Tommy Hanson: 2022 candidate for 5th Congressional District

Bio

Party: Republican

Office sought: 5th Congressional District

City: Chicago

Age: 68

Occupation: Small business owner

Previous offices held:

Q&A

Q: What is your reaction to the results so far presented by the committee investigating the Jan. 6 assault on the U.S. Capitol and what should Congress do next as a result of them?

A: They are nowhere near done with their investigation. We have far more serious things going on in this country than rehashing what went on on January 6. We need to get back to business and focus on all of this legislation that is oppressive to our citizens like 87,000 IRS agents that are coming to audit them and elected officials who decided to make themselves exempt.

Q: What is America's role in foreign affairs, particularly related to two separate crises: Russia's invasion of Ukraine and Israel's conflict with the Palestinians.

A: We are to keep an arms length but an observant eye on other countries activity. Only when there is eminent danger to the United States or potential for mass casualties, should America get involved.

Q: Mass shootings at schools and public gatherings are generally a uniquely American phenomenon. What should Congress do to address the problem?

A: Actually mass shootings are not unique to the United States. There are mass shootings across the globe every year. Many of these become copycat shootings because of the sensationalism the media brings. There are no easy answers to cure mental illness but often times drives people to do the unthinkable. But taking away guns from a law abiding citizens it's also not the right answer.

Q: The Supreme Court has made it clear it considers abortion a states' rights issue and has suggested it may rule similarly on same-sex marriage and other social issues. What should the response be from Congress? How do you define whether such issues should be governed by federal authority or state authority?

A: I am very supportive of states rights and I believe that Congress should support the return of many decisions to a state. The state reflects the majority of its citizens In it's legislative decisions. And as far as the definition of which issues should be governed by the state versus the federal government, that would be decided not only by Congress but also by Senate. These are typically fall in line with constitutional compatibility.

Q: Are you concerned about the impact of all the recent federal spending on inflation, and what is the role of Congress in managing the economy? If you favor spending cuts, where specifically would you want to see spending reduced?

A: How can you not be concerned about the recent federal spending and the impact it's having on all of our pocketbooks. I'm most concerned about those on fixed incomes and families with multiple children to raise. Congress is in the business of managing the economy by spending your money conservatively. Congress should adopt the same mentality about your money as you do when you are managing your budget at home. If you don't have it you don't spend it. We are not just endangering this generation but we are putting future generations directly in harms way. We have to quit issuing subsidies. We also need to reign and the foreign spending when there is no check and balance to see where or how it was spent or who ultimately ends up with that money.

Q: Are you confident that elections and voting access are free and fair in America? If not, why not and what should be done?

A: For now, mostly yes it is easily accessible and fair. The paper ballots raise a lot of question, and in the Chicago area they always have, this is not a new phenomenon. I believe going back to full paper ballots and using those that are mailed in as provisional is the best way to manage voter integrity. Being registered, showing your ID that matches what they have on file, and the governments ability to maintain a quality voter roll with accurate information will help ensure that our elections truly represent the will of the people who vote.

Q: Whether your party is in the majority or the minority, what is the key to being a successful congressman and what are the characteristics about you that would make you successful?

A: This is not about a party this is about the people. It's about bringing the best quality of life to American citizens. It's about peoples ability to continue to make money, follow their dreams, live in safety and be able to prosper with minimal government intervention or mandates. When you listen to your constituents and you truly take to heart what they say and what matters most to them, then you become a successful representative and not just an insulated bureaucrat.