Ashley Ward, candidate for US House of Representatives District 4 in North Carolina

Name: Ashley Ward

Political party: Democrat

Age as of Nov. 8, 2022: 50

Campaign website: ashleywardforcongress.com

Occupation: Senior Policy Associate

Education: PhD

Have you run for elected office before? No

Please list highlights of your civic involvement: I have volunteered with youth, as a classroom volunteer, a PTA officer, a member of the OCPS COVID task force, and a Free Mom Hugs volunteer for LGBTQ youth. I’ve also been a volunteer for the local Meals on Wheels program and served on the NCDPS Hazard Mitigation Plan Committee and the NC WRRI board.

What is your plan for limiting the effects of inflation?

Address corporate price gouging with stronger anti-trust laws, support immigration reform to address the labor shortage and transition to renewable energy.

What is the federal government’s role in controlling or ending the COVID-19 pandemic?

Ensure access to free testing and vaccination, support research and development for treatment and prevention, and provide affordable, accessible health care.

What is the federal government’s role in combating the effects of climate change?

Among the many actions that need to be taken are: subsidizing transition to renewable energy; increasing domestic production of renewable industry products; revising the Stafford Act and Federal Flood Insurance Program; and addressing impacts to health, communities and the labor force.

What is your plan for reducing violent crime?

We must invest in communities by supporting community organizations that tackle issues, such as poverty, mental health and drug addiction, food insecurity, affordable housing and workforce development, so that there are opportunities and assistance where needed.

What should happen if Roe v. Wade is overturned?

Congress must pass the Women’s Health Protection Act.

Is there an area where you disagree with your party? Why?

I agree with the Democratic Party platform, but like many, am frustrated by a lack of movement on climate change, student loan debt, voting rights, ethical governance and affordable health care. I’m ready for bold action.

What are your top issues? Pick up to three.

▪ Health care

▪ Voting and elections

▪ Climate change

This story was originally published April 24, 2022 at 6:00 AM with the headline "Ashley Ward, candidate for US House of Representatives District 4 in North Carolina."

Dawn Baumgartner Vaughan

The News & Observer

919-829-4877

Dawn Baumgartner Vaughan is the Capitol Bureau Chief for The News & Observer, leading coverage of the legislative and executive branches in North Carolina with a focus on the governor, General Assembly leadership and state budget. She has received the McClatchy President’s Award, N.C. Open Government Coalition Sunshine Award and several North Carolina Press Association awards, including for politics and investigative reporting.