On October 10, Democratic Perspective continued our conversation with former Arizona Congressional Representative Ann Kirkpatrick by asking about the campaign of 2010. “It was an unusual year,” she replied. “Debate is an important part of the political process, but my opponent, Paul Gosar, didn’t want to debate the issues.”
When asked what’s different this time around, she said, “I’m seeing an energy and enthusiasm about possible solutions that I haven’t seen before; common sense, practical solutions.”
As for what she will do if re-elected, Kirpatrick stated, “Number one, and most important, we need to create jobs. I would the close tax loophole that allows corporations to send jobs overseas. Two, we need to wean ourselves from dependency on foreign oil. I would end subsidies to oil companies and invest in alternative energy and emerging technologies. And three, we need to invest in education. We need to have good schools all the way from elementary to the university level.”
In addressing the defict, Kirkpatrick said, “Republicans have taken a pledge against tax increases and their definition includes doing away with loopholes. Instead of pledges, we need common sense solutions. Because of their pledge, it’s now down to a committee of twelve to cut the deficit. That limits our ability to come up with solutions. The dysfunction of Congress left a big impression on me. Votes do matter. We must remember that the Constitution begins with ‘We the People of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union…’ We all need to be involved.”
“My message to the American people in moving forward is this: What kind of country are we going to leave our children and grandchildren?”
“When I’m re-elected,” Kirkpatrick said, “The first bill I’ll introduce is the National Scenic Area designation for Sedona. It will not only preserve the beauty of the area, it will create jobs. There’s a clear difference between me and Paul Gosar. He’s against the NSA. He’s in favor of uranium mining in the Grand Canyon. I’m not.”
In response to a question about why Republicans are against taxing the rich, Kirpatrick said, “Honestly, you’ll have to ask them. The gap between the rich and the poor has never been greater.”
As for claims that she is an ‘Obama apologist,’ Kirkpatrick said, “Being president is difficult. It’s a position we need to treat with dignity and respect. I completely support our president.”
“I’m proud of my record in Congress,” she said. “I’m proud of my vote for the Affordable Care Act. I voted for the Ledbetter bill that guarantees equal pay for women. I was for the repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell. I voted to end the freeze on development of Navajo lands,” she said. “The healthcare vote is the one I’m most proud of.”