Dear Mr. Donnelly,Thank you for taking the time to read and reply to these questions. I suppose because I am not meeting you in person, I should tell you a little bit about myself. I am 12 years old and a strong writer, and I enjoy my many interests. I remember my family and myself being at a community event. I’m sure you don’t recall, but I was one of those little second graders toddling over to you, interrupting your meal, and asking you questions for our classroom newspaper. That was a fond memory of mine. You were the first person I ever interviewed, sparking a light in my eyes. So I present some questions to you, for the second time.Thank you very much.
Best Regards,
Kate
EMAIL INTERVIEW WITH CONGRESSMAN JOE DONNELLY-IN
KATE:
Who is your favorite American Hero?
CONGRESSMAN DONNELLY:
President John Kennedy. He was an American war hero, he tried to achieve equal rights for everyone, and he believed that anyone who worked hard enough could see their dreams come true.
KATE:
What aspects of the Constitution are most relevant to the issues of today?
CONGRESSMAN DONNELLY:
The Preamble of our Constitution speaks to what our priorities should be: to form a more perfect Union, we must work with one another, no matter the political party. The only way we will establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, and promote the general Welfare is if we dedicate ourselves to put the well-being of American families above partisanship and political interests. That is why I support working with everyone to get things done to make life better for Indiana families. That is the way we will secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity.
KATE’:
What event in history most speaks to you, and does it have if any impact to your philosophy and behavior in present day?
CONGRESSMAN DONNELLY:
The life of Jesus. He suffered and died for us, and no matter how imperfect we are, Jesus still gives us hope of salvation.
KATE:
What are the most positive things about America?
CONGRESSMAN DONNELLY:
America is the best country in the world because of the many freedoms we enjoy. I am proud to serve the people of Indiana as we seek to move our communities, state, and country forward.
WTK would like to thank Congressman Donnelly
Thank you, Elizabeth Shappell for arranging this interview for Kate.
Biography
Joe Donnelly is honored to represent Indiana’s Second District, located in north central Indiana, in Congress. He was first elected to Congress in 2006 and is currently serving his third term after being reelected in 2008 and 2010.
Joe is committed to a moderate and common sense agenda that includes creating and preserving jobs, reducing the debt and deficit, fighting for our veterans, and promoting an all-in energy plan. In Congress, he serves on two committees: Financial Services and Veterans’ Affairs.
Prior to serving in Congress, Joe operated a small business in Mishawaka. As a result of this firsthand experience, Joe understands the unique challenges that business owners face today. Joe also practiced law in South Bend.
Joe first served the public when he worked with both Democrats and Republicans to ensure fair and accurate election results by serving on the Indiana State Election Board from 1988 to 1989. Additionally, he was a member of the School Board for Mishawaka Marian High School from 1997 to 2001, serving as President during the 2000 to 2001 term.
Joe lives with his wife Jill in north central Indiana. Joe met Jill in South Bend during college and they have two children, Molly and Joe Jr. From coaching his kids’ basketball and baseball teams years ago to being a member of St. Anthony de Padua Parish, Joe has fully invested himself in his community and is proud to call Indiana home.
