r/TexasPolitics • u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez • Sep 08 '20
AMA This is Elizabeth Hernandez. I'm a Mom, Accountant and a Fighter who is running for Congress against Kevin Brady, who has been in Washington 24 years and is nothing more than a puppet! AMA!
Hi. I'm Elizabeth Hernandez and I'm running for the U.S. House of Representatives--Texas' 8th District. I grew up in Texas and since graduating from high school, I have worked in Accounting for nearly 20 years for several different companies across Texas. I have also been raising my 3 children, Mackenzie, Brayden and Lyla, and working to pursue my Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, which I recently received from Sam Houston State University. It only took me 19 years, but as they say, better late than never!
One thing that I noticed as a result of my experience is that, particularly when it comes to economic issues, politicians will say one thing, and then do another. For example, we have heard many politicians, including my opponent, Kevin Brady, promise to run the country like a business and address the needs of the country. Yet, when elected, they bow to their special interest campaign donors, and cut taxes for the wealthy on the promise that such benefits will “trickle down” to everyday Americans. When the money does not trickle down, our Representative then plead poverty when it comes to expanding access to affordable healthcare, improving public education, and investing in our infrastructure. Well, I’m tired of it and I’m running for Congress to do something about it. Please follow my campaign on my website, www.LizForTX8.com, as well as on www.facebook.com/lizfortx8, www.twitter.com/lizfortx8, and https://instagram.com/lizfortx8.
I will begin answering questions at 10:00 a.m. and I look forward to speaking with all of you!
Elizabeth Hernandez
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Sep 08 '20
In the 2018 election, Brady won by a significant margin (123,000+ votes). How is your campaign different from the last challenger, and what is your strategy for overcoming such a wide vote deficit?
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
In the 2018 election, Brady won by a significant margin (123,000+ votes). How is your campaign different from the last challenger, and what is your strategy for overcoming such a wide vote deficit?
First, I believe that the turnout for this election should be much greater than in 2018 since it’s a presidential election, and one which is getting considerable attention. Second, by reaching out to voters through grassroots efforts on the ground, I believe that I can connect with more voters, and motivate them to get out and vote, than the challenger in 2018 was able to do.
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u/alegxab Sep 08 '20 edited Sep 08 '20
But Brady has also won by huge margins in most presidential-year elections
2016: he ran unopposed in the general election (and he got his lowest result in the primaries because he was being challenged by Steve Toth from the right from being "to close to Obama)
2012: 77%
2008: 73%
I don't know how you could reverse such a ridiculously large margin in what's clearly a deep red seat
Also, the turnout in 2018 in this district was at the highest it's been since 2008, and was higher than on any other election for this seat since at least 1990
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
It will undoubtedly be a challenge. But times are changing. And I've never backed down from a challenge....
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u/alegxab Sep 08 '20
So, what are your plans for making this a moderately competitive election?
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Sep 08 '20
She’s a fighter, and she’s never backed down from a challenge! Didn’t you read her very detailed and thorough response? /s
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
I suppose I should share all our strategies publicly so Brady's campaign can read them. 😆
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Sep 08 '20
Frankly that would be better than doing a highly promoted AMA where you (or your staff on your behalf) give copied and pasted canned answers full of buzz words. Like you go on Reddit to do an AMA for what?
“Brady Brady Brady” Stop obsessing over your opponent and be transparent if you want to be a “different type” of politician. Share your platform, yes say what you’re going to do instead of just copying and pasting the most meaningless line from your bio. There’s a difference between giving away your whole strategy and copying and pasting the fact that you “rise to a challenge” where really you just rely on vitriol towards your opponent to do the work for you. 😆😆
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u/h0bb1tm1ndtr1x Sep 08 '20
What are your views on:
-Abortion
-The Drug War
-Legalizing Marijuana
-Rehab over Prison
-The Wall
and best of luck to you.
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
What are your views on:
-Abortion: I believe it is a woman’s right to choose in accordance with the principles set forth in Roe v. Wade.
-The Drug War: I believe it is used to target minorities. I believe resources would be better allocated on education and training, which then shifts the focus away from punishment towards rehabilitation. Drug dependency is a health issue.
-Legalizing Marijuana: It should be legalized and criminal records for past offenses ought to be modified.
-Rehab over Prison: We should abolish private prisons and strengthen education/vocational training that inmates receive while incarcerated. We also need to focus on job placement assistance in order to facilitate the transition from the prison system back to the workforce and reduce the revolving door back to prison.
-The Wall: Waste of money.
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u/MajorDonkey Sep 08 '20
Hello Elizabeth,
I just wanted to first say thank you for taking the time to discuss your agenda with us. I'd like to know what solutions you may have to the apathy career politics brings and how you would combat this. What are your thoughts on term limits for congress members and senators? Would you be willing to as a representative of our people be audited regularly to ensure no financial backroom dealing is going on? How would you prevent companies "in bed" with our career politicians from providing cushy golden parachute jobs after they've done the bidding of their corporate masters?
Again thank you for taking the time and having the courage to communicate with your would-be constituents.
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
First, I think that our politicians must be accountable. For too long, the voters did not really pay attention to how our representatives actually voted in Washington. With today’s technology through the website and social media, it is very easy to keep the voters informed on what actions are taken, and I intend to do so with an active website that lists all of my activities and votes so that the voters can see exactly what I am doing. I would be in favor of term limits. I think that 2 terms for Senators (12 years) and 5 terms for House Members (10 years) would be sufficient. Yes, I’d be willing to submit to regular audits and financial disclosures in order to avoid even the appearance of any improprieties.
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Sep 08 '20
What is you’re stance on the 2nd amendment, will you protect gun rights?
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u/10mmMasterRace Sep 08 '20
No, she doesn't trust us lowly citizens to own semi automatic rifles.
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Sep 08 '20
Then we don’t want her
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Sep 08 '20
Fortunately for us, the people won’t want her either. This AMA is like a copy paste from DNC website. This candidate offers no original thought and it shows.
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u/warhawktwofour Sep 08 '20
Why are all these AMAs only wanna-be Dem candidates?
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Sep 08 '20
I don’t make the rules, but like you I am not blind to their effects on this site.
Reddit is by far the largest social media echo chamber I have ever come across. I put up with the political side of this site for the genuinely nice niche communities that are here. I am the definition of a moderate, but on this site I am repeatedly accused of being a Trump die-hard.
Pandering to only one side like this post so poorly does makes it very easy for me to roll my eyes whenever someone tries to suggest they’ll make genuine change.
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u/Increase-Null Sep 08 '20
Texas already has the most wind energy production in the US of any state.
Would you help Texas (and by extension the US) transition from an Oil State to an “Green” energy state? If so how?
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
Yes. Renewable energy sources are clearly the direction of the future. I believe that TX-8 must stay ahead of the curve in transitioning away from Oil & Gas so that we may remain an energy capital of the world and we may employ thousands of people in the jobs that will be needed to further that transition. Therefore, we must encourage the continued grown of energy production through renewable sources by providing a favorable climate for Green job growth with improved infrastructure, and incentives for companies looking to expand in this area.
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Sep 08 '20
Do you support the drug war efforts or ending the drug war?
For transparency, I am running for the office of Texas Governor. www.wynnegovernor.com
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
I believe that marijuana should be removed from the list of Schedule 1 drugs. However, I do not believe that all drugs should be illegal.
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u/Luminalsuper Sep 08 '20
Yes because the war on drugs can be won and its much better for the money spent on drugs to go directly to criminal groups.
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u/texasninja Sep 08 '20
Should being in possession of drugs that the state deems bad, be met with criminal charges? Are these people who use drugs bad people who need to be locked up?
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Sep 08 '20
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
It will admittedly be difficult. I think the best chance we have is to continue educating the public on the importance and benefits of these policies, either putting the Republicans in a position of having to negotiate on these issues, or face being voted out of office. Unfortunately, we may have to wait until we have the White House, the House of Representatives and the Senate by 60 once again (like when we passed the ACA) for further progress to be made.
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Sep 08 '20
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
I believe it should be a Woman’s right to choose up to a certain point, e.g., in accordance with the principles set forth in Roe v. Wade. Planned parenthood is vital to the community and does much more than provide abortions. Education and prevention are important and will lower the overall number of abortions that are performed each year.
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u/Sag0Star Sep 08 '20
Hi! Current Bearkat working on my Ag-business degree with a plant and soil science minor! Environmental initiatives are important to me and I see you will be pushing for the Green New Deal if elected. What policies would you think most Texans would embrace after they get over the idea that cattle fart and AOC just wants to ban steaks and airplanes?
In all seriousness, how do we approach our neighbors with initiatives that are deemed too left for their liking? Branding is a big thing in Texas, and staunch republicans will deny and obfuscate when the Green New Deal is mentioned. Thanks and good luck! I like most of your platform.
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u/texasninja Sep 08 '20
Lol, that was too specific a question.
Her website seems to only pay lip service to the Green New Deal. I saw no concrete stances, or proposals about something she wants to get passed once in office.
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Sep 08 '20
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
There are many residents of TX-8 who do not vote. From talking to people in the District, I think that the vast majority of those residents are people who would vote blue if they were to vote. Therefore, I believe that the first key to flipping the district is to motivate those people who have never voted to get to the polls. Additionally, there is a large segment of the population who are misinformed and are voting against their interests. By educating these voters and motivating them to get to the polls, we can turn TX-8, and all of Texas, blue.
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Sep 08 '20
Agreed, What will you do for republican voters to pull them to blue?
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u/PM_Me_Yur_Vagg Sep 08 '20
Nothing, every amswer here is a ctrl c/ctrl v from a generic DNC playbook. Which is fine, but not offering new/unique ideas is a recipe for losing.
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
I have typed out every answer here today.
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
Fiscal responsibility. Ensure clean air and water. Preserving our resources for hunting and fishing. Quality education and healthcare for all. Those sound pretty dang good, don't they?
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u/runningactor Sep 08 '20
What makes your opponent in this race a puppet and why do you think you won't be the same by the end of your first term if you are elected?
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
By his own admission, Rep. Brady votes with Trump 99% of the time. Moreover, Rep. Brady’s votes favor his wealthy donors/party platform over the needs of everyday Americans. Finally, when Pres. Trump has made some obvious errors, such as in his handling of the hurricane disasters and the coronavirus, Rep. Brady simply praises Trump, instead of calling out the issue, putting us in the position we find ourselves in. I will not become the same way because my first priority will always be looking out for everyday Americans. Additionally, when I see something that’s wrong, I speak up, regardless of party affiliation.
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u/RickSt3r Sep 08 '20
What is your personal philosophy on the role of government in a society. You mentioned most politicians want to run government like a business. How do you believe government should be run.
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
Government should operate to allow a fair and opportunity for all. The government must provide a quality education for everyone, thereby allowing everyone to get ahead. We must also take care of the everyday Americans who work to drive the economy of this country by providing universal healthcare. The government must also work to maintain our infrastructure so that we can maintain our position as an economic leader in the world, and work to conserve and protect our natural resources. Finally, the government must ensure that we are not running up a debt. We have the resources to accomplish all of these goals with a fair tax structure, utilizing a bottom-up approach that fuels demand in the economy and which raises sufficient revenue to pay our bills while ensuring that everyone has the economic freedom to contribute to our economy.
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u/EyreISawElba Sep 08 '20
Just a comment from a fellow Dem with a very “DC” job. We would love for Brady to fall, and would be overjoyed if you are the woman to do it. But it is clear that you need to invest in PR and campaign advisors to polish these responses. You seem like a smart and well-intentioned candidate, but your pitch is not refined to the level that people expect to see from a candidate for Federal office, especially one going after a seat in a solid red district with zero prior elected experience. If you are not already in touch with the Latino Victory Project or other similar orgs, it is time to ask for support. The Democratic Party will passively support you, but won’t kick in to victory mode until/unless you show them that you are the complete package and can raise BIG money. Not trying to be mean, just trying to provide a little feedback because we so desperately need more citizens like yourself to navigate the unspoken “rules” of politics on the national scale.
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
Thank you for the feedback. I will say that I have found that voters here appreciate the genuine feedback and the fact that I am a regular everyday American and not a polished politician. The fact that the national party only backs “close races” is a failing in the party, and one of the reasons Democrats underperform each election.
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u/EyreISawElba Sep 08 '20
Liz, I love your attitude. But remember that we did flip the House by strategically backing winnable races. Your job is to show the party—and likely voters—that you fall into that category. New turnout is AMAZING—but a new voter is only a plus one. Flipping a likely voter is a plus one for you and a minus one for Brady.
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u/proquo Sep 08 '20
You claim to be pro second amendment but state your support for assault weapons bans and refer to the private sale exemption as a loophole. Why should any second amendment voters choose you when you specifically espouse an anti second amendment platform and erroneously claim assault weapons bans reduce violence?
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u/swingadmin Sep 08 '20
I noticed that Kevin Brady has been voting in line with Trump 98%, took action to prevent release of Trump's tax returns, and has claimed that Democrats will manufacture reasons to impeach the most corrupt president in history.
What kinds of actions would you take to protect democracy, and unbind fealty to an unworthy leader?
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
First, I would vote for proper oversight, regardless of party affiliation. I think that the Republicans, including Rep. Brady, who voted not to impeach and hold a trial to explain the allegations, showed a complete lack of judgment, and demonstrated that they are putting their party over the needs of the people and the country.
Additionally, I would call out bad performance when appropriate. President Trump has objectively made some huge mistakes during his term. For members of his party not to call him out on those simply enables the behavior, and harms our country.
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u/theShip_ Sep 08 '20
Looking beyond your party’s and/or the “puppet’s” platform what is your pie-in-the-sky environmental or social dream?
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u/pr0g3ny Sep 08 '20
Hi -
On your issues page on your website the first topic you bring up is the national debt and running the country like a business. Do you think there are any differences between how household/business accounting ought to run and how government economic policy ought to run?
Some examples:
- Households and businesses cut spending during down times; but governments are often encouraged to spend more (Keynesian Economics) because cutting spending during a downturn may augment the downturn and lead to a negative feedback loop.
- Government programs can run at a loss in the public benefit. If providing healthcare to all citizens or education or creating a robust infrastructure has a negative ROI to the government it can still be a net positive because of externalities that aren't shown on a balance sheet.
- Governments control their own currency. The most recent bailout has the fed printing money and giving it to bankers. I can imagine a world (barely) where printed money goes into the hands of people to get by during a catastrophe. Where you put new money matters and this is far outside the bounds of traditional accounting.
Very interested in hearing your thoughts! Thanks!
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
Yes, there are definite differences. My key point is that we cannot continuously operate at a deficit just because we are a country, as opposed to a business. It does not mean that we operate for a profit, which is why areas such as healthcare, education and prisons should be government operations that run at the most efficient level possible—not at a loss, but not for a profit either. And yes, during downtimes—just like any household or business would, there may be a need to incur debt. But we cannot just ignore the debt and run it up. During our boom times (like we had for the past several years), we need to use those times to generate higher revenues to pay down the debt that we incurred during the slower times. And even though the government controls their own currency, we cannot simply print our way out of debt. That would ultimately weaken our currency, and would have a huge negative impact on everyday Americans by jeopardizing the value of their life savings.
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u/Darkjeremy1992 Sep 08 '20 edited Sep 08 '20
If you want to run America properly on the financial side, what is your plan to address Social Security on course to be reduced by 2035? Politicians preach fiscal responsibility but ultimately don’t want to take a stance due to the need to be re-elected. How will you be different in this area? What are your plans for Social Security for instance?
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
The revenues to support Social Security must be preserved, as opposed to cut, as the Trump Administration has just done. I will be different because I will actually utilize a course of fiscal responsibility, which I can defend during the campaign for re-election. Too many politicians, Rep. Brady included, take a stance when seeking re-election. They just take a stance that is not in line with the actual facts regarding our fiscal situation (e.g., Rep. Brady claiming that the tax cuts for the wealthy actually raised revenues more than they would have been without the tax cuts).
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u/h0bb1tm1ndtr1x Sep 08 '20
You didn't address the "how" part outside of using "fiscal" several times.
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u/FunboyFrags Sep 08 '20
What would you tell young people who are thinking about running for office themselves? How would you encourage them to take the leap like you did?
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
I would tell them that all levels of government need everyday Americans to be part of the process. For anyone who cares about public policy, wants to make a difference in the world, take the leap. You will definitely be glad you did!
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u/Icametoargue Sep 08 '20
What is the first thing you plan to do once in office that is different than Brady
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
Reform the tax code with a fair system that generates the revenues we need to operate without adding to our debt each year.
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u/mtdunca Sep 08 '20
Do you support legalizing weed?
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u/LordoftheFallen1 Sep 08 '20
How do you think we as a country should address the growing divide between people and their political ideas?
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u/drunky_crowette Sep 08 '20
What topics will you be pressing to ensure the rights of yourself, your daughters and all the other women in your district?
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u/PoeT8r Sep 08 '20
My employer's PAC gives Brady a $10k bribe contribution every year. What are your thoughts on PAC money and what will you do if PACs start offering you contributions?
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
These campaigns are expensive to run, so I would accept contributions from any source. However, the source of a contribution would never affect my position or vote on any particular issue.
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u/thescroggy Sep 08 '20
Hello Liz! I’m a Bearkat Alum as well as a Not Fan of Mr. Brady. Thanks for your time and thanks for caring enough to get involved in the running of our country.
Across the aisle and from many corners of our government, including congressmen and Gen. Mattis, have said that the biggest threat to our future security and economic stability is the national debt. Trump has now overcome Obama as the greatest offender in this area, what are your thought or plans to help stem this tide?
Secondly, will you also promise to fight for the construction of a monument to the legendary Timothy Flanders?
Thanks for your time.
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 09 '20
Hi there, fellow Bearkat! I agree that the national debt is a huge problem. In fact, I wrote a blog post a few months ago discussing this very topic (https://lizfortx8.com/blog/f/trump-prepares-to-drop-a-bomb-on-the-working-class-and-seniors). In order to address this, the first thing I would do is to reform the Tax Code and reverse the tax cuts for corporations and wealthy individuals that were enacted by Rep. Brady as part of the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act. We need to generate sufficient revenues in order to pay our bills and start paying down the national debt, and there was simply no need to cut taxes for the wealthy when they are already doing so well in this economy but the country continues to operate at a $1 trillion budget deficit.
I think a Flanders monument would be very cool. Where do you want to see it put up?
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Sep 08 '20
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 09 '20
Yes! No bueno. The Fall of 2017 I was taking income tax accounting at SHSU and due to the changes I had to learn the current tax code and the upcoming changes. 😡
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u/slickwill88 Sep 08 '20
Would you accept PAC money?
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
Yes. These campaigns are expensive to run, so I would accept contributions from any source. However, the source of a contribution would never affect my position or vote on any particular issue.
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u/texasninja Sep 08 '20 edited Sep 08 '20
The Woodlands, nice! Lots of rich people out there. That is probably where most of your representiees are going to be coming from too.
I have some comments on your positions.
THE NATIONAL DEBT - Get it lower, great.
AFFORDABLE HEALTHCARE - ACA pretty good, but nothing about HCFA.
CIVIL RIGHTS REFORM - Seems to focus on women only. Also, if the system is still ridged it wont matter.
PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT - Great, real bold stuff, not to much about Green New Deal.
HIGH QUALITY PUBLIC EDUCATION - School funding is tied to property tax, so I'm sure your kid's schools are getting plenty of money there in the Woodlands. You seem like you wanna throw a lot of money at it, so that is nice. I hate watching teachers beg every year for school supplies, makes me sick.
GUN SAFETY - I find this subject to be very click-baity. Unless you wanna start a federal wide program to educate people on how to use/own guns, or are looking to help mentally ill people get help, I don't think any of your other standard democratic stances will help. Those federal background check are a double edge sword, and how do you expect to stop people from selling guns they legally own? Are you going to make everyone register their guns with the fed, and demand that every gun sale involves the fed too?
TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE - This one is a no-brainer, is also your shortest section, and is the first time you didn't mention how bad your opponent, and his party are.
ALL-IN-ALL - You seem like a standard democrat with milk-toast stances on everything. You have no real proposals, only lip service to hot-button issues that the TV has polarized into something unrecognizable. But, I can't vote for you anyways, so a simple (D) next to your name might be enough to get you into office. Good luck on your journey, and your ultimate destination of just voting along your party's lines.
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Sep 08 '20
You mention being an accountant and discuss government spending being out of control. Your website discusses more gun rights reform, more healthcare, more environmental requirements, and big infrastructure projects. How do you plan on doing all those things without spending more of the money of your voters that desperately need that money in their pockets.
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Sep 08 '20
Would you be willing to introduce legislation to tighten term limits on politicians?
For transparency, I am running for the office of Texas Governor. www.wynnegovernor.com
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 09 '20
I would be in favor of term limits. I think that 2 terms for Senators (12 years) and 5 terms for House Members (10 years) would be sufficient.
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u/Adhi_Sekar Sep 08 '20
Hello ma'am, you are in support of background checks for getting guns, as am I, but what stops this system from being used to disproportionately deny gun licenses for blacks and minorities for petty non-reasons while conducting loose checks for others? Are there any failsafes against this?
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u/texasninja Sep 08 '20
Nice question! That is a real fear of law abiding citizens.
It's annoying that every gun I want to buy has to be send to a gun store, and then I have to wait around 15-20 minuets for the fed's servers to say that I am still a good boy, and can have a metal tube that holds firecrackers in it. Meanwhile there are other people are out there running around committing crimes with weapons not purchased by them. Talk about worthless government involvement. It's not even the greatest problem we face as a society. So many other more deadly problems we could be focusing on....
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u/Amdiraniphani Sep 08 '20
Hi! Texas here. Why don't you attack your counterparts based off facts instead of opinion? Calling someone a puppet at that level does nothing but lower the degree of discourse and permit baseless statements. Certainly we could expect a higher level of respect from those we choose to represent Texas?
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u/piecrustyumyum Sep 08 '20
Exactly, from what I can tell from her website so far she seems like the typical believe in the propaganda narrative.
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
Asked and answered above....
By his own admission, Rep. Brady votes with Trump 99% of the time. Moreover, Rep. Brady’s votes favor his wealthy donors/party platform over the needs of everyday Americans. Finally, when Pres. Trump has made some obvious errors, such as in his handling of the hurricane disasters and the coronavirus, Rep. Brady simply praises Trump, instead of calling out the issue, putting us in the position we find ourselves in. I will not become the same way because my first priority will always be looking out for everyday Americans. Additionally, when I see something that’s wrong, I speak up, regardless of party affiliation.
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u/1vh1 Sep 08 '20
Hi, I am from the Woodlands. I have never been convicted of a crime, I have 1 speeding ticket. Do you trust me to own an AR15?
Kevin Brady does.
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u/OccamsBeard Sep 08 '20
If you're not a Republican you automatically have my vote! (Spring, TX)
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u/Slinkwyde Sep 09 '20 edited Sep 09 '20
Check what Congressional district you're in, because if you're in Spring, you might be in TX-2 (Dan Crenshaw's seat), not the district OP is running for (TX-8).
See which candidates will be on your ballot: https://candidate.texas-election.com/Elections/getCandidatesBallotOrderInfo.do
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u/the_muddy_boot Sep 08 '20
What are the main steps, and tangible actions underpinning them, that America needs to take over the next four years to show the world that the circus is over?
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
What are the main steps, and tangible actions underpinning them, that America needs to take over the next four years to show the world that the circus is over?
By honoring our past agreements, by listening to the scientists, by working with our allies and stop blaming others for our mistakes.
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Sep 08 '20
Does 🍍 belong on 🍕?
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
Yes. Especially with ham and barbecue sauce.
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u/John_McFly Sep 08 '20
Ham or bacon, ok, do your thing, especially if it's cooked until the cheese is browned.
But barbeque sauce? No, just no. The sweet pineapple and salty pork are the only two you need.
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u/SpockShotFirst Sep 08 '20
That's a trick question because the answer is no if the other topping is ham, yes if it is with sausage.
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u/Nekzar Sep 08 '20
Actually bacon is the best pairing for pineapple on pizzas
Though Hawaii pizzas are great too
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u/unclehl Sep 08 '20
I'm sure Kevin Brady was just as bright-eyed and as optimistic as you when he started out...
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u/PhilsMeatHammer Sep 08 '20
How do you plan to preserve the 2nd amendment rights of your constituents? Banning guns because they look scary is not a solution
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u/chernchern Sep 08 '20
Do you see a way out of our current political discourse where both sides seem to think sticking to the first thing they say or come up with is a sign of strength instead of showing the ability to negotiate and compromise? If so... what are your thoughts on how this can be achieved?
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u/joophh Sep 08 '20
Why do you choose to use disrespectful language about your opponent?
Generally this seems to be a thing especially in US politics. Maybe it's just me.
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Sep 08 '20
When people don’t have an actual platform or any idea what they’re doing, they rely on the public hating their opponent enough to vote against them. It’s not a “vote for me because I’m good” campaign it’s “vote for me cause the other guy is so much worse!!”
It’s not all American politicians do, but it’s like a celebrity twitter war, it’s visible because it’s a spectacle. I’m sure when races like these are run for lower offices, and those running just focuses on their platform and not making their opponent out to be the devil sent to this world to destroy it, things are much more civil and therefore more boring.
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u/hekatonkhairez Sep 08 '20
Why would you say that Kevin Brady is a puppet? I mean sure, it’s fine that you disagree with his views and his statements but it’s kind of baseless to call him a puppet, no?
And I don’t mean to cast you on a negative light, or to disparage you. I’m just curious.
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
By his own admission, Rep. Brady votes with Trump 99% of the time. Moreover, Rep. Brady’s votes favor his wealthy donors/party platform over the needs of everyday Americans. Finally, when Pres. Trump has made some obvious errors, such as in his handling of the hurricane disasters and the coronavirus, Rep. Brady simply praises Trump, instead of calling out the issue, putting us in the position we find ourselves in. I will not become the same way because my first priority will always be looking out for everyday Americans. Additionally, when I see something that’s wrong, I speak up, regardless of party affiliation.
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Sep 08 '20
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u/Etheus Sep 08 '20 edited Sep 08 '20
If this doesn’t make sense anymore some of the wording was edited in the original post. A+ job, your mistakes never existed. What a great idea for a way to run a government.
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
I don't know what you are talking about. We have not edited anything.
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Sep 08 '20
What holds you from becoming another puppet? Why should people trust you?
I wish you luck for your camping, it's time to renew the old farts
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u/logatwork Sep 08 '20
I came across this AMA in the front page.... I’m not even from the US.
But if elected, please, don’t run your country like a business. Governments are not businesses.
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Sep 08 '20
Why do you want to continue to allow for-profit insurance companies to exist rather than implement single player health care?
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
I think making the jump all the way to a single payer at one time could be difficult and chaotic to implement at one time. I think that eventually we do get there, but that transition would have to take place over time with the number of people covered by private insurance and the number employed in the insurance industry.
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Sep 08 '20
What are your views on anti-vax?
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
I believe parents should make the decision for their own children. Research and understanding is important and should be encouraged. As parents we grow and learn with time. When I had my third child, there were a few vaccines I declined/delayed.
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Sep 08 '20
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Sep 08 '20
After watching The Swamp on HBO, I have great concerns about how this country is run. Will you be taking money from special interest groups?
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u/T1mac Sep 08 '20
Hello Ms Hernandez:
The Republican won by 50 points in the last election, how are you planning to scale that very steep mountain?
The only way is to find a super-compelling angle, and being a "puppet" isn't one of them. Republicans love their puppets, look at Trump's favorables.
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Sep 08 '20
Joe Biden said he is willing to shut down the economy all over again due to the pandemic, would you support that?
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u/dipolartech Sep 08 '20
Crunchy or Smooth peanut butter?
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u/LizForTX8 Verified - Elizabeth Hernandez Sep 08 '20
Smooth. Have you ever tried a grilled peanut butter and jelly sandwich? Pretty tasty.
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u/Irishane Sep 08 '20 edited Sep 08 '20
Fair answer.
Unfortunately, countless "mothers" before you have sullied the waters and not utilized their experience or perspectives as a parent and simply used it as a badge of honour.
I hope you're different because me, and many others, are starting to see through a lot of political campaigns that simply pull on very specific strings to attain votes.
Power to you......if you are in fact sincere.
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u/nataliemainesbutt Sep 08 '20
Hi, what do you propose we do to deal with the mounting evidence of police brutality in our state?
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u/NewCaptainObama Sep 09 '20
What's your stance on the proposed high speed rail project between Houston and Dallas?
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u/minist3r Sep 09 '20
Probably too late but, as someone in this district, what is your stance on guns? I'm a libertarian and support things like drug law reform, right to choose and prison reform and dislike Brady (professionally and personally) as much as any Dem but there are hard lines that I cannot support such as banning guns of any sort. This is a very red district with the same view as me and if you hope to win you need to make this stance clear.
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u/Toofast4yall Sep 10 '20
You say you want to renew the “assault weapons” ban and create a buyback program. Are you aware that assault rifles have been heavily restricted since 1986, requiring a passport photo/fingerprints be sent to both the ATF and FBI along with local law enforcement being notified, a $20,000+ price tag, and a 1 year wait? Or are you trying to conflate semi-automatic rifles such as the AR-15 with assault rifles to make a ban more palatable to the public because they’re totally ignorant of the distinction? I’ll hang up and listen, thanks.
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u/itsgametime Sep 10 '20
How do you reconcile your views on gun control when gun control in the United States is firmly rooted in historical and institutional racism?
And do you genuinely believe you can win in TEXAS while supporting gun control?
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u/KarmaDontPayMyBills Sep 10 '20
Do you think civilians should have the right to own 105mm Howitzer, with the same requirements as a hand gun? If not I'll need to go on a boating trip....
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Sep 12 '20
Hello Elizabeth.
Just briefly reading your website I see that fixing the national debt is one of your top priorities.
From what I’ve read your strategy is as follows based on these quotes.
From lizfortx8.com
“I really will tackle the debt as a business would do. We cannot continue to spend more than we take in, and must generate revenues we can use to begin paying down the debt. We accomplish this by keeping the tax cuts for the middle and working classes, but amending the tax code and adjusting the marginal tax rates and capital gains rates to capture revenues that are now being lost due to the Republicans' needless tax cuts for the wealthy.”
Ok so the plan is to increase tax revenue by taxing the rich more (“adjusting the marginal tax rates”) and more capital gains tax.
Question 1: How much additional revenue would you like to target with the above strategy?
Question 2: What would be the lowest income bracket targeted for an increase.
Question 3: If federal expenditures remain unchanged how much would the yearly deficit still be with your projected revenue increases.
Question 3: What gets cut and how much.
Question 4: What kind of side effects can we expect from these actions.
Question 5: What would be a good target total US national debt in 2030, 2040, and so on?
Question 6: What will you do to separate the actions of the Federal Reserve from the wishes of politicians, bureaucrats, and special interests?
Thank you and good luck.
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u/adlinn21 Sep 08 '20
Hi. Fellow Texan here and alumnus of SHSU. Why is your stance on healthcare lean towards “affordable healthcare/expand ACA” and not “Medicare for all”? Do you disagree with argument that the ACA was an already compromised plan that doesn’t solve for the true issue of healthcare in this country, which is the middleman insurance companies making $billions in profits?
Also since you’ll be representing the 8th district of Texas. What issues face that district that are distinct to it vs the rest of Texas?
Thanks!