Josh Balter

What would be your top three priorities, if elected?

Ensure the enactment of laws which benefit the working class and poor Raise revenue without hurting the people Champion women's rights

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Veteran affairs - I am a combat vet Laws which better the lives of people (paid family leave, union support, fair budgets, investing in our people, education, equal pay for equal work, and other social progressive values) - because the measure of one's life is whether or not they made the world a better place. Environment - we only have one planet and we must protect it for all.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I look up to my mother because she taught me that it was my purpose in life to use whatever talent I might have to make the lives of other people better. She didn't just say these words, she showed me by example.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Honesty, Integrity, selflessness, intelligence, respect for others, ability to listen, ability to talk with people and not at them, knowledge of the issues, a plan on what to do, knowing that serving in office is not for personal benefit but for the benefit of those you represent.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

As an attorney I know how to write laws which accomplish goals without unintended consequences. I have a proven history as a successful negotiator and mediator. My background in the military led me to have many friends on the other side of the aisle which has taught me how to listen and value their positions without compromising my values or integrity. I know how to work hard, get the job done, and not make excuses. My honesty, you can trust what I say. I know how to be both a leader and a team player.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

To serve the people and not themselves.

What legacy would you like to leave?

The world was a better place because he was in it.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

I was at a Vietnam War protest with my mother. I couldn't have been older than 4.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

First real job was working in an ice cream parlor. I had it for about a year.

What is your favorite holiday? Why?

Thanksgiving. It's about coming together to appreciate what is in your life and other people. It is the least commercialized.

What is your favorite book? Why?

Oh The Places You Will Go - because it is full of hope and encouragement to explore the world, learn new things, meet new people, and not let the negatives you encounter become what you are about.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Being accepted. Being a Democrat in the Navy for 20 years usually made me the "different" one.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

No, but they need to have experience that can transfer to serving in government.

What do you perceive to be your state’s greatest challenges over the next decade?

Fiscal

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

It's a must in-order to get your bills passed.

If you are not a current legislator, are there certain committees that you would want to be a part of?

Fiscal, Veterans, Transportation

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

Abraham Lincoln

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

Not at this time.

Both sitting legislators and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

I had an elderly woman tell me that the constant threat of rescinding her medicaid supplement and increased taxes always scares her that one day she may not be able to afford food and medicine and that she might lose her home. She was a teacher for over 40 years. It broke my heart and angered me that she should have to have these fears.