Campaign Website: https://paulrileycongress.com/

Campaign POC: Unavailable

Phone Number: 434-249-9294

Campaign Email:
paulrileyforcongress@gmail.com

Vetting Panel Selected: Refused

Structured Interview Completed: Refused

Biography: Paul Riley is currently an Intelligence Solutions Lead with a defense contractor and lives in Crozet, Virginia. He was born in Norwich, New York, where he lived most of his childhood before his family moved to Florida. He worked his way through and graduated from Florida State University in 1989. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Following graduation, Paul served in the U.S. Army for over two decades, specializing in military intelligence. He has been happily married to his wife, Jani, for 32 years, and they have three children: McKenna, Nathaniel, and Keegan. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Beyond his professional and family life, Paul is an avid outdoor enthusiast. He finds joy in various activities such as traveling, hiking, fishing, and hunting. This reflects his appreciation for nature and adventure. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Paul Riley’s diverse background, both professionally and personally, showcases a rich tapestry of experiences and a commitment to service, family, and a love for the outdoors. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Paul Riley has an extensive military background, featuring three overseas tours in Panama, England, and Germany, as well as a deployment to Iraq. His military service spanned both enlisted and officer roles, culminating in his retirement from the United States Army in October 2010. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Throughout his military career, Paul not only dedicated himself to serving his country but also actively participated in his community. He volunteered as a coach for his children in various youth sports, including soccer, baseball, football, and wrestling. Even after his retirement, Paul continued his coaching involvement by taking on the role of wrestling coach for the Cavalier Wrestling Club in Charlottesville, Virginia. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Following his retirement from the military, Paul transitioned into the defense contracting sector, working at the National Ground Intelligence Center (NGIC) as an intelligence analyst. His commitment to service persisted as he deployed to Afghanistan, contributing his skills and expertise in intelligence analysis. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Post-deployment, Paul assumed the role of Chief Operations Officer on the Counter Insurgency Targeting Program. This program, with a team of 300 individuals, provided direct support to the Department of Defense, showcasing his leadership capabilities in a vital national security initiative. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Paul Riley’s career is a testament to his dedication to both his country and community, exemplified through his military service, coaching contributions, and ongoing commitment to national security as a defense contractor. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Paul Riley’s years of service in the Army instilled and reinforced his core values. These values continue to guide his actions and decisions to this day, shaping his approach to leadership and public service. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

As a proven leader with a wealth of experience in diverse and challenging environments, Paul possesses an innate ability to build consensus and find common ground on complex problem sets. His military background has equipped him with the skills to navigate through adversity, make tough decisions, and lead with integrity and empathy. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

These qualities, combined with his unwavering commitment to serving his country and community, make Paul Riley a formidable candidate for Congress. His dedication to upholding core values and finding solutions that benefit all will undoubtedly serve him well as he seeks to represent and advocate for the people of his district. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Why you? Refused to answer.

What are your priorities? 

Accountability and Transparency

I firmly believe in the necessity of legislation to increase transparency across the federal government. Transparency is not only a key element of accountability but also a fundamental principle that fosters openness and communication between the public and government. At every level of government, citizens have the right to know how their resources are used. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

I am committed to holding government agencies accountable for the funds they receive and ensuring clear and accessible information about how public money is spent. Transparency is crucial for building trust between the government and the public it serves. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

In the realm of elections, I advocate for increased transparency in campaigns. Putting an end to the influx of dark money that currently influences our elections is essential for maintaining the integrity of the democratic process. Additionally, I believe in curtailing the lobbying industry to prevent undue influence. Members of Congress should be prohibited from transitioning into lobbying roles until a sufficient period, such as five years, has passed since their time in office. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

By championing transparency in government operations, campaign financing, and lobbying, I aim to contribute to a political landscape where the interests of the public are prioritized, and the democratic process is fortified. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Agriculture

Having grown up working on a dairy farm, I intimately understand the challenges that farmers face in staying relevant in today’s fast-paced global economy. It’s disheartening to witness conglomerates squeezing out family-owned farms, raising prices, and making record profits at the expense of hardworking farmers. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

I am dedicated to putting a stop to this trend. We must open new markets for Virginia farms, promoting diversification and resilience in the agricultural sector. Additionally, I believe in the importance of enhancing market transparency and fostering healthy competition within the industry. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Fundamental to this effort is ensuring that our farmers receive fair prices for their goods and services. Family-owned farms are the backbone of our communities, and they deserve to be treated with respect and fairness. I am committed to advocating for policies that protect the interests of our farmers, promote sustainability, and create a level playing field in the agricultural marketplace. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

By working towards these goals, I aim to contribute to the preservation and prosperity of family-owned farms, recognizing their vital role in our communities and the broader economy. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Women’s Health

I firmly believe in the constitutional right of women to make their own choices about their bodies, free from government interference. No government should have the authority to dictate a woman’s most personal decisions about her life. I am committed to upholding and defending women’s right to choose, ensuring that they have the autonomy to make decisions that are best for their individual circumstances. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

I will actively oppose any attempts, particularly those by Republicans, to limit or eliminate reproductive choice at the state level. It is crucial to safeguard and strengthen the rights that allow women to make decisions about their reproductive health without unnecessary barriers or restrictions. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Additionally, I am dedicated to working towards equal access to healthcare services for all women in America. It is essential that every woman has the resources and support necessary to make informed choices about her health and well-being. By advocating for and defending women’s reproductive rights, I aim to contribute to a society that values individual autonomy, equality, and the well-being of all its citizens. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Gun Ownership

As a responsible gun owner and avid hunter, I understand and appreciate the importance of firearm ownership as a part of our cultural and individual identity. However, I cannot ignore the urgent need for a comprehensive and realistic policy that addresses the undeniable threat posed by assault weapons, particularly in the context of our children’s safety. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

This issue transcends political affiliations for me; it’s fundamentally about the health and safety of our population. While I strongly support the right to own firearms for legitimate purposes such as self-defense and hunting, I recognize that certain weapons, like assault rifles, pose a significant risk to public safety. It’s essential that we find a balanced approach that respects the rights of responsible gun owners while prioritizing the protection of our communities. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

I believe in engaging in a thoughtful and open dialogue to develop policies that address the root causes of gun violence without infringing on the rights of law-abiding citizens. By focusing on reality-based solutions, we can work towards a safer society for everyone, where responsible gun ownership coexists with measures that mitigate the risks associated with the misuse of certain firearms. It’s a complex issue, and my commitment is to finding common ground that prioritizes the well-being of our population while respecting the rights of responsible gun owners. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

LGBTQ+

I firmly believe in the fundamental rights and dignity of every individual, including those who identify as LGBTQ. It is my conviction that everyone should be treated with respect, equality, and acceptance, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression. I am a strong advocate for LGBTQ rights and believe in fostering a society that values diversity and inclusivity. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

In my view, supporting LGBTQ rights means recognizing and affirming their right to live authentically and without discrimination. I am committed to promoting equality in all aspects of life, whether it’s in the workplace, education, or the broader community. By advocating for equal rights, I aim to contribute to creating a more compassionate and understanding society where everyone can thrive, free from prejudice and discrimination. My support is unwavering, and I am dedicated to being an ally in the ongoing fight for LGBTQ rights. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Right To Privacy

I am a staunch advocate for the right to privacy, firmly believing in the importance of protecting the personal lives of Americans from unwarranted government intrusion. I am committed to voting against any measures that would compromise our privacy rights, particularly those that enable mass government surveillance programs. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

I oppose any efforts that seek to allow law enforcement access to Americans’ personal information in violation of the Fourth Amendment. It is essential to safeguard the principles of privacy and individual liberties that are foundational to our democracy. I believe that every citizen has the right to live free from unnecessary government scrutiny and that our personal information should only be accessed through lawful and transparent means. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

In my role, I will actively work to ensure that our constitutional rights are upheld, and I will stand against any legislation that compromises the privacy rights of Americans. By advocating for strong protections against government intrusion, I aim to contribute to a society that values individual freedoms and respects the privacy of its citizens. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Education

I firmly believe that public education is the great equalizer in our country. Access to quality education, from pre-kindergarten through university, is crucial in shaping the future of our children and communities. As a strong advocate for education, I am committed to implementing policies that prioritize the well-being of our students and educators. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Recognizing the critical role teachers and coaches play in shaping young minds, I am dedicated to ensuring that Virginia’s schools recruit and retain the highest quality educators. Strengthening teacher pay, providing free college tuition for those pursuing degrees in education, and offering housing grants for first-time homebuying teachers are essential steps in achieving this goal. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

I believe in fostering an environment where creativity thrives in the classroom, and I will collaborate with teachers, parents, school board members, and administrators to ensure that policies from Washington D.C. support rather than stifle innovation. Parental involvement in education is paramount, and I will work to maintain and enhance the voice of parents in shaping their children’s educational experiences. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Resolutely opposed to privatizing public education, I will fight against efforts to divert resources away from schools with limited means. Education should extend beyond high school, and I am committed to making higher learning accessible and affordable for all Virginians. By decreasing tuition, restoring year-round Pell Grants, and overhauling the student loan process, I aim to alleviate financial burdens and ensure that every child has the opportunity to pursue their educational dreams without unnecessary debt. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Healthcare

I am dedicated to enhancing access to quality and affordable healthcare in both urban and rural communities within our district. Recognizing the challenges faced by citizens, I will be a strong advocate in Congress to lower the costs of prescription drugs, ensuring that necessary medications are within reach for everyone. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Understanding the unique healthcare obstacles in rural America, I am committed to providing affordable healthcare options within these communities. I support the expansion of telehealth services, recognizing their potential to bridge the gap and bring medical expertise directly to individuals in rural areas. Additionally, I will work to invest in and encourage young doctors to practice in these underserved regions. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Protecting vital programs such as Medicare for seniors and Medicaid for working families is a top priority for me. I believe that hard-working Americans who have contributed to Medicare throughout their lives should not have to worry about politicians in Washington jeopardizing their earned benefits. I will actively work to shield Medicare from privatization or conversion into a voucher system, ensuring its stability and availability for those who depend on it. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

By advocating for lower drug costs, expanding healthcare access, and safeguarding critical programs like Medicare and Medicaid, I aim to contribute to a healthier future for our citizens, regardless of where they live. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Veterans

As a retired Army officer, I am a steadfast advocate for our veterans. I am committed to working across party lines to hold the Veterans Administration (VA) accountable through meaningful legislative reforms, upholding our nation’s unwavering commitment to those who have served in uniform. Veterans have sacrificed for our country, and it is our duty to ensure they receive the care and support they deserve. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

To address the challenges faced by veterans, I will work tirelessly to improve their access to healthcare, benefits, jobs, education, transportation, and housing. It is imperative that no veteran falls through the cracks, and homelessness among veterans should be eradicated. Our veterans deserve our absolute best efforts, and I am dedicated to standing up for them, ensuring they are not forgotten or left behind. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

In addition to these efforts, I will introduce legislation to overhaul the hiring and pay system of the VA. This is essential to create a more efficient and effective system that serves the needs of our veterans. By implementing these changes, we can strengthen the support network for our veterans, ensuring they receive the care, resources, and opportunities they deserve after serving our country with honor and dedication. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Seniors

I am a staunch advocate for Virginia’s seniors and will fervently fight to fund and protect essential programs such as Medicare, Social Security, Meals on Wheels, Senior Corps, and others that contribute to ensuring seniors lead healthy, independent lives. Social Security, earned through a lifetime of work, remains a vital benefit for our seniors, and I vehemently oppose any attempt to privatize it. I am dedicated to introducing common-sense legislation to safeguard Social Security’s solvency, ensuring its availability for both current and future generations. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Recognizing that Social Security is often the sole source of retirement income for many seniors, the notion of taking it away is a non-starter for me. I am committed to preserving this critical lifeline for our elderly population. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Medicare is another cornerstone of support for seniors, providing access to quality and affordable healthcare. I will staunchly oppose any attempts to cut Medicare or transform it into a voucher system. Instead, I will work towards strengthening Medicare by advocating for fair reimbursement rates for doctors and hospitals. This ensures the financial feasibility of providing quality care to Medicare patients, contributing to the overall health and well-being of our senior citizens. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

In representing Virginia’s seniors, I will be unwavering in my commitment to protecting and enhancing the programs that contribute to their health, independence, and overall quality of life. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Taxes

I firmly believe in the importance of a fair tax system that ensures everyone, both individual citizens and corporations, pays their fair share to contribute to the well-being and maintenance of our country. It is essential to close loopholes that allow some entities to exploit the system, creating a more equitable and just taxation structure. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

My stance on fair taxes is rooted in the principle that every citizen and corporation should bear the responsibility of supporting our nation through taxation. This isn’t about advocating for a specific wealth tax, but rather emphasizing the need for a system where everyone pays what they owe. A fair tax system not only fosters economic justice but also ensures that the burden of sustaining our society is distributed proportionately. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

By closing loopholes and promoting accountability in tax contributions, we can create a system that funds essential public services, infrastructure, and social programs. It’s a matter of fairness, responsibility, and ensuring that the benefits of living in a prosperous society are shared by all. I advocate for a thoughtful and comprehensive approach to taxation that promotes equality, transparency, and the collective well-being of our nation. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Endorsements: No endorsements listed on website.

Education: No mention on website.

Relevant Employment History: See biography above.

Military Experience / Branch / Years of Service / Rank / Type of Discharge: Paul served in the U.S. Army for over two decades, specializing in military intelligence. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

Past Offices Held and Tenure: No mention on website.

Community Service: See biography above.

 

Leadership Experience: See biography above.

Personal Strengths: Refused to answer. 

What is the most important thing Virginians need to know about you? Refused to answer.

How would your friends and family describe you? Refused to answer.
 

What are your thoughts on the Constitution as the Law of the Land? Refused to answer. Professes values and beliefs contrary to the US Constitution however candidate states on website, “I am a staunch advocate for the right to privacy, firmly believing in the importance of protecting the personal lives of Americans from unwarranted government intrusion. I am committed to voting against any measures that would compromise our privacy rights, particularly those that enable mass government surveillance programs.”

“I oppose any efforts that seek to allow law enforcement access to Americans’ personal information in violation of the Fourth Amendment. It is essential to safeguard the principles of privacy and individual liberties that are foundational to our democracy. I believe that every citizen has the right to live free from unnecessary government scrutiny and that our personal information should only be accessed through lawful and transparent means.”

“In my role, I will actively work to ensure that our constitutional rights are upheld, and I will stand against any legislation that compromises the privacy rights of Americans. By advocating for strong protections against government intrusion, I aim to contribute to a society that values individual freedoms and respects the privacy of its citizens.” (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

    

What are your thoughts on religious liberty? Refused to answer. No mention of the protection of faith or religious liberty on website. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

    

What are your thoughts on the preservation of our history? Refused to answer. No mention of the preservation of history on website. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

   

What are your thought on government transparency? Candidate states, “I firmly believe in the necessity of legislation to increase transparency across the federal government. Transparency is not only a key element of accountability but also a fundamental principle that fosters openness and communication between the public and government. At every level of government, citizens have the right to know how their resources are used.”

“I am committed to holding government agencies accountable for the funds they receive and ensuring clear and accessible information about how public money is spent. Transparency is crucial for building trust between the government and the public it serves.”

“In the realm of elections, I advocate for increased transparency in campaigns. Putting an end to the influx of dark money that currently influences our elections is essential for maintaining the integrity of the democratic process. Additionally, I believe in curtailing the lobbying industry to prevent undue influence. Members of Congress should be prohibited from transitioning into lobbying roles until a sufficient period, such as five years, has passed since their time in office.”

“By championing transparency in government operations, campaign financing, and lobbying, I aim to contribute to a political landscape where the interests of the public are prioritized, and the democratic process is fortified.” (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)
   

What are your thoughts on national defense? Refused to answer. Professes support for veterans and veteran issues. No mention of national defense on website.

Candidate states, “As a retired Army officer, I am a steadfast advocate for our veterans. I am committed to working across party lines to hold the Veterans Administration (VA) accountable through meaningful legislative reforms, upholding our nation’s unwavering commitment to those who have served in uniform. Veterans have sacrificed for our country, and it is our duty to ensure they receive the care and support they deserve.”

“To address the challenges faced by veterans, I will work tirelessly to improve their access to healthcare, benefits, jobs, education, transportation, and housing. It is imperative that no veteran falls through the cracks, and homelessness among veterans should be eradicated. Our veterans deserve our absolute best efforts, and I am dedicated to standing up for them, ensuring they are not forgotten or left behind.”

“In addition to these efforts, I will introduce legislation to overhaul the hiring and pay system of the VA. This is essential to create a more efficient and effective system that serves the needs of our veterans. By implementing these changes, we can strengthen the support network for our veterans, ensuring they receive the care, resources, and opportunities they deserve after serving our country with honor and dedication.” (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

What are your thoughts on the free enterprise system? Refused to answer. No mention of the free enterprise system on website. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

   

What are your thoughts on the protection of the unborn? Refused to answer. Professes values contrary to values and beliefs of Chasing Freedom – Virginia. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

   

What are your thoughts on the role the family plays in America? Refused to answer. No mention of protection of the family on website. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

   

What are your thoughts on equal rights, equal justice and equal opportunity, as opposed to equal outcomes? Refused to answer. No mention of equal rights, equal justice and equal opportunity, as opposed to equal outcomes on website. (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)

   

What are your thoughts on the 2nd Amendment? Refused to answer. Professes values contrary to values and beliefs of Chasing Freedom – Virginia.

Candidate states, “As a responsible gun owner and avid hunter, I understand and appreciate the importance of firearm ownership as a part of our cultural and individual identity. However, I cannot ignore the urgent need for a comprehensive and realistic policy that addresses the undeniable threat posed by assault weapons, particularly in the context of our children’s safety.”

“This issue transcends political affiliations for me; it’s fundamentally about the health and safety of our population. While I strongly support the right to own firearms for legitimate purposes such as self-defense and hunting, I recognize that certain weapons, like assault rifles, pose a significant risk to public safety. It’s essential that we find a balanced approach that respects the rights of responsible gun owners while prioritizing the protection of our communities.”

“I believe in engaging in a thoughtful and open dialogue to develop policies that address the root causes of gun violence without infringing on the rights of law-abiding citizens. By focusing on reality-based solutions, we can work towards a safer society for everyone, where responsible gun ownership coexists with measures that mitigate the risks associated with the misuse of certain firearms. It’s a complex issue, and my commitment is to finding common ground that prioritizes the well-being of our population while respecting the rights of responsible gun owners.” (Source: https://paulrileycongress.com/updates)  
  

Additional sources of information on this candidate: