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Colorado State Senate District 21 candidate Q&A

The race features Republican Martín Mendez and Democrat Dominick Moreno

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Why are you seeking public office?
I am seeking public office to make sure that the State government remains small, that public money is being used responsibly and that the State is held accountable to the people.

What will your top three priorities be if elected?
My top three priorities are taxation, homelessness and public education.

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?
No. The private sector can always do a more efficient job of providing healthcare than the State can ever hope to provide.

Have your views on policing and racism in Colorado changed this year? If so, how?
No. I have thought for many years that Police Unions that protect their law-breaking, racist “brothers” need to be held accountable in a court of law. Police Unions are the problem.

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?
Definitely striking a balance between the two is the best choice.

Should Colorado consider any new gun laws? If so, which do you support?
Yes. I would support having armed officers in the schools.


Why are you seeking public office?
I am running for re-election to continue the progress we’ve made in recent years. In my time in the legislature, I’ve sponsored bills to provide universal breakfast to all children in lower-income schools, raise wages for home health care workers and provide transportation services to foster children so they can remain in the school of origin. I have served our community in elected office for over a decade and I look forward to continuing to represent you and address your concerns.

What will your top three priorities be if elected?
My top 3 priorities include continuing to work on policies that raise wages for low and medium wage workers and ensure the wealthiest people pay their fair share. I also plan to build on prior work to help reduce the price of health care. Lastly, I will work on solutions for our aging infrastructure and secure more funding for transportation.

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?
I support establishing a public option. Allowing more people to enroll in publicly provided health care plans will force private health insurance companies to keep costs low and pass on savings to consumers.

Have your views on policing and racism in Colorado changed this year? If so, how?
A “one size fits all approach” to law enforcement is not appropriate and I believe local communities deserve a voice in how they want to be policed. The public dialogue regarding de-escalation of aggressive policing and establishing more community and mental health resources is long overdue.

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?
I believe climate change is a real threat that requires real and immediate solutions. In recent years, we’ve passed legislation that requires industries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and have made it easier to purchase and own zero-emission vehicles. More steps like these are necessary to prevent irreversible damage to our climate and environment.

Should Colorado consider any new gun laws? If so, which do you support?
In recent years, Colorado has responded to mass shootings and gun violence by requiring universal background checks and limiting high capacity magazines. I supported both of these measures. I support additional policies that promote responsible gun ownership and ensure safe storage of firearms.

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