Paulina Morris

AFM: Where do you currently live in your district?

PM: I live in the southern part of the district in the Lincoln Rd. and 24th Street area.

AFM: Why are you running for Congress?

PM: I’m running for Congress because I care about the same things we all care about: my family, my faith, my community, and my country. I’ve worked in both the public and private sector, community involvement and public service has always been extremely important to me.

So, in 2004, when the voters of Maricopa County decided to save their county’s health care system, I ran and was elected by over 62,000 voters (the majority of whom live in CD 3) to the Maricopa County Special Healthcare District board. Elected as chairman by my fellow board members 2 of my 4 years on the board, I helped the district go from $12 million in debt to $97 million in the bank, making me the only candidate in this race with experience in cutting budgets and fixing broken government.

It’s no secret constituents believe Washington is broken. So when Congressman Shadegg decided to retire, I knew it was time for someone to step up who had the experience and thoughtful leadership we need in Washington right now.

AFM: What will be your biggest challenge winning?

PM: My biggest challenge in winning this race is three-fold. First, I must overcome efforts by those who seek to use their personal fortune to buy the election and a seat in Congress. Next, it is necessary to highlight those in the race who are attempting to use their family name in place of experience and hard work. Finally, I will remind the voters of this district why they elected me with over 62,000 votes just 6 years ago, and the achievemenAFM: ts I accomplished on their behalf.

AFM: What is the first issue you will address if you are in Congress in 2011?

PM: I have a passion for healthcare and I am experienced in that field. My years chairing the Maricopa Integrated Healthcare System taught me that today more than ever, we must tackle this critical, multi-faceted issue and ensure the radical plans put forth recently are corrected. I look forward to using my education and experience in this area to good use for the citizens of District 3.

AFM: How much money have you currently raised?

PM: As I noted earlier, we are in a race with those who are attempting to buy the election with personal wealth or substitute a famous family name for real knowledge of the job. I am not a bored millionaire or a member of a political dynasty. We have a budget for our race which allows us to communicate with the voters and are fortunate to enjoy the support of community leaders, the business community and individuals seeking a common sense approach to the issues facing our country.

AFM: Who is your mentor and why?

PM: My mother escaped Cuba and the dictatorship ruling that country in 1960 because she knew she could never live in a communist country. After the death of her husband, she raised her four girls by herself. She taught me to work hard and make a difference in your community. She never took a hand-out or relied on the government to make ends meet. Her proudest moment was becoming a citizen of this country. I could not ask for a better mentor and role model.

For more information on Paulina Morris, visits www.paulinaforcongress.com.