Richard Hanna – who served three terms (2011-2017) as a Republican in the House, representing New York's 24th & 22nd congressional districts – came to the Levitt Center to share his reflections on the current political climate. The conversation, held on April 19 and attended by students, faculty and staff, addressed a wide range of topics related to regional, national, and international politics. Here are a few quotes from the luncheon meeting:
- “In a democracy, everyone has skin in the game.”
- “You need money to be in government. You have to go along to get along or you have to have your own money. In this district, you need $1.5 million to get your message out on radio and TV.”
- “I viewed it [serving as U.S. Representative] as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
- “There’s no evil inherent in capitalism. Everyone who makes a good living shouldn’t be vilified.”
- “What to do about China stealing technology? That’s a tough one.”
- “There has to be a moral equation to every decision you make. There isn’t a balance of free enterprise and compassion anymore. It’s becoming Darwinian [in Washington]."
