Tell us about yourself.
Name Bengy Swanson
Office Sought House of Delegates
Party Affiliation Democrat
District 77
City/Town Pentress
The US Supreme Court will decide Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization this summer, which some have speculated may overturn Roe v. Wade. If there were no Constitutional protections for abortion, what do you think West Virginia's abortion policies should be?
I think that lawmakers, especially male lawmakers should not be permitted to make decisions for women about there own bodies
Several West Virginia municipalities have passed ordinances that expand the definition of racial discrimination to include discriminating against traditional or natural hair textures and styles. Would you support expanding this protection statewide? Why or why not?
Sure, the less discrimination on any level, the better
Many states have created laws that seek to limit the teaching of "divisive concepts" or "critical race theory". West Virginia narrowly missed passing a similar law during the 2022 Legislative Session. What is the value or harm in teaching these topics and what role should the legislature play in determining this curriculum?
Unfortunately the state is ultimately the employer in this situation, therefore it is there job to set guidelines for what is taught
Currently there is no statewide law protecting people in matters of employment, housing, and public accommodations based on their sexuality or gender identity. Proponents claim these protections are necessary for ongoing discrimination by the LGBTQ community. Opponents claim that such protections infringe upon religious beliefs. What do you believe and would you support or oppose a statewide law?
I have always supported any LGBTQ legislation
Recently a revival was held at schools in Cabell and Wayne counties. The Legislature has, in recent years, passed laws to allow teaching the Bible in public schools and allowing for religious drug-prevention programs to operate in schools. What do you think the role of religion in public schools should be and why?
I’m not necessarily in favor of teaching any certain religion in schools, just like I’m not in favor of teaching any certain language in schools...however, I am fine with religion and language as being an elective in the schools. I’m more in favor of teaching life skills and how to be a good human being.
The West Virginia Senate recently unanimously adopted a resolution stating that West Virginia is prepared to welcome Ukrainian refugees. Critics have pointed out that the Legislature has recently considered legislation what would make things more difficult for refugees and immigrants to settle in West Virginia. Should West Virginia welcome refugees and immigrants? If no, why not? If yes, what can the state do to support these communities?
I have no issues with welcoming refugees into WV, lord knows we need more population here.
There is increasing tension with communities of people who are unhoused or face housing insecurity. Police breakups of encampments are common, and municipalities have shown growing opposition to low-barrier housing and recovery housing. How would you address community concerns while protecting the rights of unhoused people?
I do not like seeing encampments or tent houses, etc. Absolutely no reason why homes and jobs cannot be found for folks that actually want to help themselves.
Police violence has been in the forefront of national headlines for several years. Some propose more civilian oversight of law enforcement through civilian review boards that could review incidents and policies. Others view these boards as "anti-police" and point out that civilians are ill-equipped to understand the nature of police work. Do you support the use of civilian review boards? What other steps, if any, should the state take to provide transparency and accountability for police?
I do not support civilian review boards. I support properly trained and educated review boards
Jails in West Virginia are above capacity and are bankrupting some counties. Prisons are understaffed, making them dangerous for residents and staff alike. What steps, if any, should West Virginia take to address these issues?
Sadly, understaffing is a post Covid issue in every area of employment. When jails are over crowded every where in the country, as the seem to be, apparently we as a society are not properly educating young kids on how to be a good person and obviously jail is not so bad if the are packed...make conditions tougher, make ppl want to stay out of jail
Currently, people who are incarcerated or on probation and parole for a felony conviction are unable to vote. The West Virginia Senate Judiciary Committee passed a bill that would have expanded that right to people who are on probation and parole. When, if ever do you think people should lose their right to vote? When, if ever should that right be restored?
I am not for allowing prisoners the right to vote. However, if you have paid your debt to society, then I feel voting rights should be replaced