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Two candidates are running to represent District 35 in Congress in the Nov. 5 general elections.
Incumbent Democrat Greg Casar faces Republican challenger Steven Wright.
Community Impact reached out to the candidates to get their perspectives on their priorities if elected.
What you need to know
District 35 covers areas of east Austin and runs along I-35 south into San Antonio through portions of Hays, Comal and Guadalupe counties.
Early voting begins Oct. 21.
Candidates were asked to limit their answers to 50 words and asked to address the question and not attack other candidates. Answers may have been cut or edited to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity.
*indicates incumbent
Why are you the best choice for the job?
Our government should work for working people. As your U.S. Congressman, my office has helped deliver hundreds of millions of dollars to communities from Austin to San Antonio—all while fighting to expand Social Security, stand up for workers, care for our veterans, and restore basic rights for everyone.
What is the most important issue facing your constituents and how do you intend to address it?
To helping working families make ends meet, we must fairly tax top earners and make sure big corporations pay their fair share of taxes. With a fair tax system, we can fully fund health care, child care, schools, and good jobs for all Americans.
What specific policies or initiatives would you propose to address the challenges of urbanization and development?
Our federal government should invest in more affordable housing options, flood infrastructure, and public transit where development is being concentrated. The people who work in our community should be able to afford to live and thrive here.
Are there any specific infrastructure projects you believe are crucial for the district’s development?
We need frequent high-speed commuter rail from San Antonio to San Marcos to Austin. Not only would it ease traffic, help fight the climate crisis, and drive economic growth, it would be a safe and fun way to travel across the I-35 corridor.
Why are you the best choice for the job?
I believe I am the best candidate for the job as I have already served 30-years in public service. Through that varying service I have served very diverse communities understanding the hardships and struggles first hand. I was a Deputy Sheriff in California living and serving a very diverse county ...
What is the most important issue facing your constituents and how do you intend to address it?
Inflation, public safety and the border are the top three issues currently facing the concerns in this district. Strong economic policies that promote small business, tax cuts and restructuring the current tax plan that is expiring in 2025. Zero taxes for [social security] and [supplemental security income] benefits regardless of earnings or pension ...
What specific policies or initiatives would you propose to address the challenges of urbanization and development?
I think it is important to look forward as far as possible and having a comprehensive infrastructure plan mandated by every state for each congressional cycle should be a good start. We see limitations on electricity needs and better transportation and even having a threat assessment included for sensitive facilities. ...
Are there any specific infrastructure projects you believe are crucial for the district’s development?
Some of what I described in number three will also be a good start. Safer schools and mandating infrastructure improvements to keep our children safe is something I wish to see in budgeting. I support dissolving the Dept. of Education and with that diverting some of those funds back to ...