Jeff Flake, a fifth-generation Arizonan, presently serving his sixth term in Congress, represents the Sixth Congressional District of Arizona. Flake is determined and ready to ignite various changes that will help rebuild the Valley’s economy as well as provide a better future for generations to come.
AFM: What do you love about Arizona?
Flake: Aside from Arizona’s weather and natural beauty, I would have to say that I love the people. Whether you’re a native or a recent transplant, Arizonans have always enjoyed contrarian independence in our political representation. That’s given me the freedom in Congress to vote my conscience and do what I believe is right, rather than what I think may be popular.
AFM: How long have you lived here?
Flake: All my life. I’m a fifth-generation Arizonan, raised on a ranch in Snowflake.
AFM: What impact does your family play on you as you run for Senate?
Flake: Obviously, I couldn’t run for U.S. Senate without my family's blessing and support. Congressional service is a huge sacrifice for a family, and I’ve unfortunately missed more football games and dance recitals than I care to mention. I’ve been extremely grateful for my family’s support and understanding.
AFM: What sparked your interest in international relations?
Flake: It was during a Mormon mission in southern Africa in the 1980s that I first became interested in international affairs. I was fascinated by the affect that U.S. policies can and do have overseas. My time abroad also instilled in me just how fortunate I am to live in a country where freedom and liberty are too often taken for granted.
AFM: What made you decide to run for Senate?
Flake: Simply put, I believe our country is headed in the wrong direction. The federal government taxes, spends and regulates too much. As a result, we’re facing a fiscal crisis that can’t be tackled until the U.S. Senate has more members that are willing to cut spending and enact policies that create a pro-growth economic environment. Sen. Jon Kyl has been a tremendous leader in this regard, but when he announced his retirement, I decided it was time for me to step up and run for his seat.
AFM: What is one of the first issues you would change in Arizona if you were elected for Senate?
Flake: The fiscal crisis facing our country casts a black cloud over every function of government. Unless it’s dealt with, it’s going to be impossible for our country to maintain the level of growth and prosperity that we’ve become accustomed to. It would be tragic to leave the country to the next generation is worse shape than we got it. In the Senate, my focus will be on addressing this crisis and getting the country back on to sound fiscal footing.
