Who is Pat Harrigan, a Republican candidate for U.S. House District 14?
Political party: Republican
Age as of Nov. 8, 2022: 35
Campaign website: www.harriganforcongress.com
Email: info@harriganforcongress.com
Occupation: Small Business Owner
Education: West Point Military Academy
Have you run for elected office before? (Please list previous offices sought): No
Please list your highlights of civic involvement: Combat veteran, Green Beret
What is your plan for limiting the effects of inflation?
The Biden Administration policies are wrecking an economy that was roaring in years past. Their runaway spending, out of control inflation, crippling energy prices and high taxes are ruining lives right here in Mecklenburg and Gaston Counties. We need a leader who knows what it’s like to sign the front of a paycheck; a business owner who employs over 50 people and knows how to stick to a budget. I will fight to curb inflation, cut wasteful spending, decrease taxes, and lower energy prices.
What is the federal government’s role in controlling or ending the COVID-19 pandemic?
We need to be reasonable, consistent and smart in how we deal with this pandemic and others in the future. We cannot politicize our international health on either side of the aisle. Mask mandates should no longer exist and schools should remain open. We should encourage healthy living habits and learn lessons from this pandemic. And we need to hold China accountable for their role in letting this virus spread out of control.
What is the federal government’s role in combating the effects of climate change?
To the extent that human behavior is contributing to climate change, we should see it as an economic opportunity to grow new jobs in North Carolina through renewable energy sources. However, any response to climate change should only be undertaken if it has no harmful economic effects on our citizens.
What is your plan for reducing violent crime?
We have to partner with and support law enforcement officials. Defunding the police is not an option. Our police need to be well-funded, well-trained, and well-supported to be able to do their jobs. We also need to promote policies that enable young people to have hope no matter their socioeconomic status. We need to crack down on gang violence, human trafficking, and drug dealing that leads to high crime and overcrowded prisons.
What should happen if Roe v. Wade is overturned?
I am pro-life. I’ve always believed that the Roe and Casey decisions were based on political motivations, not guiding principles that are found anywhere in the Constitution. I hope the Supreme Court corrects this errant decision and pushes the matter back to the states.
Do you trust the integrity of the election process and what, if any, changes would you make to ensure election integrity?
I support voter ID and other reforms that ensure that voting is easier and cheating is harder. I do not support a federal takeover of our election system, nor do I support federal politicians trying to overturn the election results of individual states.
This story was originally published May 3, 2022 at 8:20 AM.