NEW MEMBERS
MICHIGAN (14) MINNESOTA (6) MONTANA (AL)
Brenda Lawrence, D Tom Emmer, R Ryan Zinke, R
Election: Defeated Christina Barr, R, to succeed Rep. Election: Defeated Joe Perske, D, to succeed Rep. Election: Defeated John Lewis, D, to succeed Rep. Steve Gary Peters, D, who ran for other office Michele Bachmann, R, who retired Daines, R, who ran for other office Residence: Southfield Residence: Delano Residence: Whitefish Born: Oct. 18, 1954; Detroit, Mich. Born: March 3, 1961; South Bend, Ind. Born: Nov. 1, 1961; Bozeman, Mont. Religion: Christian Religion: Roman Catholic Religion: Lutheran - Missouri Synod Family: Husband, McArthur Lawrence; two children Family: Wife, Jacquie Emmer; seven children Family: Wife, Lolita Zinke; three children Education: U. of Detroit, attended 1971-72; Central Education: Boston College, attended 1979-80; U. of Education: U. of Oregon, B.S. 1984 (geology); National Michigan U., B.S. 2005 (public administration) Alaska, B.A. 1984 (political science); William Mitchell U., M.B.A. 1991; U. of San Diego, M.S. 2003 (global Career: Postal service human resources investigator; College of Law, J.D. 1988 leadership) letter carrier Political highlights: Southfield School Board of Educa- Career: Lobbyist; lawyer Military: Navy 1985-2008 tion, 1992-96; Southfield City Council, 1996-00; mayor Political highlights: Independence City Council, 1995- Career: Navy officer; technology consulting company of Southfield, 2002-present; Democratic nominee for 2002; Delano City Council, 2003-04; Minn. House, owner Oakland County executive, 2008; Democratic nominee 2005-11; Republican nominee for governor, 2010 Political highlights: Mont. Senate, 2009-11; sought for lieutenant governor, 2010; sought Democratic nomi- Republican nomination for lieutenant governor, 2012 nation for U.S. House, 2012
A liberal Democrat, Staunchly conserva- None of his colleagues Lawrence has years of ex- tive, Emmer is confident will have shared his path perience with issues com- and voluble with a big to Congress, but Zinke mon to mayors running personality. In a state will have no trouble fit- large suburbs in metro- with a well-established ting in as a member of politan areas as well as moderate wing of the the Republican confer- HOUSE with issues common to GOP, he replaces another ence team. Division I southeastern Michigan in particular. conservative Republican known for strong football and a career as a Navy SEAL gave Lawrence has been in a congressional statements about the role of the federal gov- Zinke a well-tested perspective on how he committee hearing room before, testifying ernment, Michele Bachmann. likes to get things done. as a representative of the nation’s mayors re- As both a state representative and guber- “If at times that team calls for leading garding the foreclosure crisis and also speak- natorial candidate, Emmer backed a consti- from the front on issues of merit, I will cer- ing about the auto industry. She also worked tutional amendment designed to exempt tainly do that. If at times it calls for pushing with Mayors Against Illegal Guns to curb Minnesota from federal laws until actively the group from behind, that is fine, too. To gun violence. approved by a supermajority of state legis- me it is less about the individual and more Her concerns about major infrastructure lators. His goal is “making government a about purpose,” he says. projects for her region go beyond under- resource — not a restraint — for individuals For Zinke, the purpose is very clearly to standing the impact of property tax revenue, and businesses.” shrink the size of the federal government the need for mass transit and encouraging After losing the 2010 race for governor, to what he views as the scope originally in- businesses to move to the area; she is focused Emmer spent several years hosting a local tended by the Constitution. on protecting water supplies from environ- morning radio show. It gave him an audience “I understand that, as a freshman, influ- mental hazards. Lawrence would “love” to for his views on politics and current events. ence is limited. [But] my goal is to move the join the Transportation panel. Emmer holds unwaveringly to socially needle.” She also could end up on the Education conservative stances on gun owners’ rights, Supporting a balanced budget amend- and the Workforce Committee. Starting with gay marriage and abortion. He says economic ment, Zinke emphasizes accountability mea- service on the local school board, Lawrence issues will be his primary focus in the House sures for federal agencies. has pushed the idea that “education is key to and pledges to restrict government activity, Representing Montana, Zinke will target fight poverty.” She advocates post-secondary cut taxes and reduce federal spending. natural resources policy and transportation models that push opportunities other than He served briefly in a leadership post in the issues. Trained as a geologist, he hopes to four-year colleges. “We need to embrace vo- Minnesota House — he stepped down and offer insight to coal, oil and natural gas de- cational education as a way to build our later lost a bid for GOP caucus leader — and velopment. Renewable energy sources and economy and create jobs.” his committee memberships during his ten- hydro- and biofuel options are part of Zin- Lawrence also looks ahead to major de- ure included the Governmental Operations, ke’s plan for energy policy, but he strongly bates about immigration policy. Recognizing Reform, Technology and Elections Commit- opposes any industry subsidies. the ethnic diversity in the Detroit area — tee and the Finance Committee. The Armed Services Committee would and known in Southfield for having worked Professionally he’s hung out his own also be an obvious fit for Zinke in the House. across race and religion lines to form coali- shingle as a lawyer, and he’s served on local A native Montanan who grew up with tions — she pledges that “how we are making city councils and in the Minnesota House. a strong hunting tradition, Zinke opposes a pathway to citizenship in America is going Personally he relishes time he’s spent on the federal gun ownership and purchase regis- to be important to me, because that’s my ice — he played hockey in college and as an tries and strongly supports expanded gun constituency.” amateur. owners’ rights.
38 CQ WEEKLY | NOVEMBER 6, 2014 | www.cq.com
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NEBRASKANEBRASKA (2) (2) LEADING AT PRESS TIME NEVADA (04) NEW HAMPSHIRE (1)
Brad Ashford, D Cresent Hardy, R Frank Guinta, R
Election: Opposed Rep. Lee Terry, R Election: Defeated Rep. Steven Horsford, D Pronounced: GIN (sounds like “grin”)-ta Residence: Omaha Residence: Mesquite Election: Defeated Rep. Carol Shea-Porter, D Born: Nov. 10, 1949; Omaha, Neb. Born: June 23, 1957; St. George, Utah Residence: Manchester Religion: Lutheran Religion: Mormon Born: Sept. 26, 1970; Edison, N.J. Family: Wife, Ann Ferlic; three children Family: Wife, Peri Hardy; four children Religion: Roman Catholic Family: Wife, Morgan Guinta; two children Education: Gustavus Adolphus College, attended Education: Dixie College, attended 1975-76 1967-68; Colgate U., B.A. 1971 (history); Creighton U., Education: Assumption College, B.A. 1993 (political science Career: Contracting company owner; city public works & philosophy); Franklin Pierce Law Center, M.I.P. 2000 J.D. 1974 director; construction worker Career: Political and business strategy consultant; cam- Career: Lawyer Political highlights: Virgin Valley Water District Board of paign and congressional district aide; insurance and Political highlights: Neb. Commission of Industrial Directors, 1990-96; Mesquite City Council, 1997-2002; risk management consultant; insurance claims manager Relations, 1984-86; Neb. Legislature, 1987-94; sought Nev. Assembly, 2011-present Political Highlights: N.H. House, 2000-02; Manchester Republican nomination for U.S. House, 1994; Neb. Board of Mayor and Aldermen, 2002-06; mayor of Legislature, 2007-present; independent candidate for Manchester, 2006-10; U.S. House, 2011-13; defeated for mayor of Omaha, 2013 re-election to U.S. House, 2012
Ashford, who has Hardy points to his Guinta plans on us- switched parties more experience running a ing his experience from than once in his politi- contracting company as a one-term stint in the cal career, touts his “in- the foundation for his House to ensure he gets dependent” and “prag- fiscally conservative val- in on conversations matist” views. In early ues of small government about the economy. HOUSE 2014 he told the Omaha and self-reliance. He’s willing to join any World-Herald that he “borrow[s] from both A hunter and fisherman, he says grow- committee the Republican leadership assigns parties on issues.” He was a Democrat in the ing up in a farming community instilled him — “I want to serve where the conference mid-1980s, then a Republican during most in him a work ethic he applies to business thinks I can be most helpful” — and Guinta of his two stints in the Nebraska legislature dealings. He believes Washington should will likely continue his record of voting with before running for mayor of Omaha as an live within its means and supports low taxes a majority of his GOP colleagues. independent in 2010 and then winning his and a balanced-budget amendment to the A return to the Financial Services panel U.S. House seat as a Democrat. Constitution. would fit his background in insurance and He may have changed which column his Beyond essential services — like national his support of a tax code overhaul. In his first name appeared in, but Ashford has a signa- defense, infrastructure and helping only the trip to the House, Guinta argued in favor of ture issue from his tenure as a state senator: most needy citizens — Hardy says the federal replacing the current tax code with a flat tax, prison overcrowding. Most recently, Ashford government should leave most functions to but acknowledged that such a drastic change served as chairman of the Judiciary Commit- states and localities. was unlikely to get immediate traction. tee and called for a special session to address But even state government should serve Coming back, “understanding how Con- criminal and administrative issues with the a limited role, he says. “My roots go back to gress works, my approach probably would be state’s Department of Correctional Services. taking care of your family, your own, your smaller — pieces of legislation as opposed to He also has taken an outspoken position neighbors,” he told the Las Vegas Review- one large piece of legislation.” on gay rights, particularly in marriage and Journal in 2010 ahead of joining the Nevada On the topic of inversions, he calls out the anti-discrimination contexts. He favored a Assembly. “I think we give up a lot of free- corporate tax code for not being competitive statewide referendum on a constitutional dom when we start building a government internationally. ban and was open to debates regarding to take care of everything for us.” Before switching to Financial Services to- an option for civil unions, but he sup- This year, Hardy even said he agreed with ward the end of the 112th Congress, Guinta ports same-sex marriage. He also supports Mitt Romney’s controversial 2012 comment had served on the Budget Committee as well equal-pay measures. that 47 percent of Americans would vote for as the Oversight and Government Reform Among other issues he’s taken on while President Barack Obama no matter what, be- Committee and its subcommittee dealing serving as a legislator, a comprehensive fed- cause they were dependent on government. with TARP and financial services. eral immigration overhaul has gotten most “Can I say that without getting in trou- One specific area where he thinks he could of the headlines. Ashford also backs abortion ble?” Hardy said, drawing the ire of critics. partner with Democrats is on mental health rights generally but has voted for some re- “The 47 percent is true. It’s bigger now.” issues. Guinta would like to work on iden- strictions, and he supports Medicaid expan- On other issues, Hardy touts his work on tifying challenges that could have a federal- sion but says he would have voted against the meeting infrastructure needs, including on level solution, and says that Democratic Rep. 2010 health care overhaul. storm drain and flood control projects and Tim Ryan of Ohio — the two of them served Outside of his legislative work, Ashford a wastewater treatment facility. He says he on the Budget Committee together and both is a lawyer and has experience with housing was even himself a worker on widening the attended the same law school — would be a and labor policy. canyon road for Hoover Dam. potential ally in that cause.
www.cq.com | NOVEMBER 6, 2014 | CQ WEEKLY 39
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NEW JERSEY (1) NEW JERSEY (3) NEW JERSEY (12)
Donald Norcross, D Tom MacArthur, R Bonnie Watson Coleman, D
Election: Defeated Garry W. Cobb, R, to succeed Rep. Election: Defeated Aimee Belgard, D, to succeed Rep. Election: Defeated Alieta Eck, R, to succeed Rep Rush Robert E. Andrews, D, who resigned Jon Runyan, R, who retired D. Holt, D, who retired Residence: Camden Residence: Toms River Residence: Ewing Township Born: Dec. 13, 1958; Camden, N.J. Born: Oct. 16, 1960; Hebron, Conn. Born: Feb. 6, 1945; Camden, N.J. Religion: Lutheran Religion: Episcopalian Religion: Baptist Family: Wife, Andrea Doran; three children Family: Wife, Debbie MacArthur; three children (one Family: Husband, William Coleman; one child, two Education: Camden Community College, A.S. 1979 deceased) stepchildren (criminal justice) Education: Hofstra U., B.A. 1982 (history) Education: Rutgers U., attended ; Thomas Edison State Career: Union representative; electrician Career: Insurance company executive College, B.A. 1958 (social sciences & history) Political highlights: N.J. Assembly, 2010; N.J. Senate, Political highlights: Randolph Township Council, Career: State civil rights office director 2010-present 2011-14 Political highlights: N.J. Assembly, 1998-present (majority leader, 2006-09, 2014); N.J. Democratic Party chairwoman, 2002-06
Norcross considers his Taking a measured The first black woman transition to Congress and moderate approach to represent New Jersey, the next step in a lifelong to issues like health care, Watson Coleman has a history of representing immigration and federal long history of holding others — he says speak- spending, MacArthur political office and had a ing for constituents is lets his various life expe- career working for state HOUSE just like giving a voice to riences guide him. government agencies. workers. He and his wife spent years caring for one She comes to the House from the state As- He spent the majority of his professional of their children, a daughter born with a sembly, in a seat once held by her father and life in organized labor — he describes himself congenital brain malformation. MacArthur where she has served in party leadership posi- as an “electrician with a tie” — and prioritizes says her health struggles and eventual death tions for nearly a decade. workers’ issues. Norcross wants to see a fed- at age 11 “was a terrible experience. But it Her approach to politics is straightfor- eral minimum wage increase, and cites the also shaped me a great deal and I believe we ward: “I am an activist legislator.” New Jersey minimum wage law, which ties can balance conservative, common-sense, She will join the Congressional Black Cau- wages to inflation rates, as a potential guide. market-based principles and compassion for cus, the Congressional Caucus on Women’s In the state Senate, Norcross sponsored people who need it in times of help.” Issues and the Congressional Progressive several bills related to veterans, including MacArthur sees a role for the federal gov- Caucus in order to make sure “that we don’t measures to provide incentives for employers ernment in the provision of health care, but lose the fights and battles that we’ve already to hire former service members and in-state the 2010 overhaul is not it — he does not be- won, whether or not it was women’s access to tuition at New Jersey schools to veterans. lieve in a “one-size-fits-all government health health care and birth control, whether or not Making college more affordable is another care program.” A career in the insurance in- it’s voting rights, rights to affordable educa- of Norcross’ goals, as is a general emphasis dustry has left him with a vision of interstate tion for minorities and for women.” on education. “It shouldn’t matter what ZIP sale of insurance, employer pooling, tort re- Watson Coleman has her sights on the code you were born into for the quality of form and state programs for the uninsured. Education and the Workforce Committee. your education.” Local needs, with which MacArthur Labor unions and public education policy Access is also a big theme in his approach gained familiarity on the town council, will are important to the working-class constitu- to health care. He supports the 2010 over- likely take top billing. Infrastructure projects ents in her district; and her positions on haul, recognizing that “there are clearly fixes — for roads, power plants and rail lines — are social issues fit in well with its liberal com- that need to be made to Obamacare so that another area where he sees the need for fed- munities, especially those around Princeton those seeking medical help have the oppor- eral involvement. And he will look out for University. Her Assembly seat and her House tunity to have it no matter where they live.” Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst and the district have significant overlap. Several House committees’ portfolios tens of thousands of military and civilian Her district also takes in the state Capitol, could fit in well with his experience. He’d be jobs affiliated with it, as well as push for a which aligns neatly with Watson Coleman’s “honored” to serve on the Veterans Affairs new veterans’ hospital, flexibility in care for attention to “fair governance” and pushing Committee, and he could continue some of veterans and an overhaul of the VA system. the role of government in improving the his military affairs work from the state Sen- Given the base’s importance to the dis- quality of life for the poor and the elderly. ate on the Armed Services panel. The Trans- trict, MacArthur’s goal is the Armed Services Her father, whom she says was “more of portation Committee would be a prime Committee. The Natural Resources panel a public servant than a politician,” expected assignment for his infrastructure-heavy dis- would position him well to support recre- Watson Coleman or one of her brothers to trict. And he says as an electrician, he could ational and commercial fishing interests in follow him to the Assembly. “And we all said find room on the Energy Committee. the area and influence conservation policy. ‘noooo,’ but, famous last words.”
40 CQ WEEKLY | NOVEMBER 6, 2014 | www.cq.com
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NEW YORK (1) NEW YORK (4) NEWNEW YORK YORK (18) (18) TOO CLOSE TO CALL
Lee Zeldin, R Kathleen Rice, D Nan Hayworth, R
Election: Defeated Rep. Timothy H. Bishop, D Election: Defeated Bruce Blakeman, R, to succeed Rep. Election: Opposed Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney, D Residence: Shirley Carolyn McCarthy, D, who retired Residence: Mount Kisco Born: Jan. 30, 1980; East Meadow, N.Y. Residence: Garden City Born: Dec. 14, 1959; Chicago, Ill. Religion: Jewish Born: Feb. 15, 1965; Manhattan, N.Y. Religion: Lutheran Family: Wife, Diana Zeldin; two children Religion: Roman Catholic Family: Husband, Scott Hayworth; two children Education: State U. of New York, Albany, B.A. 2001 Family: Single Education: Princeton U., A.B. 1981 (biology); Cornell U., (political science); Albany Law School, J.D. 2003 Education: Catholic U. of America, B.A. 1987 (English); M.D. 1985 Military: Army 2003-07; Army Reserve 2007-present Touro Law Center, J.D. 1991 Career: Health care advertising firm executive; ophthal- Career: Lawyer; regional transportation and infrastruc- Career: County prosecutor mologist ture agency lawyer; military prosecutor Political highlights: Assistant U.S. attorney, 1999-2005; Political highlights: U.S. House, 2011-13; defeated for Political highlights: Republican nominee for U.S. House, Nassau County district attorney, 2006-present; sought re-election to U.S. House, 2012 2008; N.Y. Senate, 2011-present Democratic nomination for N.Y. attorney general, 2010
Zeldin has his eye on Rice will likely be a A retired ophthalmol- the “fiscal insanity that is team player in the House ogist and one-term law- plaguing Congress” and Democratic caucus, vot- maker, Hayworth comes espouses both Repub- ing with her colleagues back to Congress with lican priorities and the on all of the party’s sig- her four-point “prescrip- need for the parties to nature issues: raising the tion” for health care and HOUSE collaborate in a divided minimum wage, expand- ideas about how to reor- government. ing access to reproductive health services, ganize the tax code and federal regulations to Partisan rhetoric prevents anything pro- closing the gender pay gap and restricting better serve the middle class. ductive from getting done in Washington, gun access. Taking her former seat on the Financial he says. He notes that he’s conservative but With more of a national profile than Services Committee would make sense; her knows it’s “vitally important” to work with some of her freshman counterparts, Rice district has ties to the New York financial sec- people from the other party when you share still maintains a focus on her district as she tor, and she did a lot of work in 2011 on debt power. looks toward her congressional to-do list. limit issues. But changing health care laws He opposes the 2010 health care law, Some of Rice’s national news coverage remains a priority. Specifically, she backs giv- though there are components he supports, while district attorney was due to her crack- ing consumers more choices by facilitating and says he thinks Republicans have to ad- down on drunk driving, and she hopes to interstate sale of insurance and ensuring that vance their own solutions — a discussion he transfer methods on that issue to a nation- health savings accounts are not discouraged. says he wants to be part of. For the most part, wide strategy to curb texting while driving. Hayworth thinks government can take a he says, the law has been a failure. She is District Attorney for Nassau role in state-level support for health services It’s also “pretty outrageous” that Congress County and had also served as prosecutor for the poor, but she is unimpressed by near- has only passed one federal budget since in Brooklyn and a federal prosecutor out of ly all efforts of the federal government and 2007, and Zeldin pushes for accountabil- Philadelphia. Several of Rice’s policy priori- derides the functioning of its agencies: “Gov- ity measures to ensure budgets every year. ties are linked to her career in law enforce- ernment bureaucracies don’t create jobs. Funding the government through continu- ment — and one in particular she will pick They empower themselves at our expense.” ing resolutions is not healthy, he says. up from her predecessor, Democratic Rep. And regarding the impact of the tax code on Zeldin took up veterans’ issues in the state Carolyn McCarthy: “gun violence is a public the middle class: “Washington has tipped the legislature and thinks the federal govern- health and safety epidemic in our country.” scale towards the bureaucracy and the elite. ment could be doing more for veterans’ men- Rice also joins the chorus on addressing I’m here to tip the scale back towards you.” tal health needs and decreasing the backlog college affordability, in part by expanding Hayworth generally supported party lead- of disability claims. tuition tax credits. Her “tax relief” plan in ership in her previous stint in the House, and He also plans to speak up on foreign pol- general includes extending middle-class tax she joined both the conservative Republican icy. He wants to protect the United States’ cuts and increasing child and earned income Study Committee and the moderate Main relationship with Israel and says the U.S. tax credits. Though she points out that in- Street Partnership while also working with should work to improve relationships with come inequality and rising costs of living are Rhode Island’s Democratic Rep. David Cicil- its allies rather than “sacrificing” them to try a particular concern for New York residents, line on the bipartisan Common Ground to be friends with countries that “hate us.” Rice wants to raise the federal minimum Caucus. But the second time around, it A spot on one of the budget or tax policy wage since “pay remains stagnant, and the seems less like a consensus-building exercise panels would be a preference, though he only thing we see growing is the gap between than a charge to take on “insiders and lob- mentions interest in Oversight, Armed Ser- the wealthy and those our economic recovery byists” as she proclaims that “Washington vices and Energy and Commerce. is leaving behind.” is the problem.”
www.cq.com | NOVEMBER 6, 2014 | CQ WEEKLY 41
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NEW YORK (21) NEW YORK (24) NEW YORK (25) TOO CLOSE TO CALL
Elise Stefanik, R John Katko, R Mark Assini, R
Pronounced: stef-AH-nick Election: Defeated Rep. Dan Maffei, D Election: Opposed Rep. Louise Slaughter, D Election: Defeated Aaron Woolf, D, to succeed Rep. Bill Residence: Camillus Residence: Gates Owens, D, who retired Born: Nov. 9, 1962; Syracuse, N.Y. Born: July 17, 1959; Gates, N.Y. Residence: Willsboro Religion: Roman Catholic Religion: Roman Catholic Born: July 2, 1984; Albany, N.Y. Family: Wife, Robin Katko; three children Family: Wife, Mary Ann Clarno; three children Religion: Roman Catholic Education: Niagara U., B.A. 1984 (political science); Education: Monroe Community College, A.S. 1980 Family: Single Syracuse U., J.D. 1988 (liberal arts); Rochester Institute of Technology, B.S. Education: Harvard U., A.B. 2006 (government) Career: Federal prosecutor; lawyer 1986 (business) Career: Plywood company sales director; presidential Political highlights: No previous office Career: Financial analyst campaign aide; think tank communications director; Political highlights: Monroe County Legislature, 1993- White House aide 2005; Gates town supervisor, 2010-present Political highlights: No previous office
For a party strug- As a federal prosecu- If Assini needs a per- gling to integrate age tor, Katko took on or- sonal motto, it might and gender diversity into ganized crime and drug just be “never give up.” its ranks, Republicans trafficking. In the House, An outstanding wres- scored a huge win with he’s going to take up the tler, he once hurt his leg the election of Stefanik cause of the central New so badly in a high school HOUSE to succeed retiring Dem- York economy. football game there was ocratic Rep. Bill Owens. Repealing the medical device tax is impor- a possibility he might have had to give up While she’ll be the youngest woman in the tant to local manufacturers and will be his wrestling. Nope. He persevered and earned House of either party, Stefanik already has first priority in Washington. That agenda a college scholarship. A decade and a half experience in Washington — she was a White item will also fit in with Katko’s larger ef- later, he lost his position at Eastman Kodak House aide, a staffer for the national Repub- forts to assess the whole of the 2010 health and ended up with no job prospects. But he lican Party and a presidential campaign aide. care overhaul. was a county legislator and later became There is no doubt about her loyalty to the He says tax rates and an overabundance town supervisor. Ten years ago, he ran in the GOP platform, but Stefanik takes a nuanced of federal regulations impede economic Republican primary for a House seat, only to view on a couple of social policy issues. She growth, and Katko is concerned the tax envi- lose to the eventual winner. And now, in his backs equal pay for women, and she would ronment discourages companies from bring- second try, he beat an incumbent who had be willing to raise the minimum wage if small ing overseas profits back to the U.S. been in Congress for nearly three decades. business interests were involved in negotiat- Katko’s fiscal conservatism includes aim- Assini ran for the seat this time because ing the change. And, regarding Republicans’ ing at reduced federal spending overall as “there has been no cooperation and collabo- responses about abortion, she told The New well as enforcement of spending caps, and ration. I don’t think problems are unsolv- York Times, “it’s very important that we have his plan for the budget is to “reform” the pro- able.” candidates who are respectful when they talk cess. He also opposes raising the minimum The problems most relevant to his district about this issue and that they talk about it in wage — he told the Syracuse Post-Standard, have to do with the local economy, which he a humane way.” “I would rather give individuals in that tax calls “abysmal.” Like many young politicians of both bracket a tax incentive to work (such as a tax Corporate tax rates and regulations on parties, Stefanik is a strong proponent of rebate).” He also opposes a federal paycheck businesses are “crushing” them. One of his improved transparency in government op- fairness law, but is strident in his belief in targets for a committee spot is the Small erations, and she sees online outreach and equal pay — his preference, perhaps fitting Business panel, though he also sees room on accountability measures as important func- for a prosecutor, is in stronger enforcement Budget to explore how to prioritize spend- tions of a congressional office. of existing laws. ing (especially on infrastructure projects), as Outside of politics and public policy, her He also backs enforcement of existing well as eliminate what he considers wasteful expertise lies mainly in her experience with laws without expanding regulations when spending. This type of program budgetary her parents’ plywood distribution company it comes to gun owners’ rights. Katko, who examination could also be addressed as a and she would fit in on the Small Business is looking for a spot on the Judiciary Com- member of the Oversight and Government Committee. The Agriculture and Veterans mittee, vows to oppose any restriction on the Reform Committee. Affairs panels would let her look out for her purchase of legal firearms and ammunition, He might not believe in giving up — he constituents — her district is a sprawling would like to see incentives to improve gun says “nothing has ever come easy” for him rural expanse of forests and mountains; and safety by gun owners and rejects the efficacy — but he also doesn’t believe in staying in Fort Drum, near Watertown, hosts tens of and constitutionality of federal firearms bans Congress forever. Assini favors an eight-year thousands of military personnel. or registries. limit on House service.
42 CQ WEEKLY | NOVEMBER 6, 2014 | www.cq.com
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NORTH CAROLINA (6) NORTH CAROLINA (7) NORTH CAROLINA (12)
Mark Walker, R David Rouzer, R Alma Adams, D
Election: Defeated Laura Fjeld, D, to succeed Rep. Election: Defeated Jonathan Barfield Jr., D, to succeed Election: Defeated Vince Coakley, R, to succeed Rep. Howard Coble, R, who retired Rep. Mike McIntyre, D, who retired Melvin Watt, D, who resigned Residence: Summerfield Residence: McGee’s Crossroads Residence: Greensboro Born: Feb. 16, 1972; 2nd General Hospital (Army), Born: May 20, 1969; Dothan, Ala. Landstuhl, Germany Born: May 27, 1946; High Point, N.C. Religion: Baptist Religion: Southern Baptist Religion: Baptist Family: Wife, Kelly Walker; three children Family: Single Family: Divorced; two children Education: Trinity Baptist College, attended 1987-88; Education: North Carolina State U., B.A. 1994 (chem- Education: North Carolina A&T U., B.S. 1969 (art educa- Houston Community College, attended 1990; Piedmont istry), B.S. 1994 (agricultural business management), tion), M.S. 1972 (art education); Ohio State U., Ph.D. Baptist College, B.A. 1999 (biblical studies) B.S. 1994 (agricultural economics) 1981 (art education) Career: Government affairs and marketing consulting Career: Pastor; car salesman company owner; U.S. Agriculture Department admin- Career: Professor; artist; teacher Political highlights: No previous office istrator; congressional aide; university administrator; Political highlights: Greensboro City Board of Educa- political action committee coordinator tion, 1984-86; Greensboro City Council, 1987-94; N.C. Political highlights: Sought Republican nomination for N.C. House, 1994-present Agriculture Department commissioner, 2000; N.C. Senate, 2009-13; Republican nominee for U.S. House, 2012
Walker plans to align Rouzer has more than A liberal Democrat with conservatives in the a decade of experience who calls herself the kind House intent on trim- working for senators of legislator who works ming federal spending and the Agriculture De- hard to master an issue and reshaping entitle- partment, as well as a and then is “relentless” in ment programs. network of connections pushing it forward, Ad- HOUSE He is a preacher’s son within his state delega- ams is invested in higher who spent time in the business world before tion and that lead back to some members education access and affordability. becoming a Baptist minister. Walker had of the House GOP leadership. Knowledge Historically black colleges and universi- never sought elected office before winning of institutional traditions and the legislative ties are of particular interest to Adams, who his House seat; he says the 2012 GOP presi- process, especially the snags common across graduated from North Carolina A&T State dential nominating contest inspired him to the Capitol, will put Rouzer out ahead of University and was a professor at Bennett craft a message of limited government and many of his freshman colleagues. College for decades. self-reliance and to run for Congress. It will also help him go after items on his The Education and Workforce Commit- Citing his experience working in inner- district-first agenda. Rouzer would like to tee would serve that interest, as well as fitting city and international ministries, he thinks land on the Agriculture Committee and the in well with her support of a higher federal Congress should scrutinize social welfare Transportation and Infrastructure Com- minimum wage — a proposed $10.10 would programs for low-income people. He believes mittee so he can look out for southeast- be a place to start, but Adams thinks a living the programs are detrimental to the poor and ern North Carolina farmers, the waterways wage would require eventually getting closer create a culture of dependency, particularly around Wilmington and local tourism. to $18 per hour — and her efforts to address for Hispanics and black Americans. On a national scale, getting immigration a gender-based pay gap. Unemployment and His vision for overall fiscal health includes policy right is important to Rouzer. “The real economic stagnation are problems for the a balanced budget amendment and either problem is that we have a legal immigration residents of her district. a “fair tax” or flat tax system. Among his problem that has led to our illegal immigra- Support for abortion rights and voting plans for shrinking the federal government’s tion problem … we need to have a simple rights will take up room in her portfolio, too. outlays, he says foreign aid should be limited and easy way for our employers to get labor One characteristic of a teacher she has to “people in need — refugees, widows, and they need when they need it.” He supports sought to retain in 30 years in elected office orphans — and countries that share our com- expanded guest worker visa programs for has been that of facilitator — she believes that mitment to democracy, like Israel.” agricultural laborers as well as for high-tech stakeholders, including colleagues, constitu- Looking out for the rural counties in the workers. ents and lobbyists, can inform a legislator’s northern part of his district and the high- He will also certainly maintain some of his position. “As an educator, I know how help- ways, freight rail lines and airport around focus on regulatory overhaul from four years ful it is to study and the pitfalls when you Greensboro, the Transportation and Agricul- in the state Senate. Rouzer had success at the don’t, when you’re not prepared.” ture panels would be a good fit for Walker. state level with legislation about administra- She already has a network of connections He is also interested in the Oversight and tive procedure — his concerns at the federal to members of the North Carolina Dem- Government Reform Committee. level include EPA rules as well as regulations ocratic delegation and the Congressional Walker says his religious beliefs will influ- that have an impact on small businesses. Black Caucus; she says she admires the style ence his approach to governing, although he About his approach to legislating, “philo- of California’s Maxine Waters and the Dis- adds, “My oath is not to a denomination. It is sophically, I’m very conservative, but I’m also trict’s Eleanor Holmes Norton. to the Constitution. I’m not going as a pastor very practical. You can’t get from Point A to Adams hopes to continue with her collage but as a representative.” Z overnight.” art while in D.C.
www.cq.com | NOVEMBER 6, 2014 | CQ WEEKLY 43
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OKLAHOMA (5) PENNSYLVANIA (6) PENNSYLVANIA (13)
Steve Russell, R Ryan Costello, R Brendan F. Boyle, D
Election: Defeated Al McAffrey, D, to succeed Rep. Election: Defeated Manan Trivedi, D, to succeed Rep. Election: Defeated Carson Dee Adcock, R, to succeed James Lankford, R, who ran for other office Jim Gerlach, R, who retired Rep. Allyson Y. Schwartz, D, who ran for other office Residence: Oklahoma City Residence: West Chester Residence: Philadelphia Born: May 25, 1963; Oklahoma City, Okla. Born: Sept. 7, 1976; Phoenixville, Pa. Born: Feb. 6, 1977; Philadelphia, Pa. Religion: Southern Baptist Religion: Presbyterian Religion: Roman Catholic Family: Wife, Cindy Russell; five children Family: Wife, Christine Costello; one child Family: Wife, Jennifer Boyle; one child Education: Ouachita Baptist U., B.A. 1985 (public Education: Ursinus College, B.A. 1999 (politics); Vil- Education: U. of Notre Dame, B.A. 1999 (government); speaking) lanova U., J.D. 2002 Harvard U., M.P.P. 2005 (2005) Military: Army 1985-2006 Career: Lawyer Career: Information technology consulting company Career: Army officer; motivational speaker; gun store Political highlights: East Vincent Township Board of analyst owner Supervisors, 2002-07; Chester County recorder of Political highlights: Democratic nominee for Pa. House, Political highlights: Okla. Senate, 2009-13 deeds, 2008-11; Chester County Board of Commission- 2004, 2006; Pa. House, 2009-present ers, 2011-present
There’s no mistaking Costello’s constitu- Boyle draws on his Russell’s background — ents are used to being roots as the son of a jani- he wrote a book about represented in the House tor and a school crossing his combat experience; by a moderate Republi- guard to advocate poli- he talks about the impact can. The youngest mem- cies he thinks will bolster on foreign and defense ber of the Pennsylvania the “American Dream,” HOUSE policy and on veterans’ delegation by more than including improving the services of having fewer former service mem- a decade, Costello replaces the retiring Rep. affordability of higher education. bers in Congress; and he exudes a straitlaced Jim Gerlach and pledges to work with any “We are pricing out kids from working demeanor — and there will be no mistaking of his new colleagues on education policy, families, middle-class families, lower income his voting record once he’s in the House. federal spending and changes to the tax code. families. And it’s completely unfair. It’s not His legislative priorities fall in line with Costello was born, raised and educated in consistent with building America as a meritoc- the Republican leadership agenda. He has a southeastern Pennsylvania, and the region racy. And it also is very unwise if we’re going to typical view of the 2010 health care overhaul, will stay on his agenda in the House. Like be competitive globally in this century.” which he would like to see repealed and re- many local Republicans, Costello, whose law He is heavily influenced by being a first- placed, and of energy policy, fiscal policy and practice focused on land use and real estate, generation American — and the first member national security. He has seen what he views emphasizes preservation of the area’s rural of his family to go to college — and is con- as “a multitude of errors in foreign policy” heritage. He backs environmental standards cerned about the state of the middle class. over the past several years. to protect undeveloped and agricultural land. Those concerns also find their way into his The federal deficit comes up regarding the A lawyer by trade, Costello served in local views on tax policy and access to elementary defense budget and continuing sequestra- and county elected positions. As county chair- and secondary education. tion cuts. His state’s military installations man, he worked with a balanced budget — a Strong support of a tax overhaul to change are important, as is general readiness. “You goal he’d like to see achieved at the federal income tax rates as well as the incentives can’t [eliminate the deficit] by reducing the level. He supports low tax rates and increased that he says encourage companies to move military, and you weaken our country when efficiency in government agencies. Federal abroad and lay off U.S. workers meshes well you reduce our armed forces to the size of debt is a problem for economic and social with Boyle’s call to boost funding for infra- any peer competitor or any tin pot tyrant progress and for national security, he says. structure projects. He is bothered that other trying to make a move in the world.” The small business environment is a fre- countries outpace the U.S. in transportation Energy and federal lands are a big deal in quent topic for Costello, particularly regard- investments; at a time when federal spend- Oklahoma. Russell argues for expanded drill- ing what he sees as an overly complicated tax ing has been stigmatized, he says, he wants ing projects and the Keystone XL pipeline. “I code and the potential for increasing levels to be a voice explaining why that funding is think we could see a percentage of anything of federal regulation. “Restoring confidence necessary. that would be produced on federal land go and stability in our economy requires a new A “pragmatic idealist,” Boyle recognizes directly against the deficit.” direction: cutting red tape, simplifying our that compromise is sometimes necessary. He He strongly opposes most EPA regula- tax code and replacing the health care law.” wants to be part of a new class of members tions, but counts energy policy as one poten- Costello, whose parents were schoolteach- who recognize that government must work tial area for bipartisan cooperation. ers, formulates a plan for education policy and show that it can. Gun owners’ rights are a particular con- that targets technology. And his views on He is interested in foreign affairs but cern for Russell, who opened a small rifle immigration encompass overhauls of visa would like to serve on the House Financial manufacturing business after serving one programs to allow high-tech learners to join Services and Transportation and Infrastruc- term in the state legislature. the workforce. ture committees.
44 CQ WEEKLY | NOVEMBER 6, 2014 | www.cq.com
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TEXAS (4) TEXAS (23) TEXAS (36)
John Ratcliffe, R Will Hurd, R Brian Babin, R
Election: Defeated Rep. Ralph M. Hall, R, in a primary Election: Defeated Rep. Pete Gallego, D Election: Defeated Michael K. Cole, D, to succeed Rep. election Residence: Helotes Steve Stockman, R, who ran for other office Residence: Heath Born: Aug. 19, 1977; San Antonio, Texas Residence: Woodville Born: Oct. 20, 1965; Mount Prospect, Ill. Religion: Christian Born: March 23, 1948; Port Arthur, Texas Religion: Roman Catholic Family: Single Religion: Southern Baptist Family: Wife, Michele Ratcliffe; two children Education: Texas A&M U., B.S. 2000 (computer science) Family: Wife, Roxanne Babin; five children Education: U. of Notre Dame, B.A. 1987 (government Career: Cybersecurity risk management consultant; Education: U. of Texas, attended 1967-69; Lamar U., and international studies); Southern Methodist U., J.D. CIA agent B.S. 1973 (biology); U. of Texas, D.D.S. 1976 1989 Political highlights: Sought Republican nomination for Military: Texas National Guard 1969-71; Army Reserve Career: Lawyer; federal prosecutor U.S. House, 2010 1971-75; Air Force 1976-79 Political highlights: Heath Board of Adjustment, 1997- Career: Dentist 98; Heath Planning and Zoning Commission, 1998-2001; Political highlights: Woodville City Council, 1981-82, 1984-89; Heath City Council, 2001-04; mayor of Heath, 2004-12 Historical Commission, 1989-95; Woodville School Board, 1992-95; Republican nominee for U.S. House, 1996, 1998
A former mayor, fed- Addressing his drive to As a dentist and long- eral prosecutor and an- serve in the House, Hurd time resident of south- ti-terrorism official, the says some of his own in- eastern Texas, Babin hits tea-party-backed Rat- teractions with Congress his stride when discuss- cliffe says his primary while he was in the CIA ing health care and bor- defeat of longtime Rep. left him “shocked by the der security. He spent HOUSE Ralph M. Hall is not a caliber of our elected of- more than three decades mandate to be a “bomb thrower” in the ficials.” And he says, “the organization as a serving in a number of local and state posi- House — he wants to be seen as a “thought- whole has gotten such a bad reputation … tions, and he says this background gives him ful conservative.” because of a lack of leadership.” a broad understanding of policy. He also wants to take on a policy agenda Hurd plans to use his CIA background to Babin is highly critical of the 2010 health geared toward what he identifies as the issues tackle foreign policy, energy, border security care overhaul and plans to be part of any ef- for the next generation. Federal debt and and cybersecurity issues, all while holding fort he can to repeal it and make the health spending are at the top of that list. Touting himself to a “gold standard” in constituent care system more market-based. his leadership of Heath, Texas — especially relations. “I know any time the government gets in- his record of not raising taxes — Ratcliffe em- He is confident he will be able to make volved, setting prices, setting fees, mandating phasizes the need to have a balanced budget. an immediate impact in the House, and his this, mandating that, you’re going to have Regarding the trajectories for federal entitle- idealism and ambition show in his optimism problems,” he says. ment programs, he says “we’re really not in a about quickly moving to the front on the He also frequently invokes a responsibil- position well to meet those needs.” topics he finds most pressing for his dis- ity to future generations when calling for a Immigration will likely play a large role in trict and the nation. Most of the work Hurd balanced budget and claiming the federal his policy agenda. Border security in particu- would like to do would be addressed from government has surrendered control of the lar relates to his background in anti-terror- the Select Intelligence Committee and the border to the extent that “we have no clue ism efforts, and enforcement of immigration Energy and Commerce Committee. who’s out there and what they have in mind.” laws for those already in the country illegally The energy sector is a big issue in the While he’s interested in the Ways and has been a big part of Ratcliffe’s portfolio. sprawling southwest Texas district, as is im- Means Committee, he said Science, Space, Like many other Republicans, Ratcliffe migration. Border security takes top bill- and Technology would be a fitting assign- strongly opposes much of the work done by ing for him — he’d like to see more use of ment, with Johnson Space Center in his dis- the EPA, saying it is “not just regulating, but intelligence in combating trafficking and trict. As a veteran and father to a former Navy is legislating. And where it is regulating, its tracking those crossing the border illegally, SEAL, he also identified the Armed Services regulations are overreaching.” but also sees room for flexibility in manage- Committee as a potential posting. He supports an all-of-the-above energy ment of high-volume entry points — and he Babin served in the Texas Air National policy, but not one backed by subsidies or opposes any path to legalization for those in Guard and the Army Reserve, then attended federal requirements. the country illegally. But Hurd does not want dental school and spent three years as an Air Ratcliffe took the opportunity of an un- to stymie trade, especially as he anticipates Force dental officer. He settled in Woodville, contested general election to use some of his increased energy production in Mexico. opened a private practice and raised his five time this summer to meet with dozens of Calls for a simpler tax code, a balanced children. members of the House GOP conference for federal budget and fewer federal regulations He spent eight years in city government advice on the administrative and fundraising match up with many of his new GOP col- and has been appointed to state boards deal- details most of his freshman colleagues won’t leagues, but he says he’s willing to work with ing with issues ranging from dentistry to have experience with. Democrats. water authority.
www.cq.com | NOVEMBER 6, 2014 | CQ WEEKLY 45
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UTAH (4) VIRGINIA (7) VIRGINIA (8)
Mia Love, R Dave Brat, R Don Beyer, D
Election: Defeated Doug Owens, D, to succeed Rep. Jim Election: Defeated John K. “Jack” Trammell, D, to suc- Election: Defeated Micah Edmond, R, to succeed Rep. Matheson, D, who retired ceed Rep. Eric Cantor, R, who resigned James P. Moran, D, who retired Residence: Saratoga Springs Residence: Glen Allen Residence: Alexandria Born: Dec. 6, 1975; Brooklyn, N.Y. Born: July 27, 1964; Dearborn, Mich. Born: June 20, 1950; Trieste, Free Territory of Trieste Religion: Mormon Religion: Presbyterian Religion: Episcopalian Family: Husband, Jason Love; three children Family: Wife, Laura Brat; two children Family: Wife, Megan Carroll Beyer; four children Education: U. of Hartford, B.F.A. 1997 (music theater) Education: Hope College, B.A. 1986 (business adminis- Education: Williams College, B.A. 1972 (economics) Career: Homemaker; computer services company tration); Princeton Theological Seminary, M.Div. 1990; Career: Car dealership owner; Boy Scouts of America employee; flight attendant American U., Ph.D. 1995 (economics) regional manager; national park information assistant Political highlights: Saratoga Springs City Council, Career: Professor; management consultant Political highlights: Lieutenant governor, 1990-98; 2004-10; mayor of Saratoga Springs, 2010-14; Republi- Political highlights: No previous office Democratic nominee for governor, 1997; U.S. ambas- can nominee for U.S. House, 2012 sador to Switzerland and Liechtenstein, 2009-13
Love won a seat in the Brat delivered this A veteran of Virginia House on her second try, cycle’s most surprising politics, Beyer has the and she will become the intraparty defeat, becom- personal and political first black Republican ing the first person ever connections to feel at woman to serve in Con- to oust the sitting House home in the Capitol. And gress. But she’s not new majority leader in an he’s got a personality and HOUSE to politics, and she’s not election. An economics leadership style suited to new to the spotlight. professor from a small school two and a half either working with the details or taking a In 2012, Love spoke at the Republican Na- hours from Capitol Hill, he is opposed to big-picture lead on issues important to his tional Convention. That spring, the Saratoga what he calls “the power party ... the money suburban Washington district. Springs mayor had dominated the state GOP party” — painting all politicians with the Beyer will be a reliable Democratic vote convention selecting a candidate to challenge same brush. and won’t be combative or prone to gaffes. Democratic Rep. Jim Matheson; he squeaked He has an anti-establishment approach He hopes eventually to end up on the Energy by narrowly in 2012, but opted to retire and to policy and politics, and his biggest focus and Commerce or Ways and Means commit- Love was a shoo-in for 2014. is removing the federal government from all tees, but has the savvy to understand that it The daughter of Haitian immigrants, but the narrowest areas of activity. Brat takes might be a bit of wait before he gets there. Love was raised Catholic in Norwalk, Conn., expected stances against the 2010 health An even-keeled nature and his past political before going to college with dreams of per- care overhaul and in favor of reduced federal experience might land Beyer on conference forming on Broadway. Shortly after graduat- spending, and he supports a secure border committees or with opportunities to negoti- ing, she followed her sister into the Mormon and opposes any legislation that would pro- ate contentious bills. faith, was hired as a flight attendant for Con- vide opportunities to provide citizenship to He says his first priority is climate change, tinental Airlines and moved to Utah. immigrants who are in the U.S. illegally. At a working to find “efficient, bipartisan ways She stayed in Utah and got involved with campaign event in June, he called “amnesty ... to affect climate change, and, little by little, her community, ending up in the mayor’s the key pivotal issue of the day.” moving it away from being a Democrat or office after two terms on the city council — His academic work includes topics in eco- Republican issue.” Love was the first black female mayor in the nomic methodology and theory as well as Gun control, particularly expanding back- state’s history. A focus on local control and ethics, an area he studied while in seminary. ground check regulations, and changing decision-making guides her political out- He is particularly focused on the intersec- policies for family and medical leave are also look, and she says she believes that “there is tion of capitalism and Christianity, and he high on his to-do list. so much more accountability at a local level.” adheres strictly to free-market economics. He pledges to be a voice for the many fed- Once in the House, she hopes eventually His libertarian leanings also include oppos- eral workers he’ll represent. “Especially in the to find a way onto the Energy and Com- ing NSA data collection and the indefinite 30 years that we decided that government is merce Committee, and has also expressed detention of American citizens. the source of all problems, it hasn’t been fun interest in the Financial Services and Ways He’s not new to Washington — he got to be a federal worker, and it often shows up and Means panels. Prioritizing education interested in politics while a graduate stu- in things like, ‘Well, freeze their pay’ or ‘Let’s policy and replacing the 2010 health care dent in the District — and he even tried his close down the government.’” law, she may find other perches for working hand at politics in 2011, failing to secure a In addition to running successful car on legislation. state House nomination at a party conven- dealerships — Beyer will almost certainly be Love also has said she would consider join- tion. But before he has set any specific policy one of the wealthiest members of the 114th ing the Congressional Black Caucus, which agenda, Brat has vowed to limit himself to six Congress — he has volunteered for charitable has only ever had one Republican member. terms in Congress. organizations and political campaigns.
46 CQ WEEKLY | NOVEMBER 6, 2014 | www.cq.com
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VIRGINIA (10) WASHINGTON (4) WASHINGTON (4) TOOWASHINGTON CLOSE TO CALL (4)
Barbara Comstock, R Clint Didier, R Dan Newhouse, R
Election: Defeated John Foust, D, to succeed Rep. Frank Pronounced: DID-ee-er Election: Opposed Clint Didier, R, to succeed Rep. Doc R. Wolf, R, who retired Hastings, R, who retired Election: Opposed Dan Newhouse, R, to succeed Rep. Residence: McLean Doc Hastings, R, who retired Residence: Sunnyside Born: June 30, 1959; Springfield, Mass. Residence: Pasco Born: July 10, 1955; Yakima, Wash. Religion: Roman Catholic Born: April 4, 1959; Eltopia, Wash. Religion: Presbyterian Family: Husband, Chip Comstock; three children Religion: Roman Catholic Family: Wife, Carol Newhouse; two children Education: Middlebury College, B.A. 1981 (political sci- Family: Wife, Kristie Didier; four children Education: Washington State U., B.S. 1977 (agricultural ence); Georgetown U., J.D. 1986 economics) Education: Columbia Basin College, A.A.S. 1979; Port- Career: Public affairs firm owner; lobbyist; lawyer; U.S. land State U., B.S. 1981 (political science) Career: Farmer; national fraternity assistant Justice Department public affairs official; presidential Career: Farmer; excavation company owner; profes- Political highlights: Wash. House, 2003-09; Wash. campaign aide; congressional aide; homemaker sional football player Department of Agriculture director, 2009-13 Political highlights: Va. House, 2010-present Political highlights: Sought Republican nomination for U.S. Senate, 2010; Republican nominee for Wash. com- missioner of public lands, 2012
Comstock promises to Didier would likely Newhouse worked un- be a conservative voice, be among the group of der a Democratic admin- especially on tax and fis- very conservative House istration as the state’s di- cal policy. Republicans willing to rector of agriculture. He A tax overhaul will be buck leadership. He lists says he eschews labels her first order of busi- Sens. Ted Cruz and Mike and is “willing to work HOUSE ness. She opposes any tax Lee and Reps. Thomas with anybody who has a increases, even for transportation and infra- Massie and Justin Amash among the law- good idea,” but he would fit in with many of structure projects beneficial to her densely makers he admires. “We gotta get back to the his Republican colleagues in the House. populated Northern Virginia district. In Constitution,” he says. “This thing is etched He supports the GOP’s plan to balance the the Virginia House of Delegates, Comstock in stone. It’s our guiding light.” budget within 10 years and a constitutional signed the Americans for Tax Reform pledge, Referring to a portion of the Declaration balanced-budget amendment. In general, “I a promise to never vote for a tax increase — a of Independence that describes swarms of will insist that we live within our means and position at odds with the stance of longtime officers harassing people and taking their respect every penny of the public’s money.” Republican Rep. Frank R. Wolf, whom she resources, he says: “This is exactly what’s Immigration would be another priority. replaces. transpiring in America today. We’re right Many farms in his vast district — which is With a background as a Wolf aide, in the back to when we were fighting for our inde- covered by hops and fruit orchards — rely on Justice Department and as a lobbyist, Com- pendence from the king.” migrant workers. He says immigration and stock has a wide breadth of understanding, He says he wants across-the-board cuts for border security policies aren’t working; his and she has a history of digging deep into federal agencies. “My pledge is no new taxes, goal would be a system that works efficiently issues. She was also an investigator for the no increase in existing taxes; and anything for people coming into the U.S. as well as it House Government Reform Committee dur- that grows the size of the federal govern- works for businesses hiring employees. ing the Clinton administration and headed ment by one dollar, I will vote against so help “For undocumented workers already here, up the research team for the Republican Na- me God.” The regional issue of cleanup at we need a long-term solution, not blanket tional Committee during the 2000 presiden- the Hanford nuclear site “can and must be amnesty. I would support a plan to allow tial election. (Rep. Tim Griffin of Arkansas done utilizing existing tax revenue.” A farmer undocumented workers with no serious worked with her in both capacities.) himself, he calls the farm bill a “welfare bill.” criminal record to apply for legal status, learn She strongly supports “right to work” Border security is a major concern for English, pay taxes and a penalty and then laws, and claims that the National Labor Didier, who identifies national security and go to the back of the line and work toward Relations Board and regulations set by the public health concerns stemming from con- citizenship.” EPA hinder economic growth. Comstock tinued illegal immigration. He opposes a Other farm-related issues he’d take up supports expanded offshore drilling, includ- path to citizenship for those in the country are water resources, federal lands policy and ing oil exploration off the Virginia coast. illegally, and his plan for a guest-worker pro- species protection regulations. Agriculture On immigration, she will join Republi- gram would include garnishment of wages is as important to Newhouse personally as cans who prioritize border security. During a by the private sector to be returned when it is to the district — his family operates a September 2014 debate, she emphasized the workers leave the U.S. 600-acre farm. need for legislation — as opposed to executive His interest in the Natural Resources Before serving in the state cabinet, New- action — and also suggested, “Fed-Ex can Committee is in land use and states’ access to house spent eight years in the state House. track packages coming in here all of the time, resources on federally owned land. He backs He supports repeal of the 2010 health care we can track people who are coming into the gun owners’ rights, and during his campaign overhaul, opposes abortion rights and backs country and we can do that right.” raffled firearms to followers on his website. gun owners’ rights.
www.cq.com | NOVEMBER 6, 2014 | CQ WEEKLY 47
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WEST VIRGINIA (2) WEST VIRGINIA (3) WISCONSIN (6)
Alex X. Mooney, R Evan Jenkins, R Glenn Grothman, R
Election: Defeated Nick Casey, D Election: Defeated Rep. Nick J. Rahall II, D Election: Defeated Mark Harris, D, to succeed Rep. Tom Residence: Charles Town Residence: Huntington Petri, R, who retired Born: June 7, 1971; Washington, D.C. Born: Sept. 12, 1960; Huntington, W.Va. Residence: Campbellsport Religion: Roman Catholic Religion: Presbyterian Born: July 3, 1955; Milwaukee, Wis. Family: Wife, Grace Gonzalez Mooney; two children Family: Wife, Elizabeth Jenkins; three children Religion: Lutheran Education: Dartmouth College, B.A. 1993 (philosophy) Education: U. of Florida, B.S. 1983 (marketing); Sam- Family: Single Career: Public affairs firm owner; conservative journal- ford U., J.D. 1987 Education: U. of Wisconsin, B.B.A. 1977 (accounting), ism training nonprofit executive; conservative public Career: State physicians association executive; lawyer J.D. 1983 policy nonprofit analyst; congressional aide Political highlights: W. Va. House, 1995-2001 (served Career: Lawyer Political highlights: Republican nominee for N.H. as a Democrat); candidate for W.Va. Supreme Court of Political highlights: Wis. Assembly, 1993-2005; Wis. House, 1992; Md. Senate, 1999-2011; defeated for re- Appeals, 2000; W.Va. Senate, 2003-present (served as a Senate, 2005-present election to Md. Senate, 2010 Democrat, 2003-13)
Politics has always Coal will always fuel Trying to stick with a been the goal, and the debates in the rural and basic platform of being path has wound through economically struggling a small-government guy, several states. Mooney 3rd District, and Jenkins Grothman hopes to con- has been interested in has taken up the issue tinue in the House work civic participation since full bore. he did on the state Sen- HOUSE childhood and was active “My passion and my ate’s Budget Committee. in campus groups at Dartmouth; he ran un- efforts in Congress will be to be a strong, His view on taxes (cut them across the successfully for a seat in the New Hampshire consistent and committed voice to making board), government spending (cut it, too), House and later served for a more than a sure that coal is an important part of an all- federal debt (eliminate it) and the number of decade in the Maryland Senate and also as of-the-above energy strategy,” he says. federal jobs (shrink it) are in line with most the state’s Republican Party chairman. He calls out President Barack Obama for conservative Republicans. He comes to Congress from West Vir- what he calls a “war on coal,” which Jen- Union activists who challenged Republi- ginia, still touting the same socially and fis- kins says has devastated his district. He is can Gov. Scott Walker’s administration in cally conservative priorities that earned him familiar with the needs of his constituents, 2011 were described as “a bunch of slobs” a reputation as a willing combatant in parti- having served in the state legislature for by Grothman in an interview with MSNBC; san debates in Annapolis. Mooney’s success two decades. he also dismissed the protesters as “college representing a conservative anti-abortion, Jenkins strongly opposes the 2010 health students and hangers-on having a party.” pro-gun owners’ rights, anti-EPA platform care overhaul, citing his time with the state’s Among Grothman’s nonfiscal related leg- has superseded his status as a newcomer to medical professionals’ association as provid- islation in the Senate was a bill to classify coal country. Among the federal regulations ing particular insight. “West Virginians have nonmarital parenting environments as a fac- that Mooney hopes to reduce or eliminate — bristled at the idea of Washington dictating tor in designating child abuse or neglect. He including the entirety of the 2010 health care the type of coverage that must be purchased strongly opposes same-sex marriage. overhaul — are environmental regulations on and then turning around and imposing a fee Welfare programs need a serious overhaul, coal production. or a penalty if you don’t purchase what the according to Grothman, and he wants edu- Mooney has sought out tea party support government tells you to.” cation policy driven by local leaders. He will during his transition across the Potomac. Party affiliation in West Virginia does not push school choice measures like tax cred- A strong supporter of a balanced budget always match up with national platforms, its for parents sending students to private amendment, Mooney also pledges to oppose but Jenkins successfully linked the man he school. Overall, Grothman derides “federal tax increases, which he says “are just an ex- defeated, the long-serving Democratic Rep. laws and never-ending regulations that pre- cuse for the spending addicts in Washington Nick J. Rahall II, to Obama. empt reforms on the state level.” to spend more of your hard-earned money.” And Jenkins touts an independent record One target of his in the Senate was a state His views on immigration policy are in the state legislature: “I pride myself on law restricting work weeks from extending a shaped in part by his mother’s and in-laws’ being a problem solver and a consensus full seven days without a break — Grothman experiences; they all emigrated from Cuba. builder and having an earnest willingness told the Huffington Post in January 2014 Rejecting any federal plan for “amnesty” to work across party lines with individuals that the rule was a “little goofy” and removed for those already in the country illegally, willing to roll up their sleeves and solve the opportunity for people who wanted to Mooney also pushed several bills in the Mary- tough problems.” work more hours. (It’s possible Grothman, land Senate aimed at prohibiting the Motor His emphasis on that self-identified bipar- who remembers having wanted to work over- Vehicle Administration from issuing driver’s tisanship makes sense: Jenkins served in both time while in college, will be surprised by the licenses to illegal immigrants. the state House and Senate as a Democrat. congressional schedule.)
48 CQ WEEKLY | NOVEMBER 6, 2014 | www.cq.com
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