Ahead of the March primary, The Orange County Register compiled a list of questions to pose to the candidates who wish to represent you. You can find the full questionnaire below. Questionnaires may have been edited for spelling, grammar, length and, in some instances, to remove hate speech and offensive language.
MORE: Read all the candidate responses in our Voter Guide
Name: Cheyenne Hunt
Current Job Title: Attorney and policy advocate
Political Party Affiliation: Democrat
Incumbent: No
Other political positions held: None
City where you reside: Fullerton
Campaign website or social media: Website: www.cheyennehunt.com; X: @cheyennehuntCA; Instagram: cheyenne.l.hunt; Facebook: cheyenne.hunt.congress; TikTok: cheyennehuntca
How much assistance should the U.S. provide — military and/or financial — to foreign countries at war, like Israel or Ukraine? What, if any, should be the litmus test for American allies to receive assistance from the U.S.?
I believe U.S. assistance to foreign countries, including Israel and Ukraine, should be rooted in promoting human rights, democracy and global stability. Military and financial aid must be tied to strict human rights standards and support democratic institutions.
In situations like Ukraine’s defense against aggression, U.S. military support is essential to uphold international law. However, aid should be conditional, based on the recipient country’s commitment to human rights and democratic principles. This approach ensures that U.S. aid does not prolong conflicts or support undemocratic practices.
Domestic considerations are also crucial. While the U.S. plays a role on the international stage, it must balance this with investments in domestic welfare.
The litmus test for U.S. assistance should be whether it promotes peace, democracy and human rights, aligning with American interests and values. This balanced approach contributes to a more stable and just world, benefiting both the U.S. and its allies.
Border security continues to be a concern for many Americans. What is one proposal, that you believe could get bipartisan support, to address the border?
One proposal for border security that could gain bipartisan support is investing in advanced technology for border surveillance and management. This would include drones, sensors and enhanced data systems to efficiently monitor and secure the border. This approach strikes a balance between enforcing border security and maintaining humanitarian standards and efficient resource allocation.
As AI technology continues to rapidly expand, what do you see as the federal government’s role in creating and enforcing a regulatory framework?
The federal government’s role in the expansion of AI technology should focus on establishing and enforcing a comprehensive regulatory framework. This framework should prioritize ethical standards, data privacy and consumer protection. The government should collaborate with technology experts, ethicists and public stakeholders to ensure regulations are informed and effective.
Additionally, there should be an emphasis on promoting innovation while mitigating potential harms such as job displacement and biases in AI algorithms. The government’s role is crucial in balancing the benefits of AI advancements with the need for accountability, transparency and public trust in these technologies. This approach would not only safeguard citizens’ interests but also foster a responsible and sustainable growth environment for AI.
The role — and size — of the U.S. Supreme Court has come under scrutiny in recent years. Do you believe more justices should be added to the nation’s highest court, or would you support any kind of reform, like term limits?
I believe in the importance of reforming the U.S. Supreme Court to ensure it remains a balanced and effective guardian of our Constitution. Term limits would ensure regular turnover, reduce the high stakes of each appointment and make the court less susceptible to the vagaries of political fortune. This reform could maintain the court’s independence and integrity, aligning it more closely with democratic principles. Such a change would require careful consideration and bipartisan support, but it represents a measured approach to modernizing the Supreme Court in a way that respects its critical role in American governance.
What is one environment or climate policy you’d champion if elected?
If elected, I would prioritize a balanced approach that promotes both clean energy and jobs. This policy would aim to gradually increase investment in renewable energy sources like solar and wind, while also supporting existing energy sectors during the transition. The focus would be on modernizing infrastructure to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability but with a pragmatic approach that considers economic impacts. Key elements would include incentives for renewable energy adoption, support for research and development in clean technology and training programs for workers to transition into green jobs. This approach ensures stability and growth in the economy.
The George Santos saga made for numerous memes and “SNL” skits. But what is one thing Congress should take away from the former congressman’s expulsion from the House?
The George Santos saga underscores the critical need for stricter vetting and transparency in the electoral process. Congress should take away the importance of implementing more rigorous background checks and verification protocols for candidates. This could involve enhancing the disclosure requirements for candidates, including a thorough review of their professional, educational and financial histories. Such measures would help ensure that individuals seeking public office are truthful about their qualifications and history. This approach would not only protect the integrity of the electoral process but also maintain public trust in elected representatives. It’s a lesson in the importance of accountability and transparency in democratic institutions, reinforcing the need for safeguards that prevent similar situations in the future.
2023 was a year for labor in California. What is one policy you’d champion to support workers, if elected?
If elected, I would champion comprehensive worker protection. I would focus on enhancing workers’ rights across all sectors, particularly in terms of job security, fair wages and safe working conditions. A key component would be the establishment of stronger protections for gig economy workers, ensuring they have access to essential benefits like healthcare, paid leave and a minimum wage. Additionally, I would support the right to unionize and collectively bargain, empowering workers to have a greater say in their employment conditions. This recognizes the evolving nature of work in the digital age and aims to create a more equitable, safe and supportive environment for all workers in California.
If you are an incumbent, tell us the most significant accomplishment of your most recent term. If you’re a newcomer, tell us how you, as a freshman, would stand out.
I was raised by a single mother and her single mother. We are descendants of Syrian refugees which taught me the value of hard work and determination early.
Driven by a passion for justice and equality, I became the first in my family to graduate college. I started my legal career defending domestic violence survivors, then became Sen. Amy Klobuchar’s youngest law clerk. I helped draft legislation to control big tech companies and prevent corporate monopolies from price gouging. As a policy advocate, I’ve led grassroots movements, developed federal laws and advised the White House.
My story is about breaking barriers and public service. I pledge to bring this dedication and vision to Congress. Career politicians and their corporate backers have run Washington for too long. I’ve pledged to not take a dime of corporate PAC money and support term limits for all members of Congress.
Describe your political philosophy in 10 words or less.
Progress, prosperity and the pursuit of happiness are fundamental rights.
What is your go-to campaign trail snack or drink?
Quinn peanut butter pretzels.
