FAQ
Jonathan Mark Rogers completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2023.
Who are you? Tell us about yourself.
Originally from South Carolina, Mr Rogers proudly has devoted his life to education and serving his community.. He has resided in the Town of Leesburg since 2003 and has worked as a teacher and administrator for Fairfax and Loudoun County Public Schools. He is an enthusiastic supporter of the Fine & Performing Arts, Special Education, Very Special Arts and the Northern Virginia Down Syndrome Association. Over the years he has volunteered his time for a variety of organizations that have included support of the homeless, autism and law enforcement. During his teaching career his theatre arts program was a winner of multiple awards that included SEAC, VHSL, VTA and CAPPIES. He has served at the state level with the Virginia Department of Education reviewing & revising the SOL’s for Theatre Arts and with the Virginia Fine Arts Coalition for Education.
Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?
- Education is the cornerstone of all great societies. We must support all school initiatives and increase teacher pay across the board.
- Law Enforcement provides a safe and secure environment for all communities. We must fully fund our bravest and finest citizens.
- Jobs are key! We must provide an inviting environment for future businesses.
What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?
The number one job as an elected representative is to listen to the residents. I want to connect to their concerns and their ideas. Education is priority number one. Teachers must be supported and paid in a way that brings the brightest minds to Virginia with the benefits that keep them in Virginia. Our communities must be safe and we must support our Law Enforcement. Of course none of this is possible without a booming economy. We must continue creating new jobs so that everyone can pursue life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
I promise to be a collaborator and a bridge builder in order to best serve my constituents in District 29. Virginia has a rich history of creativity, collaboration, critical thinking and problem solving. I look forward to solving problems, building a better Virginia and creating a community where everyone feels safe, supported and valued for the contributions they make to the commonwealth.
What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?
I am a collaborator and a critical thinker who listens first and then speaks.
What legacy would you like to leave?
A legislator that made Virginia a better place for all.
What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?
The landing on the moon. I was 9 years old.
What was your very first job? How long did you have it?
My first job was as a dishwasher in a local steakhouse. I eventually worked my way up to busboy and eventually waiter.
If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?
Captain America
What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?
The support of law enforcement, education, economy and religious freedoms must be at the top of every list.
Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?
No.Great ideas come from all walks of life.
Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.
Relationships are an integral part of any worthwhile endeavor. I will always offer and open hand and an attentive ear to all I work with!
Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?
Theodore Roosevelt, Thomas Jefferson and George Washington
Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?
I strive to serve my community in any way that is needed.
Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?
Collaboration and compromise is a cornerstone of great societies.
What committees interest you?
I will serve in any capacity that supports the commonwealth.