Vance Patterson

Slogan: Jobs – Prosperity – Now
Profession: Manufacturer, small-business owner
Residence: Morganton
Top three donors: Self-funding ($271,000), dozens of WNC small donors ($18,000), no special-interest money
Total raised: $289,000
Top three endorsements: More than 23,000 WNC voters on May 8 and the majority of the other candidates for this office in the primary

What's the first bill you'll introduce if elected? Why?
Co-sponsor the Fair Tax bill; introduce House term-limit legislation. The Fair Tax represents the best plan to reform our corrupt and inefficient tax code, ending loopholes and relieving the unfair burden on small businesses and working families. Term limits will encourage accountability and ensure fresh leadership on a recurring basis.

What local issue do you think you can have the most impact on? Why?
The need for quality, high-paying jobs in our communities. I have a proven track record, starting 16 companies and creating over 300 high-paying jobs in manufacturing. I know what is truly required to grow and sustain companies and local economies.

What do you see as Congress’ role — and yours, if elected — in channeling federal dollars to your district?
The best way to bring dollars back to our district is to reduce the size, scope and spending of our federal government. We should return that money to individuals and their local governments to utilize as the voters see fit in a way that better represents our Founding Fathers’ intent.

What issue(s) does Buncombe County have in common with more rural areas of the district such as Graham County? How do they differ?
Throughout our region, communities are focused on strengthening and improving the economy while preserving the wonderful way of life that we are blessed with. How we do that best will look slightly different county by county based on needs and local vision, but we are united in that common goal.

Do you consider yourself more or less conservative than your runoff opponent? Why?
I consider myself the more authentically conservative candidate, committed to core conservative principles throughout the campaign. I’m the only runoff candidate who’s promised not to raise the limit on Washington’s out-of-control debt spending, the only candidate dedicated to term limits. Our community needs citizen servants, not would-be career politicians.

Why would you be the strongest candidate to run against Democrat Hayden Rogers in November?
I’m the only candidate with a proven track record of effective leadership on the most important issue, our economy. Two of the 16 companies I’ve started were named as Inc. 500’s fastest-growing companies in America. I know how to stick to a budget and make the tough choices necessary to achieve success.