William Moses

William Moses was born in Sandersville, Georgia. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1979 to 2002. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Arizona and a master's degree from Webster University. His career experience includes working in government and as a logistics management specialist. He has been affiliated with the County Sheriffs and Prince Hall Masons.[1]

State Senate

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a fighter for my beliefs and my constituents. I believe that I can make a great state even better. I don't believe in "trash politics" and will run a campaign with the interests of my District and State at heart. Divisiveness may be for some but not for me. My opponents are Honorable people as well and I will treat them as such. Before the El Paso County and State Assembly I accomplished the math and the delegate count required for Governor was not there and I subsequently ended that campaign. At the El Paso County Assembly I was nominated and seconded from the floor and by unanimous vote to run as Colorado Senate District-9 candidate. This is my quest to help identify state issues that impact the welfare of all. I am a leader and don't do so by leading from behind. When wrong I will own up to it; however when I am on target, I will fight for your interests. I believe in walking "across the isle" to address the interests of the State. If a superb idea comes from the opposition, groom it and make it work for all. I am a former Air Force Officer and Senior-level Civil Servant. I worked my entire life to support the interests of this Nation. Now I bring that attention to detail and that type of leadership to "home" her in Colorado. I believe in my ability to lead with a level head and carry the message of my constituents to the Capitol of this state. I can do this. Colorado 1st.

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?

Our older population has worked to make this state the very best possible. Now it's time to look after them as they age and especially work for those now on a fixed income. These people deserve a leader that will listen to them and turn their voices into legislation that support them--the very best of us and those that have made Colorado what it is today. I pledge my unceasing efforts to now support those that need us the most. I am a champion for them.Our Teachers are life blood for our children. We expect so much from them and we don't pay them to the level expected of them. Before the class education starts, we expect them to be therapist, psychologist, and disciplinarians even before the classroom time starts. Worst of all we don't support them or pay them the salary expected of people that are the keys to the future of our children. My wife is a PhD and educator as well as my daughter. I know what they do. Help me to help them. Teachers deserve better and I am here to help them gain the respect and compensation these amazing people deserve across this state. Colorado educators, help is in the making. We can do this together!Illicit drugs and teen suicide have been scourges that continue to impact our state's young and older population. I am ready to sit down with our opposition and hammer out legislation that will keep the drug dealers on the way out of this state or give them a home in jail. Our children and even many of our young adults have found it easier to end their lives instead of working through their life issues. Proper identification and intervention is what they need. It takes a village and a state of likeminded individuals that see this issue as I do and will roll up their sleeves to curb this issue. Our community and state need to help these young lives and show them there is a way ahead.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I have particularly targeted water issues that are, and have impacted the entire state. Some industries have targeted this state and will trample our ability to ensure our water is used in the best interest of our district and state. Also what happens in Colorado does not stay in Colorado. Our water issues impact us and other bordering states. Let's turn the page on this and identify the path forward that successfully supports our citizens and our sister states on the best way to manage this valued resource.

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

Not known outside of family, but my great grandfather and great grandmother Mr. Derry and Mittie Moses. Their union began in 1877 in Sumter, South Carolina. Given this time, they worked hard and accomplished achievements seemingly impossible at that time. Even in a greatly segregated South, his family not just lived, they flourished and they gave back to their community. It is my time to give back to my community.

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

Being true to your word and do not deceive those who have put their trust you. Have the courage to stick to the matters at hand and not go on "vacation" when the interests of this District and State are at hand.

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

Know your people and ask them what their needs and issues are. Be responsive to their needs and don't hesitate explaining to them how I feel about the issues. Look to them for guidance on how we move forward as a State.

What legacy would you like to leave?

A man whose life has been dedicated to helping others.

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

While I waited for my designated time to enter Active Duty in the Air Force, I worked several months as a Lieutenant for a Security Firm in Tucson, AZ. Even then I took the job requiring looking after others; even if my life was the price.

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

Sometimes I care possibly "too much". But I have no regrets and even today I would little at this time. There were times when I had to traveled the the road less traveled. Sometimes taking scars with me. However, that makes me different from many. However, I can live with that.

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

Just as with our Federal Govt, and with our Democracy, we are tri-partners subject to checks and balances that work for the majority and the best interest for the cities, counties and people of the State of Colorado.

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

Although many are moving to the State, our population is also getting older. They need help. Why should they take a backseat to taxes which will eat them alive. Help Them! Water--this is a dwindling resource we must protect. Affordable housing, affordable food prices, affordable child care--we need it. Please reference my site of moses4senatesd9.org which will outline many of my concerns.

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

ABSOLUTELY! There will be times when interaction with those that differ in opinion is necessary. I will not turn my back on them, You talk, you negotiate and you talk again and make a policymaking decision that is best for all.

What was the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember?

I was a child demonstrator in the Civil Rights movement in Sandersville, GA. I marched with Reverend Ralph Abernathy who took the reigns from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This man just as I believed in the doctrine of peaceful protest. Even then at 11 or 12 years old I had the needs of those with less on my mind and it shaped my future to this date.

Governor

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am an Honorably Discharged and retired Lt Colonel from the U.S. Air Force. I have served the American people throughout my adult life which allowed me to become one of a few that possessed the launch keys to our nuclear deterrence missile force. Additionally, I have served as a Certified Logistics Management Specialist supporting our allies abroad. I find great pride in my community life to be an Honorary Member of the County Sheriffs of Colorado; raised as a Master Mason of the Free & Accepted Masons; a past Adjunct Professor in the Business Department of DeVry University; Ordained as a Baptist Deacon at the Eight Street Missionary Baptist Church in Pueblo, CO; and received my bachelor's degree at the University of Arizona with emphasis in Law Enforcement and my master's degree from Webster University with concentration in Public Administration. I am married to Dr. Vannessa E. Moses and the proud father of three--Keturah, Wiliam Fitzgerald and Antoinette Mechelle Moses. My decision to run for governor is not a whim, nor for self-aggrandizement or personal gain. I am the product of a family of Civil Rights activism and raised to be empathetic to those that struggle. I have tried to house those homeless, feed those that are hungry, but yet contribute to the betterment of all and contribute to the betterment of my home, community, and state.

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?

1st Protection and support to Law Enforcement and First Responders. Colorado is not immune to the drug plague affecting our State and Nation. If we want a civil society these people deserve our support. They see more carnage and destruction of property and lives than many of us will ever see. When they leave their profession, we must make sure they receive the mental help support and compensation to move ahead and live a life that expresses our appreciation for them.Support to our Ranchers, Cattlemen and Farmers. They are in trouble. Most of these individuals come from Pioneer families that have been in Colorado for over a century. They feed not only Colorado. but the Nation and points abroad. However, with the environmental extremes of Colorado, many are one major snow and freezing event that could jeopardize their lives and ability to support us. These are fundamental people that keep us and the nation fed. They should not have to live on the bear margins of existence and should be able to get uncomplicated support when they so need it. From the peach industry on the western slopes, to the cattlemen of Westcliffe to farmers in Alamosa, they need us, and we surely need them,Teachers and Education. Teachers are also "first responders". First responders to kids that come to school hungry or have spent the night in an automobile; first to respond to a psychological crisis of a child; yet they are paid the least and have the responsibility at times to answer to parents that expect them to baby sit. That's wrong. They are there to teach! Let's also continue to identify those educators that are producing our best scientist, our engineers; and our students returning to teaching in the classroom; our civil and military leaders and more. Support our educators without fail or complication.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Reducing crime is one of my leading areas of interest. Criminals are getting bolder each day with multiple robberies of convenience markets right here in Colorado Springs. I am an avid enthusiast of firearms having 4 myself, but the conversation on how to keep our schools and community protected from those without conscience must continue--there will always be room for improvements. We also have the responsibility to examine suicide especially by our young people. What in their minds make them believe death by suicide is better than living. I have been blessed to own 4 properties and i had a goal to achieve the American dream. Our young now are lucky to get a 1200 sq foot apartment or rental from $1500 to $1900. That's destressing.

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

This question is slightly difficult as I have looked up to people both Republican & Democrat, Black and White and others. I have studied historical Leaders Like Churchill; Civil Rights like Rev. Doctor King. However. my great, great grandparents Derry and Mittie Moses born April 1855 and May 1861 respectively now top the list. They were able to acquire a Sugar Mill Press outside of their duties as farmers and domestic work and use the extra proceeds to buy 200 acres of land during their lifetime in the deep south. Their initial plot of land cost $1145 in 1891 equivalent to more than $45,000 today. They also donated land to start a church still in existence in Sumter, SC today; Clark Unted Methodist Church in the community of Oswego. They were pioneers of their time and hard work was instilled in them and their descendants to follow.

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

Yes. There have been times when I wanted to give up or when so called friends left you because you did not fit into their picture of the world. However, I found much consolation and inspiration in the simple text by Roger Bush Hamilton in his book "Never Quit--The Journey of a Million Miles" or try Sid Roth's "They Thought For Themselves".

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

We have to be truthful to our electorate. There is no bait and switch. Stand for something and wear the badge or don't get into the arena. A campaign warrior will have some wounds, but the goal is to win the war and execute the principles that put you into the arena in the first place.

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

My ability to communicate with others has been one of my greatest strengths. My own spiritual belief system is not well known but is indeed a strength. Caring for others has been a part of me all my life. Although there was not an abundance of resources when I grew up, my father fed many kids in the neighborhood that had nothing. He would bring them to our dining room table before Sunday morning Sunday School and take them back home. I have brought people into my own home or made friendships with others that most may criticize but I wear that badge with pride. People in public office must be able to listen! For example, I may not agree with the path of "Gay" life, but these are also people with souls, with hearts, with issues and require a leader that does not forget them or anyone else for that matter.

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

You must be true to the responsibilities of being the Chief Executive Officer of your State. The Governor must set the tone of his administration even across party line. You don't turn your back on the opposition or even the few you may want to ignore. You must coordinate and do what is best for all of the state.

What legacy would you like to leave?

This does not require a lot of explanation. I want my family to know how much I love them and that their Dad and Poppy did his best as a father, grandfather and at some time in the future a great grandfather. But I also want them to be proud that I did my best to take the leadership reigns as Chief Executive only for the betterment of Colorado. God first, family and Colorado.

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

I marched in the Civil Rights movement in my hometown of Sandersville, GA. I had the unique opportunity of meeting Dr. Ralph Abernathy in my home as well as influential members of the NAACP and the SCLC. I still possess the autograph od Rev. Abernathy in the Bible given to me by my late father. I was approximately 11 or 12 years old.

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

My very first job was with Ace Security in Tucson, AZ. I progressed in that job quickly to the rank of Lieutenant after displaying the ability to think fast on my feet and look after the security of people and the protection of property of those that have worked hard for it. I was in that job a year before my line number and date arrived for my entry as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force.

What is your favorite book? Why?

"The Hundred Year Marathon" by Mr. Michael Pillsbury. I look now at the possible future conflict with China which I pray never materializes. Many people don't even know that China was an ally in WWII. However, we are now adversaries. The Chinese have been patient in developing a plan for the dominance in world leadership. That plan is more revealing day by day. The pieces of the puzzle are falling into place. There are more people in the Chinese Military than there are citizens of the United States of America. That should get your attention.

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

First of all, I am glad to be me; strengths, flaws and wrinkles and everything thing that comes up in life included. However, I do like the Character "The Equalizer". He wants to help people; wants people to allow him peace. However, when it comes time to fight, I will not be passive. I paid for that once or twice in my life and I vow that never to occurs again. I will fight for what's right.

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

"Be Blessed" by Bishop Paul S. Morton. I am not perfect and never will be, but I do have a spiritual backbone.

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

Sometimes I care too much. But I have no regrets and even today I would change little at this time. Sometimes I have had to take the road less traveled or suffer the bruises of life that caring can bring. However, that makes me different from many, but I can live with that.

Governors have many responsibilities, which vary from state to state. Which of those do you personally consider the most important in your state?

In addition to all of the concerns I have highlighted previously, one area that closely requires our attention is growth and infrastructure. No doubt Colorado is simply a phenomenal state to live in. Its topography is a playground for recreation, to raise a family, or even retire. However, having lived in the state for several decades even I have witnessed more transportation issues with failing roads and bridges. It is difficult to keep up with the influx of people wanting to call Colorado home. We have to address this need now and continually.

Different states require governors to have different degrees of responsibility for the state budgeting process. If it were your choice, what do you believe is the appropriate degree of gubernatorial involvement with this process in your state?

The 3-levels of state government should mimic our National budgeting process. Our legislative body should be the lead in formulating the State budget. However, that is not done in a vacuum. The Governor should take the lead to reach out into all isles of its legislative body. Make alliances across the board to support the betterment of all Coloradans or the vast majority of all.

In most states, governors have the power to make line-item vetoes. If that is true in your state, what would be your philosophy for how and when to use this power?

This power should not ever be taken haphazardly or to "punish" opposition. This is one of the most important functions of the Chief Executive. However, the line-item veto could have the potential of cutting jobs and opportunity or possibly stopping important health care legislation for example. This should never be done independently and without the "say" of influential leaders.

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

Not only are you the Leader of your party but you should also be the conduit to develop, approve or oppose those items that work against the welfare of the vast majority of the state's population. The Governor is not a figurehead but a Leader, a persuader, a chief spokesman for all. That individual must have the ability and respect of the opposition to sit down and discuss--even at the risk of disagreement from his/her own party.

What do you love most about your state?

This is without doubt the easiest question to answer and should be #1 for our Governor--It's people, The diversity, the talent, the capability, and the State's support and approval of the direction ahead from its people.

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

Easy. The state is growing. With that growth comes issues with crime, cost of living, transportation and infrastructure. I once saw a bumper sticker that stated words to the effect for visitors to keep moving. That is not the attitude of the Chief Executive. With nearly 6 million people in the state, we have the opportunity of finding the best for the best state in the Union of States. That also reminds me of protecting our aging population from costly unethical deals in healthcare; Telephonic scams and things such as unethical travel scams that require huge downpayments for substandard service and a hidden gem of being stuck with it for life. We can do better than this for our aged citizens. This is just one of many challenges this state will face over the next decade.

Tell us your favorite joke.

1 joke from Rodney Dangerfield: "I told my doctor I swallowed a bottle of sleeping pills. He told me to have a few drinks and get some rest".

Under what circumstances should the governor of your state be able to use emergency powers?

A Governor can mess this up only once! First know your state and all of the issues that we can face. A prime example of this can be as simple and as devasting as wildfires. California was not prepared for this just months ago and the same situation is lining up for Colorado. There was nothing more frightening than being in the direct path and in middle of the Waldo Canyon fire. The Governor should be trigger ready to get support and assistance underway, He/she must also be ready and willing to get resources from our adjoining states if necessary. We are taking about lives here--Coloradans.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

You know I still maintain a checkbook. Why? Because it works. I am able to see my credits and debits; I can support and audit at any time and I know what expenditure can be the straw that breaks the financial bank account. No different from the Government. The state's population should know what we have; what we need to invest in and what we need to delay or gain financial health to purchase or expend. We have to be fiscally aware and responsible for every dollar and cent of the taxpayer.

Do you support or oppose changes to the current state ballot initiative process? If so, what kind of changes would you consider?

Full Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans. This is a must. Colorado can be considered a Military State and Military Friendly with bases at Buckley SFB, Schriever SFB, Peterson SFB, Cheyenne Mountain Space Force Station, Ft Carson the Mountain Post and the Air Force Academy. Many of us have worked full time or spent considerable time at these locations. Subsequently these same service members have chosen Colorado for their retirement. They have given their lives voluntarily to protect our Nation and State. We owe it to them to have one less cost expected of them for years of dedicated service. Without these hero's we have no home.

A governor is the top executive authority in his or her state. What does that mean to you?

The Governor is the "Gatekeeper" of the State. This individual must be aware that he/she will have a spotlight of interest for everyone in the state. Also State's Chief Executive must be ready to answer and take responsibility to the demands of the state's business. For Colorado, the Chief Executive must remember we have borders and points of connection with Utah, Wyoming, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Arizona. There are issues of our state that are common to each for example water, trade, or law enforcement. We must be ready to support or defend whatever position the State's Chief Executive proposes to enact on behalf of the citizens of the state.