
Tre Pennie
Republican | Texas
Candidate Profile
Moderate
BIOGRAPHY
Name
Tre Pennie
Party
Republican
Election Year
2024
Election
Primary
Race
U.S. Rep., Dist.3
Incumbent
No
EDUCATION
Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas, Ed.D, 2017
Prairie View A&M University, Praire View, Texas, M.A., 2006
Midwestern State University, Wichita Falls, Texas, B.A.A.S, 2003
Honolulu Community College, Honolulu, A.S, 1998
WORK & MILITARY
U.S. Army, Specialist/E-4, 4
AFFILIATIONS
National Fallen Officer Foundation, President, Texas Fallen Officer Foundation
POLITICAL OFFICES HELD
(Candidate did not provide)
POLITICAL OFFICES SOUGHT
(Candidate did not provide)
SELECTED CONTRIBUTIONS
CONSERVATIVE
GIVEN BY CANDIDATE (9)
Rick Scott (2023)
Harriet M Hageman (2022)
State Republican Party Organizations (2022)
WinRed (2022)
Local, County, and District Republican Organizations (2020)
RECEIVED BY CANDIDATE (5)
WinRed (2022)
California Freedom Prosperity Fund (2020)
Geoff & Anne Palmer (2020)
New Journey PAC (2020)
Pam Little (2019)
OTHER INFORMATION
QUESTIONNAIRE
RIGHT TO LIFE
Abortion providers, including Planned Parenthood, should not receive taxpayer funds from federal, state, or local governments (including Title X grants).
Agree
I oppose using any federal, state, or local funds to directly fund abortions. However, implementing a broad restriction on Title X funds might not be the best solution, especially considering the current national surge in sexually transmitted diseases. These funds also play an important role in the treatment and mitigation of diseases like HIV. While it's one thing to socially condemn certain behaviors, it's another to ignore the potential consequences and public health implications of it.
Chemical abortion drugs should meet essential safety standards (such as in-person consultation with a medical doctor) and require reporting to gather evidence on reactions and outcomes.
Strongly Agree
In places where chemical abortion drugs are allowed, it's important for them to meet strict safety standards to prioritize patient well-being. Recent revelations of women facing fatal outcomes from FDA-approved abortion drug treatments highlight the necessity for enhanced transparency and accountability in drug research, findings, and treatments. This underscores the importance of auditing and scrutinizing the FDA's work in granting drug approvals to ensure patient safety.
Under what circumstances should an elective abortion be allowed?
While I am a staunch advocate for a child's right to life, there are specific instances, where my personal beliefs must yield. For example, as a police officer, I worked a criminal case involving a 9-year-old victim of rape and incest who faced life-or-death because of the high-risk pregnancy. In these cases, external influences should abstain from intervening, recognizing it as a private matter for the mother, counselors, and medical professionals to navigate. The system failed the juvenile.
Does the federal government have a role to play in limiting abortion, and if so what federal steps and/or federal legislation would you support?
From a policy standpoint, the issue of federally sanctioned abortion has already been settled by the U.S. Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v. Wade. The treatment of this issue has been delegated to the states and should continue to be a matter for states to decide. As someone committed to the rule of law, federalism, and the rights of states to determine whether certain codes of behavior violate their societal norms, I believe this issue should remain outside federal jurisdiction.
RELIGIOUS LIBERTY
What does "separation of church and state" mean to you?
The separation of church and state is the idea that religious institutions and the government should operate independently of each other. It prevents the establishment of an official state religion and ensures individuals are free to practice their own beliefs without government interference. In theory, it holds that religion should play no role in political doctrine.
Individuals and businesses should be required to provide services even if it would violate their moral and/or religious beliefs.
Strongly Disagree
People and businesses should not be compelled to compromise their moral or religious beliefs when offering services. This aligns with the principle of "no shoes, no shirt, no service," suggesting that businesses have the right to refuse service if certain behaviors contradict their business principles.
NATIONAL SECURITY
With regard to America's foreign policy, which view most closely resembles yours: A) The United States should intervene whenever freedom is threatened. B) The United States should selectively help countries trying to grow democracy and fight tyranny. C) The United States has become too involved in others' policies and should remain focused on issues regarding our own sovereignty unless in imminent danger. D) The United States should stay out of foreign conflicts completely.
The United States has become too involved in others' policies and should remain focused on issues regarding our own sovereignty unless in imminent danger. Having traveled abroad and grasped America's position on the global stage, I advocate for a role where the U.S. primarily offers guidance and oversight to help allies protect themselves. I oppose the idea of being the "world police" and believe our involvement should be limited to instances where our strategic interests are directly affected.
The Chinese Communist Party poses serious military, cyber security, intellectual property, and global economic threats to the United States.
Strongly Agree
The Chinese Communist Party poses a great threat to America; however, given the fact China owns approximately $859.4 billion of America's national debt, addressing military, cybersecurity, intellectual property theft, and economic concerns demands a nuanced, strategic, and diplomatic approach. Recognizing the limitations, the U.S. should prioritize domestic resilience, seek strategic partnerships, and engage in dialogue and cooperation while establishing clear boundaries with China.
Is the United States' relationship with Israel important, and if so why?
Absolutely. The U.S. values its relationship with Israel for strategic alliances in the Middle East, shared democratic values, security cooperation, historical ties, and collaboration in innovation and technology. This partnership is seen as vital for mutual interests, stability in the region, and diplomatic influence.
What are the causes of decline in U.S. military recruitment and retention?
Military recruitment and retention are dwindling due to: negative perceptions influenced by political agendas, deployment strain, quality of life concerns, military budget cuts, changing societal attitudes, and a rising mistrust of the government. Acknowledging these challenges, it's important for the military to adjust recruitment strategies to uphold combat readiness. Sustained efforts are needed to reignite a sense of pride in serving our country!
HEALTHCARE
Under what circumstances (if any) should a government, school, or employer be allowed to require vaccinations?
I value individual freedoms & limited government. I oppose vaccine mandates. If vaccines are suggested to prevent a public health crisis, people must be allowed to make informed decisions about voluntary vaccinations through education and outreach.
What most closely matches your view on healthcare: A) Healthcare for all should be guaranteed and funded by the government with no private healthcare option. (includes "universal healthcare," "medicare for all," etc.) B) Healthcare insurance funded by the government should be available for all who want it, along with private healthcare options. C) Medicaid and Medicare should remain available, but no other taxpayer-funded programs are necessary. D) Taxpayer funded health care should be abolished in all forms, and Medicaid and Medicare should be defunded.
I support a market-driven approach to healthcare, where companies compete to provide the best product for the lowest price. Healthcare insurance funded by the government should be available for all who want it, along with private healthcare options. Medicare and Medicaid should still remain available to those who need it such as: the elderly, indigent, and disabled.
ECONOMY
What actions would you take that would allow Americans to retain more of their income and wealth?
I propose simplifying the federal income tax system by advocating for a 10% flat tax rate for both personal and business taxes. The flat tax ensures everyone contributes their fair share without disproportionately penalizing success.
Student loan forgiveness unfairly shifts the financial burden to those not responsible for student debt.
Agree
I believe that random student loan forgiveness unfairly places the financial burden on those who have been responsible in managing their obligations. On the other hand, any concessions made for student loan debt must be tied to civic duty and military service to the country.
Should environmental and social issues, like ESG (environmental, social, and governance) ratings, be used as criteria in deciding where to invest public monies?
No
Public investment funding should never be tied to environmental and social issues because it creates too much potential for projects to be politicized. To avoid this perception, funding criteria should be transparent and evidence-based to ensure that decisions are grounded in the best interests of the public and the planet.
IMMIGRATION
The U.S. should do more to physically secure the southern border.
Strongly Agree
Congress must fulfill its responsibility and enact comprehensive immigration reform to secure the Southern Border. Relying on successive presidential executive orders is not a sustainable solution, and the issue requires a long-term legislative approach. With nearly 200 "known terrorists" from the watchlist apprehended at the Southern Border, it is imperative for Congress to prioritize national security over partisan differences to avert the potential for the next terror crisis in America.
Who should be allowed to immigrate to the U.S. and under what circumstances?
Legally permitted immigrants under visas, work permits and verified asylum. All requests for immigration status in the U.S. must be made through the country embassies of origin. The idea of immigration to America should embody a mutually advantageous relationship, reminiscent of the "brain drain" era from the 1940s to the 1960s. This involves attracting skilled professionals and bright minds from other nations, leveraging the promise of the American Dream to foster global advancements.
EDUCATION
I support school choice, including voucher programs, tax credits, charter schools, private schools, and home schools.
Disagree
As an educator, I am hesitant to support school choice vouchers funded by taxpayers. While the idea has merits for bolstering individualized opportunities, I worry it could strain public school resources and potentially lower standards. Strengthening public schools is an investment in the cultural and social development of our children and the future of our communities. The focus should be on teacher training, curriculum updates, infrastructure improvements and student engagement for success.
I support eliminating the U.S. Department of Education and giving control back to states and communities.
Disagree
Having worked closely with the Trump Administration's Department of Education on policy matters, I find the idea of abolishing the Department of Ed. to be impractical. While there's always room for national improvement, centralizing education authority at the state level can disadvantage student learners. The U.S. Department of Ed. plays an important role in shaping national education policies, overseeing funding, ensuring equal access, and standardizing practices for global competitiveness.
CRIMINAL JUSTICE & PUBLIC SAFETY
I support redirecting funds from police departments to community programs.
Strongly Disagree
As a national law enforcement advocate, I strongly condemn any effort to "defund the police" or redirect funds from the police department to community programs. Public safety is of utmost importance, and it relies on well-equipped and adequately funded police departments to maintain order, protect citizens, and uphold the rule of law. Redirecting resources away from law enforcement may jeopardize the ability to effectively address crime and ensure the safety of communities.
2ND AMENDMENT
What restrictions on gun ownership are needed to protect public safety?
I strongly support the 2nd Amendment and citizens' right to bear arms. To address gun violence, I believe in appropriately punishing law violators to deter violent crime. Contrary to misconceptions, I recognize the complexity of human behavior and understand that blaming firearms alone for shooting incidents oversimplifies the issue. Having been personally impacted by gun violence, I emphasize that it's people, not guns, who are responsible for such acts.
JUDICIAL PHILOSOPHY
The Supreme Court should be reformed to include more seats.
Strongly Disagree
I disagree with any suggestion that the U.S. Supreme Court should be expanded because it could compromise the court's independence and undermine its historical role as a non-political institution. The Founding Fathers established the Supreme Court with the goal of ensuring an impartial and fair judiciary, free from political pressures, to interpret and uphold the Constitution. Expanding the court may risk diluting this original intent and erode the principles upon which it was founded.
ABOUT YOU
When you consider your views on a wide range of issues from economic and social matters to foreign policy and religious liberty, which of the following best describes you overall?
Conservative
I consider it inappropriate to categorize levels of conservatism while adhering to its core principles. As a college educator and pragmatic conservative, my approach revolves around explaining, educating, and building consensus on conservative ideas rooted in American politics. Acknowledging the existence of diverse perspectives in our evolving world, my goal is to reach people where they are, fostering greater understanding through inclusive dialogue.
What do you think is the general purpose of government?
The general purpose of government is to establish order, provide security, protect individual rights, and promote the well-being of its citizens. Governments typically aim to create a framework for social organization, enforce laws, ensure national defense, and facilitate the conditions for economic prosperity and public welfare. The specific functions and priorities of governments may vary, but they generally work to serve the common good and maintain a stable and functional society.
Have you ever been penalized for sexual misconduct in either civil or criminal court? If so, please explain.
As a devoted husband and father of two girls, my life's purpose revolves around safeguarding women. With 22 years committed to law enforcement and public safety, I want to emphasize my unwavering dedication to ethical standards. Throughout my career, I have maintained a steadfast commitment to integrity and have never been involved in any immoral behavior, including sexual misconduct. Consequently, I have never faced any repercussions for such actions.
Have you ever been convicted of a felony? If so, please explain.
For nearly three decades, my unwavering dedication has been towards public safety and upholding the rule of law. Consequently, I have never been convicted of any felony or misdemeanor crime.
VALUES
Marriage is a God-ordained, sacred and legal union of one man and one woman. No government has the authority to alter this definition.
Agree
As a Conservative who values "limited government" and the "rule of law," my personal religious views on marriage don't influence my political stance. Despite holding Christian principles in high regard, I fully respect the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in Obergefell v. Hodges, legalizing gay marriage across all 50 states. As a national leader and proponent of the rule of law, it's my duty to ensure fair treatment for everyone affected by this decision.
Children are the most vulnerable members of society and must be protected from abuse, including gender ideology, grooming, and bodily mutilation.
Strongly Agree
Children are the most vulnerable members of our society; therefore, they deserve protection from various forms of abuse, including gender ideology, gender mutilation, and sexual grooming. Those who violate this social norm should be subject to harsh penalties as deemed appropriate by the legal system, reflecting society's commitment to safeguarding the rights and innocence of children.
Taxpayer funds should be used to provide gender transition services.
Strongly Disagree
Taxpayer funds should not be allocated for gender transition services. If an individual opts for gender reassignment, it is their personal decision and their personal financial responsibility. Taxpayers should not be involved in that process in any way.
Briefly describe your spiritual beliefs and values.
I am a Christian, and my beliefs are anchored in faith, compassion, and the teachings of Jesus Christ. I value principles of love, justice, and humility. In my political outlook, I strive to uphold these values, promoting policies that prioritize kindness, equality, and the well-being of all individuals. My commitment to service and community stems from a desire to reflect the core tenets of my faith in both my personal and political life.
ELECTIONS AND VOTING
People should be able to vote without photo identification.
Strongly Disagree
Maintaining the integrity of our globally respected voting system is important. To preserve the essence of democracy, it's vital to guarantee that legitimate votes from "real" individuals shape our leadership and laws. Making photo identification a standard requirement for voting in America enhances transparency and accountability, thereby reinforcing trust in our democratic process.
The Electoral College should be abolished.
Strongly Disagree
Despite its historical roots, I believe in retaining the Electoral College because it safeguards each state's voice in the presidential election. By preventing undue influence from densely populated areas, it upholds fair representation for smaller states. Additionally, it fosters a nuanced campaign strategy, compelling presidential candidates to appeal to a diverse range of voters across various regions.
EQUALITY
I agree with Critical Race Theory (CRT) which asserts that the institutions in the United States are fundamentally racist.
Strongly Disagree
I oppose Critical Race Theory due to identified flaws in its foundation revealed by research. From my perspective, it has no relevance in today's American society. I stand firmly against any ideology that portrays individuals as victims based on race, using it as an excuse for failed self-determination and promoting discriminatory ideas towards others.
Biological males should not be allowed to participate in women's sports or occupy biological women's spaces whether it be bathrooms, locker rooms, sorority houses, women's shelters, or prison.
Strongly Agree
Biological males should not be allowed to participate in women's sports or occupy biological women spaces. Allowing biological males to participate in women's sports or share women facilities raises concerns about fairness to women and poses significant safety risks to women and girls in private spaces. Instances involving males who identify as women exploiting such policies for malicious purposes underscore the need for protecting women rights.
ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT
Man-made climate change is a global threat and requires urgent political action.
Strongly Disagree
The impact of human activities on the climate has far-reaching consequences for the planet, affecting ecosystems, weather patterns, and sea levels. Addressing this requires collective efforts and sustainable practices. I do not support taxing and regulating Americans. Instead, focus should be on pressuring other countries to elevate their standards. Domestically, the U.S. should focus on strategic measures like reinforcing infrastructure to minimize the impact of natural disasters.
What do you believe is the most reliable energy source that will supply the growing demand for electricity?
Fossil fuels are the most reliable energy source to meet the growing demand for electricity; however, it is important to strike a balance by concurrently advancing wind and solar energy technology to mitigate overreliance on non-renewables resources.
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