Michael Conway

Mike Conway

Conway, Michael (Democrat)

Phone: (480) 707-8570

Email: maconway@msn.com

Website: www.conwayforhouse.com

1758 E. Gary St, Mesa, AZ 85203

Age: 46 (7/22/64, Detroit, MI).

Arizona since: 1981. Occupation: Mesa Public Schools since 2000; currently a reading teacher at Kino Jr. High School. I have also taught at Guerrero, Kerr, and Longfellow Elementary Schools (5th and 6th Grade), and Benjamin Franklin Charter School, Queen Creek.

Marital: Single.

Religious preference: Christian.

Education: M.Ed., educational leadership, NAU, 2006; M.Ed., educational media and computers, ASU, 1999; B.S., political science, ASU, 1987; Dobson High, 1982.

Political experience: LD 18 precinct committeeman, second vice-chair, state committeeman, 2006; treasurer, Independent Expenditure Committee, 2004; campaign manager for Tammie Pursley; volunteer with several different campaigns and organizations.

Memberships have included: Mesa Leadership Training and Development; National Education Association; AZ Education Association; Mesa Education Association; Golden Key National Honor Society.

Interests: I love to travel and learn about other people and their cultures. I enjoy Phoenix Symphony Pop concerts. I enjoy cooking and trying new foods. My morning exercise routine. Having won the Arizona Education Association’s 2010 Human and Civil Rights Award, I have a special interest in reaching out to all members of our community and inviting them to get active, involved and included.

Issues:

Political influence: I would have to say that I have been mostly influenced by the students that I teach. I have worked with some of the most impoverished children in Mesa, and that has had an enormous impact on how I see the world and government role in creating opportunities for people to become successful and productive citizens.

Budget recommendations: 1) The state needs to re-evaluate each tax credit program to ensure it is having the desired affect for which it was designed and end those that do not. 2) Close tax loopholes enjoyed by the rich and large corporations. 3) Rehire auditors within the Department of Revenue so the department can collect back taxes known to be owed by individuals and large corporations that have avoided their responsibilities.

Other concerns: First, we need to start working in a bipartisan manner and end the political gamesmanship so we can incorporate the best ideas from all leaders, parties, and citizens of our state. Neither party represents the majority of Arizonans. We will need to do this so we can implement programs that are in the best interest of our state. This means we need long range planning using data to drive any decisions we make. Secondly, we need to look at making long range investments which will increase Arizona’s ability to compete and attract good jobs. This includes our education system, tourism industry, and quality of life issues.

Fiscal philosophy: Every penny that is spent should be accounted for and be seen as an investment in our state, its citizens, and our future. If it does not fulfill those qualifications, it should not be spent.

Background & experience: I have lived in Arizona since 1981. I have witnessed the growth and maturing of our state. I have worked with our young people and their families. I understand their needs. I also understand that each member of the community has value and something of importance to add to the conversation. I am a team player and want what is best for our state, not my party or my political standing. We must work together. If we continue down the path of partisanship -Arizona will fail as a state, and we will all pay a higher price. Leadership is not always doing what is popular – it is doing what is right. I think most people understand, and respect this definition of leadership. They should also expect it from our Legislature.

Proposition 100 sales tax: I favor the temporary sales tax increase. I realize that it is a Band-Aid solution, but apart from further gutting education, and public safety programs, it is the only solution offered by the legislature. It is temporary in nature with a definite end date. It will help bridge these rough economic times.

Pro-life/pro-choice: I did not get an endorsement from Planned Parenthood, and I would not get one from a right-to-life group. So I would venture to guess that I am where most Arizonans are on the issue, somewhere in the middle. Women who find themselves in a crisis pregnancy must be allowed to make the decision that best fits their values, morals, and situations. I do not favor a government large enough to dictate to its citizens what medical procedures they can have. With that said, the procedure needs to be regulated so it is safe and appropriate. For instance, late-term abortions should be limited unless the life of the mother is in danger. I also do not believe that protection of the child ends at birth. If we are going to continue to create laws that dissuade women for having abortions, the state needs to be there for these women and children after the child is born. I think that part of the equation is missing. This forces women to often opt for an abortion because there is little aid offered after the birth of the child and often these women and children are portrayed as burdens to society.

One last thing: I look forward to working with all individuals who are looking to make this the greatest state in which to live, work, and play.

Campaign Finance: public.