Jacob Weinberg
DemocraticQ1 What advisory mechanisms will you implement to ensure that evidence and scientific findings play a crucial role in your policymaking process?
In order to have the best information and results for my policymaking decisions I will draw on my experience in both the US Army and as a financial statement auditor. I will work with my team, discuss concepts with experts and stakeholders, and evaluate the options to determine what the best course of action to help the most people possible is.
Q2 What initiatives will you take to support investment in innovation via federal science funding?
I believe Arizona has tremendous potential to be a leader in innovation with three world-class universities, cutting edge space/technology programs, and a growing high-tech sector. I would advocate for continued federal investment in basic and applied research for projects which could enhance the already stelar reputation of Arizona R&D while creating whole new industries. I believe we could use these funds to expand our STEM programs which would improve our schools while also growing the pipeline for mandy of the trade and expert career paths new technologies require.
Q3 Arizona faces many environmental issues, including extreme heat, mining extraction waste, and water scarcity, especially with the rise of AI data centers. What strategies, if any, do you support to tackle these issues?
I believe protecting our environment is of the utmost importance. We should focus our resources on things that provide the best return for the people of Arizona while ensuring our long-term future. As an executive of a technology solutions company, I understand the balance needed between our further development and preserving our environment. I believe there is a responsible way to develop instead of the current method of giving subsidies and resources to companies without protections or positive returns for state.
Q4 Arizona saw the second-largest measles outbreak in the nation last November. Do you have any plans or support any policies to prevent future public health outbreaks?
I would work to reverse causes of the outbreak by using evidence-based policies to create requirements while providing evidence for the decision and counters to the misinformation that led to the bad strategies behind the issue.
Q5 Arizona youth regularly use social media. Given that social media profiles may spread information about science and policy matters, do you support any policies that regulate these platforms for younger audiences?
Yes, I support restrictions on usage of social media platforms by youth of certain ages as it is adverse to their development. I would work to out in restrictions similar to other states and countries in order to protect the children of Arizona. In order to determine the best policies, I will consult with the appropriate experts.
Q6 According to Consumer Affairs and the National Education Association (NEA), Arizona is ranked last in public school education and has the lowest high school graduation rate in the nation. Arizona is also one of the US states with the least funding put into public schools. What are your opinions on the current state of public school funding in Arizona, and how do you view the role of science in K-12 education?
I believe our current public schools need a change of leadership and policy as the current superintendent and legislature are working to actively destroy our public schools for the benefit of the private school system. We first need to support our schools and work to make sure every student in Arizona is given the best opportunity to get ahead instead of only those whose families can afford to send their kids to private schools. When we work to improve public schools in Arizona, we need to focus more on STEM programs which will help students be ready for the world of the future.