Abi-Ananiah Prudent
RepublicanQ1 Recent policies and budget decision have led to the termination of thousands of grants. DC is an important hub for scientists and researchers in the region. What role do you think research should have in the region and what action if any will you take to retain scientific talent to the city?
It would be a remarkable investment for DC leadership to continue to welcome exploration of scientific discovery and advancement right here in the capitol of our nation. The role this plays is massive; from the growth of morale when our researchers are backed by their leaders, to the investment this could provide for the next generation. Allowing DC to be a place where the people flock is on opportunity that builds on itself. As programs and projects are provided with grants for honest and true research, we create jobs with built in trust from the science community. As more researchers see what is capable as our locals complete and master their work, more leaders in the field will see the opportunities and come where their work is welcomed. This builds the economy which then allows more of the budget to be directed towards advancements that benefit the American people.
Keywords: Jobs; Longevity; Economic Growth
Q2 Given Congress’s authority over D.C.’s budget, how would you protect the District from science funding + funding programs based on science evidence (such as the proposed $1B reduction last year) while maintaining essential city services?
To protect the science budget, I would have to become and advocate of the work that is being done. As more evidence-based research propositions come through, it would be important that I, along with the rest of the Council, seek to become first line of defense to ensure local researchers are able to conduct evaluations, experiments, and advancements.
I would love to see advancements in all realms, whether it be in technology that improves systems or medical advancements that saves lives. When working with Congress, it is important to represent both facts and real life application. As I advocate on behalf of our researchers, I would speak to both how the work they do is beneficial to the city as a whole or perhaps the country as well. I would also speak to how the rise of scientific developments happening within the city bounds brings forward a new opportunity. New research means new jobs created, new results, and even a new community of tourists that builds city revenue. As all of these increase, we would have more flexibility to focus funding on scientific research because that part of our local investment is building revenue to support itself.
Keywords: Advocacy; Job Creation; Revenue Growth; Tourism
Q3 The cost of electricity and water are on the rise with nearby data centers straining current resources in combination with increased energy costs to consumers. What specific plans do you have, if any, to mitigate utility cost burden for residents? Why these steps?
My goal would be to place the burden back on the organizations using the resources.
In Congress, there is legislation that is coming out of both chambers allowing this to be a bipartisan conversation. Data center in and around DC should first and foremost be required to provide accurate measures of energy consumption and heavy water intake so that we have a real understanding of what the centers are responsible for in comparison to the people of DC.
Some of the Congressional legislation states that if a data center uses 100 megawatts or energy or more, they should be responsible for covering the cost of what the center consumes.
My goal would be to establish similar legislation within the bounds of DC to protect our citizens. We cannot wait for Congress to act so this would have to be a priority in the Council. Once the Council completes this legislation, I would call on Congress to do just the same for a federal level protection.
Keywords: Congressional Action; Bipartisan
Q4 Many states are issuing independent vaccine guidelines to ensure consistent vaccine access in light of recent HHS changes - what are your views on vaccine guidelines and why or why not would you support similar initiatives?
As our technology becomes more advanced, I believe it is important for our medical systems to advance as well.
The option for a vaccine timeline is great. For the families who choose to join the lifelong vaccine regiment to stay healthy, we should continue to provide that option. With this option, there should be full informed consent so families are full aware of what they are opting into. They should be able to easily be able to access ingredient lists, research that is affirms and rejects the use of each vaccine, and long term effects. Parents, young professionals, students, and our elderly deserve medicine that works best to keep them alive and well so they should also be able to access their doctors when participating in these vaccine timelines for questions and concerns. Patients should also be able to anonymously submit comment for any adverse side affects so that if any other patients with similar medical history has concerns, the doctors have an idea of how reactions are forming and different people are reacting as a result.
Keywords: Medical Freedom; Informed Consent