Old Line Elephant Interview: Ari Winokur
Ari Winokur is a young Republican in Baltimore City who decided to stand up and run for City Council. A citizen of the Fifth Councilmanic District, Winokur wants to “…bring greater sensibility and transparency to government…” according to his website. I contacted Winokur to ask him some questions about his stances on the issues and his campaign. What follows are his answers.
Matthew Newman: What made you decide to run for City Council?
Ari Winokur:Over the time I have lived in Baltimore, I have seen the city proceeding in a downward spiral. Unfortunately, in the past 10 years this city has lost 30,000 people. We need to reverse this downward trend. We need to turn this city around and make it appealing once more for people to come to visit and to stay. There are so many wonderful things this city has to offer. What is needed is a city that has a persona to match it’s potential. I believe I can help make that happen.MRN: What part of your background makes you uniquely qualified to be a member of the City Council?
AW: I am an optimistic problem solver and see this city in need of just that attitude. Baltimore is a very unique city with it’s own unique style and a very special history. Though some people would look at Baltimore as a lost cause and past it’s prime, I see a brilliant future for this city. I have many ideas of how to bring this city back to its former glory, and I hope that the voters give me the opportunity bring these ideas to fruition.MRN: What is the most important issue facing the City of Baltimore?
AW: Unfortunately, Baltimore is in a state of decline. It is hard to point to a specific issue that ranks as number one. In the 2010 gubernatorial election, there were 11 questions on the ballot for Baltimore City, all financial. Instead of constantly looking for ways to borrow money, this city needs to invest the money it has to grow revenues. Some things may have to be cut, but if money can be directed to programs that will increase people coming to Baltimore and staying, revenues increase and the city will have more money to do more.MRN: If elected, what would be the first piece of legislation you would proposed before the City Council?
AW: The first piece of legislation I would propose would be a transparency bill. Transparency in government is absolutely essential. We need to set a limit over which any investment needs to be broken down online for easy viewing by anyone. Also, the legislation should require all expenses of all elected officials to be listed online as well, including their initial expense accounts. Any special events such as trips like that taken by the pension board should also be included for close review. Having all this information provided with easy access will help the residents of Baltimore City know what their government is doing and if it is in their best interest.MRN: As a candidate in a heavily Democratic region, how do you feel Republicans can reach out to historically Democratic leaning voters in areas like Baltimore City?
AW: The voters in Baltimore do have a tendency to vote Democrat; however, the city is on a downward spiral. Perhaps it is time for a change. There is a basic question that needs to be asked here. Are we better off after years of Democratic control? I believe the answer is a resounding no. It is time for a change of leadership in this City.MRN: What is your opinion on the redistricting processes in Baltimore City?
AW: Redistricting is an important part of maintaining our representative government. The most essential part of any redistricting process, is to keep neighborhoods and communities together. What I fear with any redistricting is the splitting of communities. Splitting the population evenly among the districts and keeping neighborhoods together is key. After that, I want to hear from people directly effected by the redistricting before I make any final decisions.MRN: What is your opinion on Mayor Rawlings-Blake's "Employ Baltimore Executive Order?"
AW: The Employ Baltimore Executive Order is well intentioned, but is not the right action. Forcing people to meet requirements does not work. This will only move less business into the city. We are in a competitive job market and businesses are failing or fleeing. Creating additional hurdles for business is the wrong idea for our city. What we need to do, is open things up. Give companies incentives to work in the city and with the city. These incentives will produce more work and more job opportunities in the city.MRN: What are your thoughts on Mayor Rawlings-Blake's Fiscal Year 2012 budget?
AW: Seeing that the Mayor worked to close the deficit by cutting spending is a wonderful thing. Cutting budgets is a wonderful way to fix deficit issues; however, what you cut from is just as important. A lot of money was cut from programs for children such as rec centers and after-school programs. Also money taken from basic city services like 311 and graffiti removal. We need to have a cleaned up city to attract more people. I refer you to my proposed legislation. If the voters could see where the money was going, more work would be done to fix the budget.MRN: If the 2012 GOP primary were held today, what candidate would you vote for?
AW: The current GOP slate of candidates is crowded with many great individuals. Each candidate brings their own unique views and skills to the race. I have not made a decision yet on whom I support.MRN: In closing, what is one thing you want potential voters to know about your campaign?
AW: The definition of insanity is doing the same thing repeatedly and expecting different results. If we, as a people and as a city, cannot open our minds to opportunity and diversity then we will remain limited and subject to a one party, reduced opportunity reality. My campaign is about promoting Baltimore City and making it a better, more attractive place. Please take the time to visit my Facebook page and website to keep updated on my campaign. Vote for me on November 8.
I thank Mr. Winokour for his time. He is a very active candidate trying to make inroads in a difficult city for Republicans. I admire his enthusiasm as he traverses the City in an off-year election. If you would like to learn more about his campaign, check out his official website here or, if you’re on Twitter, follow him.
Old Line Elephant Interview: Daniel Bongino (R-MD)
Saturday morning at 8:00 AM I received a call from 2012 US Senate candidate Daniel Bongino. Bongino is 37 year old Republican from Maryland who's goal is to take on incumbent Ben Cardin in the general election. Bongino has an extensive background in law enforcement, serving four years in the New York City police department and twelve years in the Secret Service, serving under President's Clinton, Bush, and Obama. Bongino left the Secret Service in early May. He has a Master’s degrees in Psychology and an MBA from Penn State University. Bongino and his wife have founded and run a number of successful small businesses. He was genuine, knowledgeable, and open to any question I was ready to throw his way. When asked about his platform, Bongino said, "I'm not just trying to tote the conservative line, [this is my platform] because these policies work." I agree. What follows is the transcript of my interview with Bongino and some additional comments.
Matthew Newman: What grade would you give our incumbent Senator?
Daniel Bongino: An unequivocal F. Capital F. Failure in every regard - tax issues, education issues, second amendment issues, economic issues, and social issues. An F across the board. But, I give him an A for politics. In 44 years, he's become quite the expert.MN: As a first time candidate, how difficult do you feel it will be to compete in the primary or general election against more seasoned, political veterans?
DB: It is going to be difficult, no doubt about it. Maryland is not an enormous state, but it is difficult to traverse...our message is strong. I feel my message in the primary is the strongest. My ideas on education, health care, and the economy are strong and resonating. In 12 years of research on macroeconomic policy. You know what I found? You spend your money better than other people do. Not surprising.
Old Line Elephant Interview: William Capps (R-MD)
William T. Capps, Jr is one of the candidates vying to take on Ben Cardin in the 2012 GOP primary. Capps is an Army veteran with no prior political experience except for a bid for State Senate in 2010. According to his biography, he's been through quite a bit - at certain points making less than $14k a year. That said, he's never asked for or taken a handout from the government. I contacted Capps and asked him a few questions about his views on the issues and his campaign. What follows are his answers.
Matthew R. Newman: What made you decide to consider a bid for US Senate?
William T. Capps, Jr: I'm tired of seeing Maryland families struggle for the necessities of every day life. Our culture is turning into one of entitlements instead of personal responsibility. I see the changes that are occurring everyday, and I cannot sit idly by and allow Maryland families to be pushed to the wayside. I have decided to run for US Senate in 2012 because our country is at a crossroads, and on the brink of economic and social collapse. We need to get back to citizen representation instead of career politicians and special interest groups.MRN: What about you personally makes you uniquely qualified for this role?
WTC: Everyday, Maryland families are finding it harder and harder to balance their obligations. I understand those fears and frustrations. I have been through those same struggles, and I will always put Maryland families first.MRN: How difficult do you feel it will be to compete in the primary against other higher profile candidates, such as 2010 candidate Eric Wargotz?
WTC: I feel that I am the only true candidate to be able to stand up and fight for Maryland families against Senator Ben Cardin, and I will not leave the fight early!!MRN: What grade would you give our incumbent Senator and why?
WTC: I give Senator Cardin a "D" for delinquency in serving the state of Maryland and putting its families first.MRN: If elected, what would be the first piece of legislation you would introduce?
WTC:Provide federal funding to institute E-verify nationwide.MRN: The filibuster is sometimes a more controversial measure in the US
Senate. What is your opinion on this procedure?
WTC: The filibuster is a parliamentary tool that Senators have at their disposal to use against questionable legislation, and to allow more dialogue to take place. I would not hesitate to use this if need be.MRN: What qualifications would you look for, for a potential Supreme Court nominee?
WTC: One who has a clear history of constitutional temperament and who does not legislate from the bench his or her political views.MRN: What is your opinion of Paul Ryan's recent budget proposal?
WTC: Unless we take our debt problem seriously now, we won't have the time it will take to implement Chairman Ryan's budget. That is why I support a constitutional amendment to balance the budget and would vote no on raising the debt ceiling.MRN: Would you mind explaining to me what you feel are the three most important issues facing our country?
WTC: It is impossible to just pick three, so here are my concerns: The national debt, jobs, trade, China, and national security. All are interconnected, I cannot just pick three. To do so will not solve the issues we as a nation are facing.MRN: What is your opinion on the Libyan situation?
WTC: We should not be the world's police force without being compensated for it. I do not think we should have gone into Libya; they are not a national security threat.MRN: If the 2012 Presidential primary were held today, who would you support and why?
WTC: I am undecided at this time. However, I can tell you this: I want a President that understands the serious problem we have with China. I want a President that has America first on his mind, and puts economic, energy, and national security issues at the top of his agenda. I want a President, as well as a Congress, that does not permit this country to have to depend on other nations to operate our government by way of loans. I want a President that will have the Federal Reserve audited so all Americans can see where these loans go so that we know what our liabilities are, should they not be paid. I want a President that will crack down on those who are unlawfully in our country.MRN: In closing, what is one thing you want to ensure that potential primary voters know about your candidacy?
WTC: I want all Marylanders to know that I, William Capps, will always fight for and put our families first. My loyalty will be to all Maryland families, not a political party or process.
I thank Mr. Capps for his time and wish him luck in the primary. If you'd like to learn more, check out his official website here.
Cross-posted to RedState
Old Line Elephant Profile: Sam Hale (R-MD)
Sam Hale is a 25 year old, Republican / conservative activist. In 2010, Hale saw a need – a need for a conservative forum for people to hear from conservative activists / candidates and to help network said conservatives. From there, the Maryland Society of Patriots was formed. What began as a small local effort, eventually became a state-wide phenomenon as local chapters are forming throughout the state.
Hale took his organizational skills to the Brian Murphy for Governor campaign. While Murphy did not win the primary, Hale learned a great deal and made a number of connections throughout the party. This led to Hale mounting an eventually unsuccessful bid for Republican Party Chair. I interviewed Hale during this time, and he offered an interesting vision for the State GOP. While he failed at winning, he received more support than seemingly higher profile candidates including 2010 Comptroller candidate William Campbell and Maryland College Republican Chair Mike Estève, finishing 3rd place on the first ballot. Hale threw his support behind Mooney.
Hale is still the leader of the Maryland Society of Patriots (MSOP). I contacted Hale and asked him a few questions about the MSOP and Maryland politics:
Matthew R. Newman: What do you feel is the most pressing issue that the Maryland General Assembly should be focusing on this year?
Sam Hale: Same-Sex Marriage. It is one of the few bills that conservatives have a chance in stopping and it has the potential to change the perception of the Republican Party among African-American, social conservatives in Maryland.
Most importantly, if passed, same-sex marriage will completely change the social and political culture of Maryland. Maryland will become the only state in the American South to allow same-sex marriage and therefore will provide a direct incentive for homosexual couples across the southern United States to make their home in Maryland. These couples are typically extremely liberal and politically active. Politicians like Nancy Pelosi, would no longer have to leave Baltimore for San Francisco. I am an eternal optimist for conservatives in Maryland. But I won't hold out much hope if this bill is not defeated either in the house or on referendum.
MRN: What do you feel that you've learned from your bid for Republican State Party Chair?
SH: I simply learned more about running a campaign, especially for party office, and received a crash course on the inner workings of the Maryland GOP.I made some key contacts and new friends and believe I positively affected the outcome. It was a great experience.
MRN: What role do you feel MSOP will play in the 2012 and 2014 election cycles?
SH: I plan on leading MSOP's growth across the state in the next couple years. I hope to play a role in reinvigorating activism on the local level among Maryland conservatives. While the group plans on endorsing and hosting meetings for congressional and senatorial candidates in 2012. Our current goal is to make large strides in the state legislature in 2014.MRN: You played an active role in Brian Murphy's gubernatorial campaign. What did you learn from your role in that campaign?
SH: I learned too much to fully describe it to you here. It was my first campaign as an employee and the first statewide campaign I was involved in.In terms of campaign, the biggest lesson I learned was the importance of fundraising. With the incredible population of today's electorate, a candidate can do an event every single night and not come close to reaching 30% of likely voters. Candidates should first focus on raising money for mailers, robo-calls and eventually television and radio advertising etc.
For the most part, anti-establishment candidates that won in 2010 were supported by nationwide groups like the Tea Party Express. Without huge fundraising boosts it is simply too difficult for first-time candidates to get the word out.
MRN: If we back and replayed the 2010 election cycle, what changes would you make to Ehrlich's gubernatorial campaign and how differently would you see a Murphy campaign in the general election?
SH: Due to his record, it was difficult to Ehrlich to draw meaningful contrast with O'Malley and that made it hard for him to strongly criticize the governor. I would have advised the campaign to be more critical of, and confrontational with, O’Malley. The governor is a fringe leftist who is out of touch even in Maryland. Ehrlich failed to effectively convey that to the people of Maryland.
Murphy would have drawn more meaningful contrast with O'Malley. But, looking back, I'm not sure we could have raised the money to effectively campaign against the governor. I guess we'll never know.
MRN: If the 2012 GOP primary were held today, who would you most likely support?
SH: I would support Sarah Palin.I agree with her on almost every issue and think she is a fantastic leader. But that's not why I like her.
Obama is going to raise $1 billion for his reelection campaign and he will have the media in his pocket once again. Whoever the GOP nominates will be lambasted by every form of media. John McCain and Bob Dole, have proven that a soft-spoken moderate will lose to the liberal machine every time. The GOP needs a fighter. They need someone who has proven they can stand up to the media. They need someone who can raise money comparable to Obama and someone who can equal his grassroots effort.
Sarah Palin has a tremendous number of loyal supporters. These people will not only donate repeatedly but will provide an incredible grassroots effort. No other GOP candidate has anything comparable to this type of support. She is tough enough to withstand the media barrage and conservative enough to draw deep and meaningful contrast with Obama. Hopefully she learned from being a part of a truly dismal presidential effort by John McCain. I like her.
I thank Hale for his time and willingness to answer my questions. If you'd like to learn more about Mr. Hale, check out the MSOP website here. I'm sure both Hale and the MSOP will have a role in the upcoming elections.
Maryland Blogs / Sites
- Augie "Citizen Watchdog"
- Baltimore County GOP
- Inside Charm City
- Maryland Business for Responsive Government
- Maryland Public Policy Institute
- Maryland Reporter
- Maryland Society of Patriots
- MD Conservative Action Network
- monoblogue
- Potomac Tea Party Report
- PVRC Blog
- Red Maryland
- Right Coast Conservative
National Blogs / Sites
- 2012 Candidates on Twitter
- Anthropocon
- Bearing Drift
- Moe Lane
- Musings – It's Zarf-tastic!
- Oddly Said
- Other McCain
- Pithy Title Goes Here
- Race42012
- Ramblings…
- RedState
- RightKlik
- Ruby Slippers
- Secular ProLife
- Sundries Shack
- The Quinton Report
- TORARADICALcom
Religious Blogs / Sites
- Catholic Coffee Talk
- Challies.com
- Coleen York
- Ed Stetzer
- Edgemere Baptist Church
- Just1Word
- SBC Voices
- Star Wars & Spirituality
- Tally Wilgis
- The 140 Bible
- The Girl On The Road To Self Discovery
- Thom Rainer
- TroyStouffer.com
