On January 15, I launched my exploratory committee and I want to answer some of your questions.

Why run for Congress?

I have always been interested in politics and I’ve often considered a run for office a lifetime goal, but it was when our district was restructured and Rep. Gwen Moore won a fifth term that I decided to seriously consider my own run for Congress.

Like so many of you, I am frustrated with today’s political climate.  Congress seems more divided than ever. Issues such as the budget deficit, security and healthcare reform go unsolved.  Career politicians appear to place their egos above the best interests of our nation.  This is unacceptable.

Rather than continue to complain about it, I want to change things. Politics is not war.  We are all Americans before we are Republicans or Democrats.  Why have so many people forgotten this important fact?

Having different opinions and political ideologies is not detrimental. Our ability to express these views is one of the best things about our country.  Elected officials must realize that they serve the entire nation rather than their political parties and own interests.  I pledge to have the courage to work with all members of Congress regardless of political affiliation to achieve consensus.

How does it work?

The first step in a modern run for Congress (at least for me) involved a Google search.  I located the Federal Election Commission’s Campaign Guide for Congressional Candidates and Committees August 2011 (PDF). Chapter 1 is titled Testing the Waters and instructs forming an exploratory committee to raise the initial $5,000 and necessary backing to officially declare oneself a candidate.  That is the step I took on January 15, 2013.

What are the next steps?

Together we can change things.  We must all work together to restart our economy, secure our nation and move forward to prosperity.

Please consider showing your support by donating to the Janet Hinz Congressional Exploratory Committee using the link below.  Any U.S. citizen can contribute. Your $25, $50, $100 or $200 contribution would be most appreciated.