Jerry Sturgill (D), 63 Candidate for U.S. Senator Businessman

1. Like most Americans, I’m angry that career politicians and special interest money have overrun our government. Big money has eclipsed the cause of government—to serve the people. Our politicians aren’t listening to every day Americans; they’re listening to big banks, pharmaceutical companies, and Super PACs, the same organizations that are profiting off the backs of American families. It’s time to get back to basics and work for Idaho families.

2. I have spent my life trying to make people’s lives better, both in a personal and professional setting. I have helped turn around companies, ensured employees have the best health coverage possible, and I have served in my community in various capacities. As a first-time candidate for political office, I have the advantage of bringing a fresh perspective to Washington.

3. Protecting our public lands, strengthening our public schools, and fostering an environment where Idaho businesses and our economy can flourish are important issues we must tackle. Our public lands, our schools, and the economy are what make Idaho so great. We must protect and improve upon all of these things to ensure we become more competitive with neighboring states.

4. I will support commonsense legislation that represents our Idaho values. I will work with the President, whoever that may be, and both sides of the aisle in Congress to ensure we are doing what is best for Americans. I will fight the gridlock and listen to my constituents to ensure I am fighting for what they want.

5. I hope to create a legacy of being a voice for the people. I want to foster an environment that helps Idaho families and businesses, not special interests. The original intent of our government was to serve the people. Unfortunately, this is not the case anymore. As your next U.S. Senator, I will represent you, not special interests.

6. Aside from being on the floor of the Senate, working to pass commonsense legislation, I plan to work closely with my staff to ensure I know what Idahoans are talking about. Understanding their needs will be my first priority. I am ready and willing to work long hours to make sure I am serving my constituents.

7. I most look forward to working directly with Idaho citizens. Over the course of this campaign, I have enjoyed listening to what Idahoans care about. I will continue to listen to the people of Idaho and ensure I am working to represent them in the Senate.

8. See my response to no. 3.

9. The issue of big money and special interests in elections should be pointed out more often. My opponent has amassed a war chest of funding from big banks and pharmaceutical companies. Most of the money he has collected comes from outside of Idaho. This is not right. We cannot expect career politicians to represent their constituents if they are collecting donations from these special interests.

10. The harshest criticism I have faced has to do with being a Democrat in Idaho. I am committed to serving all Idahoans in the Senate, regardless of party affiliation. Like so many, I am sick of the gridlock in Washington and party politics have trumped serving the people. I want voters to know that I am a moderate Idaho Democrat who is eager to serve all Idahoans.

11. I want voters to know that I am running to represent them, not special interests. My opponent has been in Washington for nearly a quarter of a century and it’s time for a fresh perspective. It is time to clean house and remove entrenched incumbents who have forgotten who they serve.

12. I believe candidates should have to answer to whether they support term limits. Elected officials are supposed to be public servants; they should not be making a career out of being a politician. My answer to this question is that I absolutely support term limits. Our elected officials should be in tune to the needs of their constituents, there is no way to do this if you make your home in Washington D.C. for an extended period of time.