Denise Rosado
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?
Research should be a major part of DC’s economy. Scientists and researchers advance medicine, public health, energy, cybersecurity, and national security while creating jobs and opportunities for students.
At the Department of Commerce’s innovation program, I helped review grant proposals for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. As a Census recruiter, I recruited candidates in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. These experiences gave me firsthand insight into evaluating proposals and attracting skilled talent.
As Delegate, I would advocate for stable, competitive research funding based on scientific merit, transparent review, and responsible use of taxpayer dollars. Agencies should explain grant terminations and provide timely review of disputed decisions, considering the consequences for ongoing research and the workforce.
I would help universities, hospitals, and businesses develop partnerships that turn research into local companies and jobs. Faster permitting, accessible laboratory space, and paid training opportunities can help retain talent and bring more industry to DC. My proposal to end federal income taxation for DC residents would also make the city more attractive to researchers who choose to live here.
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?
DC residents should be able to rely on essential services and predictable budgets. The approximately $1 billion spending restriction raised last year concerned DC’s ability to spend locally raised revenue. That is distinct from reductions in federal research grants, and both require attention.
As Delegate, I would work across party lines with congressional appropriators to protect DC’s ability to spend its approved local funds and oppose abrupt restrictions that disrupt public health, education, emergency services, and other essential functions. I would also advocate for research and public programs supported by credible evidence, with clear goals and regular evaluation.
Accountability matters. We should examine whether programs deliver results, correct waste and duplication, and protect services people depend on. Budget decisions should consider the costs of interruption, including whether cutting prevention or abandoning research creates larger expenses later.
Having helped review National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration grant proposals at Commerce, I understand the importance of careful evaluation and responsible funding decisions. I would bring that experience to congressional oversight, asking agencies to explain funding changes and their consequences for research and essential services.
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?
Data centers should pay their own way. Residents should not face higher utility bills because large technology companies need enormous amounts of electricity and water. I would advocate for requirements that data centers finance the additional power generation, transmission infrastructure, and water capacity their operations require. They should develop or contract for dedicated new energy supplies, including safely licensed advanced nuclear energy, such as small modular reactors where feasible. Until that capacity is available, they should cover the full additional costs they impose on the existing system. I would also pursue enforceable agreements requiring data-center developers to contribute toward lowering residents’ electricity bills through bill credits or a resident energy fund. Any incentives offered to these companies should deliver measurable benefits to the community. As Delegate, I would work with federal energy regulators and regional and DC officials to advance these protections. The goal is reliable power, fair allocation of costs, and lower bills for residents. Technology companies should finance their growth and contribute to the communities supporting it.
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?
Vaccine guidelines should reflect rigorous scientific evidence, transparent review, and clear communication about benefits and risks. Vaccines have an important role in preventing serious illness, and residents should have reliable access to them and trustworthy advice from their healthcare providers. I would support DC developing supplemental guidance when needed to maintain access and address local public-health conditions, provided that guidance is developed by qualified medical experts, explains its evidence, and is regularly reviewed. Any differences from federal recommendations should be clearly explained so patients and clinicians are not left confused. I also support informed consent and individualized discussions between patients, parents, and healthcare providers. As Delegate, I would advocate for vaccine access and coverage, independent safety monitoring, and public accountability for the evidence behind recommendations. Q4 Keywords: Scientific evidence; vaccine access; transparency; informed consent; medical expertise; safety monitoring. Town hall participation: Yes. Internal comments: Thank you for inviting me to participate. I welcome a discussion with scientists, researchers, healthcare professionals, and residents about retaining talent in DC, protecting essential services, and making policy that delivers measurable results.