Q1: Congratulations on your candidacy! How did you decide to step down from your position as Circuit Court Judge and run for Congress?
It has been an absolute honor serving the community as a Superior Court Judge and the Allen Circuit Court Judge over the last twelve-and-a-half years. However, during the last few years on the bench I witnessed all of the current issues plaguing Americans play out in my courtroom — struggling families as a result of the economy, fentanyl, lack of immigration resources and crime, to name a few. As a Judge, it was my duty to remain impartial and unbiased, so I could only react to the problems I saw. I’m ready to be proactive and go to Washington to actually solve the problems facing Hoosiers in the 3rd District, and America as a whole. My family and I talked and prayed about it, and we are all excited to step into this next role. I’m running to bring back a strong America!
Q2: Has campaigning had its ups and downs? What has been the most challenging and most rewarding thus far?
I knew before getting into this race that it was going to be a challenge because I am not a politician, but I also believe that is a strength. Hoosiers are tired of politicians who make promises and never deliver. I couldn’t do that as a Judge. When I heard a case, I had to deliver a verdict. The most rewarding part of my run so far has been meeting all the different people that live in the 3rd Congressional District. I have visited all 13 counties, and it’s truly a blessing to see all of the corners and meet all of the people that make our district so special.
Q3: You’ve mentioned that you’d like to bring back the America you grew up in. What does that mean and how do you plan to work toward it?
When I say “the America I grew up in,” I mean an America that was strong and respected on the world stage. I remember the days when Ronald Reagan was our President; our highest office was revered, we had a strong economy, strong national security and treated our adversaries as adversaries. Our conservative values were not constantly under attack. My experience on the bench has equipped me with a unique knowledge of the issues that the people of our district are dealing with and a drive to solve them. I’m excited to head to Washington and fight for the America I love.
Q4: How did your time as a Judge prepare you to run for a position in office? How important has your faith been throughout this process?
My faith is everything to me and my relationship with God informs every decision I make, including this decision to run. My time spent on the bench has been a blessing, and it has equipped me with the knowledge of knowing the issues firsthand and knowing what needs to be done to fix them. It’s my time on the bench and seeing so many problems that are facing Hoosiers that inspired me to run for the U.S. House.
Q5: What have you been doing in your free time? What are you most looking forward to this summer?
I try to get away from the campaign craziness by exercising, being outdoors and spending time with my family. I have always been a big believer in working hard, seeing the benefits and then looking ahead to what is next. There are so many great events coming up this summer where I’m really looking forward to meeting more people and sharing with them how I can best represent them in Congress.
Q6: What are some of your favorite places to visit and things to do in the Fort Wayne area?
In my free time I take any opportunity I have to spend time in our beautiful downtown on the Landing District and the Riverfront. TinCaps games are also a summer-must! There’s nothing like watching America’s favorite pastime in historical Fort Wayne.
