Below are the unedited responses from Mark Neese to the Amarillo Pioneer’s candidate questionnaire for 2020. Neese is a Republican candidate for U.S. House, District 13.

Please note: Questions from the Pioneer are in italics and the candidate’s responses are in standard type.

What is your occupation?

Educator- School Counselor

What is your age?

What is your educational background? Please list any degrees earned, and institutions attended. You may also list any professional certifications.

Ouachita Baptist University- BA Political Science/Psychology
Dallas Baptist University- MA Counseling MEd School Counseling
Dallas Baptist University- Current Doctoral Student in Educational Leadership

Is this your first time running for office? If not, please list which offices you have sought or held in the past.

This is my first time running.

If you have a website, Facebook, Twitter, or any other online campaign materials, please list the links below.

Website: Mark Neese for Congress.com
Facebook: Mark Neese for Congress
Twitter: Mark Neese for Congress
Instagram- Mark Neese for Congress

Why did you decide to run for office in 2020?

While attending Trump's inauguration with my son three years ago, the motivation to pursue ways to assist others politically was rekindled. As a Christian, I believe it is our calling to serve those around us. As an educator and counselor, I believe there are many needs in our district which can be served through assisting individuals and families out of poverty.

The skill set I possess assists all areas of our district. People in rural and urban areas all benefit from increasing the education of citizens. From Head Start early education programs to College and Career Courses, the ability to transform the lives of others and the communities they live.

My decision to run is a result of my faith which dictates I see every person as someone for whom Christ died. This calling enables me to assist everyone, regardless of who they are, to attain the best life possible. Please let me know how I may assist you in this process.

What are your top three priorities, if elected?

1. Financial Accountability for our government.
2. Reversal of Roe-V-Wade
3. Veteran Assistance

Do you plan to host town hall meetings in the district during your first term in office? Why or why not?

Absolutely. The thirteenth district covers more miles than many states. I believe it is imperative to have town hall meetings to understand the needs of every county in the district. This allows everyone in the district the opportunity to take part in the political process.

Reader submitted question: Would you support new federal campaign finance reform legislation? Please explain.

It depends on the legislation. Politicians have a history of making things easier for themselves. I believe a more equitable system would assist in allowing our government to work in the way it was originally intended; sending a person from the district who is like others in the district.

Do you support term limits? Please explain.

The U.S. Congress holds elections every two years. In theory, the people are able to limit anyone with a new election. However, we see the development of career politicians. I would support a limit of 10-12 years.

Would you vote for any legislation that would prohibit the manufacturing, sale, use, ownership or carrying of firearms? Why or why not?

There us no legislation I would vote for at this time. I am extremely concerned to see limitations placed on law abiding citizens in this area. I am also concerned about the lack of mental assistance in schools and communities (especially rural). I believe this may be the solution for those who are seeing restrictions on weapons as the way to deter violence.

Based on the information available to the public, would you have voted for the articles of impeachment against President Trump had you been in the House at the time? Please explain.

I believe every president must be accountable to the American people. This impeachment process has been baseless and I would definitely not support it . I would not support this type of impeachment on any president.

With Rep. Thornberry leaving office, the district will be selecting its first new representative since 1995. Why do you believe you are the best equipped candidate to step into this role and represent all areas of the district, including rural communities and cities?

I have been finding solutions for families in this district for years WITHOUT being a politician. It is my desire to serve and find resources to assist the needs of this district. Moving families out of poverty and assisting with programs in urban settings and rural settings allows for more people and communities throughout the district to be affected.

How will you work to advocate for and defend the agriculture community in Washington, if elected?

Agriculture is vital to Texas, the nation, and the world. People in the district have discussed concerns. Water, the need for workers, the need for government involvement, changes withing the diversity of agricultural programs within the district. The needs for those with crops differ from those with livestock. One consistent is the need to have a voice in D.C. that will advocate for every program in the district, not just a select few. I am committed to being available to promote everyone in this district.

Reader submitted question: What should the U.S. Congress do to reduce the national debt? Please explain.

First, we need to establish a budget and be committed to achieve it.

All departments need to develop a plan to operate at a level which will assist in this process and financial assistance should be prioritized to assist with needs in the United States.

Please explain what reforms Congress should enact, if any, regarding the healthcare system.

Opposing factions in Congress MUST come together to assist U.S. citizens. As I have seen as an educator and counselor, when parents are focused more on fighting then they are on their family, children suffer. We see many people within our community suffering due to the current situation in our health care system.
Remember when we were told if we liked our Doctor, we could keep them?
The American People are currently distrustful of a Congress which puts politics above the people. We must enact a system which assists, but does not enable.

Do you support President Trump's proposal to build a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border? Please explain.

Yes. I believe the crisis at the boarder will be assisted by not allowing others the freedom to cross in areas not permitted. I believe in legal immigration and see how this will assist with the overall process of those around the world who have been following the legal steps for immigration to see equity in the system.

How will you work to ensure constituents can actively communicate with you about the issues, if elected?

I plan to be available through various means of communication. While in D.C. there are still numerous ways to have contact. When back home, i believe Town Hall meetings are a vital part of the process. I believe every community must have the ability to share concerns and allow us to work together to find solutions. I will start NOW- Please contact me at (940) 247-0871.

Are you supported by any political action committees? If so, please list your PAC endorsements.

I have not accepted any PAC endorsements. My endorsements have been through educators, churches, and military personnel, individuals, and families who share common concerns and solutions.

Why are you the best candidate for voters to support in the 13th District?

I have served families in the 13th District for years WITHOUT being a politician. I believe God calls us to serve and I commit to being others focused rather than self focused. I have been asking, "How can I serve you?" for years and plan to keep this mindset.
My discussion has been centered around:
I STAND FOR THE FLAG:
Faith
Leadership
Accountability
Gratitude