Lee McInnis

Where McInnis stands

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

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The Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. What role would this power play in your priorities if elected?

The burden of taxes must be shared evenly across all segments of society. The working and middle classes have been carrying the burden of paying for this country for too long. We have to fix the tax code so that all, especially the ultra-rich and large corporations, pay their share. I'm asked all the time how I plan to increase government support for healthcare, education, and infrastructure without expanding the deficit. My answer is always the same: "Make sure the ultra-rich and corporations pay their fair share."

How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers?

The House of Representatives was designed to give the people an immediate voice in how their country is governed. A Member of the House has two principal jobs: to represent their constituents in the passing of laws and formation of budgets, and to hold the Executive Branch accountable for its actions. The House was never conceived as the servant of the President but rather as a coequal. The House has a Constitutional requirement to serve as a check on executive power, and investigations are the principal tools for that purpose.

What role should the United States government have in the development or use of artificial intelligence?

AI has the potential to cause as much upheaval in the economy and our culture as the industrial revolution did 250 years ago. The government must walk a very fine line. It is advantageous to everyone that the private sector be allowed to develop AI for the benefit of all. The government has the remit to ensure that this powerful tool is used for the advantage of the general public. During the Industrial Revolution, governments in many nations made numerous mistakes. The industry was allowed to run unchecked, and the needs of owners often trampled the rights of workers.

What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?

Politicians who place their personal self-interest ahead of the good of the nation. We must elect a class of servant leaders who prioritize the well-being of the country, the protection of our democratic institutions, and strive for cooperation across imagined boundaries to move this nation forward in what will be a challenging century, both domestically and internationally

Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives?

Yes. The ability to turn the majority in the House quickly serves as a check to the Executive Branch. While the current administration won the 2024 election, it did so by a very narrow margin, and its policies are proving to be highly unpopular. Flipping the House in 2026 will serve as a check to the Executive and force a more moderate approach to governance.

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

Lots of names come to mind. John Lewis is first on the list. His focus on peaceful resistance, the dignity of every person, and his quiet resolve should serve as a model for anyone who aspires to run for office. I hope to model his courage and willingness to sacrifice in doing what is right. Representative, now Senator, Tammy Duckworth is the model of a servant leader. She has already sacrificed so much for her country, and yet she continues to serve with strength, dignity, and grace. Thomas P.