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Austin Winkelman
Austin Winkelman (Democratic Party) ran for election to the U.S. House to represent Minnesota's 6th Congressional District. He lost in the Democratic primary on August 13, 2024.
Winkelman completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2023. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Austin Winkelman was born in Monticello, Minnesota. He earned an associate degree from Hennepin Technical College in 2018. His career experience includes working in manufacturing. [1]
Elections
2024
See also: Minnesota's 6th Congressional District election, 2024
Minnesota's 6th Congressional District election, 2024 (August 13 Republican primary)
Minnesota's 6th Congressional District election, 2024 (August 13 Democratic primary)
General election
General election for U.S. House Minnesota District 6
Incumbent Tom Emmer defeated Jeanne Hendricks in the general election for U.S. House Minnesota District 6 on November 5, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | Tom Emmer (R) | 62.4 | 260,095 |
 | Jeanne Hendricks (D)  | 37.4 | 155,836 | |
| Other/Write-in votes | 0.1 | 565 | ||
| Total votes: 416,496 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
Democratic primary election
Democratic primary for U.S. House Minnesota District 6
Jeanne Hendricks defeated Austin Winkelman in the Democratic primary for U.S. House Minnesota District 6 on August 13, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Jeanne Hendricks | 83.8 | 14,895 |
 | Austin Winkelman | 16.2 | 2,878 | |
| Total votes: 17,773 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
Withdrawn or disqualified candidates
- Jay Reeves (D)
Republican primary election
Republican primary for U.S. House Minnesota District 6
Incumbent Tom Emmer defeated Chris Corey in the Republican primary for U.S. House Minnesota District 6 on August 13, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Tom Emmer | 87.0 | 21,624 |
| Chris Corey | 13.0 | 3,218 | ||
| Total votes: 24,842 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
Endorsements
Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Winkelman in this election.
Campaign themes
2024
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Austin Winkelman completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2023. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Winkelman's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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- 28th Constitutinal amendment - Womans reproductive rights
- Lengel Immigration
- Improved communication with government
John Stewart, I highly appreciate the way john has an ability to call BS, in a blunt and humorous way. The fact that he calls BS for the common good of people, such as American Veterans.
Someone in love with democracy and all its flaws while trying to improve democracy to the best of their ability.
a blunt and honest personality. not always appreciated but is what is required of an elected official. You must be able to tell the people what they do not want to hear from time to time and cannot just be dodging questions and putting spin on things. And ability to compromise and find a common balance with others has always been a strong point for me.
Not serve the “Donor class” and PACs that swamp our congress in unneeded wealth.
This is what I admire about the congress as entity, its intent was balance.
"Climate change"
It doesn’t matter at this point what we blame climate change on, what matters is our ability to adapt to the change we see in our everyday lives. We have the technology to slow the change that is in process, I would work on shutting down our old style power plants in favor of wind, solar and a MASSIVE geothermal power plant; rather than working on killing gas, that will happen naturally and should not be forced on individuals.
It would facilitate the transition from house representative to the senate, if that individual has the ability to transition from a district race to a state wide race, and the want to stay in as political servant to there constituents.
adam kinzinger.
People, Places and faces is my next year. The story will come in time.
Chuck Norris doesn't read books. He stares them down until he gets the information he wants.
While I don’t always agree with the republican point of view, I find it far more important to listen. The viewpoint of my republican leaning friends has been invaluable in guiding my self down a more moderate path.
America has more problems that need handling other than if TikTok steals your data, they do. So, dose meta, X, and every other social media platform. It is business, they are allowed to do it.
Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.
Campaign website
Winkelman’s campaign website stated the following:
| “ |
YOUR VOTE, YOUR PREROGATIVE WOMEN'S REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS:
THE NEED FOR THE 28TH AMENDMENT WOMEN'S REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS The 28th constitutional amendment would let women decide what happens to their own bodies and make sure they can access safe and privacy in healthcare. This amendment is crucial to guaranteeing that all women, no matter where they live or how much money they have, can choose what is best for them. We have the ability to make women's health rights and dignity by making this amendment a priority. It is our duty to fight for equality and protect everyone's well-being. Passing the 28th constitutional amendment would be a big step forward. We can create a fair society that respects women's rights and gives them the freedom and control. We can effectively protect women's reproductive rights and empower them to make informed healthcare decisions that align with their unique circumstances and needs. This crucial amendment will play a vital and transformative role in effectively addressing the alarming issue of maternal mortality that has persistently plagued America. With the implementation of this amendment, we can proactively allocate resources to enhance healthcare services for expectant mothers, ensuring that they receive the necessary medical attention, support, and education to prevent tragic outcomes and safeguard their well-being. data reveals that the maternal mortality rate in 2021 reached 32.9 deaths per 100,000 live births, surpassing previous years' figures. This trend demands immediate action. This is why I am an advocate for the passage of the 28th constitutional amendment. Let us strive for a future where all women have control over their bodies, and we can protect IVF Access, Abortion access, contraception and decrease and prevent maternal deaths. THE 28TH AMENDMENT WOMEN'S REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS (AUSTIN'S VERSION) Section 1 - Right to abortion: The 28th Amendment protects the right to privacy in healthcare. This includes the right for a woman to make decisions about her reproductive health, in having an abortion, and/or other medical decisions. Also, states establish regulations concerning abortion based on various pregnancy stages in order to strike a balance between safeguarding the mother's health and considering the potential for human life. Dividing pregnancy into three trimesters: During the first trimester, states will Not regulate abortion. During the second trimester, states will only regulate abortion to protect the mother's health. During the third trimester, states Can regulate or prohibit abortion to protect the potentiality of human life, except when necessary to preserve the mother's life or health. Section 2 - Maternal Mortality: All pregnant individuals have access to prenatal and postnatal care, as well as skilled birth attendants and emergency obstetric care. Improve healthcare systems by investing and maintaining facilities, equipment, and training for healthcare workers in rural and undeserved areas. Access to healthcare and maternal health. Access to contraception and family planning services. Access to emergency obstetric care, such as blood transfusions, and cesarean sections, is necessary to promptly manage childbirth complications. Section 3 - States Rights: States will have the right to self-determine the time frame in which an abortion are allowed and Disallowed, in correspondence with section 1 of the 28th amendment. States Will use popular vote of its Citizens to determine time frame for abortion. States will Make Exception’s for Rape, Incest, and the life of the mother. FARMING AND AGRICULTURE 1. Set up a grant and loan process set up under the RUS (Rural Utilities Service) for the improvement of old outdated farm power infrastructure. As the larger model milking machines run on 480v and some older farms have 208v and have simple incompatibility with their outdated infrastructure. In some cases, some farmers implement gas generator models of milking machines or invest in costly step-up transformers. 2. Implement changes and improvements to the 1930 Rural Electrification Act, to improve the power distribution network in rural America. the average rural power line carrying capacity is between 7,200v to 14,000v, we need to ensure farmers and rural Americans have the ability to meet modern power requirements. We need to do this not only for farmers, but as well rural Americans who wish to start up manufacturing facilities in their communities, or other economically stimulating activities. FARM LOANS I believe one of the possible reasons is to the fact that with in the farm bill is a claws “Managerial Ability”, I believe if this claws where to be removed it would vastly increase eligibility. As well the wording “sufficient credit elsewhere” should be removed as to allow farmers and ranchers to access the extremely favorable loan rates that sit around 1.5% to 5%. UPGRADING THE FAMILY FARM W/UNDERGROUND FARMING Underground Farming has the potential to help solve global hunger, increasing food production tripling yields significantly. Helping those facing food insecurity due to limited Healthy Food options in the city or the world abroad. By implementing hydroponic underground farming an Eco-friendly approaches, underground farming has the capacity to cultivate crops within regulated settings, ensuring optimal growth conditions. This innovative methodology continues to demonstrate resilience against adverse Weather conditions such as Heat/Cold, severe weather and constraints on land availability. It significantly reduces the necessity for extensive pesticide, herbicide, and desal fuel thus enabling the production of a more environmentally friendly product at a reduced cost to consumers and farmers alike. Underground farming could change how we grow food and make it more secure and profitable for the future of farming. I believe in the potential of underground farming. I am committed to advocating for this cause in Congress and securing funding for family farmers who would like to use this innovative approach. My goal is to empower them with the resources they need to improve their family farms, ensuring a sustainable and profitable future. By implementing strategic policies and providing adequate support, we can not only preserve but also enhance the vital role of family farms in our economy for generations to come. We must appreciate the important help from these farms and work to secure their future success. Their resilience and dedication deserve our unwavering commitment. Together, let us forge a path towards a brighter future, where family farms continue to be the backbone of our agricultural landscape, fueling growth, and fostering a sense of community pride. GREENER DAIRY FARM? I think so; by combining Two methods I believe dairy farms can become not only energy independent but net exporters or power. And become slightly greener in the process. According to MIT and other climate scientists methane is eighty times stronger a greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide, methane has natural slow ability to degrade into carbon dioxide, it is better to convert it into carbon dioxide and use carbon capture technology to remove the carbon dioxide from the exhaust air. With that in mind, there are two techniques that stand out as beneficial to the dairy industry. 1. Adapting methane capture technologies that the Waste disposal industry uses. Then using the methane to burn converting it into heat and energy, also converting a more harmful gas into one that can be captured and disposed of as it exists the system. 2. Zeolite clay mixed with a small amount of copper will absorb methane out of the air, speeding up the conversion process methane naturally possess. In theory, if money were invested into R&D, we could have a device capable of being placed in pastures that absorb methane out of the air. While yes, it is not a perfect solution. It is leading down the right path of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. (CALLIFORNIAS) PROPOSITION 12, AND OTHER REGULATION However, while I agree with the standards; I believe that any regulation that forces farmers, especially small farms, to change. must be in part subsidized by the government that wishes the change. So, if the federal government were to adopt regulations such as prop twelve then the federal government must help pay for the upgrade, it is only fair. BIO-POLYMER PLASTIC AND FARMS In packaging an industry leader of plastic production, common biopolymers are polylactic acid (PLA) from corn, Starch from sources like Potatoes, maize, cassava, rice, sorghum, banana, wheat, and yams, and Cyclodextrin from potatoes, wheat, rice, and corn. Biopolymers are key in sustainable packaging. Polylactic Acid (PLA): Derived from sources like corn starch, sugarcane, roots, etc. Produced using lactic acid. Has weather-resistant properties, tensile strength, and fracture resistance. Starch: Carbohydrate made of amylose and amylopectin, a polymer of glucose. Used in paper, textiles, as synthetic additive in detergents, medicines, cosmetics, etc. Making plastic alternatives, biodegradable materials is Highly compatible with farming and the reduction of plastic pollution is always welcome. As well as a potential future revenue source for family farming. By increasing funding for bio-polymer/bio-plastic startups and R&D, we can increase the likelihood of the family farm thriving in the future. CLIMATE CHANGE: I personally am taking the time Right now to Acknowledge the Crysis at hand. I as Human have the Ability to solve this problem. We Can do it, together. METHANE CAPTURE TECH Zeolite clay (cat litter) mixed with a small amount of copper will absorb methane out of the air, speeding up the conversion process methane naturally possess. In theory, if money were invested into R&D, we could have a device capable of being placed in pastures that absorb methane out of the air. WORLD'S LARGEST GEOTHERMAL POWER PLANT A geothermal large scale power plant can generate 5GW clean energy, reducing emissions and boosting American energy independence. The potential of geothermal energy would revolutionize our energy landscape, by replacing foil fuel, as well as nuclear power. As a result, our nation would take a vital step forward in ensuring a cleaner and greener future for generations to come. Constructing this geothermal power plant will bring many benefits to the local communities by creating a Many of job opportunities. The creation of a large-scale Geothermal power plant would enhance and modernize our electrical grid, allowing us to expand the national grid and plugging a rather large gap in the national grid. Creating a more robust and resilient infrastructure capable of withstanding the challenges posed by climate-related disasters and unforeseen circumstances. The urgent need to combat climate change and strengthen our energy infrastructure has made the construction of a large geothermal power plant near Yellowstone volcanic Caldera. an imperative endeavor. This is strategic step vital not only for the National Security of our Country, long-term sustainability, but also the environment, by harnessing the power of Earths Heat, we can take decisive action towards a sustainable future, ensuring that our planet thrives for generations to come. EDUCATION I personally advocate for the increased funding to exclusively pay for an increase in instructor pay as a whole. Teachers Need the same respect if not more than say a doctor, or Engineer gets. They are forging the future engineers and doctors in the classroom of today. SUPORT STAFF Often forgotten and overlooked, but in all reality the schools would not function without you. I would like the support staff to have the same kind of benefits that teachers receive, as you have the same level of dedication as the instructors. You deserve a better standard of living. We need to be pushing for all who engage in the education of the next generation to have better standards of living. We cannot just push for one group to have better when teachers and support staff alike are the ones who make the world go round for the kids. FREE HIGHER EDUCATION The average graduate owes $30,000, and alarmingly, 1 in 6 individuals owe over $50,000. a concerning 40% are dropping out to evade accruing more debt, yet they depart with substantial debt. It is essential to recognize that this issue extends beyond the younger population, as three million older Americans are also burdened by student loan debt. Women in particular bear a heavy load, holding $929 billion of U.S. student debt as of 2019. It is imperative to highlight that seventy-three percent of student debt is disadvantageous to the bottom 80% of the populace. MENTAL HEALTH IN PUBLIC SCHOOL POVERTY AND HOMELESSNESS: These statistics demand a swift and compassionate response to address the needs of those who are most vulnerable in our society. To truly grasp the seriousness of the situation, we need to know the poverty line. For instance, single individuals need to live on $13,590 or less each year (2022), while a three-person family must make it work with $23,030 (2022) or less annually. Income levels are inadequate to cover basic needs. Support needed to help those in poverty, even by 2022 standards. By focusing on poverty, we can help create programs for economic progress, making society fairer, lessening the haves and have nots. While the overall state of the economy may seem robust on the surface, beneath this façade, many individuals find themselves trapped in a cycle of financial struggle. Despite the success of large corporations, the unfortunate reality is that they often take advantage of vulnerable individuals, driving up the prices of essential goods and services. It becomes increasingly clear that these corporations are solely focused on maximizing their profit margins, often at the expense of the average Peoples well-being. PUBLIC SHOWERS AND RESTROOMS By incorporating public showers into rest stops, and other locations with high density populations. We not only provide a convenient location for individuals to access clean showers and bathrooms facilities. These showers and restrooms can serve as a beacon of hope, offering a sense of dignity and cleanliness to those who are in desperate need of it. By implementing this approach, we recognize the importance of holistic support for those experiencing homelessness, acknowledging that access to basic hygiene facilities can make a significant difference in their day-to-day lives. TINY HOMES FOR THE HOMELESS These tiny houses, similar in size to a studio apartment, offer individuals a sense of dignity and autonomy, giving them the space, they need to rebuild their lives. By creating these temporary housing solutions, we can help facilitate individuals' journey towards permanent housing. while also addressing the immediate need for shelter. This approach recognizes the importance of stable housing in restoring a person's confidence and enabling them to focus on other areas of their life, such as finding employment or accessing necessary healthcare, mental health, and treatment services. Offering these tiny houses in areas with high homeless populations ensures that those who need it most have access to a vital support system, helping them to build a foundation for a brighter more dignified future for them self’s. SOUTHERN BORDER: When did these words stop meaning anything to us? In the 21st century, we need more workers with knowledge and physical skills as older people retire. We should welcome those who come seeking a better life, but we must have effective rules to control immigration. Proper screening processes and controls are necessary to ensure organized and manageable immigration. Allowing people to travel within our country can help them find their place in society. Congress must update our immigration laws, which have not changed since the 1990s, to attract skilled individuals worldwide. Diversity and immigrant contributions fuel our country's power and progress. In a significant milestone, the southern border of the United States witnessed an unprecedented number of 2.47 million migrant encounters during the fiscal year 2023, shattering previous records. This surge in numbers has put a spotlight on the urgent need for comprehensive immigration reform. The implications of immigration on America's long-term success cannot be underestimated. While many may consider it primarily the responsibility of the White House, the truth is that Congress holds the reins of power. The laws passed by Congress dictate the actions and policies implemented by the White House, making it imperative for Congress to address this critical issue adequately. Unfortunately, the last comprehensive immigration policy was established in the 1990s, leaving our immigration system outdated, it is undeniably Important to modernize our immigration system to align with the realities and demands of the present. The good news is that this is a solvable problem. It is high time for Congress to rise to the occasion and fulfill its duty to enact meaningful immigration reform that will pave the way for a more efficient and effective system. One aspect that demands attention is the overuse of the asylum process as a means of immigration. While seeking asylum is a right protected by international law, it has become evident that relying solely on this process is not only ineffective but also tremendously time-consuming. With a strict timeline of 180 days, many individuals find themselves waiting for several months, or in some cases, even over a year, to receive a decision regarding their asylum application. The time for action is now. Congress must prioritize immigration reform and work collaboratively to find practical solutions that uphold the principles of fairness, justice, and security. By doing so, we can modernize our immigration system, provide timely and fair decisions for asylum seekers, and ensure a more efficient and effective process for all involved. ENDING GUN SMUGLING INTO MEXICO Our first steps are going to be the hardest, but if we want to slow the Drug cartels smuggling of deadly fentanyl into America. This is something we must do! BORDER SECURITY This plan would not only improve border protection but also tackle the different challenges we face. By using the unique skills of the Army Corps of Engineers, we can aim to build a strong defense that does not rely on physical impediments, which keeps our borders secure and shows our dedication to national security. In this technologically advanced era, relying solely on physical impediments such as a wall for national security seems outdated. Instead, we should explore more innovative approaches, such as implementing advanced military-grade technology used to safeguard our most top-secret facilities. It is crucial to acknowledge that having enough money, clear rules, and a strong ICE presence are essential in dealing with this matter effectively. I think that tackling border security requires a holistic, collaborative effort from all branches of government, rather than relying solely on one branch to make a difference. By adopting this comprehensive, whole-of-government approach, we can ensure the safety and security of our borders while upholding the values that make our nation strong. HEALTHCARE: By guaranteeing health care to all people as a right, through a Medicare-for-all, single-payer program is a crucial step forward. To address the pressing issue of high prescription drug prices, several key actions can be taken. Firstly, by passing the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Act, allowing Medicare to negotiate with the big drug companies, we can effectively lower prescription drug prices. Additionally, the Affordable and Safe Prescription Drug Importation Act would permit patients, pharmacists, and wholesalers to purchase low-cost prescription drugs from countries like Canada and others. Lastly, through the Prescription Drug Price Relief Act, cutting prescription drug prices in half by pegging them to the median drug price in countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Japan is a concrete strategy to make medications more affordable for all. MENTEL HEALTH We have to not only increase funding for every community in America to have outpatient mental health facilities. We must also incentivize people to enter the mental healthcare profession, Such as free Community college. DRUGS AND POLICE: I also support measures such as the George Floyd in policing act to track problematic officers who give a bad name to the badge and insure, they can no longer use being a police officer to harass otherwise law-abiding Americans. As well we must curtail qualified immunity, not end it. THE "WAR" ON DRUGS By shifting our focus from punishment to rehabilitation, we can work towards a society that not only promotes justice, but also prioritizes the recovery and well-being of those struggling with addiction. While criminal actions under the influence should still result in jail time corresponding to the crime, we should consider that simply possessing drugs unfairly affects many otherwise law-abiding citizens. Outdated drug policies unfairly punish individuals for possessing substances without causing harm or posing a threat. These punishments create a cycle of injustice and divert resources from addressing more prominent issues like violent crime and public safety. We need to change how we deal with drug possession. We can offer comprehensive treatment options, counseling services, and job training programs to empower those struggling with addiction to overcome their challenges and become valuable members of society once again. Instead of punishing people, let us focus on educating, preventing, and treating addiction. This will help people recover from addiction and ease pressure on the criminal justice system. By prioritizing rehabilitation over punishment for drug users, we can work towards creating a more compassionate and effective system that not only addresses the underlying issues of addiction, but also provides the necessary support for individuals to rebuild their lives. MARIJUANA REFORM- FEDERAL
We could have this level of prosperity on a national level if we chose, if marijuana becomes legal on a federal level, the potential benefits to the economy could be truly outstanding. According to a report from cannabis analytics company New Frontier, the impact of federally legal pot could result in an astounding $105.6 billion in added federal tax revenue by the year 2025 alone. This staggering figure proves that the economic advantages of legalizing marijuana go far beyond the surface. AMERICAN CORRUPTION It also goes on to say that the shift some believe that the shift in money in politics dates to the 1976, Buckley v Valeo case where the supreme court ruled that government could not limit corporate spending, because it violated freedom of speech. Then in 2010 expanded that to non-profits, for-profit, unions, corporations, with the Citizens united. Making it so the FEC can no longer enforce spending limits. 78% of people the level of corruption is Unprecedented and alarming. MONEY IN POLOTICS Politicians often accept big donations to influence policy, we must end this. We should move toward a publicly funded campaign system. Privat money in Government our democracy. It infects our systems and destroys trust, To Avoid this, we must act. One crucial step is to give more funding and resources to watchdog groups, these groups hold those in power accountable! We need to be more effective in fighting corruption by ending citizens united, shifting the priorities away from exorbitant fundraising and back to the business of governing. We should also strengthen enforcement at the local levels. By providing more resources, we empower them to investigate, prosecute, and punish corrupt individuals. But just reinforcing existing laws is not enough. We must also create new, comprehensive laws that can adapt to new corrupting tactics of outside money. We must take a proactive approach that makes it harder for corrupt individuals to exploit loopholes in the legal system. To restore faith in our government, promote transparency, and ensure accountability, we must directly confront government corruption. SUPRIM COURT REFORM I would like to implement three solutions to the problem. 1. Ethics code enforcement by a third party, along with redefining under law bribery, extortion, influence peddling and other corrupt actions. 2. Court expiation to thirteen to account for the thirteen circuit courts, so every Justus has a circuit court to oversee. 3. Term limits, a life sentence in prison is 10-20 years. I believe this is a good starting point for term limits, you do not want a Justus to worry about reappointment or anything of the like. But there is a need to have them. It is my hope that implementing these reforms will assist in lessening corruption in the supreme court and in the government as a whole. IMPROVING COMUNICATION WITH THE GOVERNMENT We can directly communicate with our elected officials in a similar capacity to social media platforms. Allowing our elected officials to post bills they are currently working on; in this way we can allow them to show their work and get input from the general public. As well if we were to implement region locking per-state/ district we could potentially have the ability to poll our constituents. I honestly do not know why we rely on partisan social media platforms for communication and dissemination of information. TRASPARICY AND CLASIFICATION Another way to improve trust in our government is to fix the overclassification of information. More often than not sensitive information is classified due to sources and methods, this is reasonable. However, there are cases where a government organization has classified information due to embarrassment or other less than adequate reasoning. We also need to take a closer look at the classification process as a whole, implementing a new classification certification program, as it seems everyone and their mother has Top secret clearance. As classified documents find themselves out of secured facilities, we have to better question who has clearance, why they have it, and do they really need it. LABOR AND SOCIAL SAFETY PROGRAMS As well we must make improvements to the enforcement and funding OSHA to improve work safety nationwide. SOCIAL SECURITY In the hybrid system I am envisioning, the Social Security Tax would still be implemented. However instead of the government controlling one considerable sum of money, it would open High interest CD’s or savings Accounts for each individual within the banking system. Allowing access to the funds upon reaching retirement age. Now with a system like this it would have to have an overlap period, as people who already see benefits from Social Security should not see a disruption, likewise people entering the system such as Gen-X cannot see a disruption either. However, Millennials on down still have time to have accounts set up and reap the benefits of our individual contributions to our Self. If set up as a traditional CD or Savings Account it would allow the banks to have excess funds to offer loans, however if we were to allow banks to barrow against it we would need to have stiff regulations with harsh penalties to keep them from doing to many shady things with the money. EXPANDING FOOD PROGRAMS For many people, Food, Rent, along with all the other day to day Bills can be to much. Expanding food programs not only benefits low-income children, but most low-income people. Personally, I would like to see food programs like SNAP and WIC expanded to cover the lower middle-income families. Food shelf programs need an increase in funding so they can better serve their communities, if you have ever gotten food from the food shelf its all on the verge of going bad. Most of the time you have almost a months’ worth of food and you get two weeks to eat it, or it requires freezing. They have become garbage dumps for grocery stores. As well expanding/implementing a tax credit for donations to food shelves, could be a way to incentivize people to make continuing donations to their local food shelf. LGBTQ LGBTQ peoples deserve the same respect and rights a straight person dose, it is reasonable, rational, and more importantly it is JUST right. I will continue to fight in the defense of LGBTQ rights, as well I will fight for the expiation of these rights. You may have to inform me as to what is needed, as I do not know everything. GENDER AFFERMING CARE Laws restricting gender affirming care for anyone is a governmental overstep. If people are presented with proper information from there trusted physicians, they can make there own well informed decisions and should be allowed to do so. GUNS: However, it is essential to keep in mind that rights also come with responsibilities. While I wholeheartedly support individuals' freedom to own handguns, shot guns and hunting rifles, it is crucial to establish some limits that prioritize public safety. due process under the 14th amendment must be considered for any gun laws to be passed, there should always be a process to ensure law abiding American citizens have access to reasonable firearms for sporting or recreation. ASSULT STYALE WEAPONS The goal is to protect innocent lives and uphold the principles of the second amendment. We can strike a balance between freedom and safety. It is my belief that responsible gun ownership also extends to recognizing the needs of those in professions dedicated to the protection of our nation, such as Members of the U.S. armed forces, state militia, and law enforcement undergo extensive training and make great personal sacrifices to safeguard our country. It is crucial that we provide them with the necessary tools and equipment to effectively perform their duties. I do advocate for granting these dedicated individuals the privilege to possess and store assault rifles safely in their homes. This approach not only respects their service and commitment to our communities. but also ensures that they are adequately equipped to promote the overall safety and security of our nation. By upholding responsible gun ownership and extending certain privileges to those who have undergone training. This is how We can strike a balance between protecting our constitutional rights and prioritizing public safety. It is through this approach that we can foster a safer environment for all People in America while respecting the rights and responsibilities that come with the ownership of firearms. REDEFINING GUNS IN THE LAW Form to function redefinition would allow us to reclassify handgun modifications that make it so you can unload an entire clip in one pull illegal based on the fact it increases the fire rate to unacceptable levels. RED-FLAG LAWS I am in favor of such laws, so long as they allow for due prosses as required by the 14th amendment. With that said there are always times in an individuals life when having a weapon removed for a brief period of time is wholeheartedly acceptable, mental health can change at a moment’s notice. I know there are times in my personal life when I am glad, I did not have access to firearms. more often than not it is just that a moment, or a few days. VETERANS AND THE MILITARY I do how ever recognize the fact that due to that fact; we have become too expansionist and have come to rely too heavily on the military, opposed to diplomacy. We must shrink our military footprint abroad, so we can better take care of the troops who aid in our defense. Without proper care for the troops and the veterans they become, we will fail to keep up recruitment and will be forced to make harder decisions down the line. It is in the best interest of the country and national security for us to reduce our size. MILITARY SPENDING We could than take the savings and modernize the American Military, as well we could redirect personnel to better staff our remaining military bases. In this way we can both improve our standing military, but the increased staffing levels will lead to better security and standards of living for all those stationed abroad. A portion of our savings as well could be spent on social safety net programs to maintain their spending and allowing them to expand. VA HEALTHCARE REFORM |
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| —Austin Winkelman’s campaign website (2024)[3] | ||
Campaign finance summary
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See also
2024 Elections
External links
Footnotes
- ↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on January 2, 2024
- ↑ Note: This text is quoted verbatim from the original source. Any inconsistencies are attributable to the original source.
- ↑ Austin Winkleman’s campaign website, “Whats your Policy?,” accessed August 1, 2024
