Benjamin Solomon "Ben" Carson, Sr. (born September 18, 1951) is an American author, politician, and retired Johns Hopkins neurosurgeon. On May 4, 2015, Carson announced he was running for the Republican nomination in the 2016 presidential election at a rally in Detroit, his hometown.
Carson was the first surgeon to successfully separate conjoined twins joined at the head. In 2008, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President George W. Bush.
After delivering a widely publicized speech at the 2013 National Prayer Breakfast, he became a popular conservative figure in political media for his views on social and political issues.
Dr. Carson believes in reducing the size and scope of the federal government. He believes in moving to a flat federal income tax, which he says is inspired by the biblical concept of tithing. He desires to repeal the Affordable Care Act and replace it with free-market health insurance. He opposes Common Core curriculum.
Dr. Carson has advocated for attacking the Islamic State. He is strongly opposed to the Iranian Nuclear Deal, saying it will give Iran the ability to create a nuclear weapon. He has backed the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade agreement.
Dr. Carson wishes to increase the strength of the United States Armed Forces. He has advocated for attacks against the Islamic State, particularly increased airstrikes against ISIS territory and drone strikes against ISIS leaders. He has said he will formally declare war on ISIS.
Dr. Carson has opposed extending citizenship to those here illegally. He has, however, supported providing a guest worker program. He has advocated for extending border secruity measures along the Mexican-American border.
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