Tamara Lesnar

Tamara Lesnar was born in Chicago, Illinois.[1] She earned a bachelor's degree from the North Dakota State University, Fargo in 2007. Her career experience includes working as a zoologist at Red River Zoo.[2]

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Tamara Lesnar was born in Chicago and spent part of every year in South Dakota when she was growing up. She had 17 years of post-secondary education.This included studies in social sciences, economics, psychology, culinary arts, languages, art, market analysis, math and science particularly in biological science, wildlife management and vet tech. She has a BS degree in zoology from NDSU. She worked at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange as a compliance officer which she believes is important skill in making sure compliance to the Constitution is upheld. Ms Lesnar has also worked for the Red River Zoo in Fargo ND . She has never been a politician before this race. She regards this as an advantage in that she is not part of the two party system that has consistently excluded the needs of most people and their freedoms.

Tamara's family has lived in South Dakota since the late 1800's. Her relatives have had family farms in northeast South Dakota for generations and comes from a family who were proud to serve their country as Army soldiers dating back to WWI to the present. She has continued to have a strong interest in agriculture because of this family connection and working on her grandparents farm as a child. She is married and is a mother and grandmother and has lived in South Dakota full time periodically since the early nineties when she bought her parents home in Grenville SD. She has lived in the same house up to the present.

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?

Your freedoms are being eroded by government at all levels including soverign nations.All three branches of government have been ignoring and violating the Constitution. Changing the rules for power plays and control when it suits them.Too many legislators are grandstanding instead of working cooperatively with all parties to get work done for the people.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Government needs to restrain itself from intruding into the private lives of citizens. Elected officials need to remember that they are the servants of the people. The two party system has entrenched power and polarized public life to the detriment of the people. Money has further corrupted the political process. We need to find a way to remove money from politics. Officials need to cooperate with each other in getting the work of government done instead of just raising money and scoring political points.

The work of government is to improve life for the people, protect the nation from enemies, both foreign and domestic, and preserve the liberties enjoyed by our nation.

The 9th and 10th amendments to the Constitution remind us that rights belong to the people and government only has those rights that the people are willing to grant it. Just because the Constitution does not specifically grant a particular right to the people does not mean that the people are not entitled to that right.

Too often our government acts like rights belong to the government and that they do the people a favor by granting them rights. We the people grant rights to the government and permit the government to make laws. Our nation depends on the rule of law. No one person is above the law.

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

I would not single out one specific person. There are many people whose work and achievements I admire. In the sciences there is Marie Curie, Neil deGrasse Tyson, Gregor Mendel, Rosalind Franklin, and pioneering women in science everywhere. In the arts I admire the work of Picasso in his role in the development of cubism, Dali in the popularization of surrealism, and Marc Chagall in his works of realism, cubism and surrealism. In sports I am in awe of all the Olympic medalists. I learned something of their hard work and dedication from my training in gymnastics when I was a child. In the political and historical area I greatly admire Martin Luther King, Jr in his campaign for civil rights and the thousands of women worldwide who participated in the suffrage movement. These are people who fought for the freedoms we enjoy today. Like all the people I have mentioned, I strive to be my authentic self, to continue to grow and learn, and to find ways to help others

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

The movie Lawrence of Arabia is the story of a group of people who were being exploited and denied liberty. They fought amongst themselves. T.E. Lawrence convinced them to set aside their differences to fight as a united force for freedom. The novel A Tale of Two Cities I found very moving. In the story the French people were fighting for liberty against an oppressive monarchy and nobility. I saw in it the willingness of an honorable man to give up his own self interest and sacrifice his life for the good of others. The movie Erin Brockovich was the story of an ordinary person who took it upon herself to become an environmental crusader. She put her own life at risk to hold PG&E accountable for deliberate negligence that resulted in an environmental disaster. The manner in which toxic disposable waste was purposely handled and the faulty design of retention ponds allowed hexavalent chromium-6, a cancer causing chemical, to leach into the water table. This environmental pollution resulted in the deaths and illnesses of Hinkley, California residents and PG&E workers. The environment is very important to me, and this story showed how one ordinary person makes a big difference in protecting natural resources specifically food security and fresh water. Another is Amistad. The Amistad slave ship carried 53 Mende kidnapped from Mendeland and sold into the Spanish slave trade and classified as Cuban slaves. Sengbe Pieh (Cinque) broke free, released the others to revolt. Most Amistad crew were killed. The ship, trying to get back to East Africa grounded in New York where the US government seized the ship and classified the Mende as cargo of the ship. They were charged with murder and piracy. While in jail, Abolitionists raised money for a lawyer and a Mende translator. The case became one between the US and Spain. The Mende won their freedom. This shows how the Fourth Amendment rights are important and people who were willing to free slaves and promote equality.

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

Integrity and objectivity are paramount to being in a political office. They should have the understanding of humanity and decency. Understanding the sociology and psychology of global, national, and local community issues in both urban and rural areas. Adherence to treaties and the Constitutional protection of people's freedoms, rights, and sovereignty. It is important not to allow religious beliefs into making bills and laws nor creating a government as a theocracy as is referenced by the Establishment Clause of Amendment I. The Constitution also reads in Article VI - "...no religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office or public trust under the United States." Enacting laws with theological dogma is forcing people to adhere to a particular religion's beliefs, and that is in violation of Amendment I, freedom of religion and in violation of the Religious Freedom Restoration Act. By enacting such laws, the government is burdening those whose religious beliefs may differ from those who wrote the law. Government has no compelling interest in religion except to protect religious liberty. Politicians should not abuse their power for personal reasons or political revenge.

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

Some of the qualities that would make me a successful senator include my independent critical thinking skills and common sense. My science background has helped shape and hone these skills. By my extensive research skills I am able to find the facts without bias. I approach problems by seeking out factual information and evidence to guide reasoning to a solution. I approach issues by identifying ultimate causes and proximate causes. As an example, you buy a lottery ticket and win. That is the proximate cause of winning. The ultimate cause is that the state enacted a state lottery. You are unable to fix issues if you don't find the ultimate cause. The proximate causes are the laws that have created the discordant atmosphere that we have today. I am an empathetic person. My knowledge of sociology and psychology help me with understanding the motivations and intentions of others This empathy motivates me to go out of my way to help others, even strangers, when I see a need. I am a hard worker and do not want to stop a task until the job is done. I am environmentally conscious and sensitive to the impact that my decisions and actions have on our world.

My empathy and environmental consciousness are related to my belief that every person is a human being of equal value regardless of physical attributes. As God's children we are all brothers and sisters.

Kindness matters.

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

This has already been addressed in multiple previous questions.

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

The Solidarity Movement in Poland against the communist regime. The center of that movement was in Gdansk in what used to be the Kashubian region of Poland. My family are Kashubian on the side of my paternal grandparents. Many of those in the Solidarity Movement were Kashubian, and consequently there was a lot of interest on the part of my family. I was interviewed by Chicago news at that time as a 10 year old child interested in the developments in Poland. Even at that age I knew that the fight for liberty and democracy was important.

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

There was a hot dog stand I often went to in our neighborhood when I was a teenager. They got to know me because I was there so often. When I was 15 I was in there one day and asked them for a job. They hired me, and I worked there for the summer. Although it was very busy and required me to work hard, I enjoyed it. I liked earning my own money and the autonomy it gave me. My parents taught me that if I wanted something I had to earn it. This lesson has served me well.

What is your favorite book? Why?

Almost everything written by Stephen King because I like fiction; it takes you to a different reality that removes the stress of real living. I am a big fan of horror and supernatural stories which I think are even more creepy.

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

An Earth Dragon because they have innate courage, tenacity, intelligence, are enthusiastic, and confident. They are not afraid of challenges and are willing to take risks.

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

"You Got To Run (Spirit in the Wind)" by Buffy Saint-Marie and Tanya Tagaq. The words have an irresistible emotional impact. It expresses the equality of all people but most importantly the sovereign nations of America and the broken promises and treaties made to them by the US government and the racism they and other peoples of color endure. It is also about taking a stand.

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

Preserving our democracy and our liberties

Global climate change and the environment.

There are political forces trying to make America a theocracy. The Constitution prohibits this. I would oppose any law, official, or government action that advocates for theocracy.

The challenges and risks that result from artificial intelligence

What are your thoughts on term limits?

It is good idea, but in practice, I do not think it would work. Not enough qualified people are willing to run for office. The process of running is too expensive. Also the seniority system in congress would have to change drastically to allow term limits to work.

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

The Senate is unique in three ways. First; they have the power described in Article One of the Constitution to hold any impeached members of the government accountable for breaking their oath of office. Since the Constitution does not mention parties nor does it mention a party line vote, the Senate should act as an impartial jury. In this way the Senate, as a separate and equal branch, is part of the system of checks and balances that keeps the other to branches adherent to the Constitution. Second; the Senate has the power to approve presidential appointments. Again, because the Constitution does not mention parties, the approval of these appointments should be free of party bias. Third; the Senate has the authority to approve treaties including treaties with the indigenous sovereign nations of the United States and its territories.

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

No. Article One of the Constitution specifies only age, citizenship and state of residence as requirements Any citizen can be qualified to propose and review legislation, review presidential appointments and treaties and act as an impartial juror in matters of impeachment. Any citizen can read the bills and laws with definitions very easily. As a compliance officer for the Chicago Mercantile Exchange I was required to understand compliance with rules and laws. I do read judicial rulings and opinions and research judicial cases.

What do you think of the filibuster?

I oppose it. It only serves to obstruct the work of the Senate. It is undemocratic, because it allows a minority to prevent legislation from coming to a vote . The Constitution requires only a majority to pass legislation The filibuster is specifically designed to avoid that constitutional requirement.

What criteria would you apply when deciding whether to confirm presidential appointees?

I would be objective and impartial I would look at the qualifications of, the record of work that the nominee has, and evaluate responses to questions. I would NOT be influenced by party or any party line.

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

Budget Committee: Spending is a high priority of Libertarians. The budget committee would give an opportunity to control wasteful spending. Taxation Committee: Taxes and tax policy is another high priority for Libertarians. Being on this committee would be an opportunity to make taxation more equitable and fair for the average working American and for small business owners. Veteran Affairs: I am a big proponent of proper and fair benefits for veterans. People who put on a uniform to place themselves at risk for our safety and freedom deserve the best that we can provide. Judiciary Committee: Oversight of judicial appointments is one of the most important acts of the Senate. It is very important to bring my commitment to impartiality and objectivity. Any devotion to party undercuts the Senate role in checking the other two branches. This process has become political, and we are rapidly losing liberties. Indian Affairs: Our treatment of the Sovereign Nations has been shameful. We need to restore more autonomy. Indian health services and housing on tribal lands need improvement. Sovereign Nations should have control over enforcement and prosecution of all but major crimes on tribal lands. Agriculture: We need to reign in corporate power that disadvantages family farmers. The actions of large companies have hurt farm interests and affected food supply for our country. Energy/ Natural Resources: On this committee I can address climate change and environmental issues and make it easier for people to generate their own power.. Health Education Labor and Pension: Access to good affordable healthcare and free high quality education from pre-K through 12th grade is very important. Restoration of rights for workers and facilitation of their security in retirement ae also important.

Rules & Administration: Rules need to change to remove the power monopoly of the two party system. Special Committee on Aging. The needs of our senior citizens are not being fully addressed.

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

I would rather consider this question in a tri-partisan manner across both houses and name a Congresswoman as my role model. She is Hon. Stacy E. Plaskett of the U.S. Virgin Islands. She is an extraordinary woman who has worked in dedication to the people and the rule of law. Cong. Plaskett has shown herself to be confident and intelligent and has earned bipartisan respect. She has honored her oath to the Constitution with her oversight duties for proper and lawful behavior in government.. I would strive to those same qualities as a Senator and to earn bipartisan respect.

Tell us your favorite joke.

Anything from Rodney Dangerfield.

How would you evaluate a judicial nominee?

I have discussed this above. The power of reviewing judicial nominees is crucial to the role of the Senate as a co-equal branch in providing checks and balances on the Executive and Judicial branches. If senators just follow party lines and do not remain objective and impartial they surrender that power. This is a form of dereliction of duty. Senators have a duty to be impartial and objective in this process. Because so many have abdicated that duty, the judicial branch has become very partisan and nominated from an exclusive society. It should be open to all exclusive of party. This must change to protect the independence of the judiciary branch and preserve our liberties.

What kind of relationships would you build with other senators?

I would want to use social events as an opportunity to engage people across party lines. This would provide an environment of congeniality and civility that could help overcome the toxic environment that currently exists. Senators should cooperate in doing the work of the people. One of the problems is that the highest priority of Democrats is to keep Democrats in power, and the highest priority of Republicans is to keep Republicans in power. They could never agree on that issue. Therefore, they must make the will and the good of the people their highest priority. In this way, they have a better chance of being productive in doing their work and not always being deadlocked.

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

Yes, I do. That is how all negotiations work. The two parties are clearly failing in this area. Without compromise we end up with the two parties who address the negotiations in an unprofessional way with ad hominem attacks and incendiary rhetoric resulting in division and hatred towards any American citizen even those who are family, friends , acquaintances and associates. Last time that happened it resulted in the American Civil War (1861-1865) with 1.5 million casualties including 620,000 deaths with approximately 360,222 Union deaths; the Republican Party and approximately 258,000 Confederate deaths, the Democrat Party. This came about because proper negotiations failed and incendiary rhetoric like today caused a war. This is is exactly the same type of atmosphere today that lead up to January 6th. We experienced this on a small scale attack but we are not safe from this blowing up to a full civil war if the two parties continue to play power games and refuse to come to the table in good faith. There is a pattern here and its between the Republicans and Democrats. I have emailed both Senators Rounds and Thune long before any impeachment hearings and January 6th that the the atmosphere of the country and swearing an allegiance to a president instead to the people and voting party lines was leading to a civil war and they didn't heed the advice. Now imagine what would happen with a full scale war in a population of 331,889,345 citizens almost equally dived between Republicans and Democrats resulting in millions of adults and children death, injuries, sickness, poverty, and displacement. It is imperative we have a third party and others in the three branches of government and any public office. I will approach negotiations with good faith objectively, while making sure the people's rights and liberties are not infringed upon. I will take an active role in mediations.