Why I'm running for the Arizona State House in LD2

 

I can’t remember the last time I was excited by my voting options.

Political discourse has descended into an us-against-them mentality and the major parties have encouraged it. Our problems in Arizona remain, not because they are unsolvable, but because parties need them as a wedge to rally their base to vote. They punish lawmakers for working in a bipartisan way, even at the expense of their own voters, to prevent the other side from having a "win".

Members of the "other" party aren't enemies to be vanquished. They're men and women that a majority of their constituency elected to be their voice in the political process. Everyone being heard is the very essence of democracy.

As an independent candidate for office, I am committed to running a positive and principled campaign.

I believe that by focusing on the issues that matter most to Arizonans, and by working with lawmakers from all parties to find common ground, we can create a brighter future for our state.

We need leaders who bring people together to solve problems with respect and cooperation, rather than division and hostility. We deserve a government where all Arizonans can have their voices heard and their concerns addressed, regardless of political affiliation.

If elected, I will be accountable only to the people of Arizona, not beholden to a particular party, and I'll work with whoever I need to, regardless of party, to tackle the problems that face us and address the issues relevant to Arizonans.

 

ABOUT ME

 

Tom Simes
 

I was born and raised in Council Bluffs, Iowa. My father was a city bus driver and my mother, a nurse.

I began my career path writing, recording and performing as a professional musician.

I then switched gears and earned a degree in eBusiness and for the next 25+ years, I worked as a software engineer for companies like Hewlett Packard and Compaq.

I'm currently the owner of a successful comedy club here in the Valley.

I've lived in the Moon Valley area of North Phoenix for more than 14 years with my wife Linda, who works in the nonprofit sector. We're the proud parents of one daughter who attends Northern Arizona University.

IN THE MEDIA

 

July 1, 2024 - Meet Tom Simes, an Independent for the Arizona State House

https://goodparty.org/blog/article/meet-tom-simes-independent-arizona-state-house


 

April 11, 2024 - Meet your House District 2 candidates

https://www.yourvalley.net/stories/meet-congressional-district-2-candidates,490295


 

April 3, 2024 - Nearly all candidate challenges are resolved, setting the 2024 ballot

https://azmirror.com/2024/04/29/nearly-all-candidate-challenges-are-resolved-setting-the-2024-ballot/


 

March 28, 2024 - Strong Support In AZ HD-02 For Congressional Term Limits

https://www.termlimits.com/tom-simes-pledges-to-support-congressional-term-limits

THE ISSUES

 

Women's Rights

Respecting abortion rights is consistent with principles of personal freedom and religious liberty. People may have varying religious or moral perspectives on abortion, and they should be empowered to make choices in accordance with their own beliefs, without interference from governmental or religious bodies. Upholding abortion rights safeguards individuals' ability to live according to their own convictions and values, ensuring they're free from undue pressure or bias.

 

Education

Investing in teachers and education funding is crucial for the development and prosperity of any society.

Adequate funding ensures that they have the necessary resources, training, and support to deliver high-quality education. By prioritizing education funding, we empower teachers to create dynamic and engaging learning environments, address diverse student needs, and implement innovative teaching methods.

Additionally, investing in career readiness programs and partnerships with industries ensures students gain real-world experience and connections, bridging the gap between education and the workforce. By prioritizing these areas, schools can empower students to thrive in an ever-evolving world and contribute meaningfully to society's future.

 

Second Amendment

The Second Amendment is integral to safeguarding individual liberties and ensuring that citizens can defend themselves, their families, and their property if necessary.

While supporting the right to bear arms, it's imperative to implement measures that promote responsible gun ownership. This includes comprehensive background checks, safety training programs, and secure storage requirements. By encouraging responsible gun ownership practices, we can mitigate the risks associated with firearms while respecting individuals' rights to possess them.

In order to prevent those who shouldn't own guns from acquiring them, we must strengthen and enforce laws aimed at keeping firearms out of the hands of dangerous individuals. This includes closing loopholes in background check systems, implementing red flag laws that allow for the temporary removal of firearms from individuals deemed to be a threat to themselves or others, and investing in mental health resources to address underlying issues that may contribute to gun violence.

 

Immigration

Ensuring order and security at the border is essential for upholding the rule of law and protecting national sovereignty. This includes implementing effective border enforcement measures, such as increased patrols, surveillance technology, and strategic infrastructure improvements. By strengthening border security, we can prevent illegal entry and reduce the flow of drugs, weapons, and human trafficking across our borders, thus safeguarding our communities and national security interests.

At the same time, we must recognize the humanitarian imperative to address the plight of undocumented immigrants who are already living and contributing to our communities. Many undocumented immigrants have deep roots in the United States, including family ties, employment, and community connections. It's morally and practically untenable to simply deport millions of individuals who have built their lives here, often fleeing violence, persecution, or economic hardship in their home countries.

Providing a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants already residing in the United States offers a practical and compassionate solution to address this complex issue. This pathway should involve fulfilling certain criteria, such as paying taxes, passing background checks, and demonstrating a commitment to integrating into American society. By legalizing the status of undocumented immigrants and enabling them to become full members of our society, we can promote social cohesion, economic prosperity, and shared values of inclusion and opportunity.

 

CONTACT

 



facebook.com/TomSimes4AZ
twitter.com/TomSimes4AZ
instagram.com/TomSimes4AZ

 

428 E Thunderbird Rd
Box 305
Phoenix, AZ 85022