Name *
R. David Harden
Age *
59
County of Residence *
Carroll County
Office Sought and District *
MD 1 Congress
Political Party *
Democrat
Education *
B.A. Franklin and Marshall, M.A. Columbia University, J.D. Georgetown University
Career/Occupation *
Lawyer, Diplomat, Entrepreneur, Writer
Political Experience *
Career Senior Foreign Service Officer, Nominated by President Obama and Confirmed by Senate as Assistant Administrator at U.S. Agency For International Development, Bureau for Conflict, Democracy, and Humanitarian Assistance.
Website *
Social Media Accounts *
@Dave_Harden (twitter), Dave Harden for Congress (Facebook)
Why are you running for office? *
To protect and defend our democracy, build the next-generation economy, and unleash America's hidden talent.
Who do you consider your political role model, and why? *
JFK - bold visionary.
What is your favorite book about politics and policy, and why? *
The Last Lion: Winston Spencer Churchill. This trilogy provides insight about leadership during crises.
What will be your top priority if elected? *
To protect and defend our democracy, build the next-generation economy, and unleash America's hidden talent.
What are the three biggest issues facing your district? *
Rural counties are left behind, I intend to drive economic opportunities for rural communities and working folks. I also intend to help our economy leverage climate solutions - so Maryland becomes a global climate impact solutions provider. Finally, we must protect and defend our democracy from creeping authoritarianism.
What are the three biggest issues facing our country? *
We need to expand economic opportunity, blunt climate change, and defend democracy.
What is your position on life issues? (abortion, assisted suicide) *
Pro-choice, allow state law to determine assisted suicide.
What is your position on taxes, spending, and the federal deficit? *
I strive to drive meaningful outcomes at reasonable costs while not increasing the deficit. Bottom line: spending should be attached to taxes and drive results that make a difference for people and build the next American Century.
What is your position on gun rights? *
I support the Second Amendment - it is no greater or lesser of a constitutional right than any other constitutional right.
What is your position on the legalization of marijuana? *
Legalization
What is your position on trade? *
Fair trade. Our environmental, labor and intellectual property standards reflect our values - we should not subsidize trade with other nations who do no meet these standards.
What is your position on foreign policy and military issues? *
I am a foreign policy, national security professional - I support a strong America.
Would you support the passage of the Human Life Amendment? *
No
Would you support the passage of the Balanced Budget Amendment? *
No
Do you support D.C. Statehood? *
Yes
Do you support retrocession of the District of Columbia into Maryland? *
No
Was Joe Biden legitimately elected President of the United States in the November 2020 Election? *
Yes
Do you pledge to accept the results of your election? *
Yes