Garland Lee Brinkley

Name

Occupation

Retired University and College Professor

Political Office

Assembly District 1

Political Affiliation

Republican

How would you describe yourself to voters?

I am even tempered, personable, and willing and eager to listen to others points of view. I am a do unto others as I would like to be treated and am strong in my Christian faith. I support strong families and the Constitution of Nevada and of the United States. I have internalized the Boy Scout motto and hold myself to a high standard with my integrity and in being truthful. My hobbies are playing Chess (including tournaments) and archery.

What do you see as the top issues in this campaign?

Education and Public Safety

In your opinion, how would you rate the state’s response to the pandemic? Why?

In my 20 years as an Epidemiologist (UC Berkeley 2001) who has worked in Ethiopia Africa, I would rate the state's response as failing. Numerous studies have shown that cloth masks are ineffective in preventing the spread of COVID-19. Hence, no mask mandates should have been put into place. In addition, other studies have shown that lockdowns also fail to stop or prevent the spread of COVID-19 and should never have been implemented. The most vulnerable (over 70 with 2 or more co-morbid conditions) should have been targeted for care and protection and others should have had no restrictions. The restrictions such as school closures and small business shutdowns have been shown to have serious and adverse affects (increases in suicides, for example) on our communities.

Education and local government officials have long asked lawmakers to change the way the state assesses property taxes. That includes raising the current tax threshold. Should lawmakers consider raising those thresholds? If not, what is the best way for governments to raise money for local programs?

Lawmakers should always consider all options but my vote is no for raising the current tax threshold. A smarter and wiser use of our revenue (taxes) is a much more effective and efficient way to go forward. For example, I assessed a Prisoner Release and Case Management Program in Solano County CA that cost $600,000 over 3 years but resulted in savings of over $12 million dollars. Great Investment! and we should do more of these type of programs. There are numerous programs I have consulted on or reviewed and we can directly translate the benefits to Nevada thereby saving money and lives.