Our first congressional campaign organization two years ago raised more money from more individual contributors than any previous campaign in the history of this district. But I, as a public high school teacher, could contribute very little of my personal resources. So my campaign funding says a couple of things about my candidacy. First, I am honored to have an incredible amount of grassroots support from well over 2,000 separate contributions. They are small amounts that add up to make a big difference. And second, my election hopefully has proved that regular individuals who are not millionaires can still run for office and win, even if it's against the odds.

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

When I decided to leave teaching at Box Elder High School and run for Congress, I knew that politicians and candidates are usually full of promises. That's why I based my campaign, and now base my current service, on just one promise. I promise not to guarantee unrealistic goals just to get elected. I promise to go to Washington and be myself — a regular Utah conservative with the experience to watch after our needs. Finally, the office I hold is important, but I don't take myself too seriously.

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

I think there are three major qualities I bring to the election: experience, position and shared values. First, my experience consists of 28 years of teaching in the classroom, 16 years in the state Legislature, including a term as Speaker of the House, years of working with the grass roots in every part of our district, and a couple of decades being a husband and a father of five. Second, I was fortunate enough to obtain spots on the three House Committees that are probably most important to our District's interests — the Armed Services Committee, the Resources Committee and the Space Subcommittee. Plus, I'm part of the majority in Congress and can work within my party and with our president who share the core values of our District. I am in the right place at the right time.

Finally, I feel that my values coincide with the values of the majority of this district. I share with them a strong belief in a smaller government, respecting the sanctity of life, and defending traditional marriage.

20) The above questions are to find out why voters should elect you. Can you give us one or more reasons why voters should not vote for your opponent? For example, does he lack experience, education, vision, have conflicts of interest, not represent the views of the district, does not have the best interests of the district in mind, etc.?

I think I'll take a pass on this question and stick to talking about my own record and beliefs. That should be sufficient. I hope my opponent takes the same approach.