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Below are candidate’s responses, organized by state. By exploring these answers, you can better understand how each candidate values the role of science in public policy and society.
Questions? Feel free to reach out to info@scipolnetwork.org or click the link below to join the movement!
Science On the Ballot Candidate Responses
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Presidential Election
Cornel West
Click any question below to expand the candidate’s answer.
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As president, I will prioritize the use of research and scientific evidence in every aspect of policy development and decision-making. Addressing the challenges we face—whether in healthcare, education, or climate change—requires solutions grounded in the best available knowledge. Scientific evidence offers us a clear, objective foundation to create policies that truly benefit the people, especially those most affected by injustice.
But it’s not just about following the data; we must listen to those voices that have been left out of these discussions. By combining research with lived experiences, we can craft policies that are effective, equitable, and just.
I will ensure that we remain accountable to the truth, constantly updating our policies as new research emerges, always committed to the well-being of the people.
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To address the devastating impacts of natural disasters like flooding, my environmental policies would focus on building resilience in vulnerable communities while tackling the root causes of climate change. First, we must invest in sustainable infrastructure—creating stronger levees, floodwalls, and stormwater management systems that protect people from these disasters. It’s about prioritizing the most affected communities, especially low-income areas and communities of color, which are too often neglected in disaster planning and recovery efforts.
Second, I would support a shift toward renewable energy and away from fossil fuels to mitigate the long-term effects of climate change, which intensifies flooding. Protecting wetlands and restoring natural ecosystems, which act as barriers against flooding, is also key.
Finally, we need to ensure that relief efforts are equitable and immediate, so that no one is left behind. I believe in policies that prepare us for disasters, respond quickly when they happen, and address the underlying environmental injustices that put vulnerable communities at risk.
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Florida
Candidates in Florida were asked the following question.
According to a 2022 Pew Research survey, since 2020 there has been a decline in public trust in scientists and medicine. What is your perspective on the current state of public trust in science and medicine, and how do you believe state policy should address this issue, if at all?
Click any candidate’s name below to expand their answer.
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Unfortunately the way in which that trust was eroded puts it beyond the government simply saying "trust the science". That is very clear. The best way to regain trust is through honest debate and conversation. Too often the answer has been to silence or suppress one side of debate. Especially now in our online world, where algorithms are designed to keep your eyes glued, you will likely only see opinions you agree with. That is not in line with the 1st Amendment, and it is not in line with garnering good will.
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Iowa
Candidates in Iowa were asked the following question about STEM in their state.
What policies will you support or introduce to make science and technology industries a greater part of Iowa's economy and ensure workers receive adequate science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education to prepare them to work in this sector?
Click any candidate’s name below to expand their answer.
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First and foremost, the way that we grow Iowa's economy and prepare our citizens to work in any sector is to invest in PK-12 public education. This foundation is critical for a host of reasons, and must be the primary focus in order for any longer-term workforce development efforts to succeed. We must be preparing citizens, not worker bees. Then we can look at specific initiatives to strengthen Iowa's competitiveness in STEM and STEM spin-off areas by ensuring that college and grad school are accessible. Those collegiate and graduate experiences are enhanced by having solid research staff that is also involved in teaching. Research initiatives are critical for the development of technologies -- far too few people understand how much of the success of our nation and our state's economies' depends on work that went into major initiatives like NASA's mission to the moon. While there are viable short-term efforts that can support industry development in this area, the critical thing that is missing over the past decade that we must now do is to invest for the long term.
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Expand access to higher education by lowering college costs through the taxation of legal recreational cannabis.
Look at tax incentives to attract innovators to Iowa.
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Technology transfer from our state universities should expand, via their research parks, funding from private and state sources to promote innovation, and more business incubators – particularly in rural areas. Expanded broadband will make some of these regions as viable for high tech as cities. I support programs to promote STEM learning, such as the STEM regional hubs and extracurricular activities like FIRST. But these must be balanced with education in history, the humanities and the arts. Public education's first duty must be to educate well-rounded citizens who can participate in democracy and think critically. I'm uncomfortable with the idea of education as a place to create workers who will fit like cogs in a machine.
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Increased funding of basic education in K-12 as well as greater funding for our state universities, especially in the STEM and Ag fields.
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Louisiana
Candidates in Louisianna were asked the following question.
How will you commit to using research and scientific evidence in your policy development and decision making?
Click any candidate’s name below to expand their answer.
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Science and music are my passions, politics is a civic duty. The laws of thermodynamics have been guiding my life, for decades. Ultimately the most sound environmental policies will always be the best economic policies, and the fundamentals of political science must be redressed, if any policies are to be legitimately promulgated. I personally, can't imagine not employing science and research, where decision making is concerned.
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I commit to using research and scientific evidence as a foundation for policy development. I will consult experts, collaborate with academic institutions, and use up-to-date information to inform policies. I prioritize transparency, making research accessible so constituents see how science drives decision-making. I’ll support evidence-based legislation, ensuring solutions are effective and resources are used efficiently in areas like healthcare, education, and the environment. By centering science and research, I aim to create sustainable, impactful policies that truly address community needs.
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Politicians should constantly seek the truest of truths. They should not rest on partial truths, they should seek the fullest truth, and they should be open to the idea of changing their minds when new information changes their picture. Science seeks truths. So, I will always seek to encourage scientific research and maintain an open stance to receive the new truths that research reveals.
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Michigan
Candidates for Michigan’s House of Representatives were asked the following question regarding their perspective on the value of STEM for Michigan Residents.
How, if at all, do you envision STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) playing a role in helping to increase the quality of life for Michigan residents and the retention of students after graduation?
Click any candidate’s name below to expand their answer.
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I think STEM serves a primary role in providing innovative new ways to improve the quality of life for Michigan residents. I’d like to see funding into training programs geared towards students and incentives in continued education after graduation.
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STEM represents a new fundamental literacy. All Michiganders should have some level of STEM education. My bill, HB 5649 requires all high schools to offer Computer Science starting in the 27-28 school year. This is just the first step in ensuring robust STEM education in all our schools.
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STEM education is vital for a healthy, prosperous Michigan. Those jobs often pay higher and lead to a better quality of life. However, STEM classes in rural or poverty stricken areas are not the same as in affluent communities. Some of our best and brightest come out of these areas and they just need the opportunities. Often, AP classes in these areas are also unavailable. As a representative I'd be a champion for better opportunities for all kids, but especially in marginalized communities.
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I'm a huge supporter of STEM! My own hobby is microscopy/ entomology and I try to share with kids the joys and lessons in learning from nature. We must encourage our students to know their own capacity for STEM and its applicability to the world around to keep students interested in the sciences.
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I believe STEM education and innovation can be a game-changer for Michigan's future. Here's how I envision STEM impacting Michigan:
1. Workforce development: Prepare students for high-demand STEM careers, addressing talent gaps and attracting businesses.
2. Innovation hubs: Establish STEM-focused incubators and accelerators, fostering entrepreneurship and job creation.
3. Infrastructure development: Leverage STEM expertise to upgrade Michigan's infrastructure, enhancing transportation, water management, and public safety.
4. Environmental sustainability: Apply STEM solutions to address environmental challenges, such as water quality and renewable energy.
5. Health and wellness: Advance healthcare through STEM research and innovation, improving outcomes and quality of life.
6. Education reform: Integrate STEM education into K-12 curricula, promoting early exposure and excitement.
7. Scholarships and grants: Offer incentives for Michigan students to pursue STEM fields, reducing financial barriers.
8. Diversity and inclusion: Prioritize underrepresented groups' participation in STEM fields, ensuring equity and diversity.
9. Partnerships and collaborations: Foster industry-academe partnerships, driving research and development.
10. Talent retention: Encourage STEM graduates to stay in Michigan, offering competitive opportunities and a high quality of life.
By investing in STEM education and innovation, we can transform Michigan's economy, improve lives, and create a brighter future for our residents. Let's make Michigan a STEM leader!
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As an educator for 29 years, I can see the need for business and schools to work together to ensure that we are preparing students for the needs of a shifting workforce. STEM skills are critical to keeping the economy competitive and provide for the demand of the higher wage positions that we can provide in Michigan.
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Michigan needs to work harder to recruit and retain young talent. We know that if residents feel they cannot advance in their careers, they will leave for other states. Investment in workforce development will be critical.
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I am a graduate of Michigan Technological University having earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemical Engineering, with honor. There is nothing I do not know about the challenges of getting all sorts of people to study in a STEM curriculum. As for increasing the quality of life, it depends upon the technological problem tackled by the STEM curriculum graduate.
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I know that STEM is being used to develop new medical devices that could help identify diseases earlier and develop better treatments.
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Let's give parents the authority to educate their children about STEM. giving parents the authority to educate will make students better. STEM is just another smoke and mirror to get away from the real problem, accountability. We need a system that says you do well you get reward and not the current system of rewarding failure.
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I have a Mathematics degree. I have a STEM minor as well. Provide a workforce with livable wages and vibrant communities. Provide economic opportunities and career training as well as sociocultural amenities.
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New York
How do you intend to support the role of science advice in policymaking, ensuring decisions are well-informed by credible scientific evidence and independent expert guidance?
If elected, will you commit to hiring a PhD level scientist in your office?
Candidates in New York state were asked the following question regarding their perspective on the role evidence in policy making.
Click any candidate’s name below to expand their answer.
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One of the most powerful things an elected leader can do is 1) recognize they are not a subject matter expert in every, single thing and 2) surround themselves with those who have done the work to learn and can then advise. I want New York to be on the cutting edge of scientific research, especially in farming and food science, which I am very passionate about.
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I intend to utilize many resources, including scientific evidence and expert guidance in policymaking. I would be open to hiring a PhD level scientist in my office.
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No PhD would likely want to work for the level of pay the Assembly offers its staffers. As someone with an MS and who has actively participated in research as a clinician, I hold science-based advice incredibly highly in not only any policymaking but generally in my day-to-day life.
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I have always tried in my life to read, consult and then come to a decision. I am sure that it could not be done without expert advice, not from just one source but from the multiple sources. A PhD level person could be just one of that process. The more open discussion we have, better we will be at decision making.
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As a practicing civil litigation attorney, I encourage the reliance upon the advice of doctors, physicians, engineers & other "professionals" that acquired advanced degrees. If elected, I intend to spearhead legislative proceedings, consultations & meetings with such professionals to render intellectual proposals regarding statewide policy & legislation. I cannot confirm whether a PhD level scientist will be hired within my Assembly office before election because of budgetary restrictions & otherwise. However, I do commit to relying upon professionals to facilitate educated determinations about policy & legislation.
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My commitment would be to embed credible, independent science into every level of policymaking, ensuring that decisions are not only well-informed but also adaptive, forward-thinking, and in the public interest. I would have no problem hiring a PhD level Scientist.
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As a retired software designer, I am a major proponent of using data, facts and science wherever indicated,possible, and necessary. The rejection of science today is one of the most dangerous aspects of the MAGA movement. I will always seek expert guidance to inform policy choices, whether or not I am able to have a Ph.D level scientist in my office.
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I believe legislation should be supported by study of the feasibility, benefits, and costs of implementing measures included in it.
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I will always confer with the experts who are knowledgeable and more experienced on the subject than me before any policy deacons are made.
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I have a doctorate in law and policy myself and am committed to data driven solutions that minimize externalities and maximize our benefits. I commit to always keeping good data at the forefront of my policymaking.
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I'm not sure that I will have that kind of funding, but certainly individuals with a Masters in environmental sciences or with a civil engineering background -- and maybe shared among legislators -- is an attractive consideration.
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I look for the best information available and seek to hear from all stakeholders and experts when making policy decisions. Unfortunately, hiring a PhD scientist in my office is not currently feasible. I hear from many leading experts and take meetings with organizations that have scientific experts on hand, routinely, but legislators have limited staffing resources. At this time, it is more practical to consult with scientific experts that are practicing in specific fields at various organizations. I can, however, commit to maintaining a position for graduate scholars that have interned in my office since I became Chair of the Assembly Committee on Banks.
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I am proud to have introduced the Scientific Integrity Act, which would set clear standards to keep public science independent from political interference - regardless of party. As a former engineer and the Chair of the Subcommittee on Environment and Climate Change, I've always been a strong advocate for science-based policymaking. I believe that credible scientific evidence and independent expert guidance are crucial for crafting effective legislation that addresses the complex challenges we face today.
Every Member of Congress can support the role of science advice in policymaking by helping to strengthen scientific agencies like the EPA, NIH, and NOAA, promoting transparency and evidence-based legislation, lifting up the voices of the scientific community, and more.
Regarding hiring practices, I'm proud to say that my office has employed PhD-level scientists in the past, and others with strong scientific backgrounds. While I can't commit to hiring a specific individual, I can assure you that I will continue to prioritize scientific expertise in my staff. This includes maintaining advisors with advanced degrees in relevant scientific fields and consulting with PhD-level scientists on complex issues.
My goal is to ensure that every policy decision I make is informed by the best available scientific evidence. I believe this approach is crucial for addressing the challenges of the 21st century, from climate change to healthcare to emerging technologies. You can count on me to be a voice for science in Congress and to fight for policies that respect and utilize scientific expertise.
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My commitment to science is evident in areas like supporting mandatory vaccination and green energy which are areas where science is appropriately applied. We have a sign "Vaccines Save Lives" outside my office. Unfortunately in social science, which is my area of expertise, the cry for data-driven legislation often falls guilty to empiricism without reference to comparative studies or theory, which is necessary when applying data in the area of social science. I believe a Ph.D. on staff would be very valuable both in my role as Chair of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse and as a member of the Health Committee. However, we do not presently have funding for such a position.
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I will commit to, where appropriate, hiring a PhD level scientist of the appropriate discipline to consult on various topics and legislative work and keeping active communications open with a wide variety of scientific experts throughout the state and country in order to have their input on what we are considering. We have a number of great universities that can be called upon for consultation.
I seriously doubt that my office operating budget would be sufficient to justify having a PhD level scientist as regular staff, to say nothing of the fact that the different legislative considerations would require input from many disciplines, so I will not commit to hiring a PhD level scientist for my office, but again, will hire a consultant where appropriate.
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Hiring for the Assembly office is more based on life experience than education level.
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I am a believer in the scientific method and the progress that humankind has made because of it.
I will always have more than one science-based person advising my policy.
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I would establish and maintain advisory panels composed of respected, independent scientists, researchers, and industry experts to review and provide evidence on issues like climate, public health, and technology. In addition, I would form partnerships with research institutions and universities to create an ongoing flow of up-to-date, peer-reviewed research that can inform policy and facilitate access to specialized expertise on emerging issues.
Yes. A PhD-level scientist would bring valuable skills in research, data analysis, and critical thinking, allowing my office to make well-informed, evidence-based decisions. This role would not only strengthen our ability to navigate scientific and technical issues but would also help communicate science-backed policy decisions clearly to the public, ensuring transparency and trust.
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Pennsylvania
A 2022 Pew Research survey shows declining public confidence in scientists and medical scientists since 2020. What policies, if any, would you support to restore trust in scientific institutions?
Candidates in Pennsylvania were asked the following question about how they approach policies surrounding trust in scientific institutions.
Click any candidate’s name below to expand their answer.
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While I absolutely support the First Amendment right to free speech, I abhor the disinformation and conspiracy theories bandied about that inculcate doubt in everyday Americans over evidence-based science and objective truth.
I believe the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has a responsibility to revise its standards so that American media can’t contribute as easily to the American distrust in scientific institutions. Labeling what is and isn’t “news” or “facts” is critical in this process.
By having well-established standards, Americans can better discern what does and doesn’t meet the definition of objective truth, make informed decisions about the source(s) of their information, and think critically about how much or little of it they will consume. Even though the FCC does not have jurisdiction over all of the media that Americans consume, I believe its accessible standards would have a beneficial effect as Americans would have something consistent to measure against their other non-standardized forms of media.
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We need to get money out of medical institutions. They should not be for-profit industries. The scientists get paid to find a certain result that benefits the person paying them to conduct the experiment - many examples of this.
Instead, we need scientists whose first, second, and third objective is to CURE the patient.
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South Carolina
How will you commit to using research and scientific evidence in your policy development and decision making?
Candidates in South Carolina were asked the following question about using scientific evidence in policy making.
Click any candidate’s name below to expand their answer.
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I believe that using research and scientific evidence in policy development is crucial for making informed decisions that benefit our students and the community. I commit to reviewing credible studies and data when considering new policies, particularly those that impact curriculum and student outcomes. I also believe that transparency is very important and will engage with parents and educators to gather their insights and experiences. It's essential to strike a balance between evidence-based practices and the values of our community, ensuring that our decisions align with our shared goals for education.
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Science based evidence is key, but as we've seen in the recent Covid Epidemic science is sometimes compromised or hijacked. I would hear all logical sides of a science based issue from different aspects and different supporting information.
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Absolutely
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I will continue to reach out to our staff or stakeholders to provide information.
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I think from an educational space we have to use scientific evidence to determine and implement both best educational practice and developmentally appropriate discipline policies in our schools. Right now we are using outdated, debunked methodologies in some of our classrooms to teach kids and I believe that is why we have seen a decline in aptitude over time.
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Although research and scientific evidence do not impact the Clerk of Court decision-making indirectly, I am concerned about the environment and the impact these decisions or policies and or research have on the environment. I am also willing to participate in any way possible for the betterment of society, including going paperless within our offices.
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My commitment is to ask for qualitative and quantitative data to support decisions and policy changes. As a researcher, I fully understand the value of knowing what supports the numbers or data prior to implementation of policy changes. Our youth, administrators, and community deserve well thought out plans of action.
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First, research and scientific evidence are not only necessary but are required, in my opinion. As a school board member, I would support science and math curriculums because, in my opinion, Science is how God (Jesus) allows us to understand the world. The better informed our students and teachers are in understanding scientific evidence, I believe it will help them make better decisions. Secondly, all decisions should be researched with fact-based information. As science changes and grows, so do we. I believe if we do this, we can make a better future for everyone involved in this world.
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NA
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As a professional educator, I understand the importance of using data to drive decisions. Data collection can be both qualitative and quantitative.
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As a former math, physics, and chemistry high school teacher and the wife of Dr. Gerald Lehmacher, Physics professor at Clemson University and the teacher of the Physics of Climate change, I use science in all my decision making especially decisions especially for polices related to climate change. I intend to research issues brought before me at the State House and use the evidence from science to inform my decision making. I believe my votes are important for today, but even more important for future generations who also want to enjoy South Carolina's beauty. I will also listen to scientists who provide information about how policies affect their profession, the earth, the human body, etc.
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YES. Research and science investment is of paramount importance to me as a candidate for Congress. It's imperative that we follow the science when it come to researching for the best methods and processes to produce our medicines, vaccines, cures, new plant life, alternative energy. The list goes on and on.
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I believe that policies should be grounded in the best available evidence, which include systematically reviewing and integrating the findings from the scientific research conducted in order to inform others of the possibilities of the effectiveness of the policies under review.
I believe that history is best qualified to reward all research and that the scientific study of an issue will help with developing a workable and productive approach to most issues.
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Any decision should be based in fact and science. I especially think any policy creation when it comes to environmental or healthcare policy ought to be driven by science.
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By acting like I got some sense!
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By leaning on the professionals in the relevant fields of study. I realize my limits as a generalist. As a writer, I do a lot of research. But political science is not a real science in that peer review and hard replicable experiments are not achievable. So before making decisions that require scientific research, then I would fully realize the dependence on experts for flushing out the correct policy decisions.
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All of my decisions will be fully informed by verifiable facts. I will use AI to conduct thorough, specific research on all policies I propose, making sure the policies are viable & in the best interests of the electorate.
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Board members are governed by State statues and district policies and they are held accountable if they are not followed. I have always used research and evidence to support my decisions. As a matter of fact, I have been labeled the policy guy. Therefore, this will not be new for me. My peers may feel at times I am trying to be a know it all, but I will insist all members used these methods to collect all information prior to making decisions for our scholars, teachers and constituents.
Again, this has always been my method on decision making.
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I will use scientific evidence in my policy development and decision making by evaluating the information and applying it in a strategic way to the benefit of the greater needs and safety of the community.
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I will use every avenue of research and evidence available to me to make policies. I believe in logic, equality, and scientific fact. I want policies that demonstrate a well thought out plan that has evidence it will produce quantifiable change.
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Every choice has a consequence and every policy has an impact. I believe the most equitable way to understand those consequences and impacts are to research how they have worked in other places, to obtain input from those who will enjoy benefits and especially those who will bear or have born the costs, and to use data to ask more questions rather than weaponizing it.
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I will base my decisions on scientific research, not on quasi-scientific political opinions that were developed to support a politician's funded issue.
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I think scientists who research the topics I'd be legislating should be heard and their opinion should be held in much higher esteem than they are currently. if the research is solid and good for the people I think their policy recommendations should be listened to.
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If elected school board trustee, I am committed to using research and scientific evidence to guide policy decisions that impact our students, teachers, and community. I believe in an evidence-based approach, where decisions are informed by the latest peer-reviewed studies and reputable sources in education, child development, and related fields. To achieve this, I will regularly consult with experts, including educators, researchers, and professionals, to ensure our policies are grounded in the best available knowledge.
Transparency is key to building trust, so I will communicate clearly how research informs our decisions, explaining methodologies and making the process open to parents, teachers, and the broader community. Policies must be flexible and adaptable, so I will advocate for regular reviews and updates based on emerging evidence, ensuring that we stay responsive to new developments in education and learning.
Supporting research in education is essential, and I will work to promote initiatives that fund studies aimed at improving student outcomes. By collaborating with academic institutions and educational organizations, we can bridge the gap between research and practical application. In cases of conflicting evidence, I will rely on the most robust, replicable studies, ensuring that our decisions are driven by sound, reliable science for the benefit of our students.
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I will conduct comprehensive reviews of existing research and data relevant to the policy area. Additionally, I will collaborate with experts, researchers, and stakeholders to gather insights and perspectives.
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I will commit to using research and scientific evidence in Congress by following the advice of and research from professionals in their fields. For example, if climate scientists believe that the Lowcountry is one of the most at-risk areas for climate impact in the U.S., which it is, then I will consider them and act accordingly. As opposed to my opponent, who changed her mind on scientific areas such as vaccines and climate change, I recognize the value of our experts in different fields. I will leverage their abilities to make policy decisions and always welcome input.
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I will always commit to deep research and utilize the scientific method as a basis for any policy I commit to.
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The school system has a lot of great thinkers. What I plan to do is listen to those speaking wisdom and knowledge. I will then apply the twenty years of experience that I have from being on the board to do what is best for CCSD.
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I will seek to abstain all available evidence before making my decision without analysis paralysis.
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I believe that solid policy-making must be informed by research and scientific evidence to make well-rounded and effective decisions. I’m committed to using the best data available to guide decisions on our school board. My goal is to ensure that policies are not only backed by evidence but are also practical and adaptable to our district’s unique needs. When evaluating new programs, curricula, or policies, I’ll advocate for reviewing studies, consulting experts, and assessing best practices from similar districts. By combining data-driven insights with community input, we can make balanced decisions that truly benefit our students, educators, and schools.
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In order to make sound decision making, you must first research the matter to have factual knowledge, be inviting and accessible to the constituents and always provide evidence to validate your point of views. Always be willing to listen and establish positive relationships.
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By reading the federal and state laws publicly available online. In addition, to reading the local policies pertaining to school board leader authorities. I will utilize evidence-based decisions using pre-existing data from the state education department and other sources to make informed decisions and by the guidance of Jesus Christ.
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I commit to listening to experts who are properly accredited in their fields. I will of course ask questions and request further clarification but I know that I am NOT an expert in all things that makes the world go round, and will lean on others for their expertise.
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First and foremost, I want to state very clearly that I believe in science. I am not a scientist, so I am not the expert. I will not be a politician who pretends to be an expert in fields where I am not one. I will rely on professionals in the field to help me make science backed decisions.
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I will continue to refer to the experts to guide me in structuring policy. I will continue to seek to expand my network so that I can have a growing list of experts to enlist their help.
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School boards are tasked with educating children. Science is the foundation of education