As I said on my last post, I am not coming out in favor of any one candidate. I do not think it is my place. With that said, I feel it is very important that all of the people voting for the Florissant mayor should know something about the candidates. That is why I have chosen to get involved with this mayoral race. I said it before and I will say it again, as Florissant goes, so goes North County.
As you already know, I reached out, via email, to the candidates for Florissant mayor requesting an interview. Three of them responded and said they were open to it. After reaching out to my readers, I drew up 15 questions to ask. All three candidates were sent the same questions. Below, you will find the response from Andrew Podleski exactly as he responded to me, unedited and just as he sent them to me. I hope you read what he has to say and think about it as you decide and choose which candidate will best represent you.
1. What makes you qualified to be Mayor of one of the largest suburbs in the St. Louis area?
I believe I have the necessary professional experience and education to effectively manage our City. My work history has given me opportunities to perform in many roles and our City needs someone who has a varied background, who understands and knows how to organize staff to accomplish the work that needs to be done. I believe I have these skills which will be a great advantage as Mayor. Having been a team leader and
team member allows me to understand both roles necessary to accomplish team tasks.
2. What advantage/skill set makes you more qualified than the other candidates?
A wide range of experiences, and an ability to resolve complex issues or problems is what sets me apart. I have worked in the Military, U.S Government service and in Private Industry in both large and small companies. I have a strong belief in my abilities but recognize a team needs members with varied skill-sets and strengths.
3. What is your stance on the strong Mayor system that Florissant has and why do you feel this way?
The “strong Mayor” system can work well given that the Mayor has good professional skills, experience and personnel management abilities. Using the alternative system with a Mayor and City manager and other staffing to support the City manager is usually more costly because you have multiple salaries to pay versus the one.
Our Charter form of government defines our current Mayor wearing both hats, not only as the head of our City government (i.e. signs legislation into law) but also the role of the chief City Administrator and is charged with running the City on a daily basis. Other cities have a part-time Mayor and a fulltime City Administrator (and in some cases an Assistant Administrator).
I believe the Citizens who framed the Charter wanted to combine these positions so there would be accountability to Citizens through the ballot box. A City Administrator is selected by the City Council, who hires and fires them and is beyond direct accountability to the voters.
Being Mayor is an enormous responsibility. But the Citizens through our Charter have the final say on the direction of the City by controlling the ballot box. I will never forget they are the ultimate boss through the power of their vote.
4. Younger families are flocking to St. Peters and O’Fallon. As Mayor, what are you going to do to attract and retain young families to Florissant.
One thing I believe we need to address is the common perception of many in the metropolitan area that our City and North County is in decline. Our City has housing stock of a wide variety and age range. A great many of our homes were built when materials and craftsmanship in home building was far superior to what you see in many homes today. These well-built homes in established neighborhoods are affordable and excellent values. Plus they have excellent commuter and travel access. The dedicated men and women of our Police Department keep our community safe and our parks system is enviable for a City of our size.
In my comprehensive plan to market Florissant, our housing office will aggressively sell these points to employers like Boeing, ExpressScripts, UMSL and other new facilities in North County (North Park). These companies will be hiring young professionals who will be looking to gain a credit history and equity in a home. It is my desire to help them make that home choice in Florissant. To pursue a plan for enticing younger residents, we will need to highlight the many services and variety of neighborhoods we have to offer. I plan to develop a professionally prepared, cohesive and aggressive marketing package to entice them. There are many possibilities and I will always be open to suggestions from our employees, current
Citizens and potential new Citizens.
5. Considering these tough economic times, do you see any cuts to the City’s Senior and youth programs?
I feel we have many great programs for our Citizens and we must try to maintain or improve them. While I do believe we need to look at every service our City offers to be sure it is run efficiently and provides value, I think any proposals to change current services needs to be viewed in the light of which programs serve the most people in Florissant. I will also look to the Senior Department and Parks Department as well as the Parks Board and Senior Committee to offer suggestions for enhancements and efficiencies in our programs.
6. The two school districts in Florissant do not have a great reputation. This is major reason people cite for not moving into Florissant. While the City does not control the schools, what are your thoughts on how the City can help change this perception?
Last week, I attended a candidate forum for the Ferguson-Florissant School Board. It became clear one topic which needs to be addressed is the engagement of the Cities (not just Florissant, but all the surrounding communities) with the School Boards and their Superintendents. I want to have regular meetings with them to discuss possible involvement by Florissant in their efforts to improve the schools. For instance Florissant may be able to provide access to our Civic Centers for after-school programs.
Dialogue is needed here. They may have ideas how we can help them, and I believe they will be receptive to ideas I will bring to them as we share a common desire to make our Community the best it can be.
7. What do you like about the City of Florissant?
As I indicated in my earlier answer about attracting and retaining younger families, there are many things I like. Our rich history is impressive and varied with interesting twists and turns in its development. Driving around the City, I see quiet neighborhoods that are obviously well maintained by their residents.
Florissant is conveniently located near several interstate highways and because of our many large arterial streets you can travel to just about anywhere you choose in the metropolitan area either by highway or by main arterial streets. We have an incredible variety of park space both large and small. I remember in my youth when these parks were always in use. I hope to see them again very busy with the new Citizens we aim to attract in the future. The best part of any neighborhood or City is the people. We have good people who are the backbone of any community. We need to keep these good neighbors here while we try to recruit new ones to join their ranks.
The large and diverse collection of businesses that includes many large well-known companies but also many small and unique enterprises makes shopping and dining easy and interesting. Small entrepreneurial operations like the City Diner or long-time successful family busineeses such as Handyman Hardware, in addition to the big outlets, provide us with an excellent retail market place and great entertainment opportunities.
8. There are a lot of vacant businesses in Florissant. What are you going to do to fill those vacant buildings and attract vibrant businesses to the city?
Empty storefronts are a problem here as in many communities during these tough economic times. I will work with the Economic Development Director create a new plan for recruiting more businesses for Florissant.
Besides the Greater North County Chamber of Commerce, there are regional groups that can be tapped for information and help to attract specific shops and/or restaurants. One of these is the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce that has ties throughout the Metropolitan area. I will ask for Citizens to help by suggesting what they want to see in the way of new or expanded businesses.
Look at Florissant Meadows. We now have a sushi/seafood buffet(Hokkaido) that is drawing large crowds. This traffic creates synergy that can only help other businesses in this shopping center and the surrounding businesses of the Lindbergh corridor. I have already been in contact with several commercial Real Estate professionals who have given me an insight into how to bring new business into Florissant.
We need to let businesses know that we really want them here to serve our community. The first step is to develop a welcoming attitude for them, by becoming more business friendly. I want to establish a system in Public Works to help prospective businesses get through the City requirements of bringing their companies to Florissant. We will have a one-stop coordinator who will assist in outlining the steps to satisfy the requirements of Planning/Zoning and business licensing so the businessperson can negotiate them with reduced frustration.
9. Some residents complain that there are too many check cashing, payday loan, rent to own and used card lots in Florissant. They feel that this brings in a seedier element and detracts from the City. What are your thoughts on this?
As a Councilman, I have voted for moratoriums on car lots within our borders. While we cannot prevent businesses from coming to Florissant if they are an approved use in any particular zoning district, we can certainly try to recruit other more desirable businesses to fill these empty spaces. It will take a well thought out plan and a Mayor who will stick with this plan to make it successful.
10. It has been said that our current Mayor can be contentious if you do not agree with him. How do you plan on working with the City Council?
While there always will be areas of disagreement in government, I believe as Mayor I need to set the tone on civility. My role is to lead the discussion not overwhelm the discourse with strong opinions and a personal agenda.
A successful leader listens to all sides of the discussion before making a decision.
I want to actively involve and engage the Council on City matters. For example, creating the budget earlier and including them in the process. But as the Chief Executive of the City, I will make the decisions that need to be made. I will explain my position very clearly, and it will not be just because I do not like the opposing viewpoint. As a Councilman, some have called me a naysayer because I asked pointed questions about Bills coming before that body. I view my position on the Council as the representative of the people, who cannot ask those questions I ask those questions to help Citizens understand the processes and duties of the Council. Open dialogue is never bad, however, it must be civil and respect the other person’s viewpoint.
11. Politically speaking, who do you model yourself after?
I greatly admire Missouri’s own Harry Truman. When he was elected to the U.S. Senate, he immediately thrust himself into his work so he would be as prepared as possible. I will strive to be involved in all aspects of the City operations, but I will also try to ensure City employees are the best they can be and can move with autonomy when needed.
In the book A Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin, she describes how Abraham Lincoln convinced his rivals for the Presidency to join his cabinet. He was not afraid to have these strong-minded men as advisors. In fact he wanted them for that very reason. They would offer him frank advice and they would not be yes men. I hope I can also achieve success in that area by utilizing our City employees in the positions where they can perform their best.
12. Is there anything you want to accomplish in your first year?
To strive to develop a budget that is balanced without re-directing money from the Capital Improvement Fund, the Parks Improvement Fund and the Sewer Lateral Fund. The Citizens of Florissant voted for those funds to be used for very specific purposes and that should be respected. I want the budget to have input from the Council at an earlier stage.
The budget must be presented in a way that is clear to all of our residents and it will be posted on our Florissant website. This will be a difficult task, but I believe with hard work it can be done.
13. What do you think people should know about you?
Most of my life I have been a very private person and one who believes I should do my very best in whatever I pursued. I ran for Mayor in 2007 and I am running now because I feel I can make a positive difference in the City I long called home. I have accomplished much in my life, but I always remember it was not just my efforts that helped me to succeed. To manage the City effectively, I will need the assistance of every department employee and staff member, but I will be the first to give them the credit for their efforts. It is important to be approachable; Citizens and employees will be able to contact me with opinions and questions without feeling apprehensive.
14. The trash/recycling contact will expire during the next Mayor’s term. Do you want to continue with a City wide contract or have it go back to being resident’s choice?
I was somewhat skeptical about this working in Florissant, but I knew it worked in other Cities. I have been pleased with the results so far. I think we need to continue this program. Can it be improved? Yes. In negotiating a new contract with Meridian or whoever will compete for this work, there are things we can do. I would like to see curbside leaf pickup in the Fall. I will investigate the possibility of the “tag-a-bag” program for Seniors. All options are open, except going back to six or seven different haulers. Besides the huge increase in recycling in Florissant, the reduction of truck traffic on our streets reduces wear and tear on them and extends their useful life which is a great thing. Any solution implemented, would have never met all needs and expectations. Overall, I think the single hauler solution we developed was a reasonable answer.
15. WalMart in Florissant, where do you stand and what are your thoughts?
Some of WalMart's business practices in dealing with manufacturers and employees run counter to the ideals of a great many citizens, including myself. The entrance of WalMart into a community often brings a highly negative impact for smaller businesses. It has been documented how their presence can devastate smaller competitors by undercutting prices in what I see as unfair practices.
Last year, WalMart presented a proposal to build in Florissant, but only with the help of Tax Increment Financing. It is their prerogative to ask for TIF money, but we do not have to give it to them. The Council turned down the proposal.
They now have a new proposal that asks for some special considerations which requires the support of the City. I will not support any proposal which involves taxpayer money for WalMart. I believe one of the largest corporations in the world can afford to build on their own money not ours.
However, if they satisfy all of the Planning and Zoning requirements on property in our City approved under our codes for this use and build a store using their money to build it without special considerations from the City, it would be difficult to prevent them from opening in Florissant.
So, there you have it. Andrew Podleski ladies and gentlemen.
If you would like to hear from one of the other candidates, or you are a candidate and wish to have your voice heard, please email me and I will be more than happy to interview you too.
Showing posts with label Town Hall. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Town Hall. Show all posts
Monday, March 21, 2011
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Fannie and Freddie and the art of Hypocrisy
I have seen it in my own neighborhood and you probably have too. People quickly and quietly packing up their houses, putting everything they can in cars, trailers and trucks, suddenly leaving the neighborhood they called home. Why were they doing this, because they were being foreclosed upon.
The market crash of 2008 was one of the worst that this country has seen in a couple of generations. Today, we are still suffering the repercussions of that crash. Many people are still out of work, many houses sit empty due to foreclosure and 401K’s were greatly diminished. The reason, or much of the reason for this is due to the gross mismanagement of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae.
I was reminded of this topic while going through my emails and looking at an e-newsletter I had received from Lacy Clay. His letter read as such:
I find it funny that Lacy and others try and make this into a racial issue rather than deal with the facts from those that know what they are talking about. While not coming out and saying those suggesting oversight were racist, they used words like “..the political lynching of Franklin Raines” and such. This is the standard move by Democrats when they cannot discuss things using logic or are proven to be wrong, throw out the race card.
Now, of course, the Democrats want to point the blame at the Republicans for all of this. They talk about how this could have been avoided when the Republicans had control if they really knew there was an issue. Never mind that even Bill Clinton had concerns about the size and power of Fannie and Freddie. This is just pure hypocrisy on their part; complain about wanting regulation and then when things fall apart, blame those who tried to implement it for not doing so. That said, the Republicans do have some blame in this. They could have pushed more to get something done. Yes, the called for regulation, but did not really push the matter as far as it could have gone. In this case, the Democrats were the obstructionists that created much of the mess we are in now.
This is just another thing for everyone to think about when it comes time to vote. Sure, they are claiming they are for oversight now, but where were they before the crisis? I am sure this is another question that Lacy does not want to have to answer at a town hall or a debate.
The market crash of 2008 was one of the worst that this country has seen in a couple of generations. Today, we are still suffering the repercussions of that crash. Many people are still out of work, many houses sit empty due to foreclosure and 401K’s were greatly diminished. The reason, or much of the reason for this is due to the gross mismanagement of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae.
I was reminded of this topic while going through my emails and looking at an e-newsletter I had received from Lacy Clay. His letter read as such:
Re-reading this, I had to laugh to myself as he is trying to talk of economic reform and ending the reckless schemes that hurt our nation. It was with great amusement, then, that I stumbled across this you-tube video featuring Lacy and several other Democrats railing against those trying to create oversight over Freddie and Fannie.Thank you for reading another edition of my e-newsletter.
In the wake of our nation’s current economic crisis, I strongly support the establishment of a Consumer Financial Protection Agency to hold big banks and Wall Street accountable. Congress must ensure that taxpayers will never again be forced to bail out big banks and huge firms because they are "too big to fail."
Financial reform is vital to ending the reckless schemes and outrageous abuses that nearly caused a second Great Depression and contributed to millions of Americans losing their jobs.As a member of the House Financial Services Committee, I am committed to working with my colleagues and President Obama to adopt strong, common sense rules that will protect our economy and working families.
Honest and transparent financial reform will help create a stronger financial sector so that small businesses can get loans, families can get affordable mortgages, and entrepreneurs can create the jobs of tomorrow.
Consumer financial protections are currently spread across seven different government agencies. Our objective is to create one single Consumer
Financial Protection Agency -- tasked with preventing predatory practices and
making sure you get the clear information you need to understand your personal
finances.
You can learn more about the Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act that I strongly supported by clicking here.For additional information on Financial Reform and many other topics, please visit my website at http://lacyclay.house.gov/.
It is a great honor for me to represent your interests in Congress. Please do not hesitate to contact me with your thoughts and concerns. I value your views, as your input helps me to better represent the people of Missouri’s 1st District.
Sincerely,
Lacy
I find it funny that Lacy and others try and make this into a racial issue rather than deal with the facts from those that know what they are talking about. While not coming out and saying those suggesting oversight were racist, they used words like “..the political lynching of Franklin Raines” and such. This is the standard move by Democrats when they cannot discuss things using logic or are proven to be wrong, throw out the race card.
Now, of course, the Democrats want to point the blame at the Republicans for all of this. They talk about how this could have been avoided when the Republicans had control if they really knew there was an issue. Never mind that even Bill Clinton had concerns about the size and power of Fannie and Freddie. This is just pure hypocrisy on their part; complain about wanting regulation and then when things fall apart, blame those who tried to implement it for not doing so. That said, the Republicans do have some blame in this. They could have pushed more to get something done. Yes, the called for regulation, but did not really push the matter as far as it could have gone. In this case, the Democrats were the obstructionists that created much of the mess we are in now.
This is just another thing for everyone to think about when it comes time to vote. Sure, they are claiming they are for oversight now, but where were they before the crisis? I am sure this is another question that Lacy does not want to have to answer at a town hall or a debate.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Pics from the North County GOP Rally
Thanks to one of my readers, I am posting pics from the North County GOP rally.
Unfortunately I was not able to make it due to prior commitments, but thankfully one of my readers sent me some pics. It appears to have been well attended with some good conversation.
While Roy could not make, apparently his RV did. I hear the Blunt campaign had a lot of people there.
The organizers for the event.
Bill Corrigan talking to the crowd about the race.
Tom Schweich came to the event to talk to the crowd as well as have lunch with some of the attendees.
Robyn Hamlin go up and talked to the crowd about the importance of her race to beat Clay.
MO state Senator Jane Cunningham got up to talk on behalf of the Blunt campaign
Some of the attendees talking before the festivities got started.
Unfortunately I was not able to make it due to prior commitments, but thankfully one of my readers sent me some pics. It appears to have been well attended with some good conversation.
A couple of cars with some good bumper stickers on them. Go figure at a GOP rally : )
While Roy could not make, apparently his RV did. I hear the Blunt campaign had a lot of people there. 
The organizers for the event.
Bill Corrigan talking to the crowd about the race.
Tom Schweich came to the event to talk to the crowd as well as have lunch with some of the attendees.
Robyn Hamlin go up and talked to the crowd about the importance of her race to beat Clay.
MO state Senator Jane Cunningham got up to talk on behalf of the Blunt campaign
Some of the attendees talking before the festivities got started.I am sure that there was a lot more that went on. If you have some pictures or want to mention more about what occurred at the event, please email me.
Also, I would remiss for not mentioning the following:
- Robyn will be having a U-Stream town hall discussion on Wednesday from 7 - 8. You can get more info HERE
- Thursday night the North St. Louis County Republicans will be having both Robyn Hamlin and Bill Hennessy speaking. The meeting starts at 7:30 on August 26th, at Yacovelli’s Restaurant located at 407 Dunn Road in Florissant.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Now On To November
First off, I want to congratulate Robyn Hamlin on winning the primary to run against Lacy Clay. She and Martin D. Baker both had good primary showings. I talked to Martin earlier today and he wanted to "thank all of the wonderful people who helped through this adventure and will continue to support the conservative movement and true conservative candidates". Martin had more to say which I will discuss in an upcoming post
I also want to take a moment and congratulate Candice Britton on a well fought race. Candice had the tough challenge of taking on an incumbent within her own party. Candice was able to secure 19% of the Democrat vote during this primary. With few funds and a lot of hard work, she was able to do a lot. I think this shows the level of dissatisfaction voters have with the current Congress.
With that said, it is now on to November. Robyn Hamlin vs. Lacy Clay will be on the ballot for the November election in the first district. Not to be a wet blanket, but we need to now talk facts. Here are the numbers being reported for Tuesday's vote.
I also want to take a moment and congratulate Candice Britton on a well fought race. Candice had the tough challenge of taking on an incumbent within her own party. Candice was able to secure 19% of the Democrat vote during this primary. With few funds and a lot of hard work, she was able to do a lot. I think this shows the level of dissatisfaction voters have with the current Congress.
With that said, it is now on to November. Robyn Hamlin vs. Lacy Clay will be on the ballot for the November election in the first district. Not to be a wet blanket, but we need to now talk facts. Here are the numbers being reported for Tuesday's vote.
Name | Party | Votes | Vote % |
|---|---|---|---|
Clay, Lacy (i) | Dem | 36,762 | 59.549% |
Britton, Candice | Dem | 8,488 | 13.749% |
Hamlin, Robyn | GOP | 10,231 | 16.573% |
Baker, Martin | GOP | 4,509 | 7.304% |
Works, Marshall | GOP | 1,457 | 2.360% |
Stone, Julie | Lib | 149 | 0.241% |
Cunningham, Robb | Lib | 138 | 0.224% |
As you can see, Lacy has a commanding lead in the vote totals. He took nearly 60% all votes coming in. I know he is the incumbent, but that means we are going to have to work harder and be even more diligent.
The public needs to be made more aware of how he is not working for the people, but instead for special interests and himself. There is enough out there to show his ineptitude. Simply look at:
- his convienent relationship with the rent to own and cash advance companies
- his desire to not be held accountable by the Congressional Ethics Committee
- the documented waste of money in this years census of which Lacy is the Congressional chairman of the committee in charge
- His support of the Federal Health Care
- The mysterious campaign payments to his sister
- His lake of ethics when it comes to taking corporate campaign contributions from companies he rallies agains.
My friends, now is the time to unite and bring down Lacy. We can bicker with one another about certain policies, fiscal reform, etc. I welcome those debates. I encourage those debates. But now is not the time for people to take their ball and go home. We have a candidate in Robyn who has the potential to bring Lacy down. We are all responsible adults who love our country and want to see it prosper. We want everyone to have the chance to succeed and fail. Lacy wants everyone to have guaranteed success by making those that have succeeded fail. We can't afford that. Let us all stand together to help and support Robyn.
Let me tell you a quick story. At my work, there is a small group of us that are all varying degrees of right of center, some more than others. On the day of the elections, a couple of people were talking about voting for Ed Martin. I was asked if I voted for Ed and I explained that I was in the 1st district. Both of them basically sighed and said," ooooh, that's Lacy Clay. You will never be able to get rid of him."
That statement right there is why Lacy continues to win. The perception is that he is a guaranted win for the Democrats. In Robyn, we have a politically active, small business owner, who can step up and talk about everyday scenarios. She can talk to the issues everyone is facing because she is facing them too. Lacy wants everyone to think he is unbeatable, so no one tries. Those that do are not able to get the support needed because everyone thinks it is a no win situation.
So, here is what we need to do.
- Everyone needs to call Lacy Clay's office and ask for debates between him and Robyn.
- Everyone needs to start talking up Robyn as the alternative to Lacy
- Donate. Donate. Donate. We all need to donate either our time, our money or both. Pick up a yard sign, a car magnet or something.
- Stay alert to what is going on. Lacy and his team will be out there robo calling or making statements about Robyn. If you hear these things or see them, pull out your cell phone and take a picture/video. Email me and we will get it out among the people.
- Host a get together and invite Robyn or one of her staff. If you are having a big enough get together, call a Jamie Allman, Dana Loesch or Gina Louden and talk about it on one their shows.
These are just a few things that we all can do. This is our district, not Lacy's. Let's take it back for all of the people and not just a select few.
So, what do you think? Are you in?
Monday, March 15, 2010
My Interview with Martin D. Baker - Republican for MO 1st District
Wow! Lacy has got himself some competition this year. Once again I fell out of my chair when I found out that there is another candidate running against Lacy Clay. That candidate is one Martin D. Baker. After I picked myself off of the floor, I took at look at his campaign website. After reviewing it, I shot Martin an email and he agreed to an interview.
The following is an interview I did with Martin over the course of a couple of days. This is strictly an interview. I am not giving my opinion or am I commenting on anything that Martin has to say. I think it is only fair to let Martin speak his points without comment by me or anyone else. While some questions may have been rearranged for better reading, these are all his answers.
Q. Why are you running for the seat currently occupied by Lacy Clay for the 1st District of Missouri?
A. To give real representation back to the people of this district who are longing for a representative that does care.
Q. Lacy Clay claims that he represents the people of the first district. You obviously feel that is not the case. How would you go about ensuring you represent the district?
A. True Representative Access. I remember reading how a few months ago a constituent of Cong. Clay approached him at the airport and the manner in which the person was brushed off was not something that would ever happen with me. The seat does not belong to any one man or party it belongs to the people and the person who is holding that seat is accountable to the people it belongs to. I'd gladly meet with my constituents in and out of the district, id answer concerns personally as often as occasions would permit and Id have town hall forums whether congress is in session or in recess.
Q. I have heard a lot of people say that Lacy Clay does not make himself available to his constituents. This is not the first election cycle I have heard this. Why do you think he continues to get re-elected with this type of attitude and how can you change people's minds?
A. He gets re-elected because its like the Eddie Murphy movie the Distinguished Gentleman- Its the Name they know- without any serious threat to his re-election he goes through the motions shows up at the right events and coasts to another two year term. He's the old shoes you keep in your closet, they need to be replaced, but they are so familiar you keep them anyway. What I plan to do to change people's mind is to show them is now a better option.
Q. What differentiates you from Lacy Clay in your beliefs and stances?
A. I believe that my website shows where Congressman Clay and I are different but I feel the greatest disparity in belief is what we feel the role of government is....I advocate less governmental intrusion and my opponent does not.
Q. You have run for Congress before in 2008 against Emanuel Cleaver. What did you learn in that contest that applies to your running today?
A. I learned even in a Primary loss that you don't deviate from your beliefs and values and no matter the outcome hold your head high.
Q. In an election where being a political insider could be considered a detriment, are you afraid that your past political endeavors will work against you?
A. I feel my experience as a consultant does not jade me like the "insiders" are because it helps me understand the process to better serve my constituents.
Q. I have interviewed 2 other candidates for Lacy Clay's current seat. One is a Democrat and one is a Republican. There are also 2 Libertarians running. Why do you think so many people are trying to unseat Congressman Clay?
A. It is apparent on all angles of the political spectrum that Congressman Clay has lost the confidence of his constituency.
Q. What do you offer that your competition does not?
A. Fresh ideas, enthusiasm and commitment to the District and my home state.
Q. What are you going to do, specifically, to benefit the First District?
A. Serve the district through actually finding the true needs of the district, coordinating with our local leaders and our state leaders and implementing policies and ideas that will help the district as a whole and not just in certain more privileged areas. I will visit with constituents every recess and hear their needs personally not through staffers. we will have frequent town hall meetings for them to air their grievances.
Q. Are there any committees that you would especially want to participate in, should you be elected?
A. Small Business, Homeland Security, Budget, Appropriations, and Armed Services
Q. Why those committees?
A. Each of those committees affect our district in ways for example, the backbone of this district is the small businesses such as the mom and pop stores on Page, Homeland Security is affected by the crimes committed by the numerous undocumented (illegal) residents we have here, Budget and Appropriations go without saying and obviously with our close proximity to Boeing who supplies our Armed Services.
Q. It is interesting that you bring up Boeing. They have contributed a lot of money to Clay over the years through their PAC. In addition, their workers are union workers and publicly, then tend to back Democrats. How will you win over their support?
A. Its always tough when you have that obstacle but you venture anyway. Reality is that the unions support Democrats in droves, but the true matter is that most workers don't have a say in where their union money goes but on a personal level they are conservative people who are strong on national security so we wont focus heavily on the unions themselves but on its individual members. When we focus on its members instead of its figurehead leaders we once again give the focus back to the people.
Q. Illegal aliens are just as big a problem here in St. Louis as they are in other areas. Some groups call for amnesty, others call for deportation and still others call for some variation of the two. In your opinion, how do we handle this problem?
A. Illegal immigration is a national security issue, no two ways about it. There are people who practically on a daily basis go through the proper channels to gain entry and citizenship to our country at great personal and emotional strain, while others just get lucky when there is a hole in a fence or a guard looking the other way. That is unacceptable to me. Its a sad state of affairs to know we have more people investigating tax fraud then we do defending our borders from illegal incursions. We need simply put to lock down our borders. If a person wants to go the process follow the rules and regulations to gain citizenship then they would have no problem returning to their country of origin and going through those proper channels. If they don't we need to prosecute to the fullest extent of the law and return them. Not only that, we need to prosecute those who continue to employ them because its a cheaper alternative than hiring a citizen. I was told a story of a woman who had ancestors take the proverbial "slow boat" to get to our shores but had all necessary documentation ready upon entry. That is a person who wants to be here to take part in the American Dream and work for it. We cannot and should not under any circumstances reward anyone who came here under illegal or false pretenses such as overstaying a Visa.
Q. Reading your website, one of your issues struck me. You believe in removing earnings tax and replacing it with a national sales tax. Missouri is attempting to do this now. Mike Huckabee ran as president on this issue too. Do you think it will gain any attraction?
A. I certainly hope so. When Americans look at their paychecks and see more money they are inclined to utilize it to actually stimulate the economy. The time has come to give the people that option.
Q. What did you learn working with Sherman Thompson Parker?
A. I could write a book on the lessons i learned from Sherman. He is one of my political heroes who taught me that you don't give up no matter how daunting the task might look. His greatest phrase to me was a simple one...principles over politics.
Q. The president gave himself a solid B+ when asked to give himself a grade. How would you grade him and why?
A. Does the President grade on a curve? I would have to give the president an F on the premise that he has forced legislation down the throats of America without truly asking them through their Senators and Representatives. He has not acquitted himself well on the international stage with his Apology Tour, which erodes international confidence in America, and he has spent away the future of America, without a plan for repaying it.
Q. What is your background? Tell my readers more about you?
A. I was born and raised in the Southeast Missouri city of Sikeston. I attended BYU-Idaho and the University of Missouri-Columbia. At Mizzou I served as a student senator for my residence hall floor. I left school to venture into the world of politics as a volunteer consultant and in the process became a parent for the first time. I'm a proud father of three daughters and one son. I am proud of the background that I got being raised by my grandmother who taught me the basic values and my father and stepmother who taught me the principles of hard work and I believe I can use all that serve the District with Honor and Pride.
Q. The St. Louis Post Dispatch appears to do what it can to protect St. Louis Democrats like Lacy Clay and Russ Carnahan. How are you going to get your name and positions out there?
A. I would hope that in seeing the groundswell of angst that has been built up against our incumbents that the PD would look to see who the people are supporting but if they don't, that's fine, they can make themselves seem they are the hired shill of the establishment and we will take out message and name out to the "streets" the old fashioned way, by being out there. I will soon be in neighborhoods in the District knocking on doors introducing myself and answering questions and concerns.
Q. Have you approached or are there any plans for you to debate Lacy Clay? If so, when?
A. I haven't approached Congressman Clay however I plan on doing so even before the primary and also inviting my opponents both from my party and our libertarian and democrat sides.
Q. In one sentence or less, what is your platform?
A. My platform is all about the people of our District-Missouri First.
As you can see, Martin has some very interesting points. Please check out his web page and reach out to him via his website, on Facebook at Martin D Baker for US Congress or twitter at @Baker4Congress.
I hope you found this as informative as I did. Please comment your thoughts on here and let Martin know what you think.
The following is an interview I did with Martin over the course of a couple of days. This is strictly an interview. I am not giving my opinion or am I commenting on anything that Martin has to say. I think it is only fair to let Martin speak his points without comment by me or anyone else. While some questions may have been rearranged for better reading, these are all his answers.
Q. Why are you running for the seat currently occupied by Lacy Clay for the 1st District of Missouri?
A. To give real representation back to the people of this district who are longing for a representative that does care.
Q. Lacy Clay claims that he represents the people of the first district. You obviously feel that is not the case. How would you go about ensuring you represent the district?
A. True Representative Access. I remember reading how a few months ago a constituent of Cong. Clay approached him at the airport and the manner in which the person was brushed off was not something that would ever happen with me. The seat does not belong to any one man or party it belongs to the people and the person who is holding that seat is accountable to the people it belongs to. I'd gladly meet with my constituents in and out of the district, id answer concerns personally as often as occasions would permit and Id have town hall forums whether congress is in session or in recess.
Q. I have heard a lot of people say that Lacy Clay does not make himself available to his constituents. This is not the first election cycle I have heard this. Why do you think he continues to get re-elected with this type of attitude and how can you change people's minds?
A. He gets re-elected because its like the Eddie Murphy movie the Distinguished Gentleman- Its the Name they know- without any serious threat to his re-election he goes through the motions shows up at the right events and coasts to another two year term. He's the old shoes you keep in your closet, they need to be replaced, but they are so familiar you keep them anyway. What I plan to do to change people's mind is to show them is now a better option.
Q. What differentiates you from Lacy Clay in your beliefs and stances?
A. I believe that my website shows where Congressman Clay and I are different but I feel the greatest disparity in belief is what we feel the role of government is....I advocate less governmental intrusion and my opponent does not.
Q. You have run for Congress before in 2008 against Emanuel Cleaver. What did you learn in that contest that applies to your running today?
A. I learned even in a Primary loss that you don't deviate from your beliefs and values and no matter the outcome hold your head high.
Q. In an election where being a political insider could be considered a detriment, are you afraid that your past political endeavors will work against you?
A. I feel my experience as a consultant does not jade me like the "insiders" are because it helps me understand the process to better serve my constituents.
Q. I have interviewed 2 other candidates for Lacy Clay's current seat. One is a Democrat and one is a Republican. There are also 2 Libertarians running. Why do you think so many people are trying to unseat Congressman Clay?
A. It is apparent on all angles of the political spectrum that Congressman Clay has lost the confidence of his constituency.
Q. What do you offer that your competition does not?
A. Fresh ideas, enthusiasm and commitment to the District and my home state.
Q. What are you going to do, specifically, to benefit the First District?
A. Serve the district through actually finding the true needs of the district, coordinating with our local leaders and our state leaders and implementing policies and ideas that will help the district as a whole and not just in certain more privileged areas. I will visit with constituents every recess and hear their needs personally not through staffers. we will have frequent town hall meetings for them to air their grievances.
Q. Are there any committees that you would especially want to participate in, should you be elected?
A. Small Business, Homeland Security, Budget, Appropriations, and Armed Services
Q. Why those committees?
A. Each of those committees affect our district in ways for example, the backbone of this district is the small businesses such as the mom and pop stores on Page, Homeland Security is affected by the crimes committed by the numerous undocumented (illegal) residents we have here, Budget and Appropriations go without saying and obviously with our close proximity to Boeing who supplies our Armed Services.
Q. It is interesting that you bring up Boeing. They have contributed a lot of money to Clay over the years through their PAC. In addition, their workers are union workers and publicly, then tend to back Democrats. How will you win over their support?
A. Its always tough when you have that obstacle but you venture anyway. Reality is that the unions support Democrats in droves, but the true matter is that most workers don't have a say in where their union money goes but on a personal level they are conservative people who are strong on national security so we wont focus heavily on the unions themselves but on its individual members. When we focus on its members instead of its figurehead leaders we once again give the focus back to the people.
Q. Illegal aliens are just as big a problem here in St. Louis as they are in other areas. Some groups call for amnesty, others call for deportation and still others call for some variation of the two. In your opinion, how do we handle this problem?
A. Illegal immigration is a national security issue, no two ways about it. There are people who practically on a daily basis go through the proper channels to gain entry and citizenship to our country at great personal and emotional strain, while others just get lucky when there is a hole in a fence or a guard looking the other way. That is unacceptable to me. Its a sad state of affairs to know we have more people investigating tax fraud then we do defending our borders from illegal incursions. We need simply put to lock down our borders. If a person wants to go the process follow the rules and regulations to gain citizenship then they would have no problem returning to their country of origin and going through those proper channels. If they don't we need to prosecute to the fullest extent of the law and return them. Not only that, we need to prosecute those who continue to employ them because its a cheaper alternative than hiring a citizen. I was told a story of a woman who had ancestors take the proverbial "slow boat" to get to our shores but had all necessary documentation ready upon entry. That is a person who wants to be here to take part in the American Dream and work for it. We cannot and should not under any circumstances reward anyone who came here under illegal or false pretenses such as overstaying a Visa.
Q. Reading your website, one of your issues struck me. You believe in removing earnings tax and replacing it with a national sales tax. Missouri is attempting to do this now. Mike Huckabee ran as president on this issue too. Do you think it will gain any attraction?
A. I certainly hope so. When Americans look at their paychecks and see more money they are inclined to utilize it to actually stimulate the economy. The time has come to give the people that option.
Q. What did you learn working with Sherman Thompson Parker?
A. I could write a book on the lessons i learned from Sherman. He is one of my political heroes who taught me that you don't give up no matter how daunting the task might look. His greatest phrase to me was a simple one...principles over politics.
Q. The president gave himself a solid B+ when asked to give himself a grade. How would you grade him and why?
A. Does the President grade on a curve? I would have to give the president an F on the premise that he has forced legislation down the throats of America without truly asking them through their Senators and Representatives. He has not acquitted himself well on the international stage with his Apology Tour, which erodes international confidence in America, and he has spent away the future of America, without a plan for repaying it.
Q. What is your background? Tell my readers more about you?
A. I was born and raised in the Southeast Missouri city of Sikeston. I attended BYU-Idaho and the University of Missouri-Columbia. At Mizzou I served as a student senator for my residence hall floor. I left school to venture into the world of politics as a volunteer consultant and in the process became a parent for the first time. I'm a proud father of three daughters and one son. I am proud of the background that I got being raised by my grandmother who taught me the basic values and my father and stepmother who taught me the principles of hard work and I believe I can use all that serve the District with Honor and Pride.
Q. The St. Louis Post Dispatch appears to do what it can to protect St. Louis Democrats like Lacy Clay and Russ Carnahan. How are you going to get your name and positions out there?
A. I would hope that in seeing the groundswell of angst that has been built up against our incumbents that the PD would look to see who the people are supporting but if they don't, that's fine, they can make themselves seem they are the hired shill of the establishment and we will take out message and name out to the "streets" the old fashioned way, by being out there. I will soon be in neighborhoods in the District knocking on doors introducing myself and answering questions and concerns.
Q. Have you approached or are there any plans for you to debate Lacy Clay? If so, when?
A. I haven't approached Congressman Clay however I plan on doing so even before the primary and also inviting my opponents both from my party and our libertarian and democrat sides.
Q. In one sentence or less, what is your platform?
A. My platform is all about the people of our District-Missouri First.
As you can see, Martin has some very interesting points. Please check out his web page and reach out to him via his website, on Facebook at Martin D Baker for US Congress or twitter at @Baker4Congress.
I hope you found this as informative as I did. Please comment your thoughts on here and let Martin know what you think.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
My Interview with Robyn Hamlin - Republican for MO 1st District
Thanks to Darin over at Reboot Congress, I was made aware of the candidacy of Robyn Hamlin. After I picked myself off of the floor, realizing that Lacy Clay now has more competition, I took at look at her campaign website. After reviewing it, I shot Robyn an email and she quickly agreed to an interview.
The following is an interview I did with Robyn over the phone yesterday. This is strictly an interview. I am not giving my opinion or am I commenting on anything that Robyn has to say. I think it is only fair to let Robyn speak her points without comment by me or anyone else. While some questions may have been rearranged for better reading, these are all her answers.
Q. Why are you running for the seat currently occupied by Lacy Clay for the 1st District of Missouri?
A. To get Lacy clay out of office because he does not do that much for our area. We need real representation here and I do not think we are getting it.
Think of it this way. The country is like a business. When there is a big business and it effects big parts of the country you have to have people look out for those parts. We do not have a representative looking out for us
Q. Lacy Clay claims that he represents the people of the first district. You obviously feel that is not the case. How would you go about ensuring you represent the district?
A. I would be accessible to the constituents. For instance this summer, when on break, did he have any town halls. No, he made a statement in the St. Louis Post Dispatch that he was going to forgo town-hall meetings and see the work on highway 40. That is what overlords do. We do not want an overlord we want a representative.
Q. What differentiates you from Lacy Clay in your beliefs and stances?
A. Well, there are a lot of things. I have got a list of them I've published on a meetup group website. I have posted everything that Lacy Clay has voted on where I believe he voted incorrectly or I would have voted differently( LINK HERE).
We just need to replace Lacy Clay. Lacy Clay even voted to not allow churches to provide welfare services to his constituents. It seems he does not even want churches to help people locally. If a church wants to help people, why should they not be allowed to.
Q. While you have been politically active, you are not a Washington or even a St. Louis political insider. What makes you qualified for this position?
A. No, Lacy Clay is not even a St. Louisian. He was raised and schooled in DC. He moved here later on and he has it (his house seat) because his father had it and because of name recognition.
Q. So you think your being an outsider is a good thing?
A. Yes, I don't owe any political favors.
Q. You mentioned Clay's father. In Missouri we have seen political dynasties on both the right and the left with the Clays, Carnahans and Blunts. What do you think of political dynasties?
A. I do not believe in any political dynasties and they don't serve to represent the people ver well. This is not England with a monarchy. We are supposed to have representatives not hierarchies.
Q. What are you going to do, specifically, to benefit the First District?
A. I am going to work with our state reps and senators to represent Missouri. Missouri is a sovereign state. How can anyone go to DC and report they represent the district when they do not talk to Missouri legislatures to see what the state needs or doesn't want from the federal government. That is the job of a representative.
Q. So you are going to be the lobbyist on behalf of the state?
A. Exactly
Q. Are there any committees that you would especially want to participate in, should you be elected?
A. I would love to be on the ethics committee, the education committee. The water committee is another one.
Q. Why those?
A. There are a lot of things that need to be taken care of. We have a lot of things going on in our water rights. This committee is working on a lot of things that are farmed out. We have agencies like the EPA who creates rules that are not laws
We do not have any representation anymore. Slowly our representatives do not represent us anymore.
Q. Reading your website, it reads like some of your positions are things we have heard from the St. Louis Tea Party; is that what you are running under or as a part of?
A. No, I think a lot of people don't realize that these are people that have the same values getting together to express their frustration. This is not a political party. This is more of a movement to put our county back on track to following the rules.
Q. The president gave him self a solid B+, what do you give him.
A. Maybe, if he was looking at another constitution.
It is really difficult to have someone who has never run a business or anything trying to tell people how to run something. It is like people who have never raised kids trying to tell you how to raise children. Much like children, being the president does not come with instructions, but the president should know how to run something.
Q. The president was a community organizer, isn't community organizing like running a business.
A. You can organize anything you want but it is not the same as running a business. There is a lot to running a business like obtaining permits, documentation and finances. A business owner knows and understands how things like owning stock can effect your finances and the way you claim your taxes. A community organizer does not do any of that. A community organize gets people together.
Q. You work in the insurance industry and have been a single mother raising a child. In your opinion, how do we fix healthcare.
A. The government needs to quit mandating benefits and getting in the way of people who contract with businesses. I can contract with someone or a business to provide certain services to me. The government then comes along and mandates the contract that I made with someone but now be changed and they must provide more services. Now I have to pay for services that I did not contract for and that effect the costs. Their heart may be in the right place, but I do not think they look at the long term repercussions when they do something.
If they really wanted to do something to promote the general welfare of the country the insurance companies would be allowed to sell a basic plan that would cover routine accidents and illnesses in addition to the comprehensive plans they sell now. On the basic plans if they were offered with no pre-existing conditions but a requirement that people must keep the plan at least a year and offer a $250 to $500 deductibe, then have 80% co-insurance, a maxium out of pocket of $1000, and a maximum calendar year benefit of $25,000 to $50,000 many people who currently don't have coverage would jump at a chance to buy a contract like that, but can't because the government gets involved and mandates so many benefits.
The average person does not go to the hospital every year. Congress should allow companies to sell something that promotes the general welfare (not put the county on welfare) and can handle day to day issues. A common sense policy like this would cover appendectomies, bronchitis, broken bones, colds, maternity, and thinks like that. There are many people who would still buy the more comprehensive plans as an individual or have more comprehensive employment based benefits.
Q. Are they kowtowing to special interest groups?
A. Yes
Q. What is the one thing you want to accomplish should you be elected?
A. Boy, there are a couple things I would like to accomplish in my first term. One is to raise awareness on why we need to audit the Federal Reserve and to make the definition of undocumented what it really means, illegal. Congress does not seem to understand the definition of illegal and undocumented. Many of the undocumented workers are not undocumented, they are illegal aliens and it needs to be discussed in those terms. If the are illegal and we know it, why do we allow them to stay?
Q. Why audit Federal Reserve?
A. To find out how many generations have been pledged to pay interest on loans. To find out who and how we are indebted to, whatever countries and private banks. The federal reserve is a private bank that our country basically hired to keep the value of our money stable. Have they done this or has the value of our money been devalued?
Q. Reviewing your website, I see a lot of mentions regarding rights and taxes. In addition, I see you mention the founding fathers a lot. A lot of people do not believe the founding fathers are relevant any more. In your opinion, what do the founding fathers have to do with our government today?
A. Our constitution was setup for the sole purpose of keeping the people free and protecting our liberties. It has passed the test of time. There are many other papers that are older than our constitution. Those papers, like the Bible, are not considered outdated. The constitution and the Bill of Rights are not outdated.
The founding fathers listed some things that the federal government should not encroach on. Being taxed without representation is a major item. How many times are there taxes and fees in the name of the Federal Government that we or our representatives have never voted on. We have gotten so far away from what the founders came up with that it is going to take major work to get it back. It is kind of like trust, it is easy to lose trust, but you have to work hard to get it back.
Q. You work in the Insurance industry, are you afraid that your opponent or opponents will make this an issue, especially considering the healthcare issues now?
A. If they did, it wouldn’t hurt because I am the one on the front line explaining to customers and small businesses why their premiums went up because a new mandate was passed.
I have this example on my website. Let’s say you just bought new tires for your car and it cost you over $800. You decide to purchase tire insurance that would replace all your tires if you have a flat. The premium is $5 per month. A group of people then discover that it does not cover hub caps and they become very angry. They complain to their congressmen who then decide to issue a mandate stating that all companies that offer tire insurance must now cover hub caps. You get your next bill in the mail and your premium has gone from $5 to $7.00. You never wanted hub cap coverage but now have no choice and are forced to pay for it.
Q. As readers of my blog know, Lacy has a cozy relationship with the Rent To Own industry. I see you are a member of the Rental Property Owners Association. Is that the same thing?
A. No it is not. It is an organization for landlords and renters to know when legislation is passed. It is important to know if there is a new regulation that effects the way you rent property. The EPA has came out with a new regulation that can keep you from fixing something like a broken window, it is important to know this. If a tenant were to break a window, I could get in trouble for replacing it without being certified by the EPA. This organization keeps us informed of those types of situations.
Q. You are also a member of Get Out Of Our House. They want to "evict" all of the current career House members. Are there any members of the House that you think are doing a good job and if so why?
A. I have been a watcher of that group. There are a few members that are doing a good job. Most of them though, do not represent their states. You see, a majority of them go to DC and forget the reason they go there. Normally, when you get a new job, you get a rule book that tells you what you can and can't do. You follow those rules and get to keep your job. When they go to DC they get this rule book too, it is called the Constitution. The problem is, over time, they just quit following it.
I feel bad for states that have made bad budget decisions, but should the federal government bail out those states? Should Missouri taxpayers bail out those states that make bad decisions? No! The federal government is supposed to proved common currency, protect our borders and keep states from fighting with one another.
Q. What is your background? Tell my readers more about you?
A. I was born in North St. Louis City and lived in several parts of the St. Louis area. I attended Lutheran grade schools in St. Louis City and Florissant and public schools for middle and high school. I attended high school in Alton Illinois where I was active in sports (lettered in varsity volleyball), student council, and graduated in the top 10% of my class. I Was a member of FBLA club (Future Business Leaders of America), Junior Achievement, and Girl Scouts.
Over the course of several years I worked for three different insurance agencies and learned the good and the bad of the industry. While holding down two separate jobs, I started a commercial cleaning business with money I had saved. This business was quite successful.
Eventually, I started my own insurance agency and gave up the profitable cleaning business because I felt more people could be helped by putting all my efforts into the insurance business. When there is a claim or enrollment problem, I put in countless hours fighting for my clients’ rights and I don't get paid extra for this. I am persistent and get the job done.
I love animals, enjoy gardening and home improvement projects. Using money I had saved, not borrowed, that evolved into investing in a few small houses and fixing them up so I could rent them out to people who needed a home.
I raised my son as a unwed mother. My son's father and I get along, we just are not a couple. I am devoted to my family, my district, my country and my God. This is why I involved myself in politics. I got involved with politics in my early twenty’s as a precinct coordinator. I want my country back as it should be and I want career politicians out of Congress.
Q. The St. Louis Post Dispatch appears to do what it can to protect St. Louis Democrats like Lacy Clay and Russ Carnahan. How are you going to get your name and positions out there?
A. Well, I have a pretty good strategy to do that. I am going to try my best to get coverage with them. That is all I can do. If they cover all of the candidates in a non partisan fashion that would be excellent. If not, there is nothing I can do about that. I will continue to move forward.
Q. Have you approached or are there any plans for you to debate Lacy Clay? If so, when?
A. I would love to, but I doubt he will. We will see if the opportunity will present itself.
Q. In one sentence or less, what is your platform?
A. Protect our liberties and speak for the state of Missouri
As you can see, Robyn has some very interesting points. Please check out her web page and reach out to her via her website or twitter at @Hamlin4Congress.
I hope you found this as informative as I did. Please comment your thoughts on here and let Robyn know what you think.
The following is an interview I did with Robyn over the phone yesterday. This is strictly an interview. I am not giving my opinion or am I commenting on anything that Robyn has to say. I think it is only fair to let Robyn speak her points without comment by me or anyone else. While some questions may have been rearranged for better reading, these are all her answers.
Q. Why are you running for the seat currently occupied by Lacy Clay for the 1st District of Missouri?
A. To get Lacy clay out of office because he does not do that much for our area. We need real representation here and I do not think we are getting it.
Think of it this way. The country is like a business. When there is a big business and it effects big parts of the country you have to have people look out for those parts. We do not have a representative looking out for us
Q. Lacy Clay claims that he represents the people of the first district. You obviously feel that is not the case. How would you go about ensuring you represent the district?
A. I would be accessible to the constituents. For instance this summer, when on break, did he have any town halls. No, he made a statement in the St. Louis Post Dispatch that he was going to forgo town-hall meetings and see the work on highway 40. That is what overlords do. We do not want an overlord we want a representative.
Q. What differentiates you from Lacy Clay in your beliefs and stances?
A. Well, there are a lot of things. I have got a list of them I've published on a meetup group website. I have posted everything that Lacy Clay has voted on where I believe he voted incorrectly or I would have voted differently( LINK HERE).
We just need to replace Lacy Clay. Lacy Clay even voted to not allow churches to provide welfare services to his constituents. It seems he does not even want churches to help people locally. If a church wants to help people, why should they not be allowed to.
Q. While you have been politically active, you are not a Washington or even a St. Louis political insider. What makes you qualified for this position?
A. No, Lacy Clay is not even a St. Louisian. He was raised and schooled in DC. He moved here later on and he has it (his house seat) because his father had it and because of name recognition.
Q. So you think your being an outsider is a good thing?
A. Yes, I don't owe any political favors.
Q. You mentioned Clay's father. In Missouri we have seen political dynasties on both the right and the left with the Clays, Carnahans and Blunts. What do you think of political dynasties?
A. I do not believe in any political dynasties and they don't serve to represent the people ver well. This is not England with a monarchy. We are supposed to have representatives not hierarchies.
Q. What are you going to do, specifically, to benefit the First District?
A. I am going to work with our state reps and senators to represent Missouri. Missouri is a sovereign state. How can anyone go to DC and report they represent the district when they do not talk to Missouri legislatures to see what the state needs or doesn't want from the federal government. That is the job of a representative.
Q. So you are going to be the lobbyist on behalf of the state?
A. Exactly
Q. Are there any committees that you would especially want to participate in, should you be elected?
A. I would love to be on the ethics committee, the education committee. The water committee is another one.
Q. Why those?
A. There are a lot of things that need to be taken care of. We have a lot of things going on in our water rights. This committee is working on a lot of things that are farmed out. We have agencies like the EPA who creates rules that are not laws
We do not have any representation anymore. Slowly our representatives do not represent us anymore.
Q. Reading your website, it reads like some of your positions are things we have heard from the St. Louis Tea Party; is that what you are running under or as a part of?
A. No, I think a lot of people don't realize that these are people that have the same values getting together to express their frustration. This is not a political party. This is more of a movement to put our county back on track to following the rules.
Q. The president gave him self a solid B+, what do you give him.
A. Maybe, if he was looking at another constitution.
It is really difficult to have someone who has never run a business or anything trying to tell people how to run something. It is like people who have never raised kids trying to tell you how to raise children. Much like children, being the president does not come with instructions, but the president should know how to run something.
Q. The president was a community organizer, isn't community organizing like running a business.
A. You can organize anything you want but it is not the same as running a business. There is a lot to running a business like obtaining permits, documentation and finances. A business owner knows and understands how things like owning stock can effect your finances and the way you claim your taxes. A community organizer does not do any of that. A community organize gets people together.
Q. You work in the insurance industry and have been a single mother raising a child. In your opinion, how do we fix healthcare.
A. The government needs to quit mandating benefits and getting in the way of people who contract with businesses. I can contract with someone or a business to provide certain services to me. The government then comes along and mandates the contract that I made with someone but now be changed and they must provide more services. Now I have to pay for services that I did not contract for and that effect the costs. Their heart may be in the right place, but I do not think they look at the long term repercussions when they do something.
If they really wanted to do something to promote the general welfare of the country the insurance companies would be allowed to sell a basic plan that would cover routine accidents and illnesses in addition to the comprehensive plans they sell now. On the basic plans if they were offered with no pre-existing conditions but a requirement that people must keep the plan at least a year and offer a $250 to $500 deductibe, then have 80% co-insurance, a maxium out of pocket of $1000, and a maximum calendar year benefit of $25,000 to $50,000 many people who currently don't have coverage would jump at a chance to buy a contract like that, but can't because the government gets involved and mandates so many benefits.
The average person does not go to the hospital every year. Congress should allow companies to sell something that promotes the general welfare (not put the county on welfare) and can handle day to day issues. A common sense policy like this would cover appendectomies, bronchitis, broken bones, colds, maternity, and thinks like that. There are many people who would still buy the more comprehensive plans as an individual or have more comprehensive employment based benefits.
Q. Are they kowtowing to special interest groups?
A. Yes
Q. What is the one thing you want to accomplish should you be elected?
A. Boy, there are a couple things I would like to accomplish in my first term. One is to raise awareness on why we need to audit the Federal Reserve and to make the definition of undocumented what it really means, illegal. Congress does not seem to understand the definition of illegal and undocumented. Many of the undocumented workers are not undocumented, they are illegal aliens and it needs to be discussed in those terms. If the are illegal and we know it, why do we allow them to stay?
Q. Why audit Federal Reserve?
A. To find out how many generations have been pledged to pay interest on loans. To find out who and how we are indebted to, whatever countries and private banks. The federal reserve is a private bank that our country basically hired to keep the value of our money stable. Have they done this or has the value of our money been devalued?
Q. Reviewing your website, I see a lot of mentions regarding rights and taxes. In addition, I see you mention the founding fathers a lot. A lot of people do not believe the founding fathers are relevant any more. In your opinion, what do the founding fathers have to do with our government today?
A. Our constitution was setup for the sole purpose of keeping the people free and protecting our liberties. It has passed the test of time. There are many other papers that are older than our constitution. Those papers, like the Bible, are not considered outdated. The constitution and the Bill of Rights are not outdated.
The founding fathers listed some things that the federal government should not encroach on. Being taxed without representation is a major item. How many times are there taxes and fees in the name of the Federal Government that we or our representatives have never voted on. We have gotten so far away from what the founders came up with that it is going to take major work to get it back. It is kind of like trust, it is easy to lose trust, but you have to work hard to get it back.
Q. You work in the Insurance industry, are you afraid that your opponent or opponents will make this an issue, especially considering the healthcare issues now?
A. If they did, it wouldn’t hurt because I am the one on the front line explaining to customers and small businesses why their premiums went up because a new mandate was passed.
I have this example on my website. Let’s say you just bought new tires for your car and it cost you over $800. You decide to purchase tire insurance that would replace all your tires if you have a flat. The premium is $5 per month. A group of people then discover that it does not cover hub caps and they become very angry. They complain to their congressmen who then decide to issue a mandate stating that all companies that offer tire insurance must now cover hub caps. You get your next bill in the mail and your premium has gone from $5 to $7.00. You never wanted hub cap coverage but now have no choice and are forced to pay for it.
Q. As readers of my blog know, Lacy has a cozy relationship with the Rent To Own industry. I see you are a member of the Rental Property Owners Association. Is that the same thing?
A. No it is not. It is an organization for landlords and renters to know when legislation is passed. It is important to know if there is a new regulation that effects the way you rent property. The EPA has came out with a new regulation that can keep you from fixing something like a broken window, it is important to know this. If a tenant were to break a window, I could get in trouble for replacing it without being certified by the EPA. This organization keeps us informed of those types of situations.
Q. You are also a member of Get Out Of Our House. They want to "evict" all of the current career House members. Are there any members of the House that you think are doing a good job and if so why?
A. I have been a watcher of that group. There are a few members that are doing a good job. Most of them though, do not represent their states. You see, a majority of them go to DC and forget the reason they go there. Normally, when you get a new job, you get a rule book that tells you what you can and can't do. You follow those rules and get to keep your job. When they go to DC they get this rule book too, it is called the Constitution. The problem is, over time, they just quit following it.
I feel bad for states that have made bad budget decisions, but should the federal government bail out those states? Should Missouri taxpayers bail out those states that make bad decisions? No! The federal government is supposed to proved common currency, protect our borders and keep states from fighting with one another.
Q. What is your background? Tell my readers more about you?
A. I was born in North St. Louis City and lived in several parts of the St. Louis area. I attended Lutheran grade schools in St. Louis City and Florissant and public schools for middle and high school. I attended high school in Alton Illinois where I was active in sports (lettered in varsity volleyball), student council, and graduated in the top 10% of my class. I Was a member of FBLA club (Future Business Leaders of America), Junior Achievement, and Girl Scouts.
Over the course of several years I worked for three different insurance agencies and learned the good and the bad of the industry. While holding down two separate jobs, I started a commercial cleaning business with money I had saved. This business was quite successful.
Eventually, I started my own insurance agency and gave up the profitable cleaning business because I felt more people could be helped by putting all my efforts into the insurance business. When there is a claim or enrollment problem, I put in countless hours fighting for my clients’ rights and I don't get paid extra for this. I am persistent and get the job done.
I love animals, enjoy gardening and home improvement projects. Using money I had saved, not borrowed, that evolved into investing in a few small houses and fixing them up so I could rent them out to people who needed a home.
I raised my son as a unwed mother. My son's father and I get along, we just are not a couple. I am devoted to my family, my district, my country and my God. This is why I involved myself in politics. I got involved with politics in my early twenty’s as a precinct coordinator. I want my country back as it should be and I want career politicians out of Congress.
Q. The St. Louis Post Dispatch appears to do what it can to protect St. Louis Democrats like Lacy Clay and Russ Carnahan. How are you going to get your name and positions out there?
A. Well, I have a pretty good strategy to do that. I am going to try my best to get coverage with them. That is all I can do. If they cover all of the candidates in a non partisan fashion that would be excellent. If not, there is nothing I can do about that. I will continue to move forward.
Q. Have you approached or are there any plans for you to debate Lacy Clay? If so, when?
A. I would love to, but I doubt he will. We will see if the opportunity will present itself.
Q. In one sentence or less, what is your platform?
A. Protect our liberties and speak for the state of Missouri
As you can see, Robyn has some very interesting points. Please check out her web page and reach out to her via her website or twitter at @Hamlin4Congress.
I hope you found this as informative as I did. Please comment your thoughts on here and let Robyn know what you think.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Why McCain Not Winning Is A Good Thing
In an interview with Katie Couric Glenn Beck said he was glad that John McCain did not win the presidency. I know that I am a little behind on this but what can I say, we have Cardinals' baseball, apple picking with the kids, the daily grind, and trying to keep up with the healthcare debate and some research on my favorite target, Lacy Clay, so yeah, I am a little behind.
Anyway, I watched this interview online and I have to say that before Glenn even gave any type of explanation I agreed with him. The best thing that could have happened not just for the Republican party, but for America, was the election of Barack Obama. Why is that you may say, well let me tell you.
Anyway, I watched this interview online and I have to say that before Glenn even gave any type of explanation I agreed with him. The best thing that could have happened not just for the Republican party, but for America, was the election of Barack Obama. Why is that you may say, well let me tell you.
- No longer will Pelosi and Reid be able to blame everything on Bush and the Republicans. Anytime something went wrong it was the Republicans fault. Never mind the facts that Bush and many Conservatives tried to end the sub-prime mortgage practices and were blocked by filibustering Dems like Obama. They are being exposed for their hypocrisy and their failed policies. A failure of this magnitude will really make people think when they vote again in 2010 and 2012.
- This was a splash of cold water to the Republicans. Let's face it, the Republicans got lazy and were really shifting away from the core beliefs. Many in the RNC became to worried about appeasing the left, instead of taking care of the issues and doing what's right. They also became drunk with power and started participating in some massive pork spending. Losing in 2006 and 2008 has made the RNC have to refocus and find their identity. The question really becomes, will that identity be centrist right, conservative or somewhere in the middle.
- In one 2 - 4 year period, this could create some drastic changes in the House and Senate that would not have happened. Pelosi and Reid are both going to have to run against serious challenges in their home state. Both could wind up losing their seats along with a slew of others including St. Louis' own Russ Carnahan. Add to that the people that work for and with Pelosi, Reid and Obama, people like Van Jones, are being brought to light.
- The Democrats have overplayed their hand and showing their real far left agenda. People are seeing this and are not feeling comfortable with what they are seeing. Barack Obama has an approval rate between 48-52% and the Congress as a whole has an approval rating of 21%.
- More people are standing up and becoming active in politics. This is potentially one of the most dangerous aspects to the Democrats. Their refusal to listen and in some cases brazen disregard for their constituents has led many people to stand up and become politically active. Do you think there would be a strong Tea Party movement if McCain were elected. I do not. The activist agenda that is in play right now would not have happened and many people would still be sitting at home, quietly simmering in anger at the government.
So yes my friends, it is a good thing McCain was not elected. Are we hurting, yes. That said, in the end we will be better for this pain. Sometimes you have to walk through the desert to get to the promised land. Now, if we could just bring back Ronald Reagan.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Thank You & A Question for Lacy Clay
I want to thank all 10,000 plus of the new visitors to my site for stopping by. I thank each of you for taking a few minutes of your day to stop by.
I have to give a huge hat tip if not a bow to Instapundit for linking to me with my post on Lacy's response. I would also like to take a moment to recognize some special visitors to my website.
Unfortunately I cannot blow these up any large, but it appears that I now have visitors from the US House of Representatives, the US Senate, the Department of Homeland Security, the FCC and the US Dept. of Justice just to name a few.
I have to give a huge hat tip if not a bow to Instapundit for linking to me with my post on Lacy's response. I would also like to take a moment to recognize some special visitors to my website.
Unfortunately I cannot blow these up any large, but it appears that I now have visitors from the US House of Representatives, the US Senate, the Department of Homeland Security, the FCC and the US Dept. of Justice just to name a few.So Lacy, this is directed right at you since I think you and your staff are paying attention now. You did not respond to my emails or calls. I am getting word from countless others that you pulled the same thing on some of your other constituents. As I previously reported here, you refused to have any town hall meetings. So I have one question for you. If you have the cajones, you will answer it here on this sight. You can email me and I will post your response unedited for the world to see. Or better yet, post a comment with this post to allow the public the chance to talk to you since they never got one during your recess.
My question is:
You have stated countless times in press releases and speeches that you want to, and I am paraphrasing here, affordable health insurance to everyone. You are a proponent of HR 3200 as well as the plan known as cap and trade. As a Congressman would you be willing to set carbon limits on all government entities including the Congress, the Senate and the President as a whole and all of their flights, trips, motorcades, etc. and would you be willing to amend HR 3200 so that all government employees and current and retired House and Senate members would fall under the same health care plan as the normal public. In essence, would you be willing to back bills that bring your level of care and your carbon footprint down to those of us who are not elected officials. I look forward to hearing your response within the next 24 hours.
Friday, August 21, 2009
FOUND - Lacy Clay
Thanks to the good people over at Missouri Political News Service our Congressman has been found. Where was he that he could not attend to the needs of his constituents? He was in Ghana with several other Congressman to help. According to Ghana Business News, he is part of a delegation that is there to "encourage trade and investment between Ghana and the United States". The Congressman is working hard on these trade and investment relations, staying at plush seashore resort that runs $275 - $590 a night. I am sure, Congressman Clay is so concerned with our tax dollars that he is bunking up with the other members of this delegation.
And who else is in this delegation? None other than Congresswoman Shelia Jackson Lee (D) of Texas, Congressman Steve Cohen (D) of Tennessee, and Congresswoman Gwen Moore (D) of Wisconsin.
Clay's peers have all had the time to have town hall meetings during the recess, yet for some reason, this trip must have taken up all of his time. We know what happened to Shelia Jackson Lee at her meeting. Maybe that was her travel agent on the phone instead of the "Healthcare hotline" she claims it was.
I am so glad to see that our Congressman from St. Louis is taking it easy on our dime, not meeting with his constituents. He did go out and get a tour of Highway 40 at one point during the recess, so at least we know that he set foot on Missouri soil at some point and time. During that video he said he was going to forgo healthcare meetings so he could meet with the people of St. Louis. OK Congressman Clay, who are you meeting with? Are you SO busy with meetings that your staff cannot respond to calls and emails? We need to get this bum out of office.
And who else is in this delegation? None other than Congresswoman Shelia Jackson Lee (D) of Texas, Congressman Steve Cohen (D) of Tennessee, and Congresswoman Gwen Moore (D) of Wisconsin.
Clay's peers have all had the time to have town hall meetings during the recess, yet for some reason, this trip must have taken up all of his time. We know what happened to Shelia Jackson Lee at her meeting. Maybe that was her travel agent on the phone instead of the "Healthcare hotline" she claims it was.
I am so glad to see that our Congressman from St. Louis is taking it easy on our dime, not meeting with his constituents. He did go out and get a tour of Highway 40 at one point during the recess, so at least we know that he set foot on Missouri soil at some point and time. During that video he said he was going to forgo healthcare meetings so he could meet with the people of St. Louis. OK Congressman Clay, who are you meeting with? Are you SO busy with meetings that your staff cannot respond to calls and emails? We need to get this bum out of office.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Where in the World is Lacy Clay
I have called, I have emailed and I have looked online and nowhere can I find Congressman William "Lacy" Clay. He is not having any open house or town hall meetings. He is not responding to emails from his constituents. His staff is not returning calls from his constituents.
What ever shall we do?
I know that a lot of attention has been paid to Russ Carnahan in the third district and rightfully so. We still have another Congressman in St. Louis who is just as, if not more liberal than Russ. William "Lacy" Clay has been lock stop with the DNC and Barack Obama. He appears to have no concerns for his constituents who are not in St. Louis city and those municipalities nearby. Since redistricting in 2001, Lacy Clay represents Ferguson, Florissant, Hazelwood, Maryland Heights, Spanish Lake, St. Louis, and University City. Since that time he has done little to nothing to reach out to those not in or directly nearby the city. It appears that he does not care too either and once again it looks like he is going to run unopposed in 2010. I know that trying to find an opponent to run against Clay and win with his district is tough. At this point, many of us would settle for a RINO over one of the most unabashed Liberals in St. Louis.
In a related matter, my ongoing project to hit these Congressmen where it hurts is going well. I have found all of the company PAC's that donated to every Congressman in Missouri as well as Robin Carnahan. I am working on a letter that can be emailed to each company letting them know your displeasure and your willingness to not use their products/services if they do not pull their contributions or use their influence to listen to the will of the people.
Please let me know your thoughts, I would love to hear from you.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
No More Town Hall Meetings?
This is coming from FoxNews.com. Per their website, they are showing that none of the Democrats in MO are holding any more town hall meetings in St. Louis. Right now the only ones that are planned in Missouri are Claire McCaskill's on 8/10/09. Those are:
- Three Rivers Community College, 2080 Three Rivers Boulevard, Poplar Bluff, MO at 02:30 PM
- Southeast Missouri State University, 1230 First Street, Kennett, MO at 09:00 AM
That's it, nothing from Lacy Clay, nothing from Russ Carnahan. If these guys are holding them, they are not publicizing them. I have calls into Lacy Clay's office asking if he is having any. I was told that a representative would call me back. Let's see if he will actually do it.
Updated 8/11/09
Lacy Clay has yet to call or email me back. I called his office again and was given the run around asking if I was a constituent. I am beginning to think that maybe he is not going to have any public forums. Unfortunately it does not look like anyone is going to run against him, so maybe he figures he has no need to.
We need someone to run against this man and expose him for the fraud that he is. Much like Russ Carnahan, Lacy Clay is running on his father's name and the fact that his district was re-districted so that those in the North County are lumped in with North City and get stuck with someone who does not care to represent all of the area he serves.
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