Lorenzo J. Santos
Candidate for Congress
Democrat
Racine
Elected Experience
None
Q&A with the Candidate
Why should voters send you to congress?
The federal government is being dismantled from the top down. We need someone that understands government from the bottom up. As someone who has worked at the local level and served at the federal level, I have broad experience as a Navy veteran, emergency manager, former regional sales manager in the manufacturing industry and as a Navy reservist to see things from many different perspectives and use that knowledge to advocate for the people of the first district. Regardless of party, I will stand up for all Wisconsinites in the first district to ensure there is an economy that works for us all, that everyone has access to quality healthcare and that their right to vote is protected.
What is the top issue in your district? How would you address it?
Hard working Wisconsinites are doing everything right but still struggling in this economy. Everyone should be able to afford groceries, no one should have to hold their breath when they are pumping their gas due to high prices and no one should worry that they can't pay their bills, especially those working full-time. Healthcare is an expense we all know is necessary, but it's simply out of reach because we have an administration that doesn't think it's a priority to ensure everyone has access to quality healthcare and Bryan Steil doesn't want us to have it even though we pay for his.
What expertise would you bring into congress? How would it help your district?
I have been blessed as the child of a career Navy dentist. That afforded my siblings and I the opportunity to live overseas and all over the country to meet people from all walks of life. I served in the Navy on active duty and as a reservist. I know the diversity of our world is our strength, and we need people in Congress who can combat the limited thinking of those who don't agree. I served in local government as an emergency manager, an expert in coordinating resources and stakeholders to achieve the best outcomes. I understand how best to leverage the power and resources of the federal government to help state and local partners and will do so when I get to Washington.
Should Congress exert more oversight over the president? Why or why not?
Yes, but not only over the president. Over its own power. Congress has ceded too much of its power to the executive branch and needs to take ownership of its role in regulating commerce and the power of the purse. The reason our economy is so devastated is because we allowed a failed businessman to take the reins of the world's largest economy and some of our neighbors miraculously expected positive results where he has never demonstrated any. My hope is that now that it is clearer than ever that Donald Trump is demonstrably inept, even Republican members of Congress will lend a hand in getting the economy back on track due to his failed leadership.
What is your favorite fun Wisconsin history fact?
I'm a huge fan of The West Wing and I think it's great that Bradley Whitford is from Madison. His character, Josh Lyman even helped a Santos get elected in season 7.