Yen Bailey

Yen Bailey was born in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. She graduated from Fort Walton Beach High School. She earned a bachelor's degree from Tulane University and a law degree from Florida State University. Her career experience includes working as an attorney. She has worked with the Guardian ad Litem program representing the best interests of abused and neglected children and as an ethics attorney with the Florida Bar.[1][2][3]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a lifelong North Floridian, an ethics attorney, and a proud first-generation American. My parents fled Vietnam after the fall of Saigon and built a new life in North Florida, where I learned the values of hard work, public service, and giving back to the community.

I earned my bachelor's degree from Tulane University and my law degree from Florida State University. For more than 13 years, I have served as an ethics attorney with The Florida Bar, helping uphold the integrity of the legal profession. I also fought for abused and neglected children through the Guardian ad Litem Prrogram and co-founded Every Vote Florida to expand voter engagement in rural communities.

My husband, Steve, is a former Army Green Beret, attorney, and Florida State University professor. Together we have raised two sons in Tallahassee, where we have built our lives and remained deeply involved in our community.

I am running for Congress because I believe North Florida deserves leadership that is ethical, accessible, and focused on solving problems. I want to bring people together to lower costs for families, get the influence of money and corruption out of politics, strengthen our rural communities, protect our natural resources, support veterans and working families, and ensure every resident of Florida's Second Congressional District has a voice in Washington.

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?

Government should work for people, not special interests. As an ethics attorney, I've spent my career protecting the public trust by holding professionals accountable. I'll bring that same commitment to Congress by putting people before politics, making decisions based on what's right for North Florida, and fighting for stronger ethics, greater transparency, campaign finance reform, and accountability in government.Every community deserves to be heard. Whether you live in a large city or a small rural town, you deserve a representative who shows up, listens, and works tirelessly to solve problems. I'll be present, accessible, and committed to serving every county in Florida's Second District.Healthcare is a right, not a privilege. I support Medicare for All because every American deserves access to quality healthcare without worrying that getting sick will lead to financial hardship.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am passionate about ensuring every American has access to quality healthcare, which is why I support Medicare for All. No one should have to choose between getting the care they need and paying their bills. I am equally passionate about ethics in government. As an ethics attorney, I have dedicated my career to protecting the public trust, and I believe elected officials must be transparent, accountable, and put people before politics. I am also committed to expanding opportunity by lowering costs for working families, strengthening rural communities, investing in education and good-paying jobs, and protecting North Florida's natural resources for future generations.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Angie Nixon

Ion Sancho

Karen Woodall

Gene Wu

David O'keefe

Akin Akinyemi

Hon. Robert T. Benton III

Howard Kessler

Alfred Martin

John Hedrick

Marsha Turner

Jeremy Rogers

Pamela Stewart

Jessica Wright

Trish Brown

Serenity Williams

The APC

Asian American Action Fund

NOTE: Bailey's campaign on September 10, 2024, added additional information to her original survey response on raising revenue.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

A Tallahassee-based attorney and Tulane University and Florida State University Law School graduate, Yen has dedicated her career to public service. She served as a Senior Attorney for the Guardian ad Litem Program and spent over 13 years as an ethics attorney at The Florida Bar. Committed to her family, Yen stepped away from her law career at the Bar to care for her elderly father.

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Yen is a proud wife and mother. She cherishes time with her husband, Steve Bailey, a lawyer and professor at Florida State University and former Army Green Beret, and their two teenage sons.

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Yen Bailey is the Democratic candidate for Florida’s Second Congressional 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?

Yen is a strong advocate for protecting women's reproductive rights, positioning herself as a defender of personal freedoms in the face of increasing restrictions across the country.Affordability and Working Families: Recognizing the struggles of everyday Floridians, Yen Bailey supports policies aimed at improving quality of life. This includes fighting for affordable childcare, paid parental and family leave, healthcare access, and measures to combat price gouging.Florida’s environment is integral to its identity and our culture. The environment in Florida is under attack by the Republican-controlled state government, with drilling in the Apalachicola River basin, and a newly proposed plan to completely commercialize our state parks with hotels, golf courses, and other artificial recreational activities. This would completely destroy our natural environments. Yen is going to make a point to draw attention to these highly unpopular plans, which are detested across the political spectrum.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Yen is personally passionate about defending the rights of those who are most vulnerable, protecting democracy by ensuring everyone has a voice, especially at the ballot box, and developing and supporting policies that allow the American dream to be an attainable goal for all.

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

The most important characteristics for an elected official include integrity, ensuring honesty and transparency in decisions, and accountability, taking responsibility and being answerable to the public. Empathy is essential, as officials must understand and address the needs of their constituents. A clear vision for long-term community improvement is also crucial, alongside fairness, treating all individuals with respect and impartiality. Competence is key, with the ability to make informed decisions, while resilience allows officials to handle challenges and criticism with focus. Courage is necessary for standing up for what’s right, even when it’s unpopular. Collaboration is important for working effectively with others, and dedication to public service ensures that the official prioritizes the community’s welfare over personal gain.

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

I am someone who believes hard work, honesty, and integrity are keys to success and building trust.

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

The core responsibilities of an elected official include representing their constituents by listening to their needs and advocating for their interests. They must craft, debate, and vote on laws that improve quality of life while balancing local and national priorities. Oversight is key, ensuring laws are fairly implemented and government agencies are held accountable. Public engagement, through open communication and transparency, is essential. Lastly, they must uphold high ethical standards, acting in the public’s best interest and maintaining integrity in their decisions.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I would like to be remembered as someone who worked to tirelessly to help others.

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

The U.S. House of Representatives is unique as the chamber closest to the people, with members directly elected to two-year terms. Its 435 members represent districts based on population, ensuring broad representation of diverse regions. The House holds exclusive powers, including originating revenue bills and initiating impeachment proceedings. Its majoritarian structure, led by the Speaker of the House, gives the majority party significant control over the legislative agenda. These qualities make the House a dynamic institution focused on responding to the needs and interests of the American public.

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

The greatest challenge for the United States over the next decade will be to lessen the divide in our country.

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

Compromise is essential for effective policymaking, as it allows diverse perspectives to come together to create balanced, inclusive solutions. By finding common ground, lawmakers can address the needs of all communities, fostering progress and stability in a way that benefits the greater good.

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?

[I would support using revenue-raising measures to promote policies that benefit the public good. For example, we can close tax loopholes for corporations and the wealthy, ensuring they pay their fair share, and use those revenues to invest in affordable healthcare, lowering prescription drug costs, investing in infrastructure and job creation, and modernizing immigration. Expanding access to affordable childcare, paid family leave, and addressing housing and property insurance costs would also be top priorities. Additionally, we can create tax incentives that encourage responsible corporate behavior, such as paying fair wages and adopting sustainable practices. By leveraging our revenue-raising power thoughtfully, we can create a more equitable and prosperous society while addressing pressing issues like climate change, economic inequality, and access to affordable healthcare.]

If elected, the power to originate revenue-raising bills would be key to advancing my priorities. I would focus on directing funds toward affordable healthcare, lowering prescription drug costs, investing in infrastructure and job creation, and modernizing immigration. Expanding access to affordable childcare, paid family leave, and addressing housing and property insurance costs would also be top priorities. This power would allow me to ensure that federal spending aligns with the values of fairness, opportunity, and support for working families and underserved communities.

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

As a representative, I believe the U.S. House’s investigative powers must be used to serve the people by holding government institutions and private entities accountable. Congress should focus investigations on issues that directly impact Americans' everyday lives, including ensuring transparency in government spending, addressing corporate price gouging, investigating unethical practices in healthcare and pharmaceutical industries, and safeguarding our democratic processes. Investigations should be conducted with integrity and fairness, aiming for constructive solutions rather than political theater. I will work to ensure these powers are used to bring transparency, accountability, and justice to the forefront.

What committees interest you?

Ethics, Judiciary, Oversight and Accountability

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Financial transparency and government accountability are essential for building public trust, preventing corruption, and ensuring the efficient use of resources. When governments openly disclose how taxpayer money is spent, it reduces the risk of misuse and promotes responsible budgeting. Transparency empowers citizens to participate in decision-making and hold officials accountable, aligning government priorities with public needs. Strong accountability mechanisms, such as independent oversight bodies, provide necessary checks on power, ensuring the integrity of public institutions. Additionally, transparent governance fosters economic stability by boosting investor confidence and promoting sustainable growth.

Campaign website

Bailey's campaign website stated the following:

AFFORDABILITY AND PROPERTY INSURANCE

Skyrocketing property insurance and the escalating cost of living are placing severe financial burdens on hardworking families. Addressing the affordability crisis is crucial. Additionally, Florida’s homeowners insurance crisis requires a comprehensive federal solution. A federal policy for natural disasters would stabilize the insurance market, providing reliable and affordable coverage for homeowners. By advocating for policies that address the root causes of high living costs and working to reduce property insurance rates, I aim to ensure that the American Dream remains within reach for everyone.

REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS

Decisions on reproductive health including contraception, IVF, and abortion should be made by a woman with her family and doctor, not by politicians. Florida’s six-week abortion ban and similar laws across the country threaten women’s lives and infringe on fundamental freedoms. As your representative, I will fight to protect access to contraception and IVF and restore access to safe and legal abortion care. Every Floridian deserves the freedom to make private healthcare decisions without political interference. These medical options are crucial for women facing health risks and those wishing to expand their families.

SOCIAL SECURITY AND MEDICARE

As a caretaker for my elderly father, I know first-hand the importance of preserving and enhancing Social Security and Medicare, as these programs are essential for our seniors and future retirees. Many seniors have declining facilities and little support but are expected to navigate complex systems in order to obtain essential care. I will work to make the Medicare system more simple, transparent, and easily navigable.

AFFORDABLE HEALTHCARE

Affordable healthcare is a fundamental right, not a privilege. Access to quality care should not depend on income, job, or location. We must prioritize community health over the profits of insurance companies and pharmaceutical giants. While the Affordable Care Act (ACA) made significant progress, we need to strengthen and expand it to ensure everyone has access to necessary care.

Many families in our district still face tough choices between paying for medications and other basic needs. I am committed to building on the ACA's progress, lowering prescription drug costs, protecting Medicare and Medicaid, and ensuring affordable, comprehensive healthcare for all.

VETERANS

We owe our nation’s strength to the service of veterans like my husband and many of our family members. To honor their sacrifices, we must ensure they receive comprehensive care. I will work to enhance healthcare services for veterans, including access to dental, vision, and mental health care. Additionally, I am committed to addressing veteran homelessness and expanding mental health resources. I will also advocate for stable pensions and affordable housing, so veterans can retire with the peace and security they deserve. Our veterans have protected our freedoms, and it is our duty to protect and serve them in return.

EQUALITY

My family’s journey to the U.S. was rooted in the belief that America offers opportunity to all, no matter where they come from. This belief drives my commitment to ensuring every person—regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, ability, or background—has a fair chance to succeed.

I know what it feels like to be part of a community that is often overlooked, which is why I’m dedicated to breaking down the barriers that marginalize so many. From expanding access to education and healthcare to promoting fairness in the workplace, I will fight for policies that uplift everyone.

My story is one of resilience and hope, and I want to ensure that every family has the same opportunities mine had. Together, we can build a future where our diversity is our strength, equity is a reality, and inclusion is a standard. When we lift each other up, our entire nation thrives.

WORKING FAMILIES

Every family deserves a fair shot at achieving the American Dream, but today, rising costs and systemic barriers are holding too many people back. I’m running to change that. I will fight for affordable childcare, so parents can build careers without being weighed down by expensive care costs. I will champion paid parental leave because no parent should have to choose between their family and their job. I will work to make affordable housing and healthcare a reality, ensuring that no family has to sacrifice their well-being to stay afloat. Education must be a pathway to opportunity, not a source of lifelong debt, which is why I’ll push for affordable education so every student can pursue their dreams. I will take on price gouging and corporate greed to lower the cost of essential goods. My campaign is about creating real opportunities for working families and making sure that every person, in every community, can thrive.

A FAIR TAX SYSTEM

It’s unacceptable that working families in North Florida are forced to choose between necessities

like food and housing while billionaires build luxury mansions nearby. Our region is filled with

hardworking people who deserve better. Our tax code should prioritize the well-being of every

citizen by ensuring access to healthcare, housing, retirement, and security for all. I am committed

to ending the influence of big money in politics, lowering taxes on the middle class, making corporations pay their fair share, and closing

tax loopholes that benefit only the ultra-wealthy. North Florida deserves an economy that works

for everyone, not just the privileged few. Together, we can build a brighter future for all our

communities.

DEMOCRACY

My deep love for America and belief in democracy compelled me to run for Congress. Unlike my extremist opponent, who has denied the 2020 election results and spread conspiracy theories, I am committed to restoring trust in our election process. My opponent supports bills that restrict voting rights and refuses to stand up to oil, insurance, and telecom lobbies.

We must eliminate corruption, protect voting rights, and promote civil discourse. I am dedicated to reducing government waste, removing corporate influence from elections, and expanding voter rights. We deserve a government that is responsive, works for us, and upholds high standards for all.

ENVIRONMENT

North Florida's unmatched natural beauty, from the Gulf Coast's clear waters to the Apalachicola River Basin's unique ecosystems, drives tourism and agriculture. However, climate challenges like sea-level rise are threatening our coasts with flooding and erosion, affecting habitats, property values, and infrastructure. Increasingly frequent harmful algal blooms, exacerbated by agricultural runoff and rising water temperatures, are devastating marine life and harming tourism and fishing. The Apalachicola River Basin, crucial for wildlife and the seafood industry, faces risks from potential oil drilling, which could contaminate this vital ecosystem. I am committed to opposing oil drilling in this region and focusing on sustainable practices and clean energy. We must also build climate-resilient infrastructure, such as improved electrical grids and stormwater management systems. With climate change already impacting Florida, we need decisive action to protect our environment and communities. By investing in clean energy and preserving our natural beauty, we can secure a sustainable future for all.

IMMIGRATION

We often penalize people for seeking the very essence of the American Dream. Our immigration system is broken, and it’s time for a comprehensive, bipartisan solution that reflects our values as a nation of immigrants. I fully support securing our borders to ensure our national security, but that’s only one part of the solution. We must also fully fund and modernize our immigration court system to manage this foundational source of labor, innovation, and American ideals humanely and efficiently. Addressing immigration issues in North Florida requires a nuanced approach that considers both the needs of the local economy and the rights and well-being of immigrant communities. Balancing enforcement with compassion, and creating pathways for legal status, is key to ensuring the region remains vibrant and inclusive. It's time for Congress to come together and enact bipartisan immigration reform that recognizes the critical role immigrants play in our economy and communities while ensuring our laws are fair, just, and uphold the best of what America stands for.

GUN SAFETY

I stand firmly for common-sense gun safety measures that protect our communities while respecting responsible gun ownership. We need to close loopholes in background checks, implement red flag laws to prevent those who pose a danger to themselves or others from obtaining firearms, and ensure that assault weapons and high-capacity magazines stay out of civilian hands. It's time to take meaningful steps to reduce gun violence, protect our schools and public spaces, and save lives while upholding the rights of law-abiding citizens. Together, we can build a safer future for our families and our communities.[6]

—Yen Bailey's campaign website (2024)[7]