This article is part of a series created to help voters become familiar with the candidates running for the West Virginia House of Delegates. Each candidate was asked the same six questions, and we are sharing their responses exactly as they were given to us. This series aims to provide a clear and direct look into each candidate’s views on issues that matter to the people of West Virginia.

This article’s focus is on Tresa Howell, the Republican Party candidate for the West Virginia House of Delegates, representing District 52. Let’s dive into her responses to learn more about her priorities for the state.

1. What is your position on religious freedom, and how does your faith and role as delegate work together?

“Christianity plays a significant role in shaping social values.  It is the foundation of my beliefs and will impact the choices I make as a legislator.”

2. Some believe public schools should be the only option for parents. What is your stance on a parent’s right to choose the best education for their child?

“I support school choice.”

3. The HOPE Scholarship allows parents to align their child’s education with their values. With the program set to expand to all K-12 students in two years, what actions would you take to support its growth?

“I will work in my communities to help in any way I can to ensure that opportunities are not missed for each child, regardless of choice, educate on the process and support legislative processes for continued growth.”

4. Do you have any K-12 children or grandchildren in school? If so, did they attend public or private school, or homeschool in West Virginia?

“No.”

5. Please describe your professional background and why it equips you to lead West Virginia effectively.

“I am a registered nurse of greater than 26 years with a bachelor’s degree, experience in management, critical care, surgery and community health.  As well as recently, working full time with my spouse in his accounting firm in an administrative capacity to aid in expanding the office and create a successful internship program with colleges.”

6. What does conservatism mean to you, and how would you differentiate it from liberal values on the three most pressing challenges facing our state?

“Conservative values focus on faith, family, freedom, limited government, free markets and personal responsibility.  Liberal values place an emphasis on government dependency, limited freedoms, strained markets and illusions.

Challenges facing West Virginia are the economic growth in various areas of the state, healthcare and education.”