Tiffany Rodgers

Tiffany Rodgers' career experience includes working as a healthcare professional and in accounting.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I’m a passionate single mother, a full-time political science student at CSU, and I work full-time in a doctor’s office helping people every day. I understand the struggles of working families because I live them. I’m not a career politician—I’m one of you. I’m not here for the party; I’m here for the people. It’s time Washington heard our voice, and I’m ready to shake things up in Congress.

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?

We must stop Trump and his so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). This isn’t about streamlining government—it’s about consolidating power in the hands of billionaires. We’ve had enough of the oligarchy running our country behind closed doors. It’s time to return power to the people. America belongs to all of us—not just the wealthy few.Washington has been debating universal healthcare since the 1940s. Meanwhile, families are drowning in medical bills and overpriced prescriptions. We can’t wait any longer. While we continue the fight for true healthcare reform, I propose we cap monthly healthcare premiums and take immediate action to lower the cost of life-saving medications. The people need relief now—not in another 80 years.We must confront the ongoing slaughter of the Palestinian people. This is not about a nation’s right to defend—it’s about our responsibility to stand against injustice. The United States must stop sending weapons and billions in aid to Israel, especially when those resources are desperately needed here at home.

While Americans struggle to afford healthcare and education, Israel—thanks in large part to U.S. tax dollars—provides universal healthcare and subsidizes higher education. I pay $1,500 for just one class at CSU, while Israeli students can attend for one year at that same price. America must stop fueling war and start investing in peace, dignity, and opportunity-right here at home.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I’m passionate about public policy that puts people first—because I live the struggles so many Americans face. Healthcare, affordable education, and economic justice aren’t luxuries—they’re human rights. I also believe in protecting civil and human rights. We need leaders who stand up for dignity, equality, and justice—not just for some, but for all. I believe in policies that put people first, not corporations or party elites. I want to see a government that works for us, not talks at us.

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

I look up to many people, especially strong women who face challenges with resilience and grace. I admired my mother deeply before she passed—like so many mothers, she was the rock that held our family together. But more than anyone, I look up to those who are struggling, yet still get up each day to try to make ends meet. Their strength, perseverance, and determination inspire me to fight for a better future for all of us.

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

Character and principles are everything in public service. The most important trait for any elected official is understanding—and I have that, because I’m living the same struggles as the American people. I bring passion, dedication, and determination to make America work for us. Truth and transparency are vital, but if I may add one more value—it’s empathy. It allows me to truly listen, to see other perspectives, and to lead with compassion and courage.

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

The qualities that would make me a successful officeholder are my passion, determination, and dedication. When faced with a problem I don’t yet know how to fix, I will do the research to find a solution and take action to implement it. I’m committed to learning, listening, and acting in the best interest of my constituents, because that’s what real leadership requires.

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

The core responsibility of an elected official is to listen to the people. My job is to take your struggles, apply real-world problem-solving, and fight like hell to fix what’s broken. That means writing legislation that actually eases the burden on everyday Americans—not sitting idle. Gone are the days of leaders coasting through their terms. I will show up, speak up, and work hard every single day to take America back and make her work for us again.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I’m not concerned with leaving a legacy; what matters most to me is how I can help right here, right now. My focus is on the real, immediate challenges that everyday Americans face, and how we can make a tangible difference today to improve their lives.

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

The first historical event I vividly remember was September 11, 2001, just after I turned sixteen the day before. I was glued to the news for days, watching in disbelief as the tragedy unfolded. The fear it instilled in all of us was undeniable, but so was the surge of patriotism that followed. That day marked a turning point for our country, and it’s something I’ll never forget—how it brought us together in both sorrow and strength.

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

My journey began at Cold Stone Creamery, where I learned the value of hard work and dedication. Since then, I’ve had a variety of jobs that have shaped my understanding of the struggles many Americans face. These experiences have given me a deep appreciation for the importance of honest labor, customer service, and working hard to make ends meet. It’s that same work ethic and determination that I bring to my campaign today.

What is your favorite book? Why?

I do not have just one favorite book as I love learning new things, especially history or true crime related.

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

If I could be any fictional character it would be Moana. She is a brave, independent, determined woman. She helped to improve the villagers lives through her journey. Plus, living on the beach or a boat would not be bad either. I love the sun, beach and ocean.

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

Chinchilla's Little Girl Gone and Laura Bell Bundy's Get it Girl, You Go

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

Finances have always been a struggle in my life. As a single mother, there never seemed to be enough. We even ended up homeless, living in my car for a time. Those difficult moments shaped me into the woman I am today—resilient, resourceful, and determined to fight for a better future for all those who face similar struggles.

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

I don’t believe prior experience in government or politics is necessary to be an effective representative. You could have the most experienced person in Washington, but if they’re not taking action, what’s the point? Passion, a willingness to learn, and a real understanding of what everyday Americans go through—that’s what matters. Ms. DeGette may have 28 years of experience on me, but I’ve lived the struggles of regular Americans, and I know what it takes to make life better for all of us. That’s exactly what a representative should do.

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

The greatest challenges America will face over the next decade are restoring what Trump, DOGE, and the oligarchy have destroyed. We must rebuild our relationships with our friends and allies, and make America affordable again for its citizens. No one should have to live paycheck to paycheck. Healthcare and food are a human right and should be affordable.

We must also face the reality of climate change and take bold steps to reduce the harm we’re causing to our planet. We only have one Earth, and it's time we start treating it like the irreplaceable treasure it is.

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

I believe two years is the right amount of time for a representative to serve. If the people like what you’re doing, they can vote you back in. If not, there’s the door. This ensures that representatives are always accountable to their constituents, forcing them to listen and act in the best interest of the people they represent.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

We need term limits in Congress. Too many career politicians—many of them billionaires—are out of touch with the struggles of everyday Americans. We can’t keep letting the elderly run our country, especially when some of them disappear into Alzheimer's wards. Most state judges have to retire at 72, so why is Congress any different? If Degette wins in 2026, she will have been in Congress for thirty years. It’s time for fresh voices, new ideas, and accountability in our government.

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

I believe compromise is essential to getting the government working again. But let me be clear—there are things that should never be up for compromise. Affordable housing, healthcare, and the essentials we all need to live a dignified life are not radical ideas—they’re basic human rights. These are non-negotiable, and I will fight to ensure they are guaranteed for every America.

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?

The Constitution gives the House the unique responsibility to originate all bills for raising revenue, and that’s a power I take seriously. If elected, I will use this authority to ensure our tax system works for the people, not just the wealthy or corporations. It’s time to tax the rich and make sure they pay their fair share. Working families shouldn't bear the burden while billionaires get tax breaks. This power will be used to fight for policies that ease the financial strain on everyday Americans and invest in critical programs like healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

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

The U.S. House must use its investigative powers to hold those in power accountable, ensure transparency, and root out corruption. Whether it’s investigating the misuse of taxpayer dollars, uncovering corporate malfeasance, or making sure that our government is truly serving the people, Congress has an obligation to dig deep. But investigations must not be used as political theater—they must be acted upon. If the House conducts an investigation, the findings should be used to create real change, not just swept under the rug. It’s not just about holding individuals accountable—it’s about making sure our policies and decisions benefit the American people, not the wealthy elite or special interests.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

The government must be transparent and held accountable. Take the Pentagon—it's failed every audit and has never passed one. That’s $54 trillion unaccounted for. If you can’t say where that money went, you don’t deserve to manage it. But let me be clear: I'm not advocating for gutting essential programs. If we want to root out fraud, waste, and abuse, we need accountants—not the bro-oligarchy calling the shots.