Toren Mushovic, candidate for state House District 3

Party: Republican

City of residence: Greenwood Village

Profession: Reserve naval officer, attorney

Campaign website: Torenforcolorado.com

What makes you the best choice for this office?

Real experience — I learned leadership firsthand as a young naval officer. After the 9/11 attacks, I reported onboard USS Princeton, where I deployed to the Persian Gulf and returned to Iraq in 2009, where I focused on developing a strategy for prosecuting terrorists. After active duty, I focused on health care, and became the chief operating officer of IMMUNOe Health & Research Centers, which is on the forefront of immune related health and research.

What can the Legislature do to ease the strain of rising housing prices on Colorado residents?

One key problem we have in Colorado is lack of supply. Unfortunately, my opponent voted for HB18-1262, a bill designed to increase construction litigation. This is the wrong approach, as it would reduce supply and drive up costs in the housing market. To ease the strain of rising housing prices, for construction-defect cases, I support arbitration instead of expensive litigation. This would help the economy and increase alternative home options for many families.

What can be done to ensure the state's transportation system will be able to accommodate continued population growth?

Transportation challenges affect public safety, family time and increased insurance costs. Colorado requires long-term solutions that include changing technology and driving patterns and habits in the future. Solutions to Colorado's congestion exist, but it will take hard work from legislators from both sides. With economic growth, we've got the necessary funds to have an aggressive strategy for transportation. This year's transportation bill — sponsored by my opponent — was too small and kicked the can down the road. 

What two issues demand more attention in the upcoming legislative session than they received in the previous one, and why?

We must recognize that Colorado's health-care costs and trajectory under current leadership is unacceptable. Health care is more expensive in Colorado than any of our bordering states. I have skin in the game far beyond talk here: I decided to help lead Veros Biologics — a company focused on improving the quality of health and life for patients with complex conditions through innovative and cost-effective solutions. I'll bring this same action to our state Capitol.

If elected, what must you accomplish in order for you to consider your term a success?

We all know talking is the easy part. Politicians tend to speak, then fold when asked for specifics. I always want to be honest and direct. Here are the issues I want to solve: Reduce runaway health-care cost without impacting care, prioritize general-fund dollars — without increasing taxes — to our congestion issues, and support teachers by fighting to keep money in the classroom.