Candidate Profile: Ian Chapman, District 39

The 2020 election is heating up in Colorado and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office. Eyes are primarily focused on the presidential election, but voters will also decide the outcome of state representative, senate and judicial seats.

Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Ian Chapman is running for State Representative - District 39.

Age: 32
Party affiliation: Democratic Party
Family: My wife, Sarah, and daughter, Ruth who is 11 months old.
Occupation: Registered Nurse
Previous elected experience: None
Family members in government: No

The single most pressing issue facing our state is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

The COVID-19 Pandemic. Outside of our present times, I would've said the lack of critical infrastructure. However, right now as it stands, the largest and most pressing issue is the resurgence and impact of COVID-19. If elected I would press for evidence based policy meant to reduce its spread, ease economic strain, and allow for strategic and guided sustainment in reopening our state fully. While it is imperative to allow for economic activity, it is also important to do so with the goal of decreasing the health disparities associated with this virus.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I am not a partisan politician. My opponent has voted along party lines with every opportunity. I am not attempting to represent or appeal only to the democratic base in this race. My opponent campaigns with an unclear plan of action, other than "blocking" policy and law that doesn't appeal to his base overall. He has not put forward any real plan of action, and continues to push what amounts to conspiracy theories, and debunked science regarding COVID-19. My platform is one meant to follow science and practical application to achieve goals, while omitting my personal religious views as guides for government.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I have experienced much in my life: From leading soldiers on the battlefields of Afghanistan, to recovering from devastating injuries. As a nurse, I am on the front lines of this pandemic, and I follow scientific guidelines every day. I know what it is to lead, and sacrifice. Not to place myself first is baseline, and as a representative that is what we need.

What steps should state government take to bolster economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic for local businesses?

State government should target local industry to accomplish and meet identified needs. Local businesses should be used to complete construction, repair, and expansion of roads and infrastructure within the community.
Therefore, step one is determining the path needed to build infrastructure within the state to meet the needs of the population we have. Step two is the selection of local business in bids for building, construction and state financed projects.

How will you address the calls for racial justice and police reform?

I will push for police reform and a return to local policing. Law enforcement at every level should have civilian oversight as well. Racial justice needs to be met head on, through allowing for equity in addition to equality. Ignoring that systemic racism exists enables it to fester, and like cancer it needs to be treated not ignored.

List other issues that define your campaign platform:

Partisan politics is a major issue we face as a state and nation. The division of the American people based solely on political beliefs has crippled us. Divisive policy, language, and platforms meant to develop an "us against them" mentality will create only chaos. Some people have push the belief that patriotism is tied to political affiliation. The commonality that we all have is the fact that we are Americans. Serving our nation and community is something that should be viewed as sacrifice not a career. The community we live in can only mend and come together of we meet at our common ground. The great experiment that is the United States can only move forward through unity as Americans meeting in the middle.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I will be open to any and every person within my district to discuss their needs, beliefs, and requests. I will not vote on something without first consulting my constituents, and fully understanding the bill before me. Civil liberties, rights, and freedoms are the backbone of our nation and we need to return to that belief over Republican vs Democrat.