Questionnaires were compiled by The Current based on questions from readers. The answers to each question are verbatim from each candidate with exceptions for exceeding the word count; overages were trimmed. The answers were not edited for style or spelling; candidates were contacted if there was a question of clarity. If a question is skipped, we’ve noted that. If a candidate failed to respond to the questionnaire, we’ve noted that, as well.
Steven Sainz
Campaign email: steven.sainz@house.ga.gov
Political affiliation: Republican
The District 180 incumbent did not respond to the survey request, which was made via four emails to his office, two phone calls to voice mail. He responded once by phone but did not submit answers in any form.
Delfonsio Daniels
Campaign email: d.daniels979@yahoo.com
Political affiliation: Democratic
Age: 45
Home: St. Marys, nearly 10 years
Current job/occupation: Retired
Education (institutions attended, degrees earned): American Military University, Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice
Hometown: Gainesville, Florida
Family: Yes
What is the main challenge or opportunity facing your constituents?
The sense of being unheard, underrepresented, or undervalued. The absence of employment opportunities, lack of activities to engage in within the community.
Tell us what your priorities would be before and during the next legislative session?
Reconnecting with the community to listen to their concerns, desires, and needs. Recognizing past shortcomings and focusing on priorities such as Medicaid expansion, education funding, and job creation.
What, in your opinion, makes you uniquely qualified to serve your constituents and what sets you apart from your opponent?
My background as an organizer, citizen, veteran, father, and attentive leader indeed sets me apart and makes me uniquely qualified to serve my constituents. My diverse experience provides me with a multifaceted perspective that can help me understand and address the needs of the community effectively. My commitment to listening and leadership further distinguishes me as a candidate who is dedicated to serving the people with empathy and responsiveness.
What are your plans to improve the world for children in Georgia?
I am committed to providing children with consistent access to nutritious food and healthcare programs, coupled with a positive and high-quality education that begins with the dedication of educators. Furthermore, offering free after-school programs is essential for promoting both physical and mental well-being.
What do you believe are the greatest factors affecting household economies?
The economic conditions, whether local or global, can impact household finances via variables like inflation, interest rates, and general economic growth. Adapting to these external economic factors is crucial for households to uphold financial stability and resilience.
What steps should Georgia take to improve access and quality of health care for all?
Georgia should take several steps to enhance access and quality of healthcare for all its residents. One key action is to expand Medicaid to ensure more individuals have access to essential healthcare services. Additionally, promoting Telehealth Services can improve access to medical care, especially in rural or underserved areas. Moreover, increasing funding for mental health services is crucial to address the mental health needs of the population, promoting overall well-being and ensuring comprehensive healthcare coverage for all.
How do you feel you can improve public safety in the state?
I believe public safety in the state can be enhanced by overhauling the recruitment process to eliminate nepotism and ensuring that the departments reflect the diversity of the communities they serve. Also a more extensive background check with trainings that target certain areas to root out future trends of behaviors.
Would you vote to change Georgia’s abortion law in any way? How?
Yes, I would support changes to Georgia’s abortion law that prioritize an individual’s unique circumstances and leave the decision up to the individual and their healthcare provider.
What are your thoughts on Georgia’s minimum wage?
I believe that Georgia’s minimum wage should be periodically reviewed and potentially increased to ensure that it aligns with the cost of living and provides fair compensation to workers for their contributions.
Do you feel there needs to be change in gun regulations in the state or local level? If so, would regulation be a priority?
As a responsible gun owner, weapons trainer, and hunter, I strongly believe that there is a need for changes in gun regulations at both the state and local levels. Enhanced regulations are necessary to address the risks associated with lax gun laws, especially in situations where multiple individuals may have firearms, potentially posing a threat to public safety and complicating law enforcement responses. Therefore, prioritizing gun regulation reforms is crucial to ensure the safety of all individuals in our communities.
How do you see yourself creating/supporting policies related to climate change?
I would focus on supporting policies related to climate change by advocating for renewable energy initiatives, promoting sustainable practices, and encouraging investments in clean technology. Additionally, I would work towards implementing regulations to reduce carbon emissions and increase environmental awareness and conservation efforts.
How important is transparency with your constituents after being elected into office? How will you communicate with your constituents on issues?
Transparency with constituents after being elected into office is extremely important to me, and it will be a top priority. I believe there is currently a lack of transparency with the current representative, and I am committed to changing that from day one. I will communicate openly and honestly with my constituents on all issues, ensuring they receive complete and accurate information.
Is there one key issue driving your run for office? Why?
The key driving force behind my decision to run for office is the lack of accountability among our current elected representatives. I am determined to instill accountability, transparency, integrity, and morality into office, ensuring that the voices of the people are heard and represented.
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