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M.V. Mendoza
M.V. Mendoza (Republican Party) (also known as Vinny) ran for election to the U.S. House to represent Louisiana's 5th Congressional District. He lost in the primary on November 5, 2024.
Mendoza completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
M.V. "Vinny" Mendoza was born in Guatemala. Mendoza served in the U.S. Air Force from 1978 to 1998. He earned a high school diploma from Bladensburg Senior High School, an associate degree from the Community College of the Air Force in 1996, a bachelor's degree from Saint Leo University in 1989, and a master's degree and Ph.D. from LaSalle University in 1998. Mendoza began working as a USDA certified organic farmer in 2008. His professional experience includes working with the Louisiana State University Food Science Department regarding antiviral edible plants. He was also an adjunct professor at Central Texas University's Far East Campus in Tokyo, Japan, where he implemented the hotel and restaurant management program.[1][2]
Elections
2024
See also: Louisiana's 5th Congressional District election, 2024
Louisiana elections use the majority-vote system. All candidates compete in the same primary, and a candidate can win the election outright by receiving more than 50 percent of the vote. If no candidate does, the top two vote recipients from the primary advance to the general election, regardless of their partisan affiliation.
Nonpartisan primary election
Nonpartisan primary for U.S. House Louisiana District 5
Incumbent Julia Letlow won election outright against Michael Vallien Jr. and M.V. Mendoza in the primary for U.S. House Louisiana District 5 on November 5, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | Julia Letlow (R) | 62.9 | 201,037 |
 | Michael Vallien Jr. (D)  | 25.9 | 82,981 | |
 | M.V. Mendoza (R) | 11.2 | 35,833 | |
| Total votes: 319,851 | |||
| = 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. | ||||
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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates
- Dany Kitishian (R)
- Rivule Sykes (G)
Endorsements
Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Mendoza in this election.
2022
See also: United States Senate election in Louisiana, 2022
Louisiana elections use the majority-vote system. All candidates compete in the same primary, and a candidate can win the election outright by receiving more than 50 percent of the vote. If no candidate does, the top two vote recipients from the primary advance to the general election, regardless of their partisan affiliation.
Nonpartisan primary election
Nonpartisan primary for U.S. Senate Louisiana
The following candidates ran in the primary for U.S. Senate Louisiana on November 8, 2022.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | John Neely Kennedy (R) | 61.6 | 851,568 |
 | Gary Chambers (D) | 17.9 | 246,933 | |
 | Luke Mixon (D) | 13.2 | 182,887 | |
 | Syrita Steib (D) | 2.3 | 31,568 | |
 | Devin Lance Graham (R) | 1.8 | 25,275 | |
| M.V. Mendoza (D) | 0.9 | 11,910 | |
 | Beryl Billiot (Independent) | 0.7 | 9,378 | |
| Salvador Rodriguez (D) | 0.6 | 7,767 | ||
 | Bradley McMorris (Independent) | 0.4 | 5,388 | |
 | Aaron Sigler (L) | 0.4 | 4,865 | |
 | Xan John (Independent) | 0.2 | 2,753 | |
 | W. Thomas La Fontaine Olson (Independent) | 0.1 | 1,676 | |
| Thomas Wenn (Independent) | 0.1 | 1,322 | ||
| Total votes: 1,383,290 | |||
| = 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
- Albert Kyder (R)
2021
See also: Louisiana's 5th Congressional District special election, 2021
Louisiana elections use the majority-vote system. All candidates compete in the same primary, and a candidate can win the election outright by receiving more than 50 percent of the vote. If no candidate does, the top two vote recipients from the primary advance to the general election, regardless of their partisan affiliation.
Nonpartisan primary election
Special nonpartisan primary for U.S. House Louisiana District 5
The following candidates ran in the special primary for U.S. House Louisiana District 5 on March 20, 2021.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Julia Letlow (R) | 64.9 | 67,203 |
 | Candy Christophe (D) | 27.3 | 28,255 | |
 | Chad Conerly (R) | 5.3 | 5,497 | |
 | Robert Lansden (R) | 0.9 | 929 | |
 | Allen Guillory Sr. (R) | 0.4 | 464 | |
| Jim Davis (Independent) | 0.4 | 402 | ||
| Sancha Smith (R) | 0.3 | 334 | ||
| M.V. Mendoza (Independent) | 0.2 | 236 | |
 | Jaycee Magnuson (R) | 0.1 | 131 | |
| Richard Pannell (R) | 0.1 | 67 | ||
 | Horace Melton (R) | 0.1 | 62 | |
| Errol Victor (R) | 0.0 | 36 | ||
| Total votes: 103,616 | |||
| = 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
2020
See also: United States Senate election in Louisiana, 2020
Louisiana elections use the majority-vote system. All candidates compete in the same primary, and a candidate can win the election outright by receiving more than 50 percent of the vote. If no candidate does, the top two vote recipients from the primary advance to the general election, regardless of their partisan affiliation.
Nonpartisan primary election
Nonpartisan primary for U.S. Senate Louisiana
The following candidates ran in the primary for U.S. Senate Louisiana on November 3, 2020.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | Bill Cassidy (R) | 59.3 | 1,228,908 |
 | Adrian Perkins (D) | 19.0 | 394,049 | |
 | Derrick Edwards (D) | 11.1 | 229,814 | |
 | Antoine Pierce (D) | 2.7 | 55,710 | |
 | Dustin Murphy (R) | 1.9 | 38,383 | |
 | David Drew Knight (D) | 1.8 | 36,962 | |
| Beryl Billiot (Independent) | 0.8 | 17,362 | |
 | John Paul Bourgeois (Independent) | 0.8 | 16,518 | |
 | Peter Wenstrup (D) | 0.7 | 14,454 | |
| Aaron Sigler (L) | 0.5 | 11,321 | |
| M.V. Mendoza (Independent) | 0.4 | 7,811 | |
| Melinda Mary Price (Independent) | 0.4 | 7,680 | ||
 | Jamar Myers-Montgomery (Independent) | 0.3 | 5,804 | |
 | Reno Jean Daret III (Independent) | 0.2 | 3,954 | |
| Xan John (Independent) | 0.1 | 2,813 | |
| Total votes: 2,071,543 | |||
| = 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
- Greg Fitch (Independent)
- Dartanyon Williams (D)
2019
See also: Louisiana gubernatorial election, 2019
Louisiana elections use the majority-vote system. All candidates compete in the same primary, and a candidate can win the election outright by receiving more than 50 percent of the vote. If no candidate does, the top two vote recipients from the primary advance to the general election, regardless of their partisan affiliation.
General election
General election for Governor of Louisiana
Incumbent John Bel Edwards defeated Eddie Rispone in the general election for Governor of Louisiana on November 16, 2019.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | John Bel Edwards (D) | 51.3 | 774,498 |
 | Eddie Rispone (R) | 48.7 | 734,286 | |
| Total votes: 1,508,784 (100.00% precincts reporting) | |||
| = 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. | ||||
Nonpartisan primary election
Nonpartisan primary for Governor of Louisiana
The following candidates ran in the primary for Governor of Louisiana on October 12, 2019.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | John Bel Edwards (D) | 46.6 | 625,970 |
| ✔ | | Eddie Rispone (R) | 27.4 | 368,319 |
 | Ralph Abraham (R) | 23.6 | 317,149 | |
 | Oscar Dantzler (D) | 0.8 | 10,993 | |
| Patrick Landry (R) | 0.8 | 10,966 | ||
 | Gary Landrieu (Independent) | 0.8 | 10,084 | |
| Total votes: 1,343,481 | |||
| = 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
- Manuel Leach (R)
- Patrick Doguet (R)
- M.V. Mendoza (D)
Mendoza was disqualified from the 2019 gubernatorial race after a judge ruled that he did not comply with a Louisiana law that required him to have filed state and federal taxes within each of the past five years.[3]
2016
Heading into the election, Ballotpedia rated Louisiana's U.S. Senate race as safely Republican. The seat was open following incumbent David Vitter's decision to retire. A total of 24 candidates filed to run and competed in the primary election on November 8, 2016. John Kennedy (R) and Foster Campbell (D) took the top two spots in the election, advancing to the general election on December 10, 2016. Kennedy subsequently defeated Campbell in the general election.[4]
| Party | Candidate | Vote % | Votes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Republican |  John Kennedy |
60.7% | 536,191 | |
| Democratic | Foster Campbell | 39.3% | 347,816 | |
| Total Votes | 884,007 | |||
| Source: Louisiana Secretary of State | ||||
| Party | Candidate | Vote % | Votes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Republican | John Kennedy |
25% | 482,591 | |
| Democratic | Foster Campbell |
17.5% | 337,833 | |
| Republican | Charles Boustany | 15.4% | 298,008 | |
| Democratic | Caroline Fayard | 12.5% | 240,917 | |
| Republican | John Fleming | 10.6% | 204,026 | |
| Republican | Rob Maness | 4.7% | 90,856 | |
| Republican | David Duke | 3% | 58,606 | |
| Democratic | Derrick Edwards | 2.7% | 51,774 | |
| Democratic | Gary Landrieu | 2.4% | 45,587 | |
| Republican | Donald Crawford | 1.3% | 25,523 | |
| Republican | Joseph Cao | 1.1% | 21,019 | |
| Independent | Beryl Billiot | 1% | 19,352 | |
| Libertarian | Thomas Clements | 0.6% | 11,370 | |
| Independent | Troy Hebert | 0.5% | 9,503 | |
| Democratic | Josh Pellerin | 0.4% | 7,395 | |
| Democratic | Peter Williams | 0.4% | 6,855 | |
| Democratic | Vinny Mendoza | 0.3% | 4,927 | |
| Independent | Kaitlin Marone | 0.2% | 4,108 | |
| Libertarian | Le Roy Gillam | 0.2% | 4,067 | |
| Republican | Charles Marsala | 0.2% | 3,684 | |
| Independent | Arden Wells | 0.1% | 1,483 | |
| Independent | Bob Lang | 0.1% | 1,424 | |
| Independent | Gregory Taylor | 0.1% | 1,151 | |
| Total Votes | 1,932,059 | |||
| Source: Louisiana Secretary of State | ||||
2014
Mendoza ran in the 2014 election for the U.S. House to represent Louisiana's 1st District.[5] Mendoza ran as a Democratic candidate in the election on November 4, 2014.
| Party | Candidate | Vote % | Votes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Republican | Steve Scalise Incumbent |
77.56% | 189,250 | |
| Democratic | Lee Dugas | 8.72% | 21,286 | |
| Democratic | Vinny Mendoza | 10.15% | 24,761 | |
| Libertarian | Jeff Sanford | 3.57% | 8,707 | |
| Total Votes | 244,004 | |||
| Source: Louisiana Secretary of State | ||||
2012
Mendoza ran in the 2012 election for the U.S. House to represent Louisiana's 1st District. Mendoza was defeated by incumbent Steve Scalise (R) in the November 6 blanket primary.[6]
| Party | Candidate | Vote % | Votes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Republican | Steve Scalise Incumbent |
66.6% | 193,496 | |
| Democratic | Vinny Mendoza | 21.2% | 61,703 | |
| Republican | Gary King | 8.6% | 24,844 | |
| Independent | David Turknett | 2.1% | 6,079 | |
| Independent | Arden Wells | 1.5% | 4,288 | |
| Total Votes | 290,410 | |||
| Source: Louisiana Secretary of State "Official Election Results, 2012 General Election" | ||||
Campaign themes
2024
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
M.V. Mendoza completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Mendoza's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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MV “Vinny” Mendoza offers a compelling narrative of overcoming adversity and service-driven leadership. His personal story of rising from a challenging background to a 20-year Air Force career highlights his resilience and dedication. His experience spans critical roles, including Assistant to the Inspector General, Chief of Services, and various managerial positions, underscoring his strategic and operational expertise.
To strengthen his Congressional bid, Mendoza should emphasize his practical solutions for economic hardship, particularly focusing on the dire situation in Louisiana's 5th Congressional District. His platform addresses affordable living, healthcare, and education reform, using his economic knowledge to propose targeted policies. His message should clearly link his military discipline and leadership to effective legislative solutions.
Dr. Vinny Mendoza’s campaign should also articulate a vision for reducing government overreach while addressing income inequality and supporting working-class families. He can leverage his unique perspective as a mixed-race veteran to advocate for inclusive policies and bridge divides. By combining his personal story with actionable policy proposals and emphasizing his track record of leadership, Mendoza can present a strong case for why he is uniquely positioned to address the challenges facing his district and the nation.- Solutions for Economy/Inflation Vinny Mendoza’s plan to create 3 million small farms aims to boost food production, end hunger in Louisiana, lower costs, and reduce reliance on large agribusinesses. This initiative is designed to stabilize food prices, mitigate inflation, and enhance GDP growth. By increasing local food production, Mendoza’s plan will help consumers save more each month. Unlike Julia Letlow, who has not offered solutions to these pressing issues, Mendoza’s approach provides a clear strategy to improve economic stability and increase household savings.
- Immigration. Securing the southern border is crucial, but it must be part of a comprehensive strategy. Beyond physical security, the U.S. should collaborate with Guatemala & Colombia that serve as bridges to Central & South America migration used by drug cartels and human trafficking, which require a holistic approach involving diplomatic and economic support. Regarding who? should be allowed to immigrate, we should prioritizing those escaping violence, persecution, and extreme poverty. While acknowledging past foreign policy impacts, the focus should be on reforming the immigration system to offer asylum. Mendoza’s plan addresses these issues with specific strategies, contrasting with Julia Letlow's lack of concrete solutions
- Education I oppose broad school choice policies like vouchers and tax credits, which can divert crucial resources from public schools and exacerbate educational inequities. Public schools are essential for providing equal educational opportunities to all students, regardless of their background. Instead, we should invest in strengthening public schools, ensuring they have the resources and support to deliver high-quality education. Julia Letlow's tenure has not addressed critical issues such as child hunger in schools, which impairs learning--Letlow supports abolishing the Department of Education. Dr. Vinny Mendoza’s plan focuses on equipping teachers with necessary resources, ensuring a more equitable and effective education system.
In contrast, Julia Letlow's 36-month tenure has been marked by inaction on critical issues. Her support for Project 2025 threatens to dismantle essential services, including the Department of Education and veterans' benefits, risking significant harm to our communities.
One of the aspects of Christ's life that I most admire is His unwavering commitment to serving the most vulnerable—the hungry, the thirsty, and those in need of shelter. His life was dedicated to caring for the less fortunate, showing that true leadership is rooted in empathy and action. I believe that by helping those in need, we fulfill a greater purpose and contribute to the well-being of society as a whole.
In following Christ's example, my goal is to ensure that my actions reflect a deep concern for others, particularly those who are marginalized or struggling. Whether it’s working to address poverty, ensuring food security, or advocating for fair housing, I am driven by a sense of responsibility to extend kindness and support to those in need.
In The Greatest Secret in the World, Og Mandino advocates for daily self-discipline and a positive attitude. His teachings emphasize that consistent effort, no matter the starting point, can lead to profound success. The Richest Man in Babylon offers practical lessons on wealth-building through parables set in ancient Babylon, underscoring principles like saving, investing wisely, and living below one’s means. Dr. Vinny Mendoza’s father’s life story complements this philosophy with a real-world example of overcoming adversity through hard work, resourcefulness, and a commitment to self-education. Despite his limited formal education, he demonstrated the power of resilience, turning a humble beginning as a trash collector into a successful career in both business & real estate. His emphasis on the value of education for his children reflects a forward-thinking approach, recognizing the long-term impact of knowledge & opportunity in breaking cycles of poverty.
Integrity is the foundation of effective leadership. Elected officials must demonstrate honesty and transparency in their actions & decisions. Integrity fosters trust between leaders and the public, which is essential for a functional democracy. It also means adhering to ethical standards, even when it is inconvenient or unpopular.
Accountability is vital for maintaining democratic governance. Officials must be answerable to their constituents and the law. This involves not only being transparent about their actions but also being willing to acknowledge mistakes and make necessary corrections.
Commitment to Public Service underscores the principle of serving the people over party interests or personal gain. Elected officials must prioritize the needs and welfare of their constituents. This means making decisions based on what is best for the community, not what benefits a political party.
Duty, Honor, and Country encapsulate the broader ethos of public service. Serving with duty means fulfilling one’s responsibilities with diligence and dedication. Honor involves upholding high ethical standards & maintaining personal and professional conduct that reflects well on the office. Putting the country before self emphasizes that the role of an elected official is to advance the collective good rather than individual ambitions.
Duty, honor, and putting country before self are core principles that have guided my life and career. These values have instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility to serve others and to always act in the best interests of the people I represent, regardless of personal sacrifice.
Integrity and loyalty are fundamental to building trust, and I have consistently demonstrated these qualities throughout my 20 years of federal government service. Whether serving as the Assistant to the Inspector General of the Air Force during the Gulf War or overseeing over $2 billion in real property, radar sites, and Ballistic Early Warning Systems as Chief of Services, I have always upheld the highest standards of ethical conduct.
I also bring proven leadership and the ability to persevere through challenges, honed by decades of experience in high-stakes, complex environments. My attention to detail, combined with the capacity to manage large-scale projects and critical operations, ensures that I can handle the demands of public office with precision and effectiveness.
Moreover, my experience as a professor of business administration at Central Texas University’s Far East Campus at Yokota Air Base, Japan, shows my commitment to education and mentoring future leaders. This academic background complements my leadership experience, giving me a unique perspective on both the public and private sectors.
1. Representing Constituents: Elected officials must act as the voice of their constituents. This involves understanding & addressing the needs, concerns, and aspirations of the people they represent.
2. Legislative Responsibilities: Crafting, debating, and passing laws that address pressing issues & advance the public good is a fundamental duty. This involves thorough analysis of proposed legislation, understanding its potential impacts, and making informed decisions.
3. Oversight/Accountability: Elected officials have a crucial role in overseeing the executive branch and other government entities. This responsibility includes scrutinizing government operations, ensuring transparency, and holding public officials accountable for their actions.
4. Constituent Services: Providing direct assistance to individuals facing challenges with government services or programs is a key responsibility. This involves addressing concerns, resolving issues, and helping constituents navigate complex bureaucratic systems.
5. Ethical Leadership: Maintaining high ethical standards is essential for gaining & retaining public trust. Elected officials must demonstrate integrity, honesty, and transparency in all their actions.
6. Strategic Vision/Policy Development: Elected officials should be forward-thinking, developing & advocating for policies that address current & future challenges. This includes setting long-term goals, anticipating emerging issues, and crafting strategic plans to drive progress.
Education is the foundation of this legacy. I firmly believe that access to quality education opens doors to opportunity and equips people with the knowledge and skills they need to overcome obstacles. It is not just about academic achievement but about empowering individuals to think critically, solve problems, and innovate.
Hard work is the engine that drives success. No dream, no matter how ambitious, can be achieved without effort and commitment. The road to success is rarely easy, but through perseverance and a strong work ethic, even the toughest challenges can be overcome.
Goal setting provides direction and focus. Dreams must be translated into clear, actionable objectives. Setting goals gives people a roadmap to follow, helping them stay on course and measure their progress along the way.
Finally, persistence is what makes dreams a reality. There will always be setbacks, but it’s the ability to keep going in the face of adversity that truly defines success. I hope my legacy inspires future generations to never give up on their dreams, no matter how distant they may seem.
My mother called both of us into her bedroom. There, I saw two suitcases on her bed. In a calm and respectful manner, she told my father that she loved him, but she also knew about his affair with another woman. Then she made a bold and decisive request—she asked him to leave the house and live with his girlfriend. My mother, while firm, showed tremendous strength and dignity as she emphasized that she loved me more than anyone and wanted the best for me. She requested that my father continue to support our basic needs—food, shelter, and my education—but that he leave us to live in peace.
One day, I asked the individual who had recommended me for the position—a man who had been working there for 18 years in the same role—why he hadn’t moved into a higher-paying desk job like the younger employees around him. He explained to me that he didn’t have a college degree, whereas those with desk jobs did.
This conversation sparked a realization for me: while I appreciated the job, I didn’t want to remain in that position for the rest of my life. I understood that education was the key to unlocking better opportunities and building a more fulfilling career. The idea of going to college was important to me, but I also wanted to avoid the burden of debt that comes with student loans.
That’s when I made the decision to join the U.S. Air Force, knowing it would provide me with the opportunity to earn a college education without taking on financial hardship. This decision was pivotal, as it allowed me to not only serve my country but also set a solid foundation for my future, both academically and professionally.
Og Mandino's book is more than just inspirational literature; it is a practical guide that combines timeless wisdom with actionable steps. The emphasis on goal setting has helped me understand that defining clear, measurable objectives is the first step toward achieving any form of success. By setting specific goals, I've been able to focus my efforts, track my progress, and stay motivated even when faced with challenges.
The book also highlights the significance of loving each person I encounter. This principle has fundamentally changed the way I interact with others, fostering deeper connections and understanding. Embracing this mindset promotes empathy and kindness, which not only enriches personal relationships but also creates a more collaborative and positive environment in professional settings.
Lastly, Mandino's focus on persistence resonates deeply with me. He illustrates that the path to success is rarely without obstacles, and it is the unwavering commitment to one's goals that ultimately leads to achievement. This lesson has encouraged me to remain steadfast and resilient, viewing setbacks not as failures but as opportunities to learn and grow.
First, resilience. No matter how many traps and schemes Wile E. Coyote sets, the Road Runner always manages to escape unscathed. This resilience is a powerful metaphor for life—facing challenges with speed, agility, and an ability to stay one step ahead of obstacles. In a world that constantly presents difficulties, the ability to adapt and outmaneuver challenges is crucial.
Second, the Road Runner represents focus and efficiency. He never wastes time or energy on unnecessary distractions. His path is always clear, and his goal is simple: keep moving forward. In a fast-paced, demanding environment, maintaining focus on the end goal while moving with precision and purpose is essential for success.
Lastly, the positive attitude of the Road Runner is something I would want to emulate. He remains calm, cool, and collected, never getting bogged down by the chaos around him. In leadership and decision-making, a calm demeanor can be a critical asset, allowing one to navigate through turbulent times without losing sight of the bigger picture.
"When the Saints Go Marching In" is often associated with celebrations of life and moving on to a better place, and for me, it felt like the perfect tribute. My mother lived a long, full life, filled with resilience, love, and wisdom. She was a guiding force in my life, and this song captured not just the sorrow of her passing, but also the joy and gratitude I feel for having had her in my life for so many years.
As the lyrics played in my mind, I found comfort in the idea that she was joining the saints, marching into the next life with the same strength and grace she carried here. The song reminds me that even in moments of profound loss, there is a sense of peace in knowing that life continues in spirit.
That silence is something I have carried with me ever since. Vivian ended her own life, unable to bear the weight of the trauma, the fear, and the conflicting pressures around her. I often feel that by not speaking up, by not supporting her in her time of need, I let her down. Her death has left a permanent scar on my heart and has made me reflect deeply on what it means to truly support those we love, especially in their most vulnerable moments.
For those who are die-hard Pro-Life advocates, I hope you never face the haunting reality of losing a loved one because their pain was overlooked in favor of rigid beliefs. My faith teaches me the sanctity of life, but Vivian’s death taught me the importance of compassion, understanding, and supporting the mental and emotional well-being of those we care about.
1. Representation of the People:
The House is often referred to as "the people's house" because it is designed to reflect the will of the population more directly. Its members are elected every two years, ensuring that representatives remain closely tied to the concerns and needs of their constituents. This frequent election cycle fosters accountability, as representatives must regularly engage with and answer to the people they serve.
2. Proportional Representation:
Unlike the Senate, where each state has equal representation, the House allocates seats based on population size. This structure ensures that more populous states have a larger voice, balancing the interests of the diverse and growing U.S. population. The House’s size and its structure make it more reflective of the nation’s demographic changes, which is key to maintaining representation in a dynamic society.
3. Origination of Revenue Bills:
One of the House’s most significant powers is its control over the "purse." By constitutional mandate, all revenue-raising bills must originate in the House. This gives the House critical influence over fiscal policy and economic decisions, underscoring its role in representing the financial priorities of citizens.
4. Majoritarian Rule:
The House operates under a more majoritarian system than the Senate, allowing for faster decision-making on legislation. This enables it to address urgent issues more rapidly, making it an essential force in responding to national crises or shifting public needs.
1. Understanding of Legislative Processes:
Experienced representatives are familiar with how government institutions function, including the intricate rules and procedures that govern lawmaking. This understanding allows them to craft more effective legislation, work efficiently within committees, and collaborate with colleagues across the aisle. They can also navigate the complexities of budget negotiations, regulatory frameworks, and legal precedents that underpin policymaking.
2. Established Networks and Relationships:
Representatives with political experience often have established networks, which are critical for building coalitions and gaining support for initiatives. These relationships—whether within Congress, with state officials, or among constituents—can expedite the legislative process and help achieve policy goals more effectively.
3. Problem-Solving Experience:
Political and government experience also brings a practical understanding of the issues facing the country. Many challenges require nuanced, well-informed solutions that benefit from real-world policy experience. Previous exposure to government operations provides a deeper perspective on how to address complex issues like healthcare, infrastructure, and national security.
1. Economy and Inflation:
Inflation remains a central concern, especially as the U.S. recovers from recent global economic disruptions. Rising prices can erode purchasing power, disproportionately affecting middle- and lower-income households.
2. Out-of-Control Immigration:
Immigration reform is a contentious issue. While immigration can enrich the nation’s labor force and culture, a lack of control over borders can strain social services, cause political instability, and undermine national security.
3. Loss of Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and Veterans Health Benefits:
The looming crisis in social safety nets like Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid represents one of the most significant financial challenges. As the population ages and the ratio of workers to beneficiaries declines, the sustainability of these programs is under threat.
Veterans’ health benefits are another crucial area of concern. Ensuring veterans receive the medical care they deserve is both a moral and social obligation.
4. Abolishment of the Department of Education:
Some advocate for abolishing the Department of Education, arguing that it leads to federal overreach in state matters. However, dismantling the department could lead to disparities in educational quality across states and leave lower-income students more vulnerable.
Dr. Vinny Mendoza’s vision for Louisiana’s 5th CD represents a clear and actionable path to address critical concerns like the economy, inflation, and food security. Mendoza's proposal is not only ambitious but also practical, focusing on expanding small-scale agriculture to transform the agricultural sector and directly combat inflation.
Key Solutions:
Expanding Small-Scale Agriculture: Mendoza’s plan to create 3 million small farms will decentralize food production, increasing the food supply and reducing dependency on large agribusinesses. Local production will drive down food costs, creating competition and promoting food security, while mitigating risks from global supply chain disruptions.
Economic Impact: By stabilizing food prices, this initiative will help reduce inflation, allowing Americans to retain more of their income. The expansion of agriculture will stimulate rural economies, create jobs, and boost GDP growth, ensuring that economic benefits reach the broader community.
Practical Benefits: Lower food costs mean greater savings for individuals and families, increasing financial stability. Empowering local farmers fosters community resilience and drives local economic development, which is essential for long-term sustainability.
Vision for the Future:
A limit of 24 years allows lawmakers to gain valuable experience and expertise while still ensuring regular opportunities for fresh perspectives and new leadership to emerge.
One major benefit of term limits is the potential to reduce the influence of special interests and lobbying. Politicians who remain in office for extended periods may become overly reliant on the financial backing of large interest groups, creating an environment where policy decisions are influenced more by political survival than by the public good. Limiting terms would encourage elected officials to prioritize the concerns of their constituents rather than the need to secure future re-election bids.
Additionally, term limits can foster innovation and responsiveness in government. Long-standing incumbents may be less inclined to push for change, as they become comfortable with the status quo. New legislators often bring fresh energy, ideas, and a willingness to challenge outdated policies.
1. Visionary Leadership:
Kennedy was a leader who thought beyond immediate challenges and envisioned long-term goals. His commitment to the space race, encapsulated by his famous declaration to land a man on the moon, demonstrated his ability to inspire collective national effort toward an ambitious, forward-thinking objective. In emulating Kennedy, focusing on long-term, transformative goals—whether in technology, education, or infrastructure—can galvanize public support and drive progress.
2. Courage and Integrity:
Kennedy's leadership during the Cuban Missile Crisis exemplified his ability to stay calm and act with integrity under immense pressure. His emphasis on diplomacy and careful deliberation helped avoid nuclear conflict, showing the importance of measured, courageous decision-making. Modeling this approach would mean prioritizing careful analysis, listening to expert advice, and making tough decisions even when they are politically risky.
3. Commitment to Equality and Social Justice:
Kennedy's advocacy for civil rights, although met with significant opposition, laid the groundwork for subsequent legislation that would advance racial equality in America. As a leader, modeling Kennedy’s commitment to justice would mean championing policies that promote equality, fairness, and opportunity for all citizens.
This story underscores a critical need for change and meaningful action. What makes this story particularly impactful is how it reflects the deep and pervasive issue of hunger, poverty, and economic insecurity in the district. When people cannot afford fresh fruits, vegetables, or even basic repairs to their homes, it’s clear that current systems are failing them. The fact that eight out of ten people you speak with cannot afford essential food items like fresh produce or meat is a glaring indicator of the widening gap between the cost of living and the support available to everyday citizens.
This is why Dr. Vinny Mendoza’s "Make Agriculture Great Again" initiative is so vital. By creating 3 million new small farms, you aim to decentralize food production, making healthy, affordable food accessible to all, especially those who are struggling. This plan not only addresses hunger but also strengthens local economies, creates jobs, and reduces inflation by promoting self-sufficiency and local resilience. It's a bold, strategic approach to tackling food insecurity while contributing to broader economic stability.
I like this saying because it can apply to so many situations in life, from politics to everyday interactions. It reminds me not to be intimidated by loud posturing and instead focus on substance and genuine action.
1. The Necessity of Compromise:
Policymaking, especially in a diverse & pluralistic society like the United States, requires balancing the needs and interests of various constituencies. Without compromise, the legislative process would stall, leading to gridlock and inefficiency. For example, on issues such as healthcare, education, and economic policy, differing opinions often represent valid concerns that require nuanced solutions. Compromise allows policymakers to address these concerns while moving legislation forward.
2. The Desirability of Compromise:
Compromise doesn't mean abandoning principles. Rather, it means finding ways to advance core values while recognizing that other stakeholders have legitimate interests as well. The most effective policies tend to come from negotiations where different perspectives are integrated into the final outcome. For example, bipartisan efforts in areas like infrastructure or criminal justice reform have shown that when leaders from different sides of the aisle come together, they can craft policies that benefit all citizens.
Conclusion:
1. Tax Reform to Ensure Billionaires Pay Their Fair Share:
One of my top priorities would be to close loopholes and implement fair tax policies that require billionaires and large corporations to contribute equitably. For too long, the wealthiest individuals and companies have benefitted from tax structures that allow them to avoid paying their fair share, while ordinary Americans pay the price. By reforming the tax code to make it more equitable, we can generate the necessary revenue to fund critical public programs, reduce the deficit, and invest in initiatives that benefit the broader population, such as education, infrastructure, and healthcare.
2. Equally important is creating 10 million jobs by launching the “Make Agriculture Great Again” initiative, which will establish 3 million new small farms across the country. This initiative will not only tackle food insecurity and hunger in underserved communities but also create economic opportunities in rural areas. By decentralizing food production, we can provide farm-to-table fresh fruits and vegetables, making healthy food more affordable for low- and middle-income families. This approach will reduce food deserts and help stabilize food prices, while boosting GDP and reducing inflationary pressures.
1. Ensuring Oversight:
The primary purpose of the House’s investigative powers should be to ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent efficiently and that government agencies are operating effectively and ethically. This includes scrutinizing how federal programs—such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure—are implemented and whether they deliver value to the public. By conducting thorough investigations, the House can identify waste, fraud, and abuse, leading to reforms that enhance efficiency and reduce unnecessary expenditures.
2. Prioritizing Non-Partisan Investigations:
Investigations should be rooted in facts and driven by the goal of improving government performance. Partisan investigations that seek to target individuals for political vengeance are counterproductive, erode public trust, and distract from the real work of governance.
3. Focusing on the People’s Work:
The investigative power should serve the American public by addressing real problems, not engaging in partisan showdowns. Proper investigations into issues like economic inequality, government mismanagement, or inefficiency in public programs directly benefit citizens.
1. Veterans Affairs Committee:
His stance on protecting veterans' health benefits, particularly against Project 2025, aligns with a strong advocacy for those who have served the country. The proposal to allow medical cannabis as an alternative to drugs like Tramadol and ecstasy is a forward-thinking solution to combat the opioid crisis and the alarming rise in addiction-related suicide among veterans. Medical cannabis offers a safer alternative for managing pain and PTSD, addressing the root causes of opioid dependence without the harmful side effects.
2. Education Committee:
Focusing on improving the U.S. education system by ensuring every child has access to nutritious meals is both a humane and practical initiative. Hunger is a significant barrier to learning, especially in places like Louisiana, where one in five children goes to school without eating. Ensuring that all children from pre-K to high school receive breakfast and lunch would greatly enhance their ability to focus, engage, and succeed in the classroom. Such an initiative would not only improve educational outcomes but also contribute to broader social equity.
3. Agriculture Committee: "Make Agriculture Great Again" initiative is both innovative and practical, seeking to address inflation & food security through local food production. By creating 3 million small farms, we can enhance food security, reduce the cost of living, and support economic growth.
4. Intelligence & Foreign Affairs Committees:
My perspective on financial transparency is rooted in the understanding that the defense sector, handling billions in public funds, must operate with the utmost integrity. Fraud, waste, and abuse within federal fund expenditures—particularly in defense contracting—undermine national security and the public trust. When large corporations monopolize contracts, sometimes by lobbying for unnecessary wars or weapons programs, this creates inefficiency and wastes taxpayer money. It also puts American service members at risk, as seen in the Iraq War, which was predicated on faulty intelligence regarding weapons of mass destruction. More than 5,000 American service members lost their lives in a conflict that may not have been necessary.
From an economist’s perspective, government accountability is a cornerstone of economic stability. Misallocation of federal funds in sectors like defense creates economic inefficiencies, where resources that could have been used for innovation, infrastructure, or social services are diverted into maintaining unnecessary wars or purchasing weapons that serve no strategic purpose. Large defense contractors often operate in a monopolistic or oligopolistic manner, stifling competition and driving up prices. This lack of competition leads to inflated government spending and distorts market efficiency.
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.
Note: Mendoza submitted the above survey responses to Ballotpedia on September 7, 2024.
2022
M.V. Mendoza did not complete Ballotpedia's 2022 Candidate Connection survey.
Campaign website
Mendoza's campaign website stated the following:
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+ Veteran + Pro-Life + Women's Rights + Pro-guns--protect 2nd Amendment + Small Business + Farmers + Oil & Gas + Solar, wind , hydrothermal and hydroelectric energy + Cleaner air & water + First responders and educators pay raises + Keep Social Security + Low price prescription drugs for senior citizens + Lower Medicare age to 60 + Lower Social Security benefits age to 60 + $15 Minimum Wage + Medicinal & Recreational Cannabis Dr. MV "Vinny" Mendoza, is an inspiring Louisiana disabled veteran business owner with more than 20 years experience at the federal level. Former adjunct professor of Business Administration with Central Texas College, Far East Campus in Tokyo, Japan (4-years). He leads by example as an influencer as well as a USDA certified organic farmer. Dr. Mendoza knows that 6 out of 10 people in Louisiana live in poverty and that 8-10 children go to school hungry without breakfast--no child can concentrate in school work with an empty stomach. Dr. Mendoza is well aware that the high cost of gasoline is driving up the cost of food as well as rent and it is becoming a burden to all low income and middle class families in Louisiana. Dr. Mendoza, after teaching labor law, macro and micro economics as well Total Quality Management for several years he knows how to fight inflation and reduce the U.S. deficit while increasing the GDP which has reached the lowest level in 100 years--he learned the code of business ethics and economic development from the Japanese during his 9-year tenure in Japan. As your next US Senator from Louisiana, Dr. Vinny Mendoza will go to Washington DC to legislate as a Common Sense American who leaves politics aside and concentrates on your specific needs. He will concentrate on your segment of the two part Technical Recession. a. High Tear, For corporations and wealthy people, there is a healthy job growth with low unemployment rates. b. Low Tear, For low income and middle class, you are feeling the pain when pumping gas, buying groceries or construction materials and/or when paying your utility bills, not to mention flood and home insurance prices that are increasing. As your next US Senator, I will fight for the Low Tear so that you can have a better paying job that enables you to put food on the table at home, afford your utility bills, have access to universal healthcare, breathe clean air and drink uncontaminated water--you must be happy where you live, work and play anywhere within Louisiana. Dr. Vinny is stepping up with a 5-Point Action Pledge to solve most of the current technical recession low tear problems and a simple plan to prevent intense misery and despair with another Great Depression like the one we had from 1929-1933. Dr. MV "Vinny" Mendoza's 5-Point Action Pledge: 1. Regulate the Big Oil Companies that caused the current inflation spike and have driven our nation into technical recession. a. The US Big Oil companies took advantage of the war in Ukrane and global dependance of oil and they decided to increase the price of gasoline to the highest levels over a 90-day period thus obtaining the highest profits ever in one three month period. b. On top of gasoline price gauging, Big Oil companies stopped oil production within the United States which contributed to the technical inflation that drove the price of transportation, food and utilities which will never come back down. c. I will sponsor legislation that regulates the price of gasoline in the United States and take that power away from Big Oil companies. d. Additionally, I will Introduce legislation that forces local oil production to meet the American people oil demand. Oil corporations have neglected to increase oil production in order to make more profits and made you personal budget suffer in the process. e. Sponsor legislation to force oil corporations to invest 50% of their profits in Louisiana. 25% of the profits on renewable energy to provide each home with solar panel generator when electrical power goes out and 25% of their profits to be invested in a light rail transit that unites all major cities in Louisiana and creates over 50,000 permanent new jobs. f. On my first day at work, I will order an Congressional Inquire to investigate Entergy Louisiana and determine the extent of their abuse of power to charge their customers more than what they are supposed to be paying, particularly for fees to pay for damages from previous storms after they received bail out funding from the Federal and State governments. 2. Sponsor the American Agrarian Reform Act a. In 1935, the US had about 6.8 million farms to provide food for 127 million Americans. b. In 2022, we have less than 2 million farms to provide food for 320 million Americans. Almost 75% less farms to provide for almost 250% more people c. Additionally, the USDA pays billions of dollars in subsidies to Big Farmers not to produce. d. If the US government can bail out the auto industry (Bush $17.4B), cripple airline industry (Trump $25B), Bank Industry ( $700B), Savings & Loans ($407B, 1989), Big Farmer (Trump $16B), America Competes Act, microchip production (Biden $250B), Entergy Louisiana (Bush, Katrina $200M). Why are these bailouts very important to YOU? because you are the one paying for all those funds and none of those industries repay any of the bailouts that they receive. e. For the above reasons, I will sponsor the American Agrarian Reform Act that increases 75% of the US Farms to the original 1935 levels, and create more than 25 million new and permanent jobs. f. The current lowest GDP of 1.2 can grow an average of 0.05 percent per year for the the next ten years with an investment of $350B for small farmers in every town and parish/county within the United States thus bringing down the cost of food and end hunger within the United States. 3. Fight for the Veterans Burn Pits Exposure Recognition Act 4. Medicare for ALL. a. Provide healthcare to all Americans. b. Reduce the cost of all prescription drugs. 5. End the War on Women's Rights by sponsoring "The Lorena Bobbitt Peewee AXE Act." It is time for women to rise up and fight back! 1. Virgin Mary the mother of Jesus became pregnant miraculously by God, and she became the most prominent female figure in Western Culture. 2. All other women of the past, present or future are NO Virgin Mary and they can only get impregnated by man and some by artificial insemination. If a woman gets pregnant, she is 50% at cause and effect and a man is the other 50% of cause and effect. Therefore if a woman gets pregnant the man that impregnated her should have 50% of the burden that she has. 3. In the other hand we have Mrs. Lorena Bobbitt, who in 1993 became the most famous woman in the world upon cutting off her husband's penis after years of physical and mental abuse. 4. I know that most women are abused physically and mentally by their husbands and then they are abused by their own children because they have an abusive father as a role model. 5. For the above reasons, I plan to sponsor the legislation for "The PeeWee Axe Act." Which will consist of the following: a. At all cases of RAPE whether the rape is conducted by your husband or by a stranger, their penis will be cut off as punishment. b. For all fathers that refuse to take responsibility for their children and do not pay child support and have two or more children, they will be ordered a vasectomy so that they do not continue impregnating women. c. If men have a moment of fun and get women pregnant--they can also have a responsibility to raise their children or go to jail if they support an abortion where it is against the law. d. There will be no statute of limitations with these offenses. DR. MENDOZA BELIEVES IN TERM LIMITS AND PLEDGES TO SERVE ONLY ONE TERM AS A US SENATOR AND HE WILL NOT ACCEPT CONTRIBUTIONS FROM ENTERGY OR BIG OIL COMPANIES.[7] |
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| —M.V. Mendoza's campaign website (2022)[8] | ||
2021
M.V. Mendoza did not complete Ballotpedia's 2021 Candidate Connection survey.
Campaign website
Mendoza’s campaign website stated the following:
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Make the 5th CD work for you again!
Dr. MV "Vinny" Mendoza's 5-Point Action Pledge:
a. Obtain over 50 million dollars worth of unused military War Readiness Material kept at stealth locations and use it to weatherize all public schools, recreation centers and shelters within the 5th CD. These resources are kept at stealth locations but Dr. Vinny Mendoza, knows how to demilitarize them and make them available to law enforcement and to local city and parish municipalities. He personally knows the Senior Advisor to President Biden who can request the approval for Department of Defense demilitarization for WRM resources to weatherize the 5th Congressional District. b. Build a hydroelectric power plant in the Mississippi River near St. Francisville, to produce over 3500 Mega Watts of Clean Energy. c. Build 2500 hundred Wind Turbines within the Mississippi River high velocity wind ares which will produce over 2500 Mega Watts of Clean Energy. d. Building 10,000 new Smart Organic Farms of America within the 5th Congressional District. CREATE OVER 25,000 CLEAN ENERGY PERMANENT NEW JOBS THAT PAY $15-$60 PER HOUR. e. Support all veterans
The above projects will provide over $50 Billion dollars in unused military resources to weatherize public schools, recreation centers and shelters at no cost to the state or local parishes; it will also create over 25,000 permanent new jobs, produce clean energy for over 5 million homes and businesses, reduce electric bills by 40%, over $10 billion in revenue annually to the state, reduce hunger, poverty and unemployment thus turning around the poorest district in Louisiana and the nation to the richest district within the United States.
a. Reduce income tax for 99% of Americans b. Increase income tax for top 1% c. Political contributions shall pay 50% tax d. 10% tax for non-profits e. And a $2800 political contribution limit for corporations and PACs same as people. TAKE DARK MONEY OUT OF POLITICS!
a. Provide you with covid-19 test when you need it or want it; b. Provide you covid-19 vaccine free of charge; c. Covid-19, medical treatment at no cost to you. d. Medicare and Medicaid available at age 60. e. How will medicare for all be paid?
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| —M.V. Mendoza’s campaign website (2021)[9] | ||
2020
M.V. Mendoza completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2020. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Mendoza's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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As a former assistant to the Inspector General of the Air Force and Chief of Services, I know about Air Force requirements for operations and mission as well as budget requirements and I can identify wasteful funding from the Department of Defense that can be trimmed by 10% and used for the Green New Deal Agrarian Reform to create 50 million new jobs and increase U.S. Ag GDP from 1% to 20% thus making America prosperous and have the necessary funding to pay for Medicare for ALL and free college education with social or military service commitment.
Unfortunately, our nation is in chaos as we enter the darkest fall season in American history, all of us are feeling anxious, sad, upset, angry, uncertain, with fear and scared to death. We are also dealing with the #hatevirus at all levels of federal, state and local governments. However, in order to fix the #hatevirus in government we must also cleanse ourselves from it also. However, we must begin by firing the entire Louisiana Delegation swamp in Washington D.C.,- I will sponsor the Reinvest in America Act, where we reinvest 10% of annual defense budget and invest in the Green New Deal Agrarian Reform thus creating of 25 million new smart farms, 10 million clean energy new jobs and 15 million construction jobs; per Dr. Mike Strain on 17 June 2019, at 7:00 p.m., in Kenner, LA "Louisiana, has a $10 Billion annual budget and only $1 Million is invested in minority farms." In the 1920s the GDP in the U.S. was 80% and now it is 1% with less than 2 million farmers struggling without labor. The Green New Deal is the answer.
- I will sponsor the Fair Income Tax Reform Act, to benefit all Americans. Reduce income tax to 99% of taxpayers and increase income tax for the top 1%. Impose 50% tax on all political contributions-Corporations and PACs' limit of $2,800; Impose 30% tax on all corporations; 10% tax for all non-profit organizations.
- I will sponsor the Fair Native American Immigration Act. Here in the United States at the beginning of 2020, there was a pre-existing major agricultural problem where the Agriculture GDP is 1% or $132.8 billion and going down with a total of 2 million farmers that depend on temporary migrant labor. Unfortunately, the Covid-19 pandemic has made it worst and the national food security concerns have increased tenfold. Therefore, dependence of food imports will increase as well as the price so it is in our own best interest to consider the following. a. Increase H-2A temporary experienced farm labor levels by 50%. b. Eliminate H-2B temporary non-agricultural labor or services. Pay local labor $15/hour.
2. Protecting Social Security for Senior Citizens
3. Medicare for ALL Americans. Enforce that one one is turned away from any hospital to die at home with Covid-19 and infect family members and friends as it is happening in Louisiana.
4. Criminal Justice Reform.
a. End Pig Laws.5. Equal pay and equal treatment regardless of sex, skin color, religion, age and/or sexual orientation. Minimum wage of $15/hour.
b. Reform qualified immunity
c. Ban use of excess force (e.g., chokeholds, shoot to kill)
d. Establish a nationwide database of law enforcement officers found to have used excessive force
Roy was my friend and I learned from him that even though he was critically wounded he charged forward to save the lives of 9 U.S. soldiers from a helicopter that went down but in the process he even saved the lives of 5 members of the Viet Cong that were critically ill-Roy left no one behind.
At the end tally each side and deduct the cons from the pros and you will have a number for each candidate, the candidate that has the higher number is the one that you should vote for and you should share your Pro/Con Matrix with family and friends and or social media.
My primary duty at Thule Air Base was to reduce the highest suicide rate at one particular Air Force Base within the Department of Defense. I was in charge of a staff of more than 400 people, $20 Million operations budget and more than 2 billion in real properties at main base and two satellite stations.
There were 4 low ranking individuals per room with two bunkbeds and two higher ranking per room; no tvs or phones in bedrooms only one at the dayroom in each floor. Individuals had one 5-minute morale call per week.
SOLUTIONS:
1. Low ranking individuals per room with TV and phone.
2. One higher ranking individual per room with TV and phone.
3. Increased to 3 morale calls per week @ 15 minutes each.
4. Installed pac man and space invader machines at all day rooms.
5. Purchased hot tubs and above ground pools for fitness centers.
6. Purchased video movies for recreation center at no cost to individuals.
7. Implemented a 4-day morale trip to McGuire AFB, New Jersey, without charging leave to individuals. Obtained free tickets for NFL and/or NBA games.
8. Brought the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders entertainment.
9. Brought live bands for 30-days.
10. Hosted the Northernmost Winter Olympics between U.S. and Canada.
In April 1997, upon leaving Japan for the second time, I was relocated to Barksdale AFB, LA and stayed here.
I lost my brother Roland (17) who was killed by police; my younger sister Roxane (19) was raped and murdered. My 96-year old mother has experienced her home to be burned by arson 3 times in her lifetime. First time on Christmas eve in 1925, while her father was preaching someone burn her house and at age 2-she can still remember and she also remembers that 10 years later the person that burned her house asked for forgiveness at church because he had gotten paid $2 to burn the preachers home.
We must be concerned with the #hatevirus that our own president is instigating with the support of Louisiana's Congressional delegation.
Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Subcommittee on Energy (chairman) . I want to further expand solar, wind and geothermal energy.
Committee on Finance. Subcommittee on International Trade, Customs, and Global Competitiveness. I have many initiatives in these areas.
Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. I want to ensure that we implement Medicare for ALL, free college educations, $15 minimum wage.
Committee on Veterans' Affairs. As a disabled veteran myself, I want ensure that all veterans are taken care of as well as their family members.
I love his quote: "Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future".
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.
2019
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
has not yet completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey. Ballotpedia is seeking 100 percent participation so voters can learn more about all the candidates on their ballots.
2012
The following are several themes highlighted on Mendoza's campaign website.[10]
- Bring Jobs to Louisiana'
Excerpt: "It is time to encourage more companies (foreign as well as domestic) to make Louisiana their home. Encouraging foreign and domestic companies to bring jobs to Louisiana will be my #1 priority. These jobs can be the source of innovation for clean energy, for the new generation of “green” manufacturing jobs, and for ecosystem restoration."[10]
- STOP CUTS TO MEDICARE AND MEDICAID—NO VOUCHERS
Excerpt: "I oppose the Paul Ryan budget, which turns Medicare into a voucher program providing less support, severely cuts Medicaid, cuts which would leave senior citizens without medical assistance."[10]
- The WAR on Drugs should be fought at home
Excerpt: Local police departments need to receive more funding."[10]
- Smaller Government
Excerpt: "I believe that we can do better with a smaller government which can be reduced by phasing out vacancies as civil service employees retire."[10]
- 2nd Amendment
Excerpt: "I propose to adopt criminal deterrence policies of Japan, where anyone possessing a weapon without a proper license to bear arms automatically receives 1-2 year jail sentence in Japan is 15-20 years and for those that commit crimes, their sentence should be harsh (25-20 years)."[10]
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.
Personal
Note: Please contact us if the personal information below requires an update.
Mendoza has a wife, Estela, and 3 Children.[11]
See also
2024 Elections
External links
Footnotes
- ↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on September 2, 2020
- ↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on September 7, 2024
- ↑ AP News, "3 candidates for Louisiana governor disqualified from race," August 26, 2019
- ↑ Louisiana Secretary of State, "Candidate Inquiry," accessed July 25, 2016
- ↑ Cite error: Invalid
<ref>tag; no text was provided for refs namedrun - ↑ Louisiana Secretary of State, "Candidate List," accessed October 22,2012
- ↑ 7.0 7.1 Note: This text is quoted verbatim from the original source. Any inconsistencies are attributable to the original source.
- ↑ Dr. MV "Vinny" Mendoza for US Senate, # 8, “Home,” accessed August 8, 2022
- ↑ M.V. Mendoza’s campaign website, “Home,” accessed March 17, 2021
- ↑ 10.0 10.1 10.2 10.3 10.4 10.5 Mendoza's Official Campaign Website "Point by Point"
- ↑ Official Campaign Website, Bio
