Help us improve in just 2 minutes—share your thoughts in our reader survey.

Michaela Neal

From Ballotpedia
Jump to: navigation, search
BP-Initials-UPDATED.png
This page was current at the end of the individual's last campaign covered by Ballotpedia. Please contact us with any updates.
Michaela Neal
Image of Michaela Neal
Elections and appointments
Last election

November 5, 2024

Education

High school

Hutch High

Personal
Birthplace
Hutchinson, Kan.
Religion
Christian
Profession
Physical Therapist
Contact

Michaela Neal (Republican Party) (also known as Mickey) ran for election to the Colorado House of Representatives to represent District 3. She lost in the general election on November 5, 2024.

Neal completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Michaela Neal was born in Hutchinson, Kansas. She earned a high school diploma from Hutch High and attended Cedarville University. Her career experience includes working as a physical therapist.[1]

Elections

2024

See also: Colorado House of Representatives elections, 2024

General election

General election for Colorado House of Representatives District 3

Incumbent Meg Froelich defeated Michaela Neal and Marla Fernandez in the general election for Colorado House of Representatives District 3 on November 5, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Meg Froelich
Meg Froelich (D)
 
64.0
 
26,049
Image of Michaela Neal
Michaela Neal (R) Candidate Connection
 
35.9
 
14,619
Image of Marla Fernandez
Marla Fernandez (R) (Write-in) Candidate Connection
 
0.0
 
14

Total votes: 40,682
Candidate Connection = 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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for Colorado House of Representatives District 3

Incumbent Meg Froelich advanced from the Democratic primary for Colorado House of Representatives District 3 on June 25, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Meg Froelich
Meg Froelich
 
100.0
 
6,573

Total votes: 6,573
Candidate Connection = 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.

Republican primary election

Republican primary for Colorado House of Representatives District 3

Michaela Neal advanced from the Republican primary for Colorado House of Representatives District 3 on June 25, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Michaela Neal
Michaela Neal Candidate Connection
 
100.0
 
2,669

Total votes: 2,669
Candidate Connection = 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.

Campaign finance

Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Neal in this election.

Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Candidate Connection

Michaela Neal completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Neal's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Expand all | Collapse all

I am deeply honored to serve our community as a dedicated healthcare provider. In my role, I have the privilege of working closely with a diverse group of women who have courageously overcome a wide range of traumas, including battles with cancer, experiences of sexual assault, and recoveries from serious car accidents. Witnessing their resilience and being part of their healing journeys has been both inspiring and humbling.

My academic background has equipped me to contribute meaningfully to this vital work. I hold a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Wichita State University, which builds upon a Bachelor of Arts in History and Pre-Law. This unique combination of studies has provided me with a well-rounded perspective, blending scientific expertise with a deep understanding of societal contexts and legal frameworks.

As a fun and enriching aspect of my life, I have had the extraordinary opportunity to travel extensively across North America as a public speaker. In this capacity, I have addressed thousands of Generation Z individuals, sharing messages of hope, empowerment, and personal growth. Our mission was to inspire these young people to live lives that transcend their immediate experiences, encouraging them to aspire to greater heights and make meaningful contributions to their communities and the world at large.

These experiences, both in healthcare and public speaking, have profoundly shaped my outlook on life.
  • As someone deeply invested in the safety and well-being of our community, I am wholeheartedly committed to advocating for stricter laws against the trafficking of women and children. This horrific crime preys upon the most vulnerable, and it is imperative that we take decisive action. By strengthening legislation and providing law enforcement with the necessary resources, we can make significant strides in eradicating this atrocity. My dedication to this cause is unwavering, and I intend to work tirelessly alongside lawmakers and organizations to bring about meaningful change. It is not enough to acknowledge the problem; we must take proactive steps to protect those who cannot protect themselves.
  • Providing a financial lifeline is my top legislative priority. I am committed to advocating for laws that secure true financial relief for individuals and families. We will not just speak of reducing fees and taxes but will actively implement these changes to provide real relief.

    While reductions in tax rates and the elimination of unnecessary or redundant fees are primary focuses of my agenda, I will ensure that essential public services are maintained so that these reductions don't hinder the public interest. The current climate makes this agenda achievable, not just a talking point or distortion of the truth.

    In summary, financial relief is precisely what our community needs, and I am dedicated to making it a reality.
  • I care deeply about addressing homelessness in our community. My plan is to promote rehabilitation and community living solutions that truly help people get back on their feet. This means offering support like mental health services, job training, and affordable housing so individuals can rebuild their lives. At the same time, I believe we need to enforce stricter trespass warnings to keep our public spaces safe and accessible for everyone. But enforcement should go hand-in-hand with compassion. For homeless individuals who end up incarcerated, I want to make sure they receive medical rehabilitation and the care they need. Many are facing challenges like mental health issues or addiction, and by providing proper support, we can help.
**Immigration:**

I oppose bills that provide taxpayer-funded services to illegal immigrants and reduce penalties, hindering deportation. This approach undermines justice. I propose ending taxpayer support for illegal immigration and enforcing laws to protect our communities.

    • Cost of Living:**

Living costs have soared while wages stagnate. Current policies may worsen this. My plan reduces costs by boosting the economy, tapping domestic oil to cut taxes and transport costs, and encouraging grocery competition to lower prices. Let's make essentials more affordable!

    • Healthcare:**
As a Physical Therapist, I understand healthcare issues. Some laws limit patient freedom. I propose making healthcare more affordable by encouraging competition
I am deeply inspired by William Wilberforce and Dietrich Bonhoeffer - both of whom were outspoken figures against the injustices of their day.
Public officials play a vital role in shaping the communities they serve, and the most crucial principles they should embody are minimal personal agendas and a strong alignment with community needs. In today's climate, where trust in government is often challenged, it is essential to elect leaders who are deeply connected to their constituents rather than career politicians who may prioritize personal ambitions over public service. Such officials must demonstrate unwavering trustworthiness and consistently prioritize the public interest above all else.

Leaders with minimal personal agendas are more likely to make decisions based on the collective good rather than individual gain. They are less susceptible to the influence of special interest groups and are committed to transparency and accountability. This focus on the community ensures that policies and initiatives address real needs and contribute to the overall well-being of the populace.

Strong alignment with community needs means that public officials actively engage with residents, listen to their concerns, and understand the unique challenges they face. This connection fosters a collaborative environment where solutions are developed with input from those directly affected. It also builds trust, as citizens feel their voices are heard and their opinions valued.

Sometimes, career politicians might become disconnected over time, prioritizing longevity in office and personal advancement. This disconnect can lead to policies that are out of touch with the community's needs, eroding public trust and hindering progress. By focusing on electing leaders who are rooted in the community, we ensure that governance remains responsive and relevant.

Trustworthiness is a cornerstone of effective leadership. Public officials must uphold ethical standards and demonstrate integrity in all actions. When leaders are honest and transparent, they build confidence among constituents which is essential for effective governing
I am a physical therapist, not a career politician. I walk alongside people in some of their most vulnerable and trying moments of their lives. I advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves. I believe above all else, we need legislators who are in touch with the needs of people, who are daily serve the needs of others, and can promote good policy that empower the people.
The core responsibilities of a public official involve legislating in a way that upholds the dignity and rights of every individual, ensuring that all can thrive under the freedoms granted to them. This role demands a steadfast commitment to enhancing the well-being of every citizen, promoting an environment where freedom and dignity enable everyone to flourish.

Public officials must craft laws that protect equality and justice, fostering a society where opportunities are accessible to all. They should act with integrity, empathy, and a deep understanding of their community's diverse needs. By engaging with constituents and involving them in the legislative process, officials can ensure that policies reflect the true will and benefit of the people.

Ultimately, the measure of a public official's success lies in their ability to create a just and equitable society. By prioritizing the dignity and freedom of every person, they help build a future where all individuals can live with hope, opportunity, and respect.
The legacy I wish to leave behind is to inspire a new vision of politics that what we currently see practiced in our legislation. I would like to refine our vision as legislatures to emphasize giving power to others, more than having it themselves; to inspire others to become better politicians than we ourselves might be; to leave our state and our nation better than we find it, for the glory of God and the good of others.
I remember the day of 9/11 and the widespread fear this caused in our community.
I served as a lifeguard for 2 years at the YMCA as my first job.
One of the biggest questions we face in politics is, “How do we discern what’s true?” One of my favorite books, Amusing Ourselves to Death by Neil Postman, examines how we process information and encourages readers to reflect on their own struggles with understanding in a world dominated by media sensationalism. The transition from text to images has diminished our ability to grasp deeper meanings and prioritize thoughtful evaluation. Today, we often prioritize sensationalism over substance, which can compromise our intellectual well-being. It’s crucial that we cultivate critical thinking and remain open to diverse perspectives in respectful discussions.
The true hero of every story is the mentor who supports the hero on the hero's journey. I would choose to become Aberforth Dumbledoor, with his exacting wisdom in any situation, and his prodigious ability to outwit his opponents, even to his end.
Growing up, there were many times in my most vulnerable moments where I would ask the question many other young girls ask in their lives. “How do I know if I’m truly beautiful? Especially if there isn’t someone in my life to tell me that?” There were many times where I felt unwanted, or not beautiful. I was called “fat” by a few people in my life, and those messages stuck with me (though many others would insist this was not true.) It took me a while to truly understand what beauty is - that beauty is a quality on the inside characteristic, that manifests on the outside of us - it’s the peace one exudes by their presence, the joy in a person’s smile, the kindness in their eyes. I began to realize that true beauty is knowing who you are in Christ and owning that to the fullest extent.
“What do you call a toothless grizzly?”
A gummy bear
Rita Russel : Englewood City Council
Tom and Mary Conroy
Government transparency is a cornerstone of a healthy democracy. Maintaining absolute transparency in campaign operations and financial dealings is not just an ideal but a fundamental responsibility of any government that values the trust of its citizens. In Colorado, this principle holds particular significance as residents increasingly demand accountability and openness from their elected officials.

It is the government's duty to provide citizens with clear and accessible insight into how public funds are allocated and spent, especially concerning socially oriented programs that directly impact the community's well-being. By openly sharing information about expenditures, program effectiveness, and financial decision-making processes, the government empowers citizens to stay informed and engaged.

Transparency helps prevent corruption, mismanagement, and misuse of public funds. It allows for public scrutiny, enabling citizens to hold their leaders accountable. When people understand where their tax dollars are going, it fosters a sense of shared responsibility between the government and the populace.

Moreover, transparency builds trust. In an era where skepticism toward governmental institutions is on the rise, open communication is vital for maintaining public confidence. Demonstrating a commitment to transparency shows that the government values the opinions and welfare of its citizens.

For socially oriented programs, transparency is particularly important. These programs address critical issues like education, healthcare, and social services. Providing detailed information about funding, objectives, and outcomes shows dedication to improving lives and allows for constructive feedback.

In conclusion, absolute transparency in government operations, especially in campaign activities and financial dealings, is essential for fostering trust and accountability.

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 finance summary


Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.


Michaela Neal campaign contribution history
YearOfficeStatusContributionsExpenditures
2024* Colorado House of Representatives District 3Lost general$16,837 $15,552
Grand total$16,837 $15,552
Sources: OpenSecretsFederal Elections Commission ***This product uses the openFEC API but is not endorsed or certified by the Federal Election Commission (FEC).
* Data from this year may not be complete

See also


External links

Footnotes

  1. Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on September 26, 2024


Current members of the Colorado House of Representatives
Leadership
Speaker of the House:Julie McCluskie
Majority Leader:Monica Duran
Representatives
District 1
District 2
District 3
District 4
District 5
District 6
District 7
District 8
District 9
District 10
District 11
District 12
District 13
District 14
District 15
District 16
District 17
District 18
District 19
Dan Woog (R)
District 20
District 21
District 22
District 23
District 24
District 25
District 26
District 27
District 28
District 29
District 30
District 31
District 32
District 33
District 34
District 35
District 36
District 37
District 38
District 39
District 40
District 41
District 42
District 43
District 44
District 45
District 46
District 47
Ty Winter (R)
District 48
District 49
District 50
District 51
District 52
District 53
District 54
District 55
District 56
District 57
District 58
District 59
District 60
District 61
District 62
District 63
District 64
Vacant
District 65
Democratic Party (43)
Republican Party (21)
Vacancies (1)