U.S. CONGRESS 11TH DISTRICT

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

DEMOCRAT

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.

REPUBLICAN

NICK SOMBERG

Nicholas Somberg of West Bloomfield holds a degree in accounting and a law degree from the Thomas M. Cooley Law School.

Israel – Hamas War

I want people to stop dying and for there to be peace. Endless war only leads to more suffering, and when innocents are caught in the crossfire, new terrorists are created, perpetuating a cycle of violence. Strong leadership, like that of Donald Trump, would have prevented this violence from escalating. Unfortunately, weak leadership under Joe Biden and Kamala Harris has emboldened Hamas to act without fear of meaningful consequences. However, I am running for U.S. Congress, not the Congress of Palestine or Israel. The U.S. Constitution prioritizes the protection of American citizens and the common defense. My focus is on defending the United States and its people, not getting involved in endless foreign conflicts. The Constitution grants Congress the power to provide for the common defense, but it does not mandate involvement in foreign disputes that do not directly threaten our national security. Our priority should be America's interests first, without engaging in unnecessary foreign entanglements.

Ukraine Support

I am the pro-peace candidate. I am anti-offensive wars. American freedom, prosperity, our way of life, and our loved ones should be protected, but we cannot be the world’s police. The U.S. Constitution grants Congress the power to declare war and oversee military engagements. It is clear that our founders intended for foreign military involvement to be carefully considered and debated by our elected representatives. No more entanglement in foreign wars, no more nation-building, and no more sending our money and troops abroad. The U.S. should honor any foreign agreements made, as required by the Constitution, but with our debt out of control, we must prioritize America first and avoid overextending ourselves. At this time, we should not commit to anything extra that burdens our taxpayers and risks American lives.

Supreme Court Concerns

The Constitution provides for lifetime appointments to ensure an independent judiciary, free from political pressures.

Border Immigration Problem

I am not familiar with the bill. The Constitution gives Congress the authority to regulate immigration and protect our borders. Any legislation must align with these constitutional responsibilities, prioritizing the safety and security of American citizens. I would support a bill that strengthens border security, upholds the rule of law, and ensures that immigration is conducted legally and fairly, in line with constitutional principles.

National Abortion Policy

The Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states. I believe abortion policy should be determined by individual states, allowing them to reflect the values and beliefs of their residents. This approach respects the Constitution’s federalist structure and the principle of state sovereignty.

Further Regulation of Election Money

The First Amendment protects free speech, which includes the right to support political campaigns through donations. While transparency is crucial, any regulation of campaign finance must not infringe on these fundamental rights. I support measures that enhance transparency and accountability while respecting the constitutional protections of free speech and association.

Global warming policies

I believe that the climate has always and will always change. While recognizing the importance of environmental stewardship, I do not believe that stifling industry or giving the government more money will significantly alter our climate. There is a clear distinction between alarmism and genuine concern for pollution. Pollution of our water, land, and air should not be tolerated, and I support measures to reduce pollution and protect our natural resources.

• Balanced Approach: We need to address environmental concerns without sacrificing economic growth and energy independence.

• Reject Alarmism: I oppose alarmist views that demand drastic, immediate changes that harm our economy.

• Pollution Control: We should not tolerate pollution of our water, land, or air. Effective regulations and policies are necessary to protect our natural resources.

• Energy Independence: I support an “all of the above” energy policy that includes traditional energy sources alongside renewable energy, ensuring our nation is energy independent and not reliant on foreign oil.

• Technological Innovation: Encouraging technological innovation and market-based solutions can lead to more efficient and cleaner energy production without imposing heavy regulatory burdens.

• Wildlife Protection: I am committed to protecting our wildlife and animals from cruelty, pollution, and over-hunting. Conservation efforts are vital to maintaining biodiversity and ensuring that future generations can enjoy our natural heritage.

By focusing on practical, balanced solutions, we can protect our environment while ensuring economic stability and energy independence for future generations.

Validity of Voting Returns

Yes, I accepted the results of the 2020 presidential election after all legal challenges were addressed. I believe in the integrity of our electoral process and will also accept the results of the 2024 national and state elections, provided that all challenges are resolved and the process is transparent and fair. Ensuring that every legal vote is counted is essential to maintaining trust in our democracy.