Editor’s note: More than a dozen Democrats and Republicans are running in the May 14 primary election to be their party’s nominee in the race for the 6th Congressional District seat now held by Rep. David Trone (D), who is running for the U.S. Senate. MoCo360 is running profiles of the candidates based on questionnaire answers submitted for our voters guide. Beginning with the Republican candidates, a profile will be published every weekday until the May 2 start of early voting.
Today’s profile features Republican candidate Chris Hyser.
Chris Hyser
Party: Republican
Age: 59
Residence: Frederick
Education: Rets Technical Training Center, Baltimore; Masters in Divinity from Bayan Claremont
Current/most recent role: Retired Maryland state trooper, contract investigator for U.S. government, trained Iraqi police officers through Department of Treasury
Previous political experience: Not applicable
Website: https://www.chrishyserforcongress.com/
Why are you running?
I am running for office because I firmly believe that the time for change is now. We must take decisive action to mend the fabric of our society and unite our communities for a better future. Together, we can pave the way towards a stronger and more prosperous nation.
I am a decorated retired Maryland state trooper, Medal of Valor recipient. After retiring I served seven tours in Iraq and three tours in Afghanistan as a contract dignitary protection agent. Upon returning to the U.S., I completed my master’s degree in chaplaincy. I would like to share my vision of District 6 as your next congressman. Now let’s imagine a community where parents have the power to choose the education that best suits their children’s needs, where the phrase “school choice” is not just a buzzword but reality. Picture a town where the brave men and women in blue are not just valued but supported wholeheartedly. This is the vision I bring to you tonight; do you agree? First and foremost, I will mandate parental rights in education – empowering parents to decide what’s best for their children. Secondly, I am a strong supporter of school choice. Through school choice, we can tailor our educational system to meet the diverse needs of students. Finally, let’s talk about “Back the Blue”. I’ve walked the thin blue line, and I understand the sacrifices our law enforcement officers make to keep our communities safe.
What district-specific issues are you most passionate about and how would you use your platform to address them?
- Parental Rights, opt-out must be guaranteed.
- School choice.
- Back the Blue.
- Closing the southern border.
What do you think Congress’ role should be when it comes to public schools? What can you do to best support the schools?
- Parental Rights, opt-out guaranteed to parents.
- School choice, the money must follow the student.
- The power of determining curriculum should be taken away from the BOE’s and returned to the PTA (with a heavy concentration on the parents with educator input).
How should Congress address crime?
To create safer communities, a comprehensive approach is essential, blending robust law enforcement measures with targeted initiatives addressing the root causes of crime. We must unequivocally Back the Blue, equipping law enforcement with the necessary resources, training, and technology to effectively combat criminal activities. Advocating for community-oriented policing strategies is crucial, fostering positive relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve, thereby building trust for more effective crime prevention and resolution. Concurrently, exploring criminal justice reform initiatives, including rehabilitation, alternative sentencing, and reentry programs, is imperative to address the underlying causes of crime and reduce recidivism. Securing the nation’s borders is paramount, preventing illegal entry, drug trafficking, and human smuggling, we must prioritize border security measures to shield American communities from external threats, build the wall long and tall. Upholding Second Amendment rights for law-abiding citizens is non-negotiable, resisting any attempts to infringe upon these rights while focusing on enforcing existing laws.
How should Congress address gun violence?
No new laws, enforce the laws we have on the books.
The Dobbs v. Jackson decision in 2022 that overturned Roe v. Wade has changed the face of reproductive care access across the country. What should Congress’ role be in the abortion conversation?
The absence of federal involvement is a rightful return to the states’ jurisdiction, as it should have remained since 1974. Correcting the issue of judicial overreach, we now advocate for a restoration of power to the states, in line with the principles outlined in the Constitution and as intended by our founding fathers. It is imperative to entrust decision-making authority to individual states, allowing them to exercise their autonomy and address matters according to the constitutional framework.
The same Supreme Court decision has raised concerns about marriage rights and gender-affirming care access for LGBTQ+ people. How should Congress address this?
The debate surrounding Supreme Court decisions, such as Roe v. Wade, underscores the importance of respecting states’ rights and preserving individual liberties. In addressing concerns about marriage rights and gender-affirming care access for LGBTQ+ individuals, Congress should prioritize a federalist approach, allowing states to determine their own policies in alignment with their unique values. Legislation should strike a careful balance, respecting religious freedoms while ensuring protections for LGBTQ+ rights. Rather than imposing a uniform solution, we need to engage in bipartisan collaboration to craft legislation that addresses these concerns while upholding the principles of constitutional governance and individual autonomy.
What should Congress’ role be in addressing a changing climate?
We should approach the issue of a changing climate with a focus on innovation, market-driven solutions, and international cooperation. Rather than imposing heavy-handed regulations that stifle economic growth, we believe in fostering an environment where businesses are incentivized to develop and adopt cleaner technologies. We should invest in research and development, promote private-sector innovation, and incentivize energy independence to address environmental concerns. Furthermore, collaboration with global partners is crucial to developing comprehensive solutions that go beyond national boundaries, however we must have “teeth” in any agreement that will hold them accountable. By leveraging our ingenuity and promoting responsible environmental policies, we can play a constructive role in addressing climate challenges without compromising economic prosperity.
Is there anything else you want to share with prospective voters?
My vision is rooted in the belief that tailored, localized approaches are essential for the success of each county within the 6th Congressional District. I urge you to explore my website, https://www.chrishyserforcongress.com, and review my comprehensive action plan/platform. Unlike my opponents, I understand the diverse needs of District 6. The resounding message from our district echoes concerns about the economy and illegal immigration. As we move forward, my commitment remains unwavering. We must close the border immediately. The only funds that leave this country are solely for humanitarian aid until our southern border is secure. Not a penny leaves our country until our streets are free of potholes due to adequate county funding, until our children are fully funded in school, and until every veteran is housed. “America First” is not just a slogan; it’s my stance, and it will always be in my heart. Together, let’s usher in a new era of leadership that prioritizes the needs of every community in District 6. Join me in building a future where our values are upheld, our borders are secure, and our constituents’ voices are truly heard.
