Back in February 2020 The Congressional Report interviewed Antonio in his capacity as a Presidential Candidate. Now, in July 2020 he is a candidate once again. Noteworthy is that the Minority Whip has since switched parties. A few of the questions we asked him were the same or very similar both times and we thought it would be insightful to put Antonio’s answers side by side.
Why do you think you should be President?
Feburary
I know I would be a good [P]resident because I feel I have great leadership and I strive for unity in both parties, I’m a very determined person and when I feel things need to get done I get them done.
July
I am willing to do whatever it takes to preserve the integrity of this beloved nation. I will do the best of my ability to serve this country. I have planned to run for a while and I believe I am finally ready to take this on.
How would you describe yourself politically?
February
I would consider myself a centrist or a mild conservative, I have views on both sides but I side more with the right.
July
I’m very libertarian, I am extremely progressive and I would consider myself somewhere in the center economically.
What do you like to do for fun?
February
I play lots of PlayStation, and I watch a lot of sports. And in the season I play American Football.
July
I usually find Virtual congress taking up a lot of my time and I find that very fun, I also run and lift weights and occasionally I’d hang out with friends or play PS4.
What is your favorite book?
February
I’m not a very big reader, [b]ut my [f]avorite book is probably Home Team by a NFL coach, Sean Payton.
July
Of Mice and Men.
What would be your first priority as President?
February
It would have to depend what happens in the upcoming days I guess. One of the things I don’t like is how the [P]resident has to sign off a bill. But immediately I would be open to suggestions or constructive criticism.
July
Heavy police and justice system reform.
What are your views on healthcare?
February
I think everyone should get the same quality of healthcare but I don’t believe in universal healthcare, I just think it should be more affordable. Obviously as [P]resident I would work towards that.
July
I believe in a public option, but I respect and have no problem with private healthcare organizations.
Elaborate on your foreign policy philosophy
February
I feel we have to work more with other countries and avoid conflict at all costs. We have to be more cooperative.
July
I would view foreign policy as opportunity to create, and strengthen relationships outside of the US. And as president I will be willing to do exactly that.
What do you view as a political issue that isn’t discussed enough?
February
The hatred to this country from our own people. Obviously they have their right to like it or not. But if we want to stay united we need to get people to accept this country.
July
The conflicts in Africa, including but not limited to, Liberia, DRC, Sudan.
If you had to summarize what your campaign stands for in one word, what would that be?
February
Unity.
July
Opportunity.
The Congressional Report 