Kelli Ward

Republican
Candidate for Arizona Senate in Legislative District 5
Phone: (928) 302-1919
Email: electkelliward@gmail.com
Website: www.drkelliward.com
Twitter: @ElectKelliWard
3619 Desert Rose Ln, Lake Havasu City, AZ 86404.

Age: 43. (01/25/69, Fairmont, WV).

Arizona since: 1999.

Occupation: Physician, Synergy Medical Spa, since 2005; director of Medical Education, Kingman Regional Medical Center, since 2007; physician, Arizona Emergency Medicine Specialists/Tizon Emergency Associates, since 2009; adjunct associate professor, A.T. Still University, since 2009; adjunct clinical faculty, Midwestern University AZ College of Osteopathic Medicine, since 1999; president and CEO, Lakeview Family Health Care, 1999-2009; regional medical director, physician, North Country Community Health, 2009-2011.

Marital: Married (Michael, emergency physician; Colonel, AZ Air Nat’l Guard).

Children: 3.

Religious preference: Christian.

Education: M.P.H., emphasis in health policy, A.T. Still School of Health Management, 2005; D.O., West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, 1996; B.S., psychology, Duke University, 1991.

Political experience: Dodie Londen Excellence in Public Service Series, class of 2011-2012; campaign committee for Don Clark, mayoral race in Lake Havasu City; member of multiple Republican organizations and clubs; leadership in several national, state, and local organizations including serving on boards and as president.

Memberships: Rotary Int’l, Soroptomist, Women’s Networking Exchange of AZ, Lake Havasu City Referrals Club, Liga Int’l (flying doctors of mercy), LHC Chamber of Commerce Leadership Development class, LHC Chamber of Commerce Ambassador, VFW Ladies Auxiliary, AZ Osteopathic Medical Assn, American Osteopathic Assn, AZ Society of the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians, Nat’l ACOFP, Sigma Sigma Phi (osteopathic honor society) Grand Chapter Bd member, Assn of Osteopathic Directors and Medical Educators.

Interests: Travel, political news and views, musical theater, karaoke, reading, community service, my family.

Political influence: Ronald Reagan is an inspiration to me. The Reagan Revolution, which aimed to reinvigorate the American people and reduce their reliance upon government, is a philosophy that I embrace. I think he restored “the great, confident roar of American progress and growth and optimism.” His positive attitude and quick smile were two things that contributed to his greatness as a political leader. Sarah Palin’s energy and love of the United States excites and motivates me. Her backbone and ability to stand up for what she believes is right despite mighty opposition is something I plan to emulate.

Job creation measures: As a military spouse for the last 16 plus years, I know that a strong defense is of utmost importance. I believe that AZ has an excellent environment to lead in the defense and aerospace industry. I believe “drones” are going to be invaluable in our defense as time goes on. I want Arizona involved in research and development, testing and training, and manufacturing in this sector. Development of Arizona as a commercial hub for air cargo, ground transportation, logistics, and warehousing along with creating an environment where private Arizona enterprise can innovate to become a leader in alternative energy.

Top Issues: Jobs and the economy: the Arizona Legislature should create a business-friendly, competitive environment with low taxes and limited regulation to allow growth and innovation in our state. Diversify Arizona’s industries, from solar to defense projects to science. We also need to work to retain businesses that are already here. Health care: support doctor-patient relationships that are created by free market-driven, state-based options for employers or individuals to utilize in order to obtain health care services; create a market for health care not insurance, as I believe that an educated consumer of health care will make decisions based on evidence and economics.

Prop 100 sales tax extension: I believe that since the measure was originally passed by the voters, it should go back to them to determine if they want to continue to pay the approximately $440 dollars per year/family in increased sales taxes. I do not believe that the Legislature should decide to raise taxes in a recession on its own. The voters should have a say.

Illegal immigration: I believe that Arizona should be allowed to secure our border if the federal government refuses to do so. I would like to see a stream-lined path to being able to enter and work in our country. People from other countries want what we have: freedom, liberty, and the chance to pursue our dreams. We should not reward those who have broken our laws to seek that dream. We should enforce all of our laws, not the ones that someone determines are politically expedient. The system is broken and Arizona should be able to fix its way.

Background & experience: As a family physician, I work with all types of people, often in stressful situations. I know my area of expertise and when I need a consultant. I have been involved in leadership roles for a long time and at all levels. I have health policy experience and an education. I am passionate about jobs and the economy, education, and getting back to the basics of government. I am a bridge-builder and relationship maker. I have always been a person who wants to help make things happen, not sit back and complain when something happens to me.

Pro-life / pro-choice: I am pro-life.

One last thing: I am a person who has the ability to critically evaluate complex problems and come up with common sense solutions for the people I represent. I have been working hard to create a network of experts that I can call upon to advise me before laws are passed, not after. I want to be a voice of the people, and I am creating relationships with constituents throughout my district. I realize that I represent everyone in my district, not just those who vote for me. I can be a powerful, persuasive, passionate, and positive voice for Arizona!

Campaign finance: private.