4th District Democratic Candidates
4th District Republican Candidates
6th District Democratic Candidates
6th District Republican Candidates
8th District Democratic Candidates
8th District Republican Candidates
The office:
SALARY: $172,200 annual base
TERM: Two years, no term limit
HOW ELECTED: The United States is divided into 435 Congressional districts that are reapportioned after each decennial census. Following the 2000 census, reapportionment resulted in Montgomery County having parts of three Congressional districts located in its boundaries. All seats in the House of Representatives are up for election in every even-numbered year.
DUTIES: Representatives share responsibility with Senators for enactment of the nation’s laws as provided for in the U.S. Constitution.
The issues:
BACKGROUND: What are your qualifications for this office?
IMMIGRATION: What reforms do you support/advocate to deal with immigration problems?
U. S. MILITARY: What should be the military role of the United States in the world?
DEFICIT: How would you resolve the imbalance between revenues and expenditures?
HEALTH CARE: What plans need to be put into place to meet the country’s health care needs?
ENVIRONMENT: What measures do you support to balance the interests of businesses and individuals with the protection and improvement of our environment?
CIVIL RIGHTS: How would you balance individual liberties and national security?
DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES
WEBSITE: http://www.babula2008.com/
BACKGROUND: My higher education and employment pursuits have prepared me to help people. I possess a dual PhD in psychology and politics, MBA in finance, and BA in political science. I have taught statistics, social psychology, and economics at universities internationally. I also own a statistics business.
IMMIGRATION: I agree with the former Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan who said that the U.S. needs more immigration to stabilize inflation. As a grandson and husband of immigrants, I believe the problem with immigration is that there is too little of it occurring, especially with regard to highly skilled workers.
U. S. MILITARY: The U.S. military should protect American citizens from terrorism by capturing Al-Qaeda leaders. This point must be qualified. The military should not engage in nation building activities or become an international police force for sectarian violence in countries such as Iraq. The U.S. should immediately withdraw from Iraq.
DEFICIT: The $670 billion trade deficit is draining expenditures from our economy. The U.S. should require China to freely float its currency. This would appreciate China’s currency, and at the same time, increase demand for U.S. goods. This policy would offset the trade deficit’s drain on our economy.
HEALTH CARE: The World Health Organization states that France has excellent healthcare. I favor this model and would fully subsidize 20% of poor and middle-class American citizens who are not covered by Medicaid. This could be accomplished from payroll tax, taxes on alcohol and tobacco, and a small progressive tax on income.
ENVIRONMENT: It is in the interest of businesses and individuals to switch to renewable resources of energy before OPEC destabilizes America’s economy with higher oil prices. Destabilization of the economy will hurt businesses and individuals. We should follow in Spain’s footsteps. Spain generates 26% of its electricity from wind power.
CIVIL RIGHTS: If we give up individual liberties, then the terrorists will have succeeded. Individual liberty should always be protected. Our government should never wire-tap its citizens without warrants, indefinitely imprison people overseas, or condone torture. Rather, we should use the traditional mechanisms of the justice system to imprison convicted terrorists.
DONNA EDWARDS 
WEBSITE: http://www.donnaedwardsforcongress.com/
BACKGROUND: I graduated from Wake Forest University (B.A., 1980) and received my Juris Doctorate from Franklin Pierce Law Center (J.D., 1989). I founded and served as Executive Director at the National Network to End Domestic Violence where I led the fight to pass the Violence Against Women Act.
IMMIGRATION: I support a tough, fair, and practical policy that moves undocumented immigrants toward citizenship, strengthens border security, and ensures that employers are accountable and workers are not exploited. I support fair trade policies to protect U.S. jobs, provide fair wages, guarantee workplace safety, and comply with international human rights laws.
U. S. MILITARY: We need to withdraw from Iraq and refocus military priorities on real threats in Afghanistan and Pakistan, while engaging diplomatically with countries in the region. As the daughter of a veteran, I am committed to providing quality medical, educational, compensatory and mental health services to veterans and their families.
DEFICIT: I support tax policy to lift the burden on low- and middle-income families. The Iraq war has cost Marylanders over $8 billion at the expense of health care, education, and investments in alternative energy. We must end tax breaks for the super rich and make corporations pay their fair share.
HEALTH CARE: I support long-term solutions to address the lack of affordable, accessible, quality, universal health care for all Americans—prevention and doctors making medical decisions. I will fight to enable states to negotiate prescription drug prices, and I will not take contributions from drug and insurance companies that block real change.
ENVIRONMENT: A sound environmental policy means good jobs and good business. I support long-term investments in clean, renewable energy – solar, wind, biofuels -- and mass transportation to provide real solutions to protect the environment for future generations. We must reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and end subsidies of polluting industries.
CIVIL RIGHTS: I will work to restore civil liberties that have been compromised under current policy. I oppose warrantless searches, wiretapping and mining of personal data without court oversight. Telecommunications companies that violated the law should be held accountable. The goals of national security can be met while maintaining Constitutional protections.
WEBSITE: http://www.jasonjenningsforcongress.com/
BACKGROUND: Listening to my parents, combined with my college and life experiences helped inform my thoughts about many serious and complex issues. I ran as a state candidate in 1994 and I have worked the environmental industry for the last 10 years. Education: BS Aerospace Engineering, MBA Finance, MPM Public Policy.
IMMIGRATION: I support increased border (no fence) and workplace enforcement. After enforcing the law, I then support providing non-felon and non-violent violators of our laws with a five-year probation (and legitimate SSNs) and placing them at the back of the citizenship line (no $5k fines) if they have no subsequent convictions.
U. S. MILITARY: The role of the military should be to protect U.S. interests around the globe. It is not to destabilize whole regions (i.e., Middle East). Unfortunately, our soldiers are neglected: active duty soldiers on welfare, reservists not allowed to retire, injured soldiers harassed for bonuses, and overemphasis on expensive weapon systems.
DEFICIT: I would eliminate most tax breaks and credits (including the farm bill), level corporate taxes for all businesses, eliminate all but a handful of deductions for individuals, ban earmarks, strengthen ethics reform, implement capital efficiency in federal construction and fight deficit budgeting. The net effect should balance the budget.
HEALTH CARE: Establish the same tax treatment for health care premiums. Establish association health plans for small business that are subject to state health insurance regulations. Forbid medical institutions from charging uninsured patients more than their median negotiated price for services. Extend COBRA to 10 years. Covering all eligible children under SCHIP.
ENVIRONMENT: Stronger environmental regulation by the EPA. Superfund is evidence of the failure of lenient approaches. The long-term strength of our economy is dependent on a healthy and functioning environment. The costs of correcting environmental mistakes exceed any profits made. If we don’t break it, we don’t have to fix it.
CIVIL RIGHTS: It has been said that he who is willing to give up liberty for security, deserves neither. The U.S. has incredibly talented and hardworking people in law enforcement. Many mob families were addressed using RICO laws, without curtailing our civil liberties. I favor weakening the Patriot and Communications Decency acts.
GEORGE E. MC DERMOTT 
WEBSITE: http://mcdermottforcongress2008.com/
BACKGROUND: I have 40 years experience as a subcontractor, contractor, developer, entrepreneur developing and successful Building businesses within the community. Plus 17 years of legal experience forced on me by an abusive court system, successfully arguing before the circuit court’s & courts of appeal, and others. Visiting my referenced websites.
IMMIGRATION: Immigration reform must be addressed in the next Congress, and until the Federal Government and state governmental agencies convene a summit on meaningful immigration reform and enforcement of our laws uniform across the board. With no waivers for corporate violators who exploit the immigrants for profit. [Example@mcdermottforcongress2008] victim’s have rights
U. S. MILITARY: Our founders wanted America’s military to protect the sovereignty of this nation, not to be an aggressor force, but to be a deterrent against aggressors, our military should not use and abused by the Executive or Legislative Branch of Government to fulfill their private agendas. [Example@secretjustice.com] January 17 07 March
DEFICIT: Work aggressively with other members of the House and Senate to introduce and pass legislation holding corporate wrongdoers, their corporations, and their corporate attorneys. Libel to the people and treasury when they violate the laws codified under title [18 USC]. When they abuse their office to enrich themselves [Example@secretjusticenews@YOUTUBE]
HEALTH CARE: Work aggressively with other members of Congress to put forth legislation creating a National healthcare program patterned after Canada’s or one of the more successful European countries, increased the Justice Department budget to stop health care fraud by providers and their attorneys ripping off the system for profit. [Example@secretjusticenews@YOUTUBE] & …
ENVIRONMENT: Tough question and that corporate America has moved most of the polluting industries out of the jurisdiction of this government using tax incentives to corporations to relocate and transfer our job base of main polluters are automobiles and Power plants. Fund research on 100 mile per gallon engines.
CIVIL RIGHTS: As an advocate of legal and civil rights balancing the two is the most important issue our Nation faces, you cannot allow the politicos in Government and the judicial system without checks and balances to dismantle our Constitution under fictitious security bills such as H.B.404-6 creating the thought police [Example@secretjusticenews@YOUTUBE]
GEORGE E. MITCHELL 
WEBSITE: http://www.georgemitchellforcongress.com/
BACKGROUND: My political experience comes from being raised in an environment of political activism and community service. I believe that my education and professional background, the compassion I have for my people and the ability to keep my eye on the goal make me a good candidate for this position.
IMMIGRATION: I believe we need to shore up our borders to control the influx of illegal immigrants until we have assimilated the immigrants already here. A restructuring of the laws to require that immigrants be given an opportunity to seek legal residency and to enjoy the same rewards and responsibilities as ...
U. S. MILITARY: The United States cannot solve all of the world's problems and should not act militarily, except when our own interests are directly threatened. Be prepared to take an active role in disciplining and isolating nations that abuse human rights. Strengthen and expand U.S. alliances around the world to maintain stability.
DEFICIT: Reduce the budget deficit by cutting spending so the Government borrows less. That will make more funds available to invest in new or expanding businesses. Increase funding for public schools, training and apprenticeship programs to propel more high school graduates into skilled jobs.
HEALTH CARE: Create a Medicare-style "single payer" system, where the government provides health insurance for everyone. The government can make bulk purchases of generic drugs and charge patients more if they insist on brand-name drugs. If the health care system becomes more efficient, we can provide more services for more people, without…
ENVIRONMENT: We have a moral obligation to conserve natural resources for future generations. The Government should enact stricter environmental laws to ensure more efficient energy usage. A use of incentives to encourage property owners to preserve the environment would probably fair better than imposition of penalties for noncompliance.
CIVIL RIGHTS: As citizens, we possess certain inalienable rights that must be protected. However, those rights should be weighed against the needs of this Country. To protect our way of life, we need to be prepared to make reasonable sacrifices to ensure the integrity of our national security.
ALBERT R. WYNN 
WEBSITE: http://www.albertwynn.org/
BACKGROUND: BS, Political Science, Univ. of Pittsburgh; Howard Univ. Graduate School of Political Science; JD, Georgetown Univ. Representative 4th C.D. Montgomery County; member Energy and Commerce Committee; chairman, Subcommittee on Environment and Hazardous Materials; member, subcommittee on Energy and Air Quality; Chairman, Congressional Black Caucus PAC and Minority Business Task Force.
IMMIGRATION: We need a National Strategy for Border Security; a new biometric work authorization card; larger fines for business owners hiring illegal workers; citizenship applicants to register for temporary visas, have clean criminal records and work history; and a means of making the illegal occupants of the U.S. tax-paying citizens in …
U. S. MILITARY: This issue requires a democratic solution. The United States military should not be used as a means of policing the rest of the world. Instead, the United Nations should create a peacekeeping task force as a resolution to dire circumstances of protecting citizen’s lives and borders.
DEFICIT: In light of our nations fiscal situation, it is important to continue a strict adherence to the “pay as you go” rule in order to balance the budget. These budgeting rules increase funding for key domestic priorities and help decrease the debt that the war in Iraq has caused.
HEALTH CARE: The U.S. needs to provide universal health coverage for every citizen; provide programs to increase knowledge & awareness about important health disparities; increase funding for programs to provide vital screenings & medical assistance for early detection; and further the development & operations of health-related research centers.
ENVIRONMENT: The U.S. needs to set a domestic standard for improving the environment; be an international leader on renewable energy; create a plan for curbing emissions; promote clean energy technologies, such as hydrogen and fuel cells; make environmental justice concerns a priority; and create a better means for fighting global warming.
CIVIL RIGHTS: In order to protect our citizens and provide efficient national security, we must balance defending ourselves without altering the nature of our constitution and infringing upon the rights of our citizens. This would require law enforcement agency investigations to provide warrants and abide by the principles of our justice system.
WEBSITE: http://localpolitics.meetup.com/142/
BACKGROUND: Maryland Boys’ State introduced me to the procedures of Congressional Lawmaking. I obtained a MD Real Estate License. I have a BS in Political Science from the US Naval Academy, and am a military Veteran, which has given me a broad range of Leadership experience applicable to service in Congress.
IMMIGRATION: We should enforce current immigration laws and use diplomacy to encourage and enable our neighbors to take back their ex-patriates. We can keep jobs here by favoring companies based in the USA, limiting H-1B Visas to only essential and temporary tasks, and training Americans to learn those same skills instead.
U. S. MILITARY: According to the Constitution, the military should be a defensive force for our States only, not engaging in Nation-Building or policing other nations. Freedom of Navigation should be practiced by our Navy in International Waters. Air and Space should be open for all to use, with respect for national Sovereignty.
DEFICIT: We can eliminate most of the problem by cutting wasteful government programs and eliminating extra positions that duplicate work. The government can also compete directly with business by providing for-profit services to the public, similar to what is done with the Post Office.
HEALTH CARE: I am against Universal Healthcare as it largely benefits Insurance Companies. We should encourage citizens to save for eventual problems with their health and their lives. Since healthcare is needed by all citizens, the government could nationalize the system and provide service to all. Non-citizens would have to pay more.
ENVIRONMENT: Government should protect the Environment as it is critical to the Happiness of the People. Businesses must do the same. Improving mass-transit (Metro) and reducing prices to encourage ridership is a top priority. We must also convert to clean energy (nuclear is not clean) and wean ourselves off fossil fuels.
CIVIL RIGHTS: We cannot compromise Liberty for National Security. Individual Liberty is the moral foundation of this nation. GOVERNMENT SHOULD NEVER VIOLATE OUR CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS NOR SUPEND HABEAS CORPUS. We should ensure better quality intelligence and avoid twisting it or punishing our own agents when the information doesn’t support our agendas.
WEBSITE: http://www.peterjames08.com
BACKGROUND: Education in general systems theory, natural sciences and American history; Monetary scientist (two money radio shows), constitutional law and the historical perspective; High tech consultant for 30 years; Founder public good projects including Cure MS, online charity bank, and local currency; Successfully lobbied for Constitutional and privacy rights.
IMMIGRATION: Enforce current laws. The global elite plan to establish the North American Union with open borders like the European Union. Congress will not act, because they are bought and paid for. Richard Haas, CFR: http://www.project-syndicate.org/commentary/haass12 “As you do unto the least of them”
U. S. MILITARY: Fully fund benefits for veterans. Stop fighting perpetual war. Reduce 700+ foreign bases to a number we can afford. Use military for defense only, unless we are attacked by a Country and Congress declares war. Pursue terrorist leaders with small antiterrorist units. Get Osama. Don’t fight and die for dictators.
DEFICIT: It’s not the deficit it’s the Debt. See: http://mwhodges.home.att.net/
The private banks create money out of thin air as Debt. They never create the money to pay the interest. This means debt always increases. See the “Money as Debt” video on www.peterjames08.com. Institute a Just Money system.
HEALTH CARE: This is not a power granted to Congress. It must be regulated at the state level. I favor a a a “fee for service” system or Cooperatives. Money taxed and spent locally for healthcare for the poor will be far more cost efficient. Competitive bidding with local providers is best.
ENVIRONMENT: If pollution crosses state or national borders, provide easy access to jury trials and remove all that pretrial legal fiction that favors wealthy litigants. This will reduce unneeded regulation, provide quick affordable justice for both the private citizen plaintiffs and small business defendants. Allow cost recovery of frivolous suits.
CIVIL RIGHTS: Uphold the Constitution. Restore jury trial for “ALL crimes” and Habeas Corpus, uses Congresses power to “make exceptions” to Unconstitutional Court decisions. Restore free exercise of religion, speech, and press. Repeal the Patriot Act. As most of it is repugnant to the Constitution. Abolish the IRS, and the Federal Reserve.
No response by deadline.
WEBSITE: http://www.starkmanforcongress.com
BACKGROUND: I bring a background in education and family development, a history of working with the community, and a drive towards success for both myself as well as those around me. As a small-business owner and the president of several organizations, I have demonstrated my ability to design intelligent solutions.
IMMIGRATION: Build a fence to protect our border and enforce our current immigration and employment laws.
U. S. MILITARY: The role of our military is to defend the United States from invasion and attack. The US tax payer should not be forced to shoulder the costs of policing foreign conflicts; especially at the expense of neglecting domestic needs.
DEFICIT: The US must identify and minimize trade deficits and other wasteful spending. Our Congressmen, be they past Republicans or current Democrats, have shown a disregard for the meaning and value of a hard earned American dollar. Through strict fiscal discipline, transparent and accountable government, we will balance the budget.
HEALTH CARE: Remove the threat of an unfunded federal mandate and enable the states to create their own criteria for health care and coverage. On a state level, reduced spending and an elimination of waste will free up the capital to provide a broad range of options and services.
ENVIRONMENT: When U.S. manufacturing is performed in countries that do not abide by environmental standards, like China, our ability to balance the interests of business and individuals with environmental protection is significantly reduced. For as long as the US enables countries that disregard environmental protections, we cannot achieve environmental integrity.
CIVIL RIGHTS: National security is the #1 responsibility of federal government and without it our civil liberties are inherently threatened. However, we ought to be cautious and ensure that we do not fundamentally alter the extent of the government’s power and maintain respect for our inalienable rights.
Candidates from this district were asked to respond to only three questions.
(If you live in this district, vote for no more than one candidate from your party.)
DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES
WEBSITE: http://www.deibertforcongress.com/
BACKGROUND: My experience as a veteran, health care worker, Business System Analyst and current member of Washington County Democratic Central Committee provides me with a strong toolset. My skills of consensus building, listening, problem solving and leadership have been honed in diverse settings, giving me a unique set of qualifications.
IMMIGRATION: I advocate reform that secures all borders, north, south, east and west. Including tracking entry and exit to the country; increasing legal visas while maintaining security; punishing corporations severely who hire illegals; ending document fraud; and creating a path to citizenship with a requirement to learn English and without amnesty.
U. S. MILITARY: The US military role should be first and foremost to protect the US constitution and its citizens. Its might should only be called upon only if all diplomacy has failed. The military should be available to aid in international disaster relief efforts and assist internationally where democracy is in jeopardy.
DEFICIT: By reexamining federal programs that are currently funded to ensure budget expenditures are in line with the needs of the nation. By ensuring oversight of discretionary spending, tax policies and programs and weeding out ineffective or outdated programs. I would look to reduce spending where possible.
WEBSITE: http://www.jenniferdougherty.com
BACKGROUND: I have balanced a government budget, improved public safety, completed transportation projects, and passed legislation. I have been a small business owner for more than 20 years and served 4 years as Mayor of Frederick. I am uniquely qualified to help secure a balanced budget, a strong economy, fair regulations… IMMIGRATION: I support stronger border enforcement to include more border patrol agents and technology. I support revising visa process to reward those who have followed the process and increasing targeted work visas. I support a system that allows employers to verify visa status for non-residents. I support immediate deportation of violent…
U. S. MILITARY: To protect and defend the United States, our citizens and our allies. To complement the diplomatic efforts of the United States and our allies that promote peace and international understanding. To respond to international humanitarian crises.
DEFICIT: Invest in the next generation of economic growth (green technologies). Stop giving tax cuts to people who don’t need them (wealthiest 2%). Stop protecting industries that fight common sense reform (insurance, energy and auto). Stop pork-barrel spending and make Members of Congress debate the merits of earmarks.
WEBSITE: http://duckforcongress.org/
BACKGROUND: I have a Bachelors Degree in Public Administration. Twenty years in the Army, including three deployments to Bosnia and time on the ground in Iraq have given me national security experience. I have worked as a stockbroker and done graduate study in economics, which prepared me to handle economic issues.
IMMIGRATION: We must begin by enforcing the existing law. The current law, which fines employers who hire illegal immigrants, is not being enforced. Enforcing the law would shut off the magnet which is causing the problem. I support improving border security by hiring more border patrolmen and equipping them with appropriate …
U. S. MILITARY: When I left Bosnia in 2000, we were the world’s only remaining military superpower, and the moral leader for the world. We must restore the respect we have lost since then. We should use diplomacy first, and use our military to support diplomatic efforts, not in place of them.
DEFICIT: We must first reduce spending, which has grown 30 percent in the past six years. We should roll back the tax cuts for persons earning over $200,000, not increase taxes on persons earning less than that. Limit the Alternative Minimum Tax to the top two percent of taxpayers permanently.
WEBSITE: www.ricklankforcongress.us
BACKGROUND: Boston University, George Washington University, including International Health Care Policy Institute. Organized two Aging Events: recognized by White House Conference on Aging (WHCoa), one in Washington County: 2005. Conducted programs: Heritage Tourism, A/P History in Washington Co. Currently with Grey Goes Green, consultants in renewable energy and retrofitting for energy…
IMMIGRATION: Follow the recommendation of Senator Dodd, which would impose Tariffs on employers who hire illegals. Would provide incentives (both positive rewards and some punitiveactions) to encourage illegal immigrants to seek to become U.S. Citizens. Would tighten the border and strengthen the INS.
U. S. MILITARY: Congress should follow Constitution and declare War before committing troops to the ground (not done since WWII). Policy should not permit pre-emptive strikes. To end Iraqi war, elect a Democratic President or consider reinstating Draft. I will introduce legislation “War Declaration and Appropriations Act” to require third-party due diligence “so…
DEFICIT: Government can run and thrive with some level of debt. Balanced budgets have rarely existed in recent years. Excessive debt (measured against the GNP) must be curtailed. We must evaluate where we borrow money from (such as China) and evaluate these relationships and “refinance” national debt to more advantageous lenders.
WEBSITE: http://www.larrysmith2008.org
BACKGROUND: B.S. Political Science, B.S. Philosophy, M.Ed. Administration and Supervision, FSU, UNIRC-Harvard University, Public School Teacher, Assistant Principal, and Principal with service to children, families, and teachers. I am the candidate that can and will repair NCLB. Third generation military veteran, testified before MD legislative committees, fought big utilities before MDPSC.
IMMIGRATION: Seal US-Mexican border. Those entering the US legally and overstay their visas, are breaking the law, we must enforce the law. WE do nothing to make sure that when visitor’s visas expire they leave our country. We must kick out those people who have no right to be here. Period.
U. S. MILITARY: To protect US security interests at home and abroad. Work with other nations for security against aggression; destroy those who have killed our citizens with impunity. Our military strength is not an end but a means to protect the rule of law that will build international trust, respect and hope.
DEFICIT: Reduce tax burden on our hardworking middle class families and small businesses. Close corporate tax loopholes for rich corporate elite and force them to pay their fair share of taxes. End lobbyist written legislation and corporate influence that has made the middle class the target of our lawmakers in Washington.
REPUBLICAN CANDIDATES
WEBSITE: http://www.bartlettforcongress.org
BACKGROUND: I have been re-elected by Sixth District voters because I use my expertise as a scientist, engineer, professor, farmer, and small business owner to support practical solutions. Voters trust my consistent voting record for lower taxes, less spending, fewer regulations, to protect life and Americans’ Constitutional rights.
IMMIGRATION: Our immigration system is broken. I have voted against and oppose amnesty for illegal aliens. I support legislation to secure America’s borders and improve enforcement of existing laws against illegal immigration. I have initiated innovative collaborative enforcement efforts with state and local governments to identify and deport violent illegal immigrants.
U. S. MILITARY: In an era of global terrorism, ensuring America’s national security is the fundamental responsibility of the federal government. If we don’t get that right, nothing else might matter. This requires strengthening and modernizing our Armed Forces because history teaches that we can only secure peace through strength.
DEFICIT: Entitlements, such as Social Security and Medicare, make up two-thirds of federal spending. One-third is all other “discretionary” spending. I consistently vote for less spending to reduce the deficit which is the amount we borrow from our kids and grandkids to pay for the government we have today.
WEBSITE: http://www.croftinthehouse.com
BACKGROUND: I am a graduate of Hagerstown Community College and Shepherd University. I was a Business Analyst for Dun & Bradstreet. I owned an Advertising Agency in Rockville, MD for 13 years. At present I teach Advanced Web Design & Animation for Frederick County Public Schools.
IMMIGRATION: It does not matter what country you are from France, Germany, Mexico, Canada, England, if you are in this country illegally you should leave. Low paying immigrant wages are hurting our economy. The support thru county services, health care and schools does not come close to matching the goods and…
U. S. MILITARY: At present we are the leading military power in the world and have an obligation to maintain the peace. However, in the years to come this will change as our fortunes and circumstances change and as that happens we will have to scale back and let other share in attempting…
DEFICIT: We need to cut back on expenditures. We need a true balanced budget that allows the U.S. to only spend what it takes in without the usual special bookkeeping that Congress uses to balance its books. We need to remove or change the Prescription Drug plan that was forced thru…
WEBSITE: http://www.kimbleforcongress.com/
BACKGROUND: I am a member in good standing of The Association of Trial Lawyers of America (Also known as the ATLA), The National Rifle Association, The American Civil Liberties Union, The Defenders of Wildlife, The Sierra Club and The Southern Poverty Law Center where Kimble is on the Leadership Council.
IMMIGRATION: I support English as our official language, a Constitutional Amendment that makes only US Born Citizens able to vote in Presidential and Congressional Elections and I want to send all illegal aliens home. I also propose taxing all income that illegal aliens and aliens send overseas. It is time to....
U. S. MILITARY: The US military is a mighty-force that should be used not as a police-force but conquering force that will beat-the-enemy into total-capitulation. The US won the war in Iraq but the occupation is not-going-well and it has become a religious-war. It is time to bring "them home gracefully."
DEFICIT: No Response.
WEBSITE: http://www.jtkforcongress.org/
BACKGROUND: My career spans over 30 years in education, healthcare, banking, financial services, the political arena, community service and emergency management. My professional experience transcends disciplines and my management background includes negotiating, budgeting, planning, problem solving, building teams, encouraging cooperation, making tough decisions, and setting goals to achieve results.
IMMIGRATION: We need to define a policy establishing a balance between national security, economic reality and worker protection. Immigrants must understand there are consequences associated with their illegal entry. We must enforce all immigration laws and impose strict penalties on those already in this country illegally. Amnesty is not the solution!
U. S. MILITARY: In 2005
reconstruction become a core part of military operations extending
the military’s role to areas of governance, infrastructure
rebuilding, and restoration of commerce. This role, usually the
province of the State Department, must be revaluated. The focus of
the military must solely be on the defense of the country.
DEFICIT:
The only way this can be accomplished is to increase revenue,
and inevitability, the only way to increase revenue and reduce the
deficit without increasing taxes is to cut government spending on
unnecessary programs, departments and excessive irresponsible
earmarks. Actions our representatives in Congress are reluctant to
act upon.
No response by deadline.
(If you live in this district, vote for no more than one candidate from your party.)
DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES
WEBSITE: http://www.vanhollen.org
BACKGROUND: Member of Congress (2003-Present) Committee Assignments: Ways and Means; Oversight and Government Reform; Vice Chairman Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Caucus, Co-Chairman, Chesapeake Bay Watershed Task Force, Maryland State Senate, 1994-2002; Maryland House of Delegates, 1990-1994; Senior Advisor on Federal Affairs, Maryland Governor (1988-1990).
IMMIGRATION: We must strengthen border security, interior enforcement and prevent illegal immigration. Support overall approach (though not every provision) of the McCain-Kennedy bill to address issue of existing undocumented individuals and the comprehensive strategy outlined by President Bush. Fix our legal immigration system to end huge backlogs.
U. S. MILITARY: We must maintain a strong defense while recognizing that our security depends not only on the might of our military, but the power of our example. We must restore our credibility and moral standing. Our security is strengthened through our ability to cooperate, on common goals with others, whenever possible.
DEFICIT: The new Congress has provided fiscal discipline by implementing a “pay as you go” system to require that ongoing expenditures or revenue losses be offset. While the Bush Administration refused to pay for much need relief from the Alternative Minimum Tax, the pay-go rule has helped restore fiscal responsibility.
HEALTH CARE: The lack of health coverage for 46 million people is unacceptable. I support universal health care coverage. I am sponsoring legislation to expand the Children’s Health Insurance Program, allow earlier buy-in to Medicare, create a small business plan modeled after federal employees’ health system, and provide for mental health parity.
ENVIRONMENT: We can grow our economy and protect our environment. Indeed, by investing in renewable energy sources and energy efficient technologies, implementing a Renewable Electricity Portfolio standard, and developing a cap and trade system for carbon emissions, we can create jobs, reverse global warming and reduce our dependence on foreign oil.
CIVIL RIGHTS: We can protect our national security without sacrificing our freedoms and civil rights. We must preserve the right of habeas corpus, adhere to the Geneva Convention, prevent racial profiling, and modernize the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act without abandoning independent court review of electronic surveillance.
WEBSITE: http://www.deborahvollmer.com
BACKGROUND: B.A., Government, Clark University, 1970; JD University of Maryland School of Law, 1973. Practiced law in California: United Farm Workers; Greater Bakersfield Legal Assistance; sole practice. Currently semi-retired. Active in anti-war movement. Board member, Greater Bethesda-Chevy Chase Coalition. Member of Social Justice Council at Cedar Lane Unitarian Universalist Church.
IMMIGRATION: We are a nation of immigrants, and immigrants contribute to our culture and our economy. We need humane policies that allow immigrants to earn legal residency and citizenship, and that promote family unification.
U. S. MILITARY: Along with Dennis Kucinich, I advocate a policy of strength through peace. The military should have a role limited to defense of our people and our borders. The war in Iraq must be ended, and our troops brought home immediately. We need to respect other nations, and work through diplomacy.
DEFICIT: The war in Iraq in particular, and military spending in general, has been a tremendous drain on our economy. We need to refocus our resources on domestic programs to alleviate the effects of poverty—in areas such as housing, health care, and education.
HEALTH CARE: I favor legislation sponsored by John Conyers and Dennis Kucinich for universal, single-payer health care—publicly funded, quality health care for all, with individual choice of health care provider. No American should be denied quality health care which should be considered to be a human right.
ENVIRONMENT: Global climate change is truly a threat to our quality of life and our very survival. I support tax incentives and other incentives for the development and implementation of clean energy solutions, such as solar and wind energy, increased fuel efficiency for automobiles, including hybrid technology.
CIVIL RIGHTS: The U.S.A. PATRIOT Act, as well as various policies and practices of the Bush Administration have seriously eroded civil liberties in this country. Yet our strength as a people depends in large part on our abilities to exercise our First Amendment rights. We need to reverse course.
WEBSITE: http://www.Vote-USA.org/Intro.aspx?Id=MDYoungLih
BACKGROUND: Profiled in Marquis’ Who’s Who. Reformer, advocate, activist, super-mom, -woman, victim-turned superhuman against “fraud-crime-injustice-system”. Excellent expertise, commitment. PhD econ. Producer/host, numerous tv programs, Citizen Times, judiciaries, agencies, working class, faith revival, democracy, humanity, conscience, freedom, global affairs. Prestigious certificates: High, Special Exams. Testified frequently, 3 branches, law enforcement. Congress.org, archives, links.
IMMIGRATION: Stop minorities bashing. Support civilian review board. Improve quality officials. race relationships, diversity in good faith, not rhetoric or abuse as often by “fraud-crime- injustice networks”. Clean-up; not relaying/shuffling at the expense of justice, productivity, good workers, minorities, immigrants. Investigate/ prosecute/ eliminate: unjust appropriation, siphoning resources to benefit a few.
U. S. MILITARY: Support humanity, peace, justice. Respect other’s cultures. Cooperate with United Nation, other countries. Oppose: horrible violent force, invasion, occupation, Deprivation/destruction (countries, population, properties, soldiers; resources, reputation; public, private); unjust practices, manipulation, influence, falsification, false excuses; problems (credibility, moral, mental, financial, fiscal), official misconduct- government gang- fraud- crime- injustice networks.
DEFICIT: Protect people’s resources (public, private), rights, families. No unjust practices, manipulation, influence, bad proposals, hidden agenda, false excuses (public-private partnership, economic development, housing, MPDU…) to benefit/ facilitate “official misconduct- government gang- fraud- crime- injustice networks”=cruel tyranny= robbery machine; continuing, on-going, expanding, penetrating; false levies, liens, garnishment, foreclosures, evictions; vicious cycles.
HEALTH CARE: Support universal national health insurance (all, Medicare, Medicaid, prescription, uninsured, catastrophic); single payer (government); simple, effective, equal, quality, accountability, preventive, affordable, cost containment; public funded research; not to benefit a few; public education, consumer protection. Eliminate deceit, deprivation, victimization, unjust practices., “official misconduct- government gang- fraud- crime- injustice networks” operation.
ENVIRONMENT: Promote merits, efficiency, accountability; no unjust practices, misleading, manipulation, conspiracy, cover-up, “official misconduct- government gang- fraud- crime- injustice networks”. Eliminate abuse, waste, bad legislative bills, appropriations, abandonment of resources, land, government resources to benefit a few, victimize others or general public; opposite government function; cause socio- political- election- media problems.
CIVIL RIGHTS: Support equality, equity, liberty and justice for all; protect people’s rights (Constitutional, property, resources, assets, benefits, opportunities); eliminate double standards, “official misconduct- government gang- fraud- crime- injustice networks” operation, with threats, coercion, unjust practices, influence, manipulation, falsification, false excuses, witnesses, process services, victimization, deprivation, improper processing of cases/complaints, records, accounting; ...
REPUBLICAN CANDIDATES
WEBSITE: http://www.stevehudson2008.com
BACKGROUND: I believe in the fundamental principles of faith, family, and freedom. As a surgeon, attorney, military officer, community leader, loyal husband, and proud parent, I feel uniquely prepared to represent your interests in the 8th District. I will work hard to restore your trust and confidence in Washington.
IMMIGRATION: Americans value cultural integration and the exchange of ideas. We are all united, and I support the legal entry of any person who aspires to make our Country a better place. However, we must secure our borders and devise a fair administrative process for adjudicating the status of illegal immigrants.
U. S. MILITARY: When I was commissioned in the United States Navy, I swore before God that I would support and defend the Constitution against all enemies, foreign or domestic. Therefore, any imminent threat to our freedom should be neutralized in a swift, decisive manner by the most powerful force in the world.
DEFICIT: Outdated and inefficient federal programs should be eliminated. Government must reinvent itself by focusing on customer service rather than bureaucracy. With only an 11 percent approval rating and questionable legitimacy, our sitting Congressional leaders are surprisingly fond of deficit spending, which only burdens our children. We must control federal spending.
HEALTH CARE: America spends more than $2 trillion each year on health care. The devastating toll of chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, lung cancer, and breast carcinoma, can be reduced through early screening initiatives and healthier living. Therefore, we must redirect our focus from disease management to preventive medical services.
ENVIRONMENT: Environmental management begins with sustainable development. We must ensure that the paths of economic, environmental, social, and political progress converge to meet today’s needs while preserving resources for future generations. Profitable, green communities are possible through ecologically sensitive environmental planning. I support federal subsidies for state and local planning initiatives.
CIVIL RIGHTS: It is paramount that terrorist threats are identified and repelled before catastrophe results. However, in protecting our national security, the three branches of federal government may only assert those powers granted to them in the Constitution. All prisoners should be treated humanely according to the laws of the Geneva Convention.
WEBSITE: http://www.marksforcongress.blogspot.com
BACKGROUND: Education, B.A. in Political Science from the University of Central Ark. Graduate Studies in European Studies from Georgetown University. I have over 20 years of experience in Government relations with Marks and Associates, on behalf of health care consumer groups and higher educational institutions at the state and federal level…
IMMIGRATION: First we should enforce the immigration laws we have in place. I would also propose stronger Federal penalties for employers who heir illegal immigrates. No amnesty for illegal immigrates.
U. S. MILITARY: The Militaries primary role should be for Peace keeping missions and threats to United States National Security.
DEFICIT: My first priority will be cutting wasteful government spending and putting an end to congressional earmarks and corruption. The U.S. tax laws for non-profit companies should be reviewed for possible eliminating some of the tax loopholes.
HEALTH CARE: I would allow more flexibility for states to adapt there own Health Care program to cover the uninsured. The states could cover these individuals in one group plan through a private insurance company, that would be chosen by an open biding process for the lowest cost. Another way to reduce…
ENVIRONMENT: I would encourage more recycling programs, and energy conservation incentives for home and business. Explore other alterative fuels to use.
CIVIL RIGHTS: We must improve our human rights record and support the U.S. Constitution. First priority, the United States must up hold the Geneva Convention on Human rights. I also opposed to expanding the powers of the U.S. Patriot Act. Everyone must have the right to privacy and our civil liberties must…
WEBSITE: http://www.mezgerforcongress.org
BACKGROUND: Brian Mezger was a 2006 Republican nominee to the Maryland legislature, and is the only candidate running for Congress with major campaign experience. Brian worships at Saint Francis Episcopal Church. An attorney, he is on the Advisory Council of the Republican National Lawyers Association.
IMMIGRATION: Brian Mezger is for border security and opposes amnesty for illegal aliens. All illegal aliens who do not belong in the United States should be physically removed.
U. S. MILITARY: Brian Mezger supports a strong military to safeguard our nation and to relentlessly pursue the war on terror.
DEFICIT: Brian Mezger is for taxing less, and spending much less. Low taxes and limited government move America forward. Democrat tax and spend puts America into reverse gear.
HEALTH CARE: Brian Mezger opposes "Hillary Care," or a government takeover of the health care system. There are many improvements that could be made to the health care system to improve access and reduce costs, such as personal accounts and electronic records.
ENVIRONMENT: Brian Mezger opposes excessive government regulation in environmental matters. Moderate regulation that seeks to preserve our natural environment can be balanced with business and personal interests.
CIVIL RIGHTS: Brian Mezger is for updating antiquated laws that hold back the war on terror. At the same time, clear procedures must be in place through special courts to preserve American liberties.
WEBSITE: http://www.jayroberts2008.com
BACKGROUND: BS in Physics from the University of Georgia and an MS in Engineering from the University of Alabama-Birmingham. 5 years as a Naval Submarine Officer followed by a successful career in the information technology industry. A history of civic activism in Montgomery County and a businessman.
IMMIGRATION: America needs border enforcement for safety and security. Currently, there is no control or information on who may be entering the country. This is unacceptable in an era of global terrorism. The first step towards progress on immigration and national security is effective border enforcement.
U. S. MILITARY: U.S. military forces should enter into combat with proper Constitutional authorization. Conventional forces often have limited utility against terrorism and other asymmetric threats. It is critical that we develop 21st century means of dealing with terrorism that eliminates threats without resort to preemptive warfare or nation building.
DEFICIT: Our tax dollars are not being spent as effectively as they could. An unresponsive federal government wastes tax monies on special interests and inefficient operations. With greater transparency and accountability, the resulting savings would more than eliminate the deficit.
HEALTH CARE: Corporate and national control of healthcare through HMO’s and other plans leads to rationing and poor quality of care. A positive approach allows individuals to choose health care according to their needs rather than the dictates of HMO’s or bureaucrats.
ENVIRONMENT: Polluters and environmental despoilers burden society with the costs of their damage. However, government efforts to protect the environment often punish non-offenders while allowing special interests a free rein. A more accountable government would provide a more effective and just environmental protection regime.
CIVIL RIGHTS: America’s tradition of civil rights and liberties is what defines us as a nation. When citizens lose control of government, rights and freedoms are often the first casualty. An effective, accountable government is able to jealously protect freedom and liberty while pursing other vital national goals.
WEBSITE: http://www.sternforcongress.com
BACKGROUND: I have been a practicing attorney for 17 years and own two businesses in Montgomery County. My years of experience as a lawyer, entrepreneur, business owner and employer will serve me well in Congress and benefit my constituents as I deal with the national issues affecting them and their families.
IMMIGRATION: We must secure our borders and prevent the continued wholesale disregard of our nation’s immigration laws. Immigration reform is impossible while our borders remain porous. Once we secure our borders, we must adopt sensible and workable immigration reforms and replace the dysfunctional and unenforced system currently in place.
U. S. MILITARY: The protection of our country, its citizens and our allies must be the highest priority of our government. When it is necessary, we must use our military forces to safeguard ourselves, our vital national interests and democratic institutions worldwide against those foreign enemies and terrorists that would do us harm.
DEFICIT: The imbalance can be addressed by reducing Federal spending, ending government waste and eliminating the use of earmarks to fund politicians’ pet projects. We can not begin to reduce our $9 trillion national debt until we stop running annual deficits. I do not support raising taxes to reduce the deficit.
HEALTH CARE: The Federal Government and business sector must work together to ensure the availability of affordable, portable and high quality health care for employees. We must also adopt changes to ensure that health insurance and medical care is available to individuals who do not have access to employer provided programs.
ENVIRONMENT: The government and business sector must work together to develop green policies and initiatives that will reduce our dependence on foreign oil and safeguard the planet. We must strive to better understand global warming, the impact it is having on our planet and how we can best reverse its effects.
CIVIL RIGHTS: Our nation will not be secure if we trample and destroy the very rights and individual liberties which this country was founded upon and which we have so vigilantly defended for over 230 years. We can safely defend ourselves against our nation’s enemies without debasing that which makes us great.