Mark Rice: 2024 candidate for U.S. House 8th District Representative

Bio

Party: Republican

Office Sought: U.S. House 8th District

City: Chicago

Age: 63

Occupation: Former founder and CEO Energy Business

Previous offices held: N/A

What must be done to achieve a consistent national policy on immigration, not just in terms of what such a policy should be but also in terms of getting a policy through the Senate?

To achieve a consistent national policy on immigration, we need a balanced approach focusing on border security, addressing the visa backlog, and enforcing existing laws.

Strengthening border security through enhanced physical barriers, technology, and increased personnel is essential to effectively manage our borders.

Tackling the backlog of visa applications will ensure timely entry for those legally seeking to come to the country, while consistent and fair enforcement of current immigration laws is key to restoring public trust in the system.

Navigating the Senate will require bipartisan support, engaging both sides of the aisle and building coalitions with moderate Democrats. Emphasizing common goals, such as border security and economic benefits, can help bridge divides, and pursuing incremental changes can build momentum for broader reforms.

By taking these steps, we can work toward an effective and fair immigration policy that reflects national values and priorities.

Do you believe the nation's election system and those of the individual states are secure and fair? If not, what must be done to improve them?

The integrity of our election system is crucial to maintaining public trust in democracy. While many states have made significant improvements in their election processes, there are still concerns regarding security and fairness that need to be addressed.

Key Areas for Improvement:

Voter ID Laws: Implementing robust voter ID requirements can help ensure that only legal citizens are voting, which increases confidence in the electoral process.

Secure Voting Technology: Investing in secure voting systems and technology, including the use of paper ballots and risk-limiting audits, is essential to protect against potential cyber threats and ensure the accuracy of votes.

What responsibilities does the United States have toward achieving peace in the Middle East? Do you support a two-state solution?

While many view the two-state solution as a viable path to lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians, I support the idea of two states living side by side in peace and security. Achieving this requires realistic negotiations, ensuring Israel’s security while addressing Palestinian aspirations for statehood, and galvanizing international support for peace initiatives.

Importantly, I do not believe the U.S. should participate in endless wars; we must focus on strategic engagement rather than prolonged military involvement. In summary, the U.S. has important responsibilities in promoting peace in the Middle East, and supporting a two-state solution can be a constructive path forward, provided it is pursued with commitment and respect for both sides’ needs and aspirations.

Do you think the United States is providing adequate support for Ukraine? Should the U.S. support Ukraine’s efforts to join NATO?

I support helping Ukraine in its struggle against aggression, as their fight for sovereignty and democracy is crucial not only for their future but also for global stability.

However, I believe we need to be mindful of our own resources. While providing support is important, it should not come at the expense of addressing the pressing needs of Americans who are struggling.

How do you perceive the financial health of Social Security and Medicare/Medicaid? To the degree you may see problems with these programs, what should be done about them?

The financial health of Social Security and Medicare/Medicaid is a significant concern that cannot be ignored. Social Security is projected to face shortfalls in the coming years, and Medicare costs are rising rapidly, which poses challenges not only for beneficiaries but also for taxpayers.

To address these issues, we need to consider a range of reforms. First, adjusting the retirement age gradually could reflect increases in life expectancy and ensure the program remains viable. Second, implementing means testing for benefits can help allocate resources more effectively, ensuring that those who need support the most receive it while reducing unnecessary expenditures.

By taking these proactive steps, we can preserve the integrity of these essential programs while ensuring they remain financially sound for future generations. It’s crucial that we act now to protect the interests of both current beneficiaries and future taxpayers.

How do you assess the state of the national economy? What should be done to make it stronger or more stable?

To strengthen the economy, we need to focus on key areas. First, prioritizing tax relief for individuals and businesses can stimulate growth by encouraging investment and increasing consumer spending. Reducing unnecessary regulations will allow American businesses to innovate without being hindered by red tape.

Achieving energy independence through domestic production is essential, as it lowers energy costs and enhances national security.

We should also invest in education and training programs to prepare our workforce for future jobs, promoting technical education to meet changing demands.

Finally, prioritizing fiscal responsibility is crucial; reducing the national debt and managing government spending will stabilize the economy and build investor confidence.

By implementing these strategies, we can create a robust economy that benefits all Americans and ensures long-term growth.

What personal qualifications do you bring that would make you an effective congressional representative in dealing with the issues the country will face in the next two years?

I bring a unique combination of personal qualifications that make me well-suited to serve as an effective congressional representative in addressing the challenges our country will face in the next two years. With a strong background in public service and a commitment to my community, I have developed a deep understanding of the issues that matter most to constituents.

Additionally, my ability to foster bipartisan relationships will be crucial in today's political climate, allowing me to collaborate with colleagues across the aisle to find common ground on critical issues.

I prioritize transparency and accountability, ensuring that my constituents are informed and engaged in the decision-making process.