Ruben Gallego

Gallego, Ruben (Democrat)

Phone: (623) 308-9292

Email: statehouse16@gmail.com

Website: www.gallegoforarizona.com

101 N. 7th St. Unit 103, Phoenix, AZ 85034

Age: 30 (11/20/79, Chicago, IL).

Arizona since: 2005.

Occupation: Current, small business owner, Group and Taylor Street Group; chief of staff, District 7, City of Phoenix 2008-10; project manager, Riester Public Affairs, 2006-08; Corporal, USMC Infantry.

Marital: Married (Kate, SRP analyst).

Religious preference: Catholic.

Education: B.A., international relations, Harvard University, 2004.

Political experience: Obama National Delegate, vice-chair, Arizona Democratic Party; Jim Pederson for Senate; Michael Nowakowski for City Council, campaign manager.

Memberships have included: Children’s Museum of Phoenix, board member; Valley Citizens League, board member; chair, Nucleus Club; Maricopa American Legion Post 41, member; Congressman Harry Mitchell Veteran’s Advisory Committee.

Interests: Shooting, reading, traveling.

Issues:

Political influence: Cesar E. Chavez.

Budget recommendations: Bond for construction and create a Capital Improvement Fund. Sell off state property (i.e. State Fairgrounds).

Other concerns: Economic development and education.

Fiscal philosophy: Arizona missed a great opportunity when we had surpluses. In the current economic crisis we should shore up our budget and not expand any programs till we are fiscally sound again. Surpluses should be invested in the following manner: rainy day fund, education, and infrastructure.

Background & experience: Working at the City of Phoenix has helped me get a better understanding of what is need to attract the quality jobs that we need in Arizona. My experience as an Iraq War veteran infused me with a dedication to service and protecting our families in Arizona. Being raised in a poor family and attending Harvard on a scholarship taught me that government programs and private groups can be helpful in lifting people out of poverty.

Proposition 100 sales tax: I favor the temporary increase to help us get through these tough years. The alternative would cause harm to our state that would make it more difficult and expensive to recover from in future years.

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

One last thing: I would like voters to know that whether they support me or not, they will always have an open door to talk to me.

Campaign Finance: private.