Many of our future jobs will come through research at our universities. I will fight to increase funding to our universities and their innovation campuses. Utah State has had great success in transferring research into the private sector thus creating living-wage jobs for Utah families. I will work for increased funding through Pell grants as well as encouraging tax-free savings accounts for education.

15. A ban on some types of assault weapons recently expired. Does the ban's expiration increase the threat of gun violence or deaths, or was it ineffective even when in place? Should there be a ban on certain types of guns or restrictions on gun ownership and possession?

I believe the ban on assault weapons was ineffective and should have expired. I favor a dialogue on certain types of guns as well as restrictions. I am a Second Amendment supporter. However, I do not believe guns belong in churches or schools.

16. There is no federal term-limit law for congressmen. Are you willing to say now that you will limit your own terms in the U.S. House? If so, how long before you not seek re-election?

Yes. I would not seek reelection after 12 years.

17. What, if anything, does your campaign funding say about your candidacy?

My campaign, by any standard, is seriously underfunded. Because of this, we've been creative in getting our message out using personal contact and new media as methods to achieve this goal. We have relied heavily on our Web site (www.stevethompsonforutah.com) to explain how I stand on the issues, define my experience and introduce myself on a personal level. Our campaign has offered a cash scholarship and a computer as an award for a coloring contest for children ages 4-12. This contest was used to promote my stance on education with the state. We've also sponsored a film festival for high school and college age youth to get their "creative juices" flowing on political issues. I have sponsored "Family Empowerment" seminars free to the public throughout the district to aid families in learning to build their communication skills and avoid future problems down the road. I have walked neighborhoods in the district since July and have personally met the citizens of Utah and listened to their concerns.

18. What is the one personal trait/characteristic that you want voters to know about you, and why is that important in this race?

I'm fair. I believe that government should be held to a higher standard when it comes to following the rules that they have created. Many times government does things to us because they can.

19. Why are you the better candidate and the better person to represent the 1st Congressional District?