Name Ryan Hammond
Office Sought WV House of Delegates
Party Affiliation Republican
District 94
City/Town Falling Waters
Campaign Website ryanhammond.org
The US Supreme Court will decide Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization this summer, which some have speculated may overturn Roe v. Wade. If there were no Constitutional protections for abortion, what do you think West Virginia's abortion policies should be?
I believe that the policies should limit abortions and should only be allowed in extreme circumstances such as if the mothers life is in danger, rape, or incest
Several West Virginia municipalities have passed ordinances that expand the definition of racial discrimination to include discriminating against traditional or natural hair textures and styles. Would you support expanding this protection statewide? Why or why not?
Yes I would support because I believe people should not be discriminated against.
Many states have created laws that seek to limit the teaching of "divisive concepts" or "critical race theory". West Virginia narrowly missed passing a similar law during the 2022 Legislative Session. What is the value or harm in teaching these topics and what role should the legislature play in determining this curriculum?
Though I recently graduated school and don't remember this being taught a ton, I do believe that parents should have total control of their kids education and I believe the legislature should be the people to protect the rights of these parents no matter politics behind it. Parents should be the head of their kids education
Currently there is no statewide law protecting people in matters of employment, housing, and public accommodations based on their sexuality or gender identity. Proponents claim these protections are necessary for ongoing discrimination by the LGBTQ community. Opponents claim that such protections infringe upon religious beliefs. What do you believe and would you support or oppose a statewide law?
I believe that peoples religious beliefs should be protected as it is stated under the constitution. We must do all we can to protect religious liberty.
Recently a revival was held at schools in Cabell and Wayne counties. The Legislature has, in recent years, passed laws to allow teaching the Bible in public schools and allowing for religious drug-prevention programs to operate in schools. What do you think the role of religion in public schools should be and why?
I believe that it should be up to the parents and the students once they are old enough. I found when I was in school, reading the bible was okay, but some teachers told kids they couldn't. Though it should not be forced on kids I do believe that we should not shut out religion from kids in school as they are protected from this under the constitution
The West Virginia Senate recently unanimously adopted a resolution stating that West Virginia is prepared to welcome Ukrainian refugees. Critics have pointed out that the Legislature has recently considered legislation what would make things more difficult for refugees and immigrants to settle in West Virginia. Should West Virginia welcome refugees and immigrants? If no, why not? If yes, what can the state do to support these communities?
We should with proper vetting. Once we know people's backgrounds and make sure they are good people we should. Proper vetting is everything and has potential to bring growth to WV, but must not be rushed and done correctly.
There is increasing tension with communities of people who are unhoused or face housing insecurity. Police breakups of encampments are common, and municipalities have shown growing opposition to low-barrier housing and recovery housing. How would you address community concerns while protecting the rights of unhoused people?
I believe that growing the economy in the state and finding these people well paying jobs will take care of this problem. Giving people the opportunity to grow is the job of the state government and things such as cutting state tax will help with that.
Police violence has been in the forefront of national headlines for several years. Some propose more civilian oversight of law enforcement through civilian review boards that could review incidents and policies. Others view these boards as "anti-police" and point out that civilians are ill-equipped to understand the nature of police work. Do you support the use of civilian review boards? What other steps, if any, should the state take to provide transparency and accountability for police?
I believe that transparency is important in all areas of government, but I do not believe review boards are necessary. I believe that info should be public under most circumstances and that people should have the ability to make their own opinion and through the processes in place now people will be held accountable.
Jails in West Virginia are above capacity and are bankrupting some counties. Prisons are understaffed, making them dangerous for residents and staff alike. What steps, if any, should West Virginia take to address these issues?
I believe that finding more funding for these prisons is important. Finding Federal grants and other steps to reduce spending in certain areas of the prisons will be important to changing the outcome of these prisons to make everyone safer.
Currently, people who are incarcerated or on probation and parole for a felony conviction are unable to vote. The West Virginia Senate Judiciary Committee passed a bill that would have expanded that right to people who are on probation and parole. When, if ever do you think people should lose their right to vote? When, if ever should that right be restored?
I believe that felons should not have the right to vote. With committing a crime like that you sacrifice your right away for that. Though people can change. I believe that a school or program of some sort should be set up afterword's for these people to go through so that they can get the right to vote again.