U.S. CONGRESS 11TH DISTRICT - DEMOCRAT
Birmingham, Bloomfield Township, Bloomfield Hills, Pontiac, Auburn Hills, Waterford, West Bloomfield, Orchard Lake, Commerce, Wixom, White Lake, Walled Lake, Farmington, Farmington Hills, Part of Novi, Troy, Oak Park, Clawson, Berkley, Huntington Woods, Ferndale, Royal Oak, Madison Heights
AHMED GHANIM
Ahmed “A.G.” Ghanim is in medical administration at a university healthcare. A resident of Ferndale, he attended Cairo University School of Medicine. He is a co-founder of Metro-Detroit Political Action Network.
Israel – Hamas war
We need a holistic approach that prioritizes American national security. For the last 20 years, American foreign policy has been counterproductive and has not served the long-term goals of our national security. We spent billions of dollars on the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the outcomes were unfavorable. To create stability in the Middle East, we must forge partnerships with the people of the region, not just the dictatorial regimes. I support any step that achieves this goal and oppose any action that escalates the situation, as this is crucial for American national security and the safety of both Palestinians and Israelis. I am originally from the Middle East. I know the Middle East like the back of my hand, and 75 years of wars have not brought peace or security to the Israeli people.
Ukraine support
We need a bipartisan evaluation of our actions in this conflict and reassess the effectiveness of the billions we keep pouring into this war, as well as the casualties on the Ukrainian side. Several critical questions must be asked: Can Ukraine win this war? Is there a path for negotiations and peace to end this conflict and bring a deal to the table? What is our exit strategy in this involvement? What is the long-term plan for this war? We cannot continue spending on a war without evaluating our progress and the outcomes thus far. The decision to continue or withdraw our support should not be based on partisan politics but rather on an evaluation that prioritizes American interests, aligns with the realities on the ground and holds our allies accountable. The American people should know all the facts, and as a representative, I will represent the informed decision of the people, not partisan politics.
Supreme Court concerns
As a Democratic candidate for Congress, I believe in maintaining the integrity and accountability of our judiciary, including the U.S. Supreme Court. I would support a constitutional amendment imposing term limits on Supreme Court justices, as lifetime appointments can lead to a lack of accountability and may not reflect the evolving values and needs of our society. Additionally, I strongly support establishing enforceable ethics restrictions on Supreme Court justices, similar to the 1973 Code of Conduct that applies to all other federal judges. Clear, enforceable ethics rules would promote transparency, accountability, and fairness, ensuring the Supreme Court adheres to the highest standards of ethical conduct and maintains public trust.
Border immigration problem
As a Democratic candidate, I am familiar with the basics of the bipartisan bill that aimed to address the southern border immigration issue, and I am disappointed that it was rejected, primarily due to organized Republican opposition. I believe that comprehensive immigration reform is essential for the well-being of our country. We should also examine the root causes of the border crisis. Why are millions of immigrants risking their lives and fleeing their own countries? Has our foreign policy contributed to instability, and can we create local economic opportunities by partnering with their governments and civil societies? I would support similar legislation that seeks to balance border security with a humane and effective immigration system. Such legislation should include provisions for strengthening border security, streamlining the legal immigration process, and providing a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants who contribute to our society. It is crucial to work across party lines to develop solutions that reflect our values and address the complex challenges of immigration in a fair and pragmatic manner.
National abortion policy
Yes, protecting women's rights is essential at both the federal and state levels of government. At the federal level, laws and policies should provide protections and standards that apply nationwide, safeguarding fundamental rights such as access to healthcare, reproductive freedom, equal pay and protection against discrimination and violence.
Global warming policies
I believe that combating global warming is a critical priority that requires bipartisan cooperation and pragmatic solutions. While I acknowledge the importance of addressing climate change and supporting efforts to transition to cleaner energy sources, I also recognize the need to balance environmental protection with economic considerations and job creation. It's essential to pursue policies that promote sustainability and reduce carbon emissions while also supporting industries and communities that may be impacted by these changes.
Further regulation of election money
I'm deeply concerned about the influence of dark money in our elections, which is why I'm running for office. Millions of dark dollars are pouring in from outside the 11th district, distorting our democracy and drowning out the voices of ordinary citizens. It's essential that we enact further regulation of campaign donations to protect the integrity of our democracy. We must implement strict contribution limits, increase transparency and disclosure requirements, and overturn harmful Supreme Court decisions like Citizens United. By reforming our campaign finance system, we can ensure that elections are fair and that elected officials are accountable to the people, not wealthy donors. Restoring faith in our democratic institutions requires putting the interests of everyday Americans ahead of corporate interests.
Validity of voting returns
I accept the results of the presidential election in 2020. It's crucial to respect the democratic process and the will of the voters, even if the outcome may not align with our individual preferences. Moving forward, I will continue to accept the returns from both national and state elections, as upholding the integrity of our electoral system is fundamental to our democracy. It's essential that all elected officials, regardless of party affiliation, respect the results of fair and transparent elections and work to ensure the legitimacy and trustworthiness of our democratic institutions.
HALEY STEVENS
Haley Stevens of Birmingham is the incumbent U.S. Representative for the 11th District in Congress, a position she has held since 2018. Stevens graduated with both her B.A. in political science and philosophy and M.A. in social policy and philosophy from American University. Prior to serving in Congress, she was a special advisor in the U.S. Department of Commerce, Economic Development Administration, and served as chief of staff for the U.S. Treasury's Auto Rescue.
Israel – Hamas war
Since October 7th, I have stood with Israel, our greatest ally in the Middle East, and have supported Israel’s right to defend herself. For this war to end, Hamas must surrender and release the hostages immediately. I have proudly supported each funding package for our ally and applauded when President Biden signed the Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act into law. This package also included humanitarian aid to those suffering in Gaza at the expense of Hamas. War is a terrible event, and it must be acknowledged that Israel did not start this war. In the face of tyranny, the United States has a responsibility to stand up for democracies around the world. In Congress through the Abraham Accords Caucus, I am actively participating in bipartisan dialogues alongside the Israeli government about what the post-war plan for Gaza looks like. We must acknowledge and remain committed to a two-state solution not where Israel makes all the concessions, but where two states, a democratic Palestine and Israel live peacefully and with security side-by-side under mutual recognition.
Ukraine support
I have been battling Russia’s dictator Vlademir Putin since my first days in office when he wrongfully detained and illegally imprisoned my constituent, Paul Whelan. Since Russia’s unjustified invasion of Ukraine, I have supported Ukraine’s right to defend itself from Putin’s aggression. I will not waiver from this support and was proud to vote for the Ukraine Security Supplemental Appropriations Act earlier this year to help replenish Ukraine’s military’s might. I would support sending members of our military to train the Ukrainian’s military, but do not favor sending Americans to the frontlines of the war. The Ukrainian American community in Michigan is beautiful and united and I cherish the time I spend alongside them to help Ukraine win this war.
Supreme Court concerns
It has become clear that some Supreme Court justices have been abusing their position of power for their personal and financial interests. We have also seen a justice displaying radical political symbols, not only creating a conflict of interest but further eroding the public's opinion of our highest court. I support enforcing restrictions on Supreme Court justices and ensuring that they are held to a higher ethical standard. Should that legislation come to the House floor I would support it. I am also open to term limits or expanding the Court should thoughtful legislation come before Congress.
Border immigration problem
I was supportive of the bipartisan legislation President Biden and the Senate negotiated and remain disappointed that a few decided to oppose this consensus approach because Donald Trump told them to wait until after the election. Our immigration system is broken, and we must move towards action rather than just political talking points. I believe we must approach immigration with empathy, compassion and support legal pathways for people to live the American dream. In addition, immigrants are key members of our workforce, and we must strengthen safe, legal pathways to obtaining highly skilled workers in a globally competitive marketplace. Securing our borders and having a plan for our economic competitiveness are essential policy goals our country must achieve. We can either continue to play politics and kick the can down the road, or make compromises, achieve security and expand the American dream. I am very eager to support the latter approach.
National abortion policy
Yes. In the post-Roe era, we absolutely must enshrine the right to abortion at the federal level, so all women have access to the healthcare that they need. That is why I am an original co-sponsor of the Women’s Health Protection Act this Congress and have voted in support of the legislation in past Congresses. When I am re-elected and Democrats take back the House next Congress, passing this and other pieces of women’s health legislation will be a top priority.
Global warming policies
I am proud of the path on which President Biden has led our country to combat climate change. I have and will continue to champion the Inflation Reduction Act, the largest investment in reducing carbon emissions in U.S history. Since this legislation became law, we have seen a surge in clean energy manufacturing projects, totaling billions of dollars of investment and creating hundreds of thousands of jobs. The bill is transformational for our climate and our economy, and I am grateful for President Biden’s steadfast leadership on this issue. The world is moving toward a carbon neutral future and to ensure American leadership for generations to come, we need to make sure that we are investing now in tomorrow’s technologies and innovations. In addition, I support the measures the Biden Administration has taken through the Environmental Protection Agency to keep our air clean and drinking water safe. These have been necessary regulations that support consumer and community safety.
Further regulation of election money
Money in politics has gotten out of control. As a member of Congress, I have been committed to anti-corruption and reforming our democracy. I have supported and advocated for the For the People Act every term during my tenure, which would drastically overhaul how we fund our campaigns. I am committed to ensuring our democracy works for the people instead of billionaire donors. We particularly need to address anonymous vehicles that filter into independent expenditures known as dark money. Citizens United is an unfortunate case of the U.S Supreme Court which has expanded mistrust in our political system. It all must change. And until it does, I work to remain transparent and accessible to the constituents of the 11th district, whether that is participating in public community events, taking meeting requests, and responding to constituent concerns as they come before my desk.
Validity of voting returns
Yes and yes on 2020 and 2024 results.
