Why are you seeking public office?
I’m a lifelong Democrat and proud to be a part of a party that is inclusive to everyone. I moved to the district almost 20 years ago, I started my solar business here. As a renewable energy small business owner I bring a unique perspective to the state house and prioritize environmental issues. I believe I represent what this district is all about.
What will your top three priorities be if elected?
Environmental justice, equal access, and fair tax policy
Do you support some type of public option health insurance or Medicare for All at the state level? If so, which and why? If not, why not?
Yes, we need an option that gets all people basic healthcare. No one should be denied access to Medical care. Period.
Have your views on policing and racism in Colorado changed this year? If so, how?
We passed a necessary police reform bill in the 2020 session. That was a step in the right direction. A lot of people in this community feel that we need to address systemic racism now. I agree. As a person of color I always look for ways to remove racism from our laws.
Do you place a greater importance on addressing climate change or preserving Colorado’s oil and gas industry? What steps would you take on these issues as a lawmaker?
We absolutely need to take steps to reduce carbon emissions as soon as possible. We can’t survive without a livable environment. I’m from Colorado and I know oil and gas is a boom and bust industry. I believe we should support training Coloradans for the future stable jobs offered in renewable energy.
Should Colorado consider any new gun laws? If so, which do you support?
Like most everyone in Colorado I support gun reform that has been proven to reduce deaths.
Why are you seeking public office?
We have come to a point in Denver’s history where we have lost our identity. When I moved here 20 years ago, Denver was a best kept secret. There was a thriving cultural scene, countless historic neighborhoods, diversity in thought and innovation.
With many different backgrounds, people would come to Denver and be accepted for who they were, not what they were.
There are times in life were we as individuals forget who we are, and Denver is no different.
Let us break the chains of government dependency and choose freedom. Let us be the once proud city that is inclusive to all. Let us rid this state of elected officials hanging on the coattails of the governor, so that we don’t have to say, “thank you governor, may I have another”
What will your top three priorities be if elected?
In our current situation, personal safety and private property are the biggest issues that need to be addressed. This is work that can be accomplished by both government agencies and residents. Education starts at home and system reform starts at the highest levels of our state and local government. Unfortunately, we continue to see neither side willing to do what is necessary. We have been witness to the obvious decay in Denver for the last 15 years, yet voters continue to elect the same brand of candidate thinking things will change.
Do you support some type of public option health insurance or Medicare for All at the state level? If so, which and why? If not, why not?
Some type of public option, yes. I believe in preventative maintenance. Similar, to a vehicle. I believe our bodies are our temple, take care of it, it will take care of you. Medicare for All will be more negative then it will do good. Don’t trust the swamp with their words. Words have destroyed our city for years, and if you keep believing what these patsy politicians keep saying, you’ll see no progress.
Have your views on policing and racism in Colorado changed this year? If so, how?
No, not at all. I’ve been to the rallies, I’ve been to the speeches, protests, and everything else. We don’t have a racism issue in Denver, we have a lack of education in the household. Here in Denver, people want to talk about “systemic” racism…well, voters continue to elect these carousel type status quo officials. So what do you expect? Why not elect someone that actually has education in organizational change and development?
Do you place a greater importance on addressing climate change or preserving Colorado’s oil and gas industry? What steps would you take on these issues as a lawmaker?
To me the obvious answer is preserving Colorado’s oil and gas industry. Colorado is very important in keeping this country energy independent. People take that for granted. The last thing you will want is a country dependent on outside sources. Now, for the sake of the environment, which means a lot to me, we need to keep those companies accountable for misdeeds. I take the stance on keeping people accountable for their actions.
Should Colorado consider any new gun laws? If so, which do you support?
No, we don’t need more gun laws. Chicago is a good example of over policing. We need to raise better humans. The gun violence, or violent crime in general is a mental issue. I will continue to say education starts at the household. As a military experienced individual, I can confidently say that, inflicting violence on another individual with any type of weapon is a mental issue. So, lets keep big gov. out of the household, and raise our families as we see fit.
Joe Richardson has not returned the questionnaire.
