Shaun Brown (D) – Candidate for US House of Representatives Virginia 2nd District
Shaun D. Brown (D), running for U.S. House of Representatives in Virginia’s 2nd District
1. Why are you running for office?
I want to level the playing field, to give everyone a fair shot at the American Dream.
2. Why should people vote for you?
I will represent the entire 2nd District. That means Democrats and Republicans, Independents, those who don’t vote or can’t vote alike. They’ll all have a voice in me. I believe that if the growth of our children is stunted today, the growth of our economy will be stunted tomorrow.
I believe that one person has the power to make a difference. Because of my business, community and academic background and experiences, I have a sense of urgency about our future. There’s no time to waste. That’s the reason I’m running and why I am asking for everyone’s vote.
3. What’s your favorite thing about the area you want to represent?
There’s so much. The 2nd District has a little bit of everything. We have beauty and industry, history and technology. But for me, it all comes down to the people, new friends, old friends and family, and in these last few months, the people I’ve met out on the campaign trail. We may share just a moment, but their kind words keep me going and remind me why I decided to run in the first place.
4. What is the biggest problem your area is facing, how will you fix it?
Over the last few years, the 2nd District has bounced back from the economic crash and is now, without a doubt, on solid footing and heading in the right direction. More needs to be done, of course. I will help ensure that the federal government is responsive to our needs, through investment and legislation that allows the district to continue to flourish. I want to serve as the unofficial “Chief Economic Development Officer” for the district.
5. Describe Donald Trump in max 3 words?
Racist, sexist bigot.
6. Describe Hillary Clinton in max 3 words?
Fair. Fighter. Leader.
7. What do you do for a living? Why do you do it?
I’m a management consultant in international business and community development. I do it simply to help level the playing field, to give everyone a chance to thrive.
8. You’re going to be marooned on a tropical island for a week, you can only bring 1 thing – what is it?
I would bring a TV. I have to keep up with what’s going on.
9. What do you think of Colin Kaepernick?
People choose different ways to make a difference. Whether I agree or not, he has the right to determine how he expresses his discontent. The key is to turn it into something meaningful that addresses issues.
10. Would you vote to fund light rail expansion in your area?
Done correctly, with full, transparent accountability, light rail can be a big part of improving mass transit and easing traffic in the area, but it must not be a burden to taxpayers. There should be a comprehensive plan to tie the transportation of people and products in our region to tourism, to secure funding.
11. Will you respect the outcome of the election?
Absolutely. We have a system in place. In the case of close elections, decided by razor-thin margins, we have a recount process that ensures accuracy and fairness. Calling into question the results – even before a single ballot has been cast – serves only to further divide us as a nation.
12. Favorite TV Show?
That would have to be any Western.
