacturing jobs back to our country.Protecting the Environment – NY24, the Lake District, is home to beautiful lands and waters that are the lifeblood of our local economy, supporting farms, vineyards, and tourism, to name a few of the benefits of living in this region. From Jefferson County to Niagara County, I will work to protect the environment from destructive practices, such as fracking and overdevelopment.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Affordable healthcare is a passion for me, because it hits close to home. My father has cancer, and he is more worried about his medical expenses instead of his health. People have gone into bankruptcy, and have lost everything, from their medical care expenses. My brother-in-law has an immunodeficiency condition and must volunteer for clinical trials, or his medication will cost $28K every three months. We are the only industrialized nation that allows this to happen, and we need to do better.

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

First, I look up to my father, David Holden. He is a model for compassion, hard work, and selfless dedication to the people in his life. In the political arena, I look up to Congresswoman Louise Slaughter. Louise represented the residents of New York for 20 years. She was a fierce fighter for women's health, she co-authored the Violence Against Women Act, took action to provide Marines with safe body armor, and was the first woman in history to chair the Rules Committee

Louise was one of the most progressive members of the New York congressional delegation from upstate New York. She was a trailblazer and a role model for advancing social justice issues, and I hope to carry on her legacy of advocacy and meaningful change.

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

The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck. Set during the Great Depression, the novel focuses on a poor farming family driven from their Oklahoma home by drought, economic hardship, agricultural industry changes, and bank foreclosures. It is the story of a man evolving from selfishness to selflessness to save his family and about surviving in the face of great hardship.

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

Compassion, empathy, intelligence, a hard-work ethic, being an active listener, having the ability to understand all sides of an issue, seeing the big picture as well as the details.

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

I have empathy, compassion, knowledge of Federal and State processes, I’m hard-working and fair.

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

To listen to the needs of my constituents, meet those needs, and remove myself from conflicts of interest that might impugn that duty.

What legacy would you like to leave?

To restore Americans’ faith in our government institutions, to fight to end racial and economic injustice, and work for peaceful solutions to conflicts.

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

I remember the Iran Hostage Crisis when I was seven or eight years old.

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

My first job was helping my grandfather haul and deliver milk to farmers and ranchers when I was 16. I worked for him until I left for college two years later.

What is your favorite book? Why?

The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck. Set during the Great Depression, the novel focuses on a poor farming family driven from their Oklahoma home by drought, economic hardship, agricultural industry changes, and bank foreclosures. It is a story of a man evolving from selfishness to selflessness to save his family and about surviving in the face of great hardship.

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

As a boy, I was a big fan of the Green Lantern because he could fight evil by controlling objects telekinetically. If only it were that easy!

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

Man in the Mirror by Michael Jackson

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

I suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder from my military deployments, and I want to be a role model for others with this condition. I want people to see that PTSD, while an ongoing condition to manage, doesn’t hold me back from pursuing public service.

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

The US House of Representatives has an economic and social influence that can extend wide and far. Our Founders designed it this way so Representatives would be held to account on matters, especially finance and taxation.

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

Yes, I believe to be effective today, we need Representatives who know how the Government works and can hit the ground running on Day One. We have seen a rash of unqualified Members who are there for personal power, to fulfill an agenda that hurts Americans, and see them grandstand instead of govern. I have more than 20 years of experience in the Federal Government, and work with the government daily running my small business helping veterans win government contracts.

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

Climate change. More severe weather continues to occur, and we have spent billions to aid communities damaged and destroyed by weather events. My plan for NY24 is to provide carbon credits to reduce emissions, as well as transform communities with new and existing infrastructure to become leaders in green technology.

If you are not a current representative, are there certain committees that you would want to be a part of?

Armed Services, Veterans Affairs, Interior

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

I believe that a three-year term would be better. As it is, Representatives are in constant campaign mode. Three years would allow more time to legislate and less time worrying about being re-elected.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

I support term limits for all Federal office holders: eight years for members of the House and 12 years for Senators.

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

I love the work of California District 33 Representative Ted Lieu. He is a fellow veteran, demonstrates pride in his military service, and fights for important issues, like combating climate change, expanding voting rights, and eliminating student loan debt.

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?

Yes. There is a story of a woman who had a thriving pet daycare and grooming business. Eight years ago, she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. She had to sell her business and now lives with her sister. She relies completely on social security income for her healthcare and livelihood, and without some sort of government medical program, she could not afford her medication and her physical rehabilitation. Government works for people, plain and simple.

Tell us your favorite joke.

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

Compromise is always appropriate in governance; each side gives something up to get something they want so that everyone can win. Also, if the players are acting in good faith and the agreement is designed to make better legislation, compromise can work.

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?

With my more than 20 years of experience working with the Federal budget, I would use my knowledge of the appropriations process to reduce wasteful DoD spending and put it towards peaceful alternatives in DoS and USAID, as well as maintaining social infrastructure spending.

Note: Holden submitted the above survey responses to [the profile publisher] on October 28, 2022.

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January 19 submission

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a proud Progressive Veteran of Native American descent. I stand for Single=Payer Healthcare, elimination of student loan debt, protecting Native American businesses, expanding opportunity to disaffected communities, and reforming our education system. As someone who was raised in a rural environment, I understand the frustration of smaller communities, and will protect vital lifelines for those communities such as Rural Free Delivery through the USPS, rebuilding community hospitals, and protecting rural airports and shipping. I want to reimagine our in CNY to create a Green Economy through my Green New Deal for CNY, and help the US be a world leader in items such as lithium batteries for electric vehicles and blades and turbines for wind power. I will use y 20 plus career in Federal Government finance to reduce the bloated Pentagon budget and use it to sustain real and human infrastructure spending, and pay for items such as universal Pre-K through the first two years of college or a trade school. I want to eliminate the public school funding model of property taxes to a fairer Federal-State partnership model. I want to release patents so US-based COVID-19 vaccine producers can supply other parts of the world. I support the the elimination of student loan debt as a father and stepfather who put three young adults through college.

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 support single-payer, Universal healthcare and having the Government negotiate for lower prescription drug prices.We must eliminate all student loan debt so we can unburden an entire generation. This would boost the economy as it would increase new home sales, which is an indicator of economic strength.Racial and economic justice is a must. I want to provide opportunities for disaffected communities to fix their problems and invest in their people.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am very passionate about healthcare, economic and racial justice, and student loan debt. My father just had double cancer surgery, and instead of being more concerned about his surgery, he was worried more about his monthly premium. My brother-in-law has an immunodeficiency condition and must volunteer for clinical trails or his medication would cost over $28K every three months. Hence, we need single-payer, universal healthcare, much like I received in the military, so people like my father do not have to worry about those premiums, and have the Government negotiate medication costs so my brother-in-law does not have to continue those trials.

We have communities that the economy has left behind. Those are often communities of color and rural voters who suffer in poverty because of system rigged against them. I will propose legislation to expand access to capital in those communities so they can chart their own destiny. An example of this would be to have Federal dollars go to Native communities to clean up the environment on their lands, and to have African American communities remediate lead-based paint and eliminate noise pollution.

Finally. as I have stated, I want to pressure the Administration to eliminate student loan debt with the stroke of a pen. Absent that, I would propose legislation that would do the same. This would unburden a generation by creating new home sales, open capital to start business, and would lead to an even more productive workforce.

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

In my personal life, I look up to my father, David Holden. He is a model for compassion, hard work, and selfless dedication to everyone. In public life, I look up to Senator Bernie Sanders. He has spent his entire life working for economic and racial justice.

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

The Grapes of Wrath

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

Compassion, empathy, intelligence, hard work ethic, and being an active listener.

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

Empathy, compassion, knowledge of Federal and State processes, hard working, and fair.

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

To listen to the needs of their constituents, meet those needs, and remove oneself from conflicts of interest that might impugn that duty.

What legacy would you like to leave?

To restore Americans faith in our institutions, to fight to end racial and economic injustice, and work for peaceful solutions too conflicts.

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

I remember the Iran Hostage Crisis when I was seven/eight years-old.

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

My first job was helping my Grandfather in hauling and delivering it to farmers and ranchers when I was 16. I did it until I left for college two years later.

What is your favorite book? Why?

Grapes of Wrath. Because it highlights the poor and the dignity that they have, and how hope