{"id":19870,"date":"2018-10-20T20:28:48","date_gmt":"2018-10-21T00:28:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/?page_id=19870"},"modified":"2019-01-30T15:19:24","modified_gmt":"2019-01-30T20:19:24","slug":"uusj-guide-to-questions-for-candidates-2018","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/uusj-guide-to-questions-for-candidates-2018\/","title":{"rendered":"UUSJ Guide to Questions for Candidates 2018"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft wp-image-19888 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/Meet-The-Candidates-c.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"205\" height=\"101\" \/><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Every election is an opportunity to engage with candidates as they host town halls and meet with voters in the weeks before we all vote. This provides a great way to lift up our UU concerns to our soon to be elected representatives, and the public alike. As a non-partisan organization, Unitarian Universalists for Social Justice (UUSJ) engages at the Federal level across the political spectrum to work for positive change and advocate for UU values.\u00a0<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We hope you find our Guide to Questions for Candidates and toolkit of tips useful as you make plans to engage directly with candidates and the public to raise our issues of concern.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #993300;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #000080;\">Table of Contents<\/span>\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<h4><em>(click on title to go to that section)<\/em><\/h4>\n<h4>&#8212; <a href=\"#intro\"><strong>Introduction &amp; Purpose of this Guide<\/strong><\/a><br \/>\n&#8212; <a href=\"#how\"><strong>How to Use this Guide<\/strong><\/a><br \/>\n&#8212; <a href=\"#questions\"><strong>Questions for Candidates<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#immigration\">Immigration Justice<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#eei\">Economic Security and Justice for All<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#climate\">Environmental and Climate Justice<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4>&#8212; <a href=\"#resources\"><strong>More Resources and About UUSJ<\/strong><\/a><\/h4>\n<h4><strong><span style=\"color: #000080;\"><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">You can download the full Guide and all the questions by clicking<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/FINAL-PDF-v.1-Candidates-Guide-2018-as-of-2018-10-24-4.pdf\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"> here<\/span><\/a>. <span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">If you have any problems contact us at<\/span> <span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><a style=\"color: #0000ff;\" href=\"mailto:gotv@uusj.org\">gotv@uusj.org<\/a>.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Funding for this Guide was supported in part by the UU Funding Program.<\/p>\n<h3><a name=\"intro\"><\/a><\/h3>\n<hr style=\"width: 70%; border-top: 3px double #8c8b8b;\" \/>\n<h3><strong><span style=\"color: #000080;\">Introduction &amp; Purpose of this Guide<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/Logo_Large.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\" wp-image-16483 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/Logo_Large-300x217.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"123\" height=\"89\" srcset=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/Logo_Large-300x217.png 300w, https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/Logo_Large-768x555.png 768w, https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/09\/Logo_Large-1024x739.png 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 123px) 100vw, 123px\" \/><\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">UUs are great at conducting traditional voter registration and voter mobilization efforts. This Guide intends to: <\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><span style=\"color: #000000;\">support UUs that also wish to participate in public forums with candidates and engage them on social justice issues from a faith-based perspective; and<\/span><\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong><span style=\"color: #000000;\">help UUs consider how they will vote in the 2018 midterm elections and better understand how issues are grounded in our faith.<\/span><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>The Guide focuses on three issues that reflect UU values<\/strong> &#8212; <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>immigration<\/strong><\/span>, <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>economic justice<\/strong><\/span>, and <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><strong>environmental and climate justice<\/strong><\/span>. These issues reflect UU Statements of Conscience and other UU positions. The sample questions reflect timely issues that are under consideration in Congress or fall to Congress for action.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>Unitarian Universalist congregations affirm and promote seven Principles, which we hold as strong values and moral guides<\/strong>. From these principles grow our expressions of love, our work for social justice and our quest for &#8220;justice, equity, and compassion in human relations&#8221; and the affirmation of &#8220;the inherent worth and dignity of every person.&#8221;<\/span>\u00a0<strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">We are especially inspired by our 4th Principle, a free and responsible search for truth and meaning, and our 5th Principle, which undergirds our support of the democratic process.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/vote_UU_values1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-20006 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/vote_UU_values1-420x74.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"53\" srcset=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/vote_UU_values1-420x74.jpg 420w, https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/vote_UU_values1-768x135.jpg 768w, https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/vote_UU_values1-1024x180.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/vote_UU_values1.jpg 1116w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The sample questions in this Guide are designed for candidates for the US Congress. They can be modified and adapted to address specific local issues and perspectives. <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">The Guide and questions can be used by individuals or in congregational and community discussions on the issues.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>Why should we bother?<\/strong> We are living out our 5th Principle &#8211; the use of the democratic process. Engaging with candidates creates opportunities to build relationships for future conversations with elected officials.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>Asking questions grounded in UU values, gives us an opportunity to raise our concerns not only with candidates but with the general public, too.<\/strong><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>Candidates need to hear from us!<\/strong> What candidates hear on the campaign trail informs them of the issues their constituents care about and can influence the actions they are willing to take, if elected. These relationships are a vital part of the full civic engagement cycle&#8211;from candidate to elected official to public accountability. After an election UUs need to continue to raise our voices on critical social justice issues&#8211;<strong>civic engagement and advocacy is a year-round responsibility!<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: right;\"><a href=\"#top\">Go to the Top<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a name=\"how\"><\/a><\/p>\n<hr style=\"width: 70%; border-top: 3px double #8c8b8b;\" \/>\n<h3><strong><span style=\"color: #000080;\">How to Use This Guide<\/span><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-19875 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/clipbrd.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"119\" height=\"143\" \/><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Become a better informed and engaged voter. Raise our UU issues with candidates and your local community by using this Guide.<\/p>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>Here are two ways to make the most of this Guide:<\/strong><\/h4>\n<ol>\n<li><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>Use the questions in this Guide &#8220;as is&#8221; or adapt them\u00a0to raise questions with your candidates for the US Congress. <\/strong>Use the Guide as\u00a0an individual or along with members of your congregation.\u00a0OR<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>Use this Guide as a starting point in your congregation to begin a discernment process for in-depth discussion on issues that are important to your congregation and community. <\/strong>Develop your own questions for state and\/or Federal\u00a0candidates and localize your questions.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/Check-150x150.png\" width=\"22\" height=\"22\" \/>\u00a0<span style=\"color: #000000;\">Have a\u00a0Plan of\u00a0Engagement with Candidates.<\/span>\u00a0<a style=\"color: #0000ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/?p=19916\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Click here<\/a><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/strong><span style=\"color: #000000;\">for tips to create a plan to find and engage candidates &#8211; as an \u00a0individual or group from your congregation &#8211; to raise your UU issues of concern.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: right;\"><a href=\"#top\">Go to the Top<\/a><\/p>\n<h3><a name=\"questions\"><\/a><\/h3>\n<hr style=\"width: 70%; border-top: 3px double #8c8b8b;\" \/>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #000080;\"><strong>Questions for Candidates<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>Below are three sets of questions to be used for US Senate and House races, that can be used as is or modified to better fit your particular state or local concerns. It\u2019s important to be clear about UU social justice issues that are of concern to you, your congregation and community and to prepare your questions in advance. You can link to additional questions at the end of each section.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<h3><a name=\"immigration\"><\/a><\/h3>\n<h4><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-19883 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/WordCld1-1.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"168\" srcset=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/WordCld1-1.png 300w, https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/WordCld1-1-100x55.png 100w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/h4>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #000080;\"><strong>Immigration Justice<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>Question:<\/strong><\/span><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><strong> What will you do to support immigrants, regardless of legal status, especially those that currently have Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) or Temporary Protected Status?<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>UU perspective:<\/strong><\/span> <span style=\"color: #000000;\">We believe in the inherent worth and dignity of every person and their right to feel safe and to have basic food and shelter. Challenging economic and social conditions such as gang and domestic violence that drive migration, especially from Central America, are often linked to US policies or environmental issues. We support clear paths to permanent residency and citizenship and work visas that allow multiple entries and discourage exploitation of labor. We call for adherence to Constitutional requirements for equal protection regardless of citizenship status as well as adherence to international law protecting those seeking asylum.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">Question:<\/span> What are your views on the detention of families and children to deter border crossing or on deporting law-abiding legal residents with American children or spouses?<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>UU perspective:<\/strong><\/span> <span style=\"color: #000000;\">The current Administration\u2019s restrictive and punishing policies harm migrants and our asylum system and conflict with our 2nd Principle which calls for justice, equity and compassion in human relations.. The \u201czero tolerance\u201d family separation of border crossers traumatized thousands, with dozens of children still not reunited with their families. Additionally, the number of unaccompanied minors being kept in detention is growing (12,500 as of October 2018). Keeping asylum-seeking families in detention uses many times more of our tax dollars than proven community-based alternatives. Also, abusive treatment of detainees by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents and contractors has been documented. Moral immigration laws that are just and humane contribute to the public good, define the parameters of legal immigration, and restrict harmful influences such as criminal intent, epidemics, and contraband. We advocate improved technology for surveillance, not more miles of a separation wall, to help secure our borders.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">Question:<\/span> What are your views on the recent drastic reductions in the refugee resettlement ceiling and the ban on any refugees from a number of Muslim-majority countries?\u00a0 <\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>UU perspective:<\/strong><\/span> <span style=\"color: #000000;\">We believe the US has a moral responsibility to support refugees and that moral immigration policy would include the provision of asylum for refugees and others living in fear of violence or retribution. While the world is in the midst of the largest global migration on record, any reduction in the refugee admissions cap is an affront to the moral responsibility and humanitarian values of the US as a safe haven for those fleeing violence and insecurity. The current administration had set the 2018 cap at historic low levels (45,000) and has not dedicated necessary resources to the processing of even that low level. Levels for 2019 were set even lower. UUs stand with refugees, and we have for 80 years.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">Question:<\/span> For those who cross our borders requesting asylum, do you believe that credible fear of gang violence, domestic violence, or harassment of LGBTQ individuals should be among the justifications for granting asylum?<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>UU perspective:<\/strong><\/span> <span style=\"color: #000000;\">We believe in the inherent worth and dignity of every person and in the human right of everyone to feel safe. Just as in the case of refugees fleeing countries at war or experiencing civil conflict, persons fleeing countries which have a high level of gang-related violence, in part the outcome of past US policies, deserve to be considered for asylum. Individuals who have suffered documented violence, discrimination, and harassment based on their sexual orientation must continue to be considered for asylum as should women who have a credible fear of death or severe injury from domestic abuse by their partners.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><a style=\"color: #0000ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/?p=19979\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Click HERE<\/a><\/span> to see more questions.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: right;\"><a href=\"#top\">Go to the Top<\/a><\/p>\n<hr style=\"width: 70%; border-top: 3px double #8c8b8b;\" \/>\n<h3><a name=\"eei\"><\/a><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-19892 \" src=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/ESJ-420x284.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"262\" height=\"177\" srcset=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/ESJ-420x284.png 420w, https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/ESJ-768x519.png 768w, https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/ESJ.png 776w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 262px) 100vw, 262px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #000080;\"><strong>Economic Security and Justice for All<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>Question: <\/strong><\/span><strong>New work requirements and budget cuts to social safety net programs such as SNAP and Medicaid will shred the social safety net for low-income Americans. What will you do to stop these counterproductive proposals?<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>UU perspective:<\/strong><\/span> <span style=\"color: #000000;\">The Administration supports adding new work requirements for programs that support low-income Americans, such as Medicaid, SNAP (food stamps), and housing support. Some leaders in Congress have said the loss of Federal revenue due to this year\u2019s tax-cut legislation justifies cutting these programs to help reduce the deficit. Yet studies show that programs that support low-income Americans help alleviate poverty and lead to increased self-sufficiency. Limiting access to food, medical care, transportation, and housing to people who are not able to work doesn\u2019t honor their inherent worth and dignity. <\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">Question:<\/span> How would you ensure that our country\u2019s growing prosperity benefits everyone and that tax cuts help average Americans rather than those who need it least? <\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>UU perspective:<\/strong><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> UUs have long been concerned about growing economic disparities, which hurts low-income Americans and keep them from fully participating in our Nation\u2019s prosperity. Last year\u2019s tax cuts favored the wealthiest among us. UUs believe that overcoming economic inequalities, involving public investment to support healthcare (including pre-existing conditions), nutrition, education, and clean air and water should be a top priority. <\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">Question:<\/span> How would you propose to ensure all people have access to quality, affordable healthcare? Would you require the mandatory inclusion of pre-existing conditions in all healthcare coverage?<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>UU perspective:<\/strong><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">\u00a0UUs have long advocated for universal healthcare. Access to quality and affordable care, including coverage of pre-existing conditions, is essential to ensure a society where all have an opportunity for education and jobs and to make strong communities.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><a style=\"color: #0000ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/?p=19979\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Click HERE<\/a><\/span> to see more questions.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: right;\"><a href=\"#top\">Go to the Top<\/a><\/p>\n<hr style=\"width: 70%; border-top: 3px double #8c8b8b;\" \/>\n<h3><a name=\"climate\"><\/a><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-medium wp-image-19902\" src=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/climate-420x244.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"174\" srcset=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/climate-420x244.png 420w, https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/climate-768x445.png 768w, https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/climate.png 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #000080;\"><strong>Environmental and Climate Justice<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">Question:<\/span> A recent scientific report to the United Nations projects rapidly rising temperatures, extreme storms and heat waves, and coastal devastation unless immediate and drastic changes are made to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit our use of fossil fuels within the next 12 years. To avoid devastating changes to the planet and civilization, what policies will you support to avert these catastrophes?<\/span>\u00a0 <\/strong><\/p>\n<p><em><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>UU perspective:<\/strong><\/span> <span style=\"color: #000000;\">Our 7th Principle calls us to have respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part. We agree with most scientists and 13 federal agencies that humans are the primary cause of the global temperature rise. The United Nations urgently warns that rapid action must be taken within 12 years (before 2030) to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, to avoid the worst damage from climate change. We believe the US should be a leader in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, and in the shift from support for and use of fossil fuels to renewable energy technologies and improved energy efficiency. Bold action, both individually and collectively, is required to address these alarming trends. <\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>Question:<\/strong><\/span>\u00a0<strong>How will you ensure that we all, including the most vulnerable, have access to clean and affordable water, and ensure the air we breathe is clean today and for future generations? <\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>UU perspective:<\/strong><\/span> <span style=\"color: #000000;\">We believe that a healthy environment is a basic human right and includes access to clean and affordable water, and clean air. Water is essential for life, but access to safe drinking water and adequate sanitation is not universally available in the US. After decades of progress to reduce hazardous air pollutants, national clean air regulations are being loosened or eliminated, putting our health at risk. Lower income Americans and those facing economic crises struggle most with the negative consequences of poor water quality and clean air policies. <\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">Question:<\/span>\u00a0Since the US is in the process of withdrawing from the Paris climate accord, how should the US be involved in international efforts to mitigate and adapt to extreme weather changes including rising sea-levels that particularly impact vulnerable communities?<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>UU perspective:<\/strong><\/span><i>\u00a0<span style=\"color: #000000;\">Guided by an Action of\u00a0Immediate Witness in support of joining the Paris Agreement and our 2nd Principle to affirm and promote justice, equity, and compassion in human relations, we believe the US should remain a party to the Paris Agreement because climate change is a global threat that requires global solutions. We support the Agreement as an effort by the international community to mitigate and adapt to climate change to help the world\u2019s most vulnerable communities. The Agreement requires transparent funding, new technology, and capacity building. Ignoring this urgent call to action could lead to more global unrest and mass migration. <\/span><\/i><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><em>Bold action, both individually and collectively, is required by all nations to address this existential threat.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>Question:<\/strong><\/span>\u00a0<strong>Since international demand for renewable energy is expanding, what role should U.S. public policy play to advance renewable energy technology and usage, like solar, wind, and geothermal? <\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>UU perspective:<\/strong><\/span> <span style=\"color: #000000;\">Guided by our 2nd and 7th Principles to affirm and promote justice, equity, and compassion in human relations and respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part, UUs believe we have a moral responsibility to Earth, to all beings, and to future generations to do everything in our power to bring about a swift transition from fossil fuels to a sustainable energy economy. The world\u2019s dependence on coal and petroleum comes at great cost to the environment and human health. US public investment in advanced technologies for renewable energy would demonstrate leadership as well as provide jobs, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, foster economic development, and improve our national security. We support moving away from subsidies for the fossil fuel sector and investing in renewable energy. <\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">Question:<\/span> The transportation sector is a leading contributor to greenhouse gases. Do you agree with freezing fuel economy standards at 2020 levels, or increasing them every year? Do you support allowing states to set their own standards, as California has done? <\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><em><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>UU Perspective:<\/strong> <\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The clean car standards are the most significant American effort to curb climate pollution. It is crucial to increase fuel economy standards every year. Increasing fuel economy standards also supports American innovation and auto manufacturing jobs. As UUs, our 5th principle promotes the democratic process. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) must consider feedback received during the public hearings and public comment period during the federal rulemaking process that is going on now. There should be a Congressional hearing that allows back-and-forth on the input. Congress should direct the National Academy of Sciences to provide supplemental data and analysis to the EPA before its final decision to rollback clean car rules.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><a style=\"color: #0000ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/?p=19979\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Click HERE<\/a> <\/span>to see more questions.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: right;\"><a href=\"#top\">Go to the Top<\/a><\/p>\n<h3><a name=\"resources\"><\/a><\/h3>\n<hr style=\"width: 70%; border-top: 3px double #8c8b8b;\" \/>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #000080;\"><strong>More Resources and About UUSJ<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">We hope you have found this Guide helpful. Any feedback will be most welcome as we gear up for the 2020 elections. We will continue our UUSJ advocacy work throughout the year, and will hold our elected officials accountable for the promises made during their political campaigns. If you would like to help us develop and grow a rapid response UU network please contact us.\u00a0Send comments, questions and suggestions to<\/span> <span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong><u><a style=\"color: #0000ff;\" href=\"mailto:advocacy@uusj.org\">advocacy@uusj.org<\/a><\/u><\/strong><\/span>.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>More Resources:<\/strong><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>\u00a0<span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><a style=\"color: #ff0000;\" href=\"http:\/\/salsa4.salsalabs.com\/o\/50780\/p\/salsa\/web\/common\/public\/signup?signup_page_KEY=8693\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>\u201cWrite Here! Write Now! Toolkit for Letter-writing Campaigns<\/strong><\/a>.&#8221;<\/span> <span style=\"color: #000000;\">Many UU congregations across the country use this toolkit to write letters to their Members of Congress on key issues, which UUSJ&#8217;s Capitol Hill Advocacy Corps then delivers to Capitol Hill, often in face-to-face meetings with Congressional staff. To learn more contact<\/span> <span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><strong><u><a style=\"color: #0000ff;\" href=\"mailto:advocacy@UUSJ.org\">advocacy@uusj.org<\/a><\/u><\/strong><\/span>.<\/li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong><a style=\"color: #ff0000;\" href=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/uus-mobilizing-for-the-2018-mid-term-elections\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u201cUUs Mobilizing for the 2018 Midterm Election\u201d<\/a><\/strong><\/span> <span style=\"color: #000000;\">toolkit, which links to resources and congregational tabling signage, sign-up forms, etc.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #000000;\">For advocacy resources and the PDF version of the guide visit<\/span>\u00a0<strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><a style=\"color: #0000ff;\" href=\"http:\/\/www.uusj.org\">www.uusj.org<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">and link to <\/span><\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">the<\/span><\/span><strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"> &#8220;<a style=\"color: #0000ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/advocacy\/uusj-capitol-hill-advocacy-corps\/\">advocacy<\/a>&#8220;<\/span><\/span><\/strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> tab<\/span>.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4><strong>About UUSJ<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">UUSJ\u2019s mission is to mobilize and amplify the voices of UUs as we seek to change the world through acts of love and justice. We engage Members of Congress across the political spectrum, promoting UU values and voices. As a 501(c)3(h) organization, UUSJ is nonpartisan and does not endorse candidates or parties.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/vote_UU_values1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-20006 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/vote_UU_values1-420x74.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"53\" srcset=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/vote_UU_values1-420x74.jpg 420w, https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/vote_UU_values1-768x135.jpg 768w, https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/vote_UU_values1-1024x180.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/vote_UU_values1.jpg 1116w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<hr style=\"width: 70%; border-top: 3px double #8c8b8b;\" \/>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>When you support UUSJ with a donation you make our advocacy possible on behalf of UUs across the country.<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><a style=\"color: #0000ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/salsa4.salsalabs.com\/o\/50780\/p\/salsa\/donation\/common\/public\/?donate_page_KEY=8091\">Donate online<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">at <span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><a style=\"color: #0000ff;\" href=\"http:\/\/uusj.org\">uusj.org<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">or call 202-600-9132<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Send check to: UUSJ, <\/strong><strong>7750 16th St., NW, Washington, DC 20012<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: right;\"><a href=\"#top\">Go to the Top<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Every election is an opportunity to engage with candidates as they host town halls and meet with voters in the weeks before we all vote. This provides a great way to lift up our UU concerns to our soon to be elected representatives, and the public alike. As a non-partisan organization, Unitarian Universalists for Social &hellip; <a href=\"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/uusj-guide-to-questions-for-candidates-2018\/\" class=\"more-link\">Continue reading <span class=\"screen-reader-text\">UUSJ Guide to Questions for Candidates 2018<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-19870","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/19870","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=19870"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/19870\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":19971,"href":"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/19870\/revisions\/19971"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/uusj.net\/wp1\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=19870"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}