Candidate for
United States Representative; District 53

My father Victor, who grew up in Logan Heights during the Great Depression, once told me: "San Diego is God's Country!" His description never fully impacted me until the day our entire family moved from my home state of Florida--back to my dad's hometown here in San Diego. At last, upon seeing the rolling foothills, distant mountains, and the endless beauty along the Pacific Coast + I realized what my father had meant. That was thirty-five years ago! Today, and for more than three decades, San Diego is the place I call home. I attended high school and graduated college right here in America's finest city. My wife Maha and I met, fell in love, and were married here in San Diego. It is the place where our two girls were born and where they will likely grow up. This is a dynamic city, with a rich history and wonderful people. I really can't imagine raising my family anywhere else.

So why would a school teacher like me want to run for Congress? Because, I know we can do better! Our nation's $17 trillion debt continues to spiral out of control. The Affordable Health Care Act has caused millions of people to lose their coverage, and health care premiums are going up, not down. As for our economy--with all its great potential, it remains at levels far below growth rates seen in the 1980s and 1990s. So, why run? Because, I want to be able to look my children in the eyes and tell them that America is a country worth fighting for, and that it will always remain so. It is because of these challenges that a teacher like me would even consider running for office. Most of all, It is because the cost of doing nothing far exceeds the sacrifice it will take to become your new congressional representative.

We expect and deserve better leadership from our government, one that is rooted in common sense but tempered with compassion for those less fortunate. It is unconscionable to continue with current spending levels without the necessary reforms that will guarantee a safety net for future generations without breaking the bank. Recognizing this, I think you'll agree that it's time for smart, responsible leadership. I'd be honored to serve as your voice in the United States Congress. Together, we can take on serious problems like fixing the country's debt crisis, building a stronger economy, and securing a better future for ourselves, our children, and our grandchildren.

Join me in making San Diego an even greater place to live than it already is. Support my efforts, and together we can keep our city and America strong and prosperous for future generations. We can do better! I ask for your vote in 2014.

Sincerely,

Joel Marchese