Antonio Daza
Antonio Daza (Democratic Party) ran for election to the U.S. House to represent Georgia's 11th Congressional District. He lost in the Democratic primary on May 21, 2024.
Daza completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Antonio Daza was born in Venezuela.[1] He earned a bachelor's degree from the Colegio Universitario Monseñor de Talavera in 2002 and a bachelor's degree from Oglethorpe University in 2021. Daza's career experience includes working as an entrepreneur. [2]
Elections
2024
See also: Georgia's 11th Congressional District election, 2024
Georgia's 11th Congressional District election, 2024 (May 21 Republican primary)
Georgia's 11th Congressional District election, 2024 (May 21 Democratic primary)
General election
General election for U.S. House Georgia District 11
Incumbent Barry Loudermilk defeated Katy Stamper and Tracey Verhoeven in the general election for U.S. House Georgia District 11 on November 5, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | Barry Loudermilk (R) | 65.6 | 269,849 | |
| Katy Stamper (D) | 31.9 | 131,064 | ||
| Tracey Verhoeven (D) (Write-in) | 2.5 | 10,226 | ||
| Total votes: 411,139 | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
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Democratic primary election
Democratic primary for U.S. House Georgia District 11
Katy Stamper defeated Antonio Daza in the Democratic primary for U.S. House Georgia District 11 on May 21, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | Katy Stamper | 56.6 | 13,615 | |
| Antonio Daza | 43.4 | 10,449 | ||
| Total votes: 24,064 | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
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Republican primary election
Republican primary for U.S. House Georgia District 11
Incumbent Barry Loudermilk defeated Michael Pons and Lori Pesta in the Republican primary for U.S. House Georgia District 11 on May 21, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | Barry Loudermilk | 86.1 | 46,567 | |
| Michael Pons | 9.1 | 4,912 | ||
| Lori Pesta | 4.9 | 2,629 | ||
| Total votes: 54,108 | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
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Endorsements
Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Daza in this election.
2022
See also: Georgia's 11th Congressional District election, 2022
General election
General election for U.S. House Georgia District 11
Incumbent Barry Loudermilk defeated Antonio Daza in the general election for U.S. House Georgia District 11 on November 8, 2022.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | Barry Loudermilk (R) | 62.6 | 190,086 | |
| Antonio Daza (D) | 37.4 | 113,571 | ||
| Total votes: 303,657 | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates
- Angela Davis (Independent)
Democratic primary election
Democratic primary for U.S. House Georgia District 11
Antonio Daza advanced from the Democratic primary for U.S. House Georgia District 11 on May 24, 2022.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | Antonio Daza | 100.0 | 33,470 | |
| Total votes: 33,470 | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
Withdrawn or disqualified candidates
- Beau Cannon (D)
- Heather Kilpatrick (D)
Republican primary election
Republican primary for U.S. House Georgia District 11
Incumbent Barry Loudermilk advanced from the Republican primary for U.S. House Georgia District 11 on May 24, 2022.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | Barry Loudermilk | 100.0 | 99,073 | |
| Total votes: 99,073 | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
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Campaign themes
2024
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Antonio Daza completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Daza's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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Antonio Daza, born in Valencia, Venezuela, is a passionate advocate for democracy, justice and progress. He challenged authority from a young age, driven by a rebel spirit and an inquisitive mind. Influenced by resilient family figures and political legacies, Antonio's worldview crystallized around democratic values and fighting oppression.
His political activism began in Venezuela at nine, opposing government corruption and authoritarianism, leading to perilous encounters. Seeking asylum in the U.S. in 2003 marked a turning point from a tumultuous country to a beacon of hope. Antonio founded Daza Dance in 2008, fostering unity through dance and shaping Atlanta's cultural landscape for 15 years.
Inspired by the events of the Trump era, he contested for Congress in 2022, surpassing expectations with nearly 38% of the district's vote. Undeterred, his commitment echoes a relentless drive to defend democracy and advocate for equity, rooted in experiences from Venezuela's democratic erosion.
Antonio envisions a future where democracy, justice, and equity flourish. His candidacy symbolizes inclusivity, unity, and empowerment, calling on the community to unite, amplify voices, and script a new narrative of a thriving community where democracy and justice prevail. Antonio represents the American dream, accessible to all, weaving into the vibrant tapestry of the nation.
- Protecting Democracy I am a strong advocate for the preservation and enhancement of our democratic principles. The right to vote is the cornerstone of our democracy, and I am committed to ensuring that every eligible American can exercise this fundamental right.
- Justice I believe that Justice is lacking in many facets of our government. Whether it is in the context of our failing criminal justice system, rampant ethics issues in Congress, or an inherently flawed immigration system, I will fight to ensure that our government is accountable to the people - and that all people are held accountable to our society equally.
- Equity and Equality Our nation is held back from achieving true greatness due to the ways that discrimination, a lack of opportunities, and a lack of resources affect so many of our community members. Our society will only benefit if all Americans can live the lifestyles they deserve to, can access the healthcare resources needed to remain healthy, and can reach new heights of prosperity through education. As the Congressman for Georgia’s 11th Congressional District, I will advocate for policies that I believe will achieve these goals.
Protecting Democracy - as a political refugee who came to the United States to escape a dictatorship, I am deeply concerned with protecting our democracy and the right to participate freely in our political system.
I try to follow the example set by so many of my family members, including my parents. I didn't get here by accident - I learned to be civically involved and dedicated to justice from a young age due to the positive influence of many of the people who raised me.
More than anything, elected officials need to be extremely empathetic. When your job is to represent thousands of people, many with completely different lives than your own, you need to be intentional about staying grounded and understanding what challenges each person faces.
I am unafraid to speak the truth, no matter how inconvenient it is. I'm also extremely driven to understand the details of nearly everything - I am a fast learner and a very data-oriented thinker.
To do what is best for the people of your district, your state, and your nation, in that order. To honestly vote with your conscience and work to develop meaningful policies that will help people. And to never accept the influence of bad actors seeking to control you through financial incentives or extremist rhetoric.
I want to be remembered as someone who never compromised my integrity and values, and along the way I want to pass important legislation that significantly impacts the lives of millions of people in a positive way.
With any job, all previous experience is helpful in some way. But it matters a lot more about how you went about the work. I think our nation would benefit from having our elected officials come from more diverse career backgrounds than previous elected office experience.
The drastic amount of inequity that affects most Americans due to their economic status, race, sexuality, gender identity, or religion.
I do believe that compromise is an important part of the legislative process, although I am not willing to compromise when it comes to core values like respecting someone's civil or human rights.
I would seek to reduce the tax burden currently placed on middle-class Americans.
In an honest way to hold those in power accountable, but not to waste time with political theater. We need to have more serious investigative work put towards the events related to the January 6 Insurrection.
My parents were accountants, so both of these concepts are things that were taught to me from a young age in both a literal and figurative sense. I believe in radical transparency and accountability - Americans deserve to know how their tax dollars are being spent. They also deserve to feel confident that those dollars are being spent responsibly and free from corruption or waste. One of my main platform points is Justice - and to have a just government means having one that is responsive, accountable, and meaningfully transparent in all regards.
Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.
Campaign website
Daza’s campaign website stated the following:
| “ |
Protecting Democracy I am a strong advocate for the preservation and enhancement of our democratic principles. The right to vote is the cornerstone of our democracy, and I am committed to ensuring that every eligible American can exercise this fundamental right.
Federal Voter Protection Legislation: The integrity of our elections is paramount. To protect and enhance our democracy, we must implement comprehensive federal voter protection legislation. I support bills like H.R. 1, the For the People Act, which addresses critical issues in our electoral system. This legislation expands voting rights, promotes fair redistricting, and reduces money's political influence. By passing this legislation, we can safeguard the foundation of our democracy. Restoring the Voting Rights Act: The Voting Rights Act has historically been a vital tool in combating race-based voter disenfranchisement. However, key provisions, like Section 5, were invalidated by a Supreme Court decision in 2013. I am committed to restoring the full strength of the Voting Rights Act; this includes reinstating Section 5, which requires jurisdictions with a history of voter disenfranchisement to obtain federal approval for voting changes. We must ensure that no one's right to vote is violated due to discrimination. Making Voting Accessible: Voting should be accessible to all citizens. Many Americans face barriers that prevent them from participating in the electoral process. Election Day should be a national holiday to allow all Americans to vote without the constraints of work or school. I also support automatic voter registration at age 18, making it easier for young adults to engage in our democracy. Removing these barriers will strengthen our democracy and ensure everyone's voice is heard.
Prevent another J6-style Insurrection: We need to strengthen our most vulnerable institutions from bad actors that seek to take everything we have. I support extensive, granular investigation into the January 6th, 2021 Insurrection. All of those who are responsible for what happened need to be held accountable to the furthest extent possible, and all those who participated need to be appropriately managed through the criminal justice system. Addressing the Influence of Money in Politics: Money's influence in politics erodes public trust and undermines the principles of democracy. The Citizens United ruling exacerbated this issue by allowing corporations to spend unlimited amounts in elections. I support a constitutional amendment to overturn the Citizens United decision. We need campaign finance reform that reduces the influence of big money, increases transparency, and ensures that our elected officials are accountable to the people, not special interests. Protect Free Speech: Right wing extremists have used protests as an excuse to greatly expand the scope of the government’s capacity to punish protestors that they disagree with. We are also seeing bills passed that would essentially legalize things like vehicular homicide against protestors in many situations. The ability to protest peacefully is a foundational aspect of our democracy. I will oppose legislation that is designed to curtail peaceful protesting, especially when that legislation is clearly motivated by a desire to target specific activist groups. Justice I believe that Justice is lacking in many facets of our government. Whether it is in the context of our failing criminal justice system, rampant ethics issues in Congress, or an inherently flawed immigration system, I will fight to ensure that our government is accountable to the people - and that all people are held accountable to our society equally.
Sentencing Reform: Reform mandatory minimum sentences and three-strikes laws to ensure sentences are proportionate to the crimes committed. Promote rehabilitation within the prison system. Marijuana: I support the decriminalization of marijuana and expunging past convictions. This will reduce the burden on our legal system and help those unfairly impacted by outdated drug policies Mental Health and Addiction: Let's shift our approach from punishment to treatment. Invest in mental health and addiction services, diverting non-violent offenders away from jails and into programs that address the root causes of their actions. Accountability: Support comprehensive police reform, including mandatory body cameras, independent oversight, and a zero-tolerance policy for abuse. Community Policing: Invest in community policing, where officers build relationships within their communities, emphasizing trust, not militarization. Non-Lethal Alternatives: Equip law enforcement with non-lethal tools and training to minimize the use of deadly force.
Congressional Insider Trading: I support enacting firm guardrails and punishments to prevent insider stock trading by members of Congress. Root out corruption and waste: Our government’s contracting practices are vulnerable to a sense of stasis - large companies that donate to elected officials are able to retain contracts despite falling short of the requirements. We need to get to the core of this issue and rehaul the way that our government awards contracts and enforces the conditions of them. Creating systemic transparency: Congress should work to ensure that information and data about our government’s activities is readily available in formats that are easy to locate and understand.
Path to Citizenship: I advocate for a comprehensive immigration reform plan that includes a clear, accessible path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants. This path should be fair, compassionate, and efficient. Family Reunification: We must prioritize reuniting families who the actions of the U.S. government have unjustly torn apart. This means implementing policies that guarantee family reunification as swiftly as possible. Protection for Dreamers: I support the expansion and strengthening of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. This policy must secure the futures of dreamers who have spent their lives in the United States and are integral to our communities. Welcoming Refugees and Asylum Seekers: We must welcome those fleeing violence, persecution, or disaster. We must streamline and humanize the asylum-seeking process, providing individuals with a safe and fair opportunity to request refuge in the United States. Immigration Justice Beyond the Border: Immigration justice is not just about the border; it extends to the lives of immigrants living within our communities. I am committed to ensuring that immigrants have access to the same labor and living conditions, including health care, education, and workers' rights, as all American citizens. Equity and Equality Our nation is held back from achieving true greatness due to the ways that discrimination, a lack of opportunities, and a lack of resources affect so many of our community members. Our society will only benefit if all Americans can live the lifestyles they deserve to, can access the healthcare resources needed to remain healthy, and can reach new heights of prosperity through education. As the Congressman for Georgia’s 11th Congressional District, I will advocate for policies that I believe will achieve these goals.
Universal Healthcare Access: I support that every American should have access to high-quality healthcare, regardless of income, employment, or pre-existing conditions. Universal healthcare is not a partisan issue; it's a human one. It's about ensuring no one chooses between their health and financial well-being. Comprehensive Medicare Coverage: I support expanding Medicare to cover a broad spectrum of healthcare needs, including dental, hearing, mental health, substance abuse treatment, prescription drugs, long-term and disability care, as well as reproductive and maternity care. This ensures that all Americans receive the comprehensive care they need and deserve. Addressing Inefficiency: Our current healthcare system is costly and inefficient. It's time for a change. I'm committed to working with both parties to streamline our healthcare bureaucracy, reducing administrative waste, and improving patient care. Negotiating Drug Prices: It's outrageous that Americans pay significantly more for prescription drugs than citizens of other countries. I advocate for allowing Medicare and Medicaid to negotiate drug prices with pharmaceutical companies while saving taxpayers money. This is a common-sense solution that benefits everyone. Medicare Buy-In for All: I support allowing Americans to buy into the federal Medicare program instead of purchasing private insurance. This option enhances competition, lowers costs, and provides accessible healthcare for those who prefer it. Expanding VA Programs: We support the expansion of the VA's Caregivers Program, recognizing the crucial role caregivers play in veterans' recoveries. The mental health of our veterans is equally important. We'll increase access to mental health services to address the issues that affect many of our heroes. Eliminating the VA Benefits Backlog: Our veterans should always receive the benefits they've earned quickly. We'll address the backlog and streamline the claims process to ensure timely access to essential support.
Protecting Public Education: In Congress, I am committed to protecting our public schools from budget cuts and the influence of corporate interests. Public education should be about fostering the next generation, not profit margins. Our teachers deserve better pay and proper resources to provide a quality education to our children. I will advocate for increased federal funding to ensure that schools can provide the best possible education for our students. Affordable Higher Education: I understand the struggles of students facing the burden of student loan debt. It's time to make post-high school education accessible for all and relieve the crushing weight of student loans. My proposal includes advocating for free public college education and ensuring that all Americans have access to higher education, no matter their socioeconomic status. Quality education should come with something other than a price tag that leaves individuals with debt for years. Student Debt Relief: To relieve the millions burdened with student loan debt, I support a comprehensive student debt cancellation plan. This plan will empower graduates to pursue their dreams without the weight of debt limiting their potential. By tackling the issue of student debt head-on, we can unlock the full potential of our workforce and invest in the future of our country. Fostering Inclusive Education: Education should be where our children learn about their nation's history, warts and all. I firmly believe in an inclusive curriculum that presents facts and accurate information about the United States and its history. We need to ensure that our educational institutions teach a comprehensive history that encompasses the struggles and achievements of all Americans, fostering a deep understanding of our past and promoting unity as we move into the future
Protecting Access to Safe and Legal Abortion: Access to abortion should not depend on your zip code or income status. I support federal legislation codifying access to safe and legal abortion services in every state. I will champion efforts to continue upholding and protecting the principles established in Roe v. Wade to ensure that no one is denied the right to decide about their own body. Comprehensive Reproductive Healthcare: Access to reproductive healthcare is not limited to abortion; it encompasses a range of services, including contraception, preventive care, and family planning. I believe that private and public insurance should cover the full spectrum of reproductive healthcare services, ensuring affordability and accessibility for all. Support for the Equality Act: I wholeheartedly support the federal "Equality Act," a crucial legislation that will ban discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in employment, housing, and public accommodations. Discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals has no place in our society, and we must provide comprehensive legal protections to ensure equal treatment for everyone, no matter where they live. The Equality Act will help safeguard the rights and dignity of LGBTQ+ Americans in every corner of our nation. Healthcare Access for LGBTQ+ Communinty: In Congress, I will advocate for a comprehensive healthcare system that guarantees full rights and protections to transgender, genderqueer, and non-binary individuals. This includes access to gender-affirming healthcare and mental health services. We must dismantle barriers to healthcare and ensure that everyone receives the support and medical care they need, free from discrimination and prejudice.[3] |
” |
| —Antonio Daza’s campaign website (2024)[4] | ||
2022
Antonio Daza completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2021. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Daza's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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Antonio Daza is many things; he is a local small business owner, LGBTQ+ immigrant from Venezuela, and a passionate activist. He is running as a progressive Democrat to unseat Rep. Barry Loudermilk. Antonio is focused on issues that will dismantle unjust systems at the federal level, and is passionate about working to end social and economic inequality. His progressive platform promises changes to benefit not only the most marginalized of our population but to also provide the kind of leadership that CD11 has lacked in Congress. He is excited to challenge the status quo and work to better the lives of the American people. When asked why he is running for Congress, Antonio says that "we need to ensure a better future for ourselves and our children... we deserve it and it's long overdue."
- Antonio is focused on delivering a comprehensive COVID relief and response program that meets the demands of our current crisis. He promises to work towards providing economic relief to vulnerable populations, while fostering transparency and accountability on both sides.
- Antonio firmly believes that healthcare should be a right for all Americans, not a privilege for those who can afford it, and he will fight for universal healthcare in Congress. Medicare for all will save both lives and money for the American people, and Antonio knows that it is common sense legislation. Antonio will advocate for Medicare For All because he believes that every American should have access to the quality healthcare that they need.
- social inequality. The issue of income inequality is a primary focus of the campaign, and Antonio stands in solidarity with working class Americans. He will support legislation that advocates for raising taxes on corporations and the wealthy to fund a social safety net that meets the demands of the American reality. To further fight inequality, Daza supports measures to provide more funding for public education, increase pay for essential workers/support worker’s rights and unions, and tackle gentrification through supporting tenants rights.
Antonio is personally passionate about working to end systemic injustice from the top down. As an LGBTQ+ immigrant living in the south, Antonio knows the impacts of system discrimination on communities, and will be an advocate for human and civil rights in Congress. He knows that black lives matter, and believes that it is time for America to respect that on paper and in practice. He is an avid believer in justice reform, and will advocate for funding social services as opposed to policing, as well as legalization of marijuana to work towards ending the harmful war on drugs and lessen incarceration rates.
Antonio also recognizes that climate change is an issue of environmental justice. For too long, we have seen the worst effects of climate change impact already underserved communities. It is time to guarantee all Americans, regardless of income, race, or neighborhood, access to clean air, water, and food. Antonio is passionate about supporting the Green New Deal. He knows that a bold plan is the only way we can avoid catastrophic climate disaster, while providing generous support for workers and communities tied to the fossil-fuel industry and creating millions of jobs. A robust public works program will be the fuel we need for our green economy as we transition towards renewable energy and away from greenhouse gas emissions, while reinvigorating communities most impacted by climate change.
Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.
Campaign website
Daza's campaign website stated the following:
| “ |
VOTING RIGHTS & DEMOCRACY Voting is the single most important right we have as Americans. I believe in the power of democracy, and I will ensure that every eligible voter has their voice heard. I support federal legislation like the For the People Act, to protect the integrity of our democracy by expanding voting rights and reducing the influence of money and partisanship in politics. I support restoring Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act to require jurisdictions with a history of race-based voter disenfranchisement to obtain federal approval (pre-clearance) for voting changes in order to ensure they are not discriminatory I also support a constitutional amendment to reverse the impact of Citizens United and fix campaign finance. I believe that Election Day should be a national holiday, and I will support every policy that makes voting easier and more accessible, such as automatic voter registration at age 18.
Healthcare is a right, not a privilege. Every American should have access to the quality, affordable healthcare that they deserve, which is why I will work to enact Medicare for All and expand Medicaid. I will assist to expand Medicare coverage to include dental, hearing, mental health, substance abuse treatment, prescription drugs, long-term & disability care, and reproductive & maternity care. Healthcare is an issue that is personal to me, and I have seen firsthand how ineffective our system can be. Americans have the highest healthcare spending in the world, and we're the only industrialized nation without universal health insurance. I support saving taxpayers approximately $230 billion over 10 years by allowing Medicare and Medicaid to negotiate prices with pharmaceutical companies. I also support a Medicare Buy-In for All, which would allow any American the choice of buying into the federal Medicare program instead of buying private insurance.
Access to safe abortions is healthcare. I am proud to be a pro-choice candidate. Reproductive rights are under attack in the U.S., and without the protection of Roe v. Wade, access to safe abortion is under threat. We cannot allow access to medical care to be stripped away state by state, which is why I will vote to create a federal law protecting abortion care for every person who needs it. In the most vulnerable moments of someone’s life, it is important we guarantee them respect and dignity. I will work to prevent the harassment and intimidation of patients, providers, and staff at reproductive health care facilities. I believe that private and public insurance must cover abortion and all forms of birth control. I also believe that we must work to reduce the economic hardships that often come with having a child, through resources like affordable healthcare and paid family leave.
Black lives matter. It is far past time for our government and institutions to respect Black lives, on paper and in practice. I support sweeping police reform and accountability. I understand that policemen have one job: to protect and serve. I will advocate for moving funds from private prisons and police departments to social programs and departments like healthcare and drug treatment, housing, education, and other supportive services that are better trained to intervene in many situations. After reallocating, the remaining police presence should be redefined, minimized, and demilitarized. This includes measures like decreasing the use of violent force for officers, new training standards, regular independent mental health checks, national tracking systems for officers, and ending qualified immunity. I support the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act. I also know that when individuals' basic needs are met, there will be real safety in our communities.
Climate change is an issue of environmental justice. For too long, we have seen the worst effects of climate change impact already underserved communities. It is time to guarantee all Americans access to clean air, water, and food. I support the Green New Deal. A bold plan is the only way we can avoid catastrophic climate disasters while providing generous support for workers and communities tied to the fossil-fuel industry and creating millions of jobs. A robust public works program will be the fuel we need for our green economy as we transition towards renewable energy and away from greenhouse gas emissions while reinvigorating communities most impacted by climate change. In Georgia, I am extremely concerned about the millions of tons of toxic coal ash stored in unlined pits around the state. These pits are contaminating the local water supply with toxic chemicals such as arsenic, mercury, lead, and chromium. These pits must be cleaned and lined immediately to ensure safe drinking water for Georgia’s communities, and I will work to ensure accountability is demanded at the Federal level.
As a gay man living in the South, I know firsthand that the fight for LGBTQ+ rights in a post-marriage-equality world is far from over. I support the federal “Equality Act,” which would ban discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in jobs, housing, and public accommodations. LGBTQ+ people need protection, no matter what state they live in. I support the protection of the right of LGBTQ+ families to adopt; there are so many loving homes waiting for a child to join their family, and so many children dream of a loving home. In Congress, I will be an advocate for expanding, guaranteeing, and protecting access to reproductive rights, fertility, and family planning for the LGBTQ+ community as well as paid parental leave that protects and affirms diverse families and gender identities. I want to see Medicare for All ensure transgender, genderqueer, and non-binary individuals full rights and protections, with access to the healthcare that they need.
As an immigrant myself, I firmly believe that no human is illegal. I support comprehensive immigration reform that includes a path to citizenship. We must take children out of detention centers and reunite families torn apart by the US government. We must guarantee and expand protections for dreamers under DACA, abolish ICE, and move towards welcoming refugees and those seeking asylum. I also know that immigration justice doesn’t stop at the border. I will be a champion for immigrant rights, and humane living and labor conditions through public services accessible to all.
Income inequality in America is a major problem. I stand in solidarity with working-class Americans, and I will support legislation that advocates for raising taxes on corporations and the very wealthy to fund social service programs. It is long past time to demand that the rich pay their fair share. I support Sen. Bernie Sanders’s plan for an annual tax on the extreme wealth of the top 0.1% of US households, a tax that would only affect those with a net worth of over $32 million. Addressing income inequality also means protecting the working class. While inflation and the cost of living have increased significantly over the past several decades, workers’ wages have remained stagnant. We must secure a minimum wage of at least $15 tied to inflation. I will advocate for protecting workers at all levels, especially our front-line heroes who are most often low-wage workers. I will be an ally in Congress to labor unions and will advocate for workers' rights.
I stand with long-term residents of their communities – I understand the valuable sentiment and history behind neighborhoods. As a resident of District 11 for 15 years, I've had a front-row seat to the gentrification and displacement of "low-income" communities, which disproportionately affect people of color. I understand what it means to be forced out of your home because of money and big corporations, and I'll work in Congress to defend communities' rights to protect their homes. I will advocate for increased federal funding and protections for underserved communities. I also want to see efficient and environmentally friendly transportation initiatives that better serve all residents through public works programs under the Green New Deal, cutting down carbon emissions and giving underserved communities economic opportunities that they don't currently have access to. I support passing a “Full Employment Act” guaranteeing that any American who wants a job will have one — including public works projects like repairing bridges and roads, wiring rural America with high-speed internet, and other long-term investments in the economy.
As the stepfather to a public school teacher and two proud graduates of Cherokee County schools, I know how valuable public education is to the people of GA-11 and beyond. In Congress, I will protect our public schools and their staff members from budget cuts and corporate greed. As a recent college graduate myself, I know that high tuition costs have made post-high school education inaccessible for millions and have crippled millions of others with student loan debt. We need free public college, and the cancellation of all student debt to ensure that all Americans have access to quality education, something that is not only invaluable but is also expected in our increasingly competitive jobs economy. I support education curricula, including facts and accurate information about the United States and its history. A thorough understanding of our history is vital for informing our future.
I stand in solidarity with people with disabilities – it is time to stop the criminalization of disability. According to the Department of Justice, 1 in 5 inmates in prisons has a cognitive disability, while another 1 in 5 inmates has a serious mental illness. I support moving away from incarceration and towards providing people with disabilities the services and support they need to thrive in American society. This support can be given through Medicare for All and justice reform initiatives, including mental health care and home-and community-based services. I will advocate for protecting people with disabilities from discrimination in healthcare, jobs, and public accommodations. I support Rep. Jayapal’s "Domestic Workers Bill of Rights Act" to ensure our care workers are afforded a living wage and a safe working environment.
African Americans are arrested for violating marijuana possession laws at nearly four times the rate of white people, while both consume marijuana at roughly the same rates. Legalizing marijuana is a justice issue, and the first step to ending the disastrous war on drugs, which has targeted people of color and destroyed the lives of millions of Americans. It is time to legalize marijuana at the federal level and start the work to expunge past marijuana-related convictions. I believe that revenue from marijuana sales should be directly reinvested in communities hit the hardest by the failed war on drugs. I also believe that legalizing marijuana will have a positive effect on public revenue and would allow for a host of new opportunities for business and the economy.
Capital punishment is a violation of the constitutional ban against cruel and unusual punishment, and the guarantees of due process under the law. Beyond moral objections, the data does not support state-sanctioned killing and innocent people are too often sentenced to death. Since 1973, over 156 people have been released from death row after being found innocent, and nationally, at least one person is exonerated for every 10 that are executed. In Congress, I will advocate for abolishing the death penalty, and will always stand for humane treatment of all people - including those currently incarcerated. That includes ending life sentences without the possibility of parole, ending mandatory minimum sentences, decriminalizing activities that are byproducts of poverty and homelessness (such as sex work and drug use), and ending solitary confinement. I support Rep. Pressley’s H.Res. 702, “The People’s Justice Guarantee", which works to accomplish these goals.
The pandemic has only further illuminated all the cracks deeply embedded in the American safety net. I believe that the only way to truly recover from the COVID-19 crisis is to provide immediate COVID relief and enact a vigorous COVID response program. All eligible Americans should receive unemployment benefits and protections during and after the pandemic, regardless of state residency. I also support an ongoing Child Tax Credit as included in the American Rescue Plan. As a small business owner, myself, I support helping small businesses through the pandemic via financial assistance. To ensure this, I would like to see a system of accountability to ensure that grants are going to companies in need and that the funds are spent within the parameters of accepted use. Even as we move into a time when hopefully the pandemic will be a less serious issue, it is important that we don't ignore the struggles that it will be left behind.
I was deeply affected witnessing the unlawful evictions around the country, displacing renters impacted by COVID. I stand with tenants, and I believe it is time for the federal government to pass legislation codifying protections for tenants' rights. This includes measures like protecting renters and mortgage holders from unjust evictions and displacements, reducing experiences of homelessness through public initiatives like public housing investments, ensuring low-income rental access, and holding landlords accountable.
As an immigrant and a refugee from political violence and dictatorship, I have a unique appreciation for American institutions, and I believe in their power to serve the people. I know, however, that a large portion of Americans feel disaffected and exhausted by the way that the systems are currently functioning. In order for our democracy to thrive, we need to gain back our trust in the institutions that represent us, and our government must protect and reflect the democratic values we have agreed upon since the beginning of our nation. Being an elected official is a great responsibility, and I believe that there should be strong accountability for any elected officials who incite violence - including those responsible for the storming of the United States Capitol in early 2021., which is why I support the investigations by the January 6th House Subcommittee. I am a strong advocate for freedom of religion, and I believe that the separation of church and state is the most effective protector of those freedoms. We need term limits and many other reforms necessary to ensure that our elected officials are accountable to the public that they serve.
It is time to stop America’s never-ending wars. I will work to create peace internationally without U.S. military intervention. I will stand for a national foreign policy that focuses on democracy, human rights, diplomacy, and economic equity. Congress must assert its constitutional authority over the use of military force and show bipartisan concern over unconstitutional wars. It’s time to put an end to the military-industrial complex and invest in creating a better life for all people. In Congress, I will advocate for strong Congressional oversight into foreign affairs to stop the Presidential abuse of war powers. I will fight to bring our soldiers home and give them a good quality of life when they get here. That means veterans should come home to a government that guarantees necessities like a living wage, universal health coverage including mental health treatments, and access to higher education. It’s time to stop sending our young people to continue fighting an endless war and invest in the more than 18 million veterans who are here in America. I support expanding the VA’s Caregivers Program and mental health services for veterans. I also support eliminating the VA benefits backlog, fully funding the VA, and reversing the privatization of services for veterans.[3] |
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| —Antonio Daza's campaign website (2022)[5] | ||
Campaign finance summary
Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.
See also
2024 Elections
External links
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Candidate U.S. House Georgia District 11 |
Personal |
Footnotes
- ↑ Daza For Georgia, "Meet Antonio," accessed April 21, 2022
- ↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on April 26, 2024
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 Note: This text is quoted verbatim from the original source. Any inconsistencies are attributable to the original source.
- ↑ Antonio Daza’s campaign website, “Platform,” accessed April 24, 2024
- ↑ Daza For Georgia, “Home,” accessed November 5, 2022
