Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity.
For more information about voting in Harris or Fort Bend counties, visit www.harrisvotes.com or www.fortbendcountytx.gov. For more election coverage, go to communityimpact.com/voter-guide.
Caroline Kane
Experience:
Managing the profitability of dozens of small businesses over 30-plus years
Occupation:
CEO—small-business owner (property management)
Candidate Website:
https://carolinekaneforcongress.com
Contact Information:
281-668-8625
Why did you choose to run in this election?
I am running for Congress to restore the protections and rights of the U.S. Constitution to We, the People.
What is your top priority if elected?
Securing the border and reducing the size of the U.S. government by 75%-90%—these two tie for first place on my agenda for The Great Restoration.
What do you think are the biggest issues facing residents in District 7?
Crime and inflation are hitting people the hardest in CD7 and across the nation.
Are there any policies that can be passed, or anything Congress can do, to help Texans deal with inflation?
People are often told that increasing interest rates is the only way to curb inflation. Not true. It is government spending that has gotten us into this mess, and it is drastically cutting said spending that will reverse inflation, lower taxes and put more money into everyone’s pockets.
Carolyn Bryant
Experience:
[Campaigned for] women's bodybuilding; [got] judging criteria changed to have feminine appeal; [working] to…expand [Senate Bill] 15.
Occupation:
I am a sports nutritionist.
Candidate Website:
https://www.carolynbbryantforcongress.com
Why did you choose to run in this election?
I was asked to run and gladly accepted because we need new blood in the government.
What is your top priority if elected?
My top priority is protect women's sports. To ensure our young athletes have safe spaces and fair competition.
What do you think are the biggest issues facing residents in District 7?
The biggest issues facing the residents in CD7—high taxes, crime and flooding issues that never seem to get resolved.
Are there any policies that can be passed, or anything Congress can do, to help Texans deal with inflation?
Energy independence and energy dominance will fix inflation. As will a return to the gold standard and putting an end to playing with monopoly money.
Kenneth Omoruyi
Experience:
Award-winning [certified public accountant]; founded three successful businesses; Ph.D. candidate—[Oklahoma State University]; M.Tax—[University of Southern California]; Public Leadership Credential—Harvard
Occupation:
Certified public accountant and college educator
Candidate Website:
https://kennethforcongress.com
Contact Information:
832-626-3140
Why did you choose to run in this election?
I am passionate about serving the country, which has given me many opportunities and fueled my desire for servant leadership. Through legislation, I strive to amplify positive changes and contribute to the well-being of my cherished community.
What is your top priority if elected?
Fix the economic crisis through practical fiscal responsibility, accountability and heightened transparency. By advocating for clear financial disclosure and open government practices, I aim to build trust, empower informed decision-making and foster accountability, laying the foundation for a robust and transparent economic recovery.
What do you think are the biggest issues facing residents in District 7?
As Texas' most culturally and economically diverse district, the most pertinent issues include equitable economic growth, accessible education and health care. I am committed to addressing these challenges, ensuring policies reflect the unique needs of our diverse community, and fostering an inclusive and thriving district.
Are there any policies that can be passed, or anything Congress can do, to help Texans deal with inflation?
Congress can address inflation by implementing responsible fiscal policies, promoting economic stability and monitoring monetary policies. Additionally, targeted measures such as tax incentives for businesses and individuals, along with strategic budget allocations, can help Texans navigate the challenges posed by inflation and contribute to economic resilience.
Tina Blum Cohen
Experience:
Lived, worked here my entire life. ... Traveled the world; I love my city and hate watching it go down as a sanctuary city.
Occupation:
I am the owner of Blum's Furniture on Westheimer and partner in Jemstyle Builders Inc.
Candidate Website:
https://www.tinablumcohen.com
Contact Information:
713-591-1159
Why did you choose to run in this election?
I decided to run in District 7 because I grew up, live and work in this district, and there are many issues we need corrected.
What is your top priority if elected?
My top priority when elected will be focused on the mental health of our city, and get people back to work and out of depression.
What do you think are the biggest issues facing residents in District 7?
This biggest issues facing District 7 are violent crime, drug and human trafficking, and misinformation in schools.
Are there any policies that can be passed, or anything Congress can do, to help Texans deal with inflation?
Congress can immediately pass a bill that restarts oil production and the thousands of Houston jobs that go with it, and require those on public assistance go back to work as well. The prices will come down. Congress can guarantee parents the rights to their own kids.
