Name *
Robert J Steinberger
Age *
52
Office and District
US House of Representatives, MD's 3rd District
City and County of Residence *
Arnold, MD
Political Party *
Republican
Education *
BA – University of Notre Dame (Economics, Japanese, Computer Applications) 4-year NROTC scholarship; MBA – Darden GSB, University of Virginia MA – George Washington University School of Education & Human Development (Education Technology Leadership) JD – Pace Law School
Career/Occupation *
Executive Leader in Business and legal positions at an array of companies including the biggest in the world (Walmart), as well as small start-ups. Focused primarily on Strategic Planning, Finance & Operations on the business side and corporate legal support on the Legal side.
Political Experience *
None
Website *
Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552998666525&viewas=100000686899395
Public Twitter Handle
Public Instagram Handle
instagram.com/robsteinbergerforcongress
Public TikTok Handle
n/a
YouTube Page
n/a
Other Public Social Media Accounts
n/a
Why are you running for office? *
I am running because I can make a difference in DC by bringing a pragmatic voice of reason to the operations in the House. Aligned with the people of Maryland’s third district, I will be their voice and help address the issues that affect each of us in our everyday lives (e.g., escalating costs, personal safety, access and affordability to excellent healthcare). It is time for a change. My experience and commitment to the people of Maryland will make lives better for all families.
Who do you consider your political role model, and why? *
I admire the work that (former) Governor Larry Hogan did while serving Maryland. Despite facing a strong opposing party base, he was able to move issues forward and produce positive results for Marylanders, regardless of party affiliation. His candor and direct communication style is what we need more of in politics today – as well as doing what is right for the constituents, sometimes in spite of or regardless of party lines. Additionally, though discussions continue regarding him and his success, I believe George W. Bush represented strong leadership where needed in the aftermath of the events of 9/11. He brought the country together, prioritized national security and laid the groundwork for long-term defense against terrorism on our nation’s soil. President Bush also took steps towards addressing positive reform domestically such as with No Child Left Behind. And while the success of this initiative long term is still debated today, NCLB was a solid start to addressing educational disparities from the Federal level, by holding schools accountable for how children learn and laying the groundwork for recognizing achievement gaps, and forcing schools and districts to take steps to act on these gaps.
What is your favorite book about politics and policy, and why? *
While not a politics book, Sam Walton’s Made in America has some great lessons about servant leadership and listening intently to and learning from those around you. His candid optimism and rise to be the undisputed retail leader of the late 20th century is inspirational. Winning Every Day by Lou Holtz is also a great book for inspiring the reader to approach issues and problems with an open mindset, clearly define goals, and focus without compromising flexibility. These lessons are delivered in an affable and relatable manner by an amazing leader.
What will be your top priority if elected? *
My top priority will be the people of MD’s 3rd District – families and small business owners. Their wellbeing, doing whatever I can to make their voices heard, and assisting them to improve how they live (e.g., cost of living, healthcare access and affordability, reasonable daycare, reducing bureaucracy, as well as addressing the environmental and congestion issues facing our district.)
What are the three biggest issues facing your district? *
• Affordability, including both housing costs and general costs of living. This is a concern for all Marylanders, and frankly, every US citizen. • Education, including public school funding and equitable access. Primarily a State controlled issue, a great deal of influence and dollars come directly from the Federal government. Ensuring adequate funding for the district's well-regarded public schools is crucial, and concerns about access to educational resources and managing class sizes remain important. • Healthcare. Specifically, accessibility and cost. Access to affordable and comprehensive healthcare, including specialists and mental health services, is a constant concern for residents of all ages and income levels.
What are the three biggest issues facing Maryland? *
More broadly speaking, Maryland residents generally have the same concerns as those living in the 3rd District. (Affordability, education concerns and healthcare.)
What are the three biggest issues facing our country? *
Affordability, including both housing costs and general costs of living. Healthcare – access and affordabiltyaffordability Individual safety – at home and when traveling, or simply running errands.
What is your position on life issues? (abortion, assisted suicide) *
Assisted suicide is also something I do not personally support. While I would like to believe there is always hope for improvement or relief, in some cases, it is between an individual, their family and their medical team. Patient dignity throughout their healthcare journey, and especially at end of life, is paramount. Informed options at all stages is critical – for the patient and their families. These decisions are irreversible and while ultimately the decision lies with a patient and their doctor, the impact on families is tremendous. Patients must be of sound mind and have the ability to participate in this type of decision, Patients must be protected.
What is your position on taxes, spending, and the federal deficit? *
Fiscally conservative, I believe there is power in leveraging debt to a degree, however, I also believe that proposed programs must have reasonable means of funding and not be a further drain on the American taxpayer. Lower personal taxes actually stimulate growth, put money back into the economy, and drive progress. I oppose the idea that we can just continue to print money to fund unlimited public programs and social spending without restraint and would push toward a balanced Federal Budget.
What is your position on gun rights? *
I believe in every citizen’s right to bear arms. Maryland is one of the leading states in the nation regarding gun safety laws. This can be an example for moving these standards nationally. I am in favor of strong background checks and longer wait times, gun safety training and storage requirements for all potential gun owners and even more strict control of automatic weapons I do not support the theory stating that by taking automatic weapons out of circulation we risk the slippery slope of taking away all guns.
What is your position on the federal legalization of marijuana? *
Many States, including Maryland, have legalized the sale and recreational use of marijuana. States can fully manage to legalization and control within their borders. Other than decriminalization at the Federal level to avoid conflict of laws, I think States can manage this without further Federal intervention.
What is your position on trade? *
I believe the US has become too reliant on foreign goods and services. While I believe in free trade, the US must be able to offer quality, affordable and desired domestically produced goods in order to compete and for free trade to be successful. I believe we need to support US manufacturing and development focused on industries for the long term. The US has always been on the forefront of technological advancement - medical, hardware and software, and groundbreaking research. This is where we need to invest.
What is your position on foreign policy and military issues? *
I believe that as a global leader we owe it to ourselves and our allies to continue to train and maintain our forces as the best military in the world. I do not believe the US is responsible for being the world’s police force, however having the capability and willingness to assist where necessary is critical. We can be a better partner to our allies having our own house in order by being strategically prepared and promoting overall operational excellence in order to earn the trust and confidence of our allies globally.
What policies would you support to fight inflation? *
Tax cuts / relief for small businesses, start-ups, and individuals, potentially increasing the highest marginal tax rate for the highest earning individuals and while scrutinizing tax relief programs and loopholes for major corporations. The US has one of the lowest overall tax rates for corporations globally while offering some of the best legal protections. Large corporations can take advantage of this environment but can certainly afford to pay a little more for the other US based benefits they receive. We need companies to invest and grow here, and we need both the jobs that come from these companies and the growth that comes from the corporate cash flow. Tax incentives for these companies have their place to attract investment and ignite growth, but they do not have to be indefinite. Reduction in spending programs via prioritization of infrastructure and other investment programs and reforming entitlement programs. We must drive unnecessary spending down on ineffective programs, make sure our tax dollars are efficiently and effectively spent.
What is your position on Transgender issues?
Every individual is entitled to live their truth, but not at the expense of those around them. I am against exposing children to these discussions and “options” at too early an age. Given the complexity of the issue and the fact that children's minds continue to develop into their twenties, I oppose trans surgery for minors and believe it should be prohibited. I also am opposed to Federal funding for trans surgery
Would you support the passage of the Human Life Amendment? *
No
Would you support the passage of the Balanced Budget Amendment? *
Yes
Do you support D.C. Statehood? *
No
Do you support retrocession of the District of Columbia into Maryland? *
No
Was Joe Biden legitimately elected President of the United States in the November 2020 Election? *
Yes
Do you support another round of federal stimulus payments? *
No
Do you support the proposed ban on TikTok? *
No
Do you pledge to accept the results of your election? *
Yes