Founders Values sponsored a kind of 'meet and greet' event last night for statewide candidate running in Delaware this year, and I was encouraged by what I saw. Yes, I know, it is really early in the year to be talking about this, but now IS the time to get involved if you want to make a difference in your community. We each have a part to play in this citizen ruled country, despite what the career politicians may be telling us.
Nine candidates from various backgrounds and political parties spoke last night, and all of them are stepping out of their comfort zones because they believe they have solutions to the problems we are facing at this moment in history. I applaud their willingness to speak up, even if I disagree with their specific ideas.
The two candidates that most impressed me were Kevin Wade, running for U.S. Senate against Tom Carper, and Sher Valenzuela, running for Lt. Governor against the incumbent Matt Denn. It was my first opportunity to meet either of them, and I liked what I heard. Both of them are long time Delaware business owners who have become increasingly concerned by the direction of our state. Mr. Wade addressed national issues determined to bring an end to the 'professional class' of politicians who "treat the public treasury as a tip jar." (I liked that line) I encourage you to check out all of his positions on the Constitution, sound fiscal policy, limited government and energy policy at his website, www.wadefordelaware.com
Ms. Valenzuela is concerned about the erosion of our freedoms, and over regulation by a government that seeks ever more control of our daily lives. She believes the Lt. Governor can be more than window dressing, but an effective agent of change. She cites New Jersey as a model where the Lt Governor is actually working to cut red tape in the state. Delaware could certainly use someone in that role, given that there have been 6,000 new regulations passed here in our tiny state in the past decade. She is a mother, business owner, and citizen, not a slick politician. Check out her website at www.sher2012.com
Jeff Cragg is running for Governor against the incumbent Jack Markell. He is a small business owner and made some good points about the need to reduce both the cost and intrusiveness of state government as well as the corruption that has led to situations like DelDot being investigated by the FBI.
Three candidates for Insurance Commissioner spoke - who knew that was such a popular job? One was a lawyer, one an investment banker, and one an insurance agent. It was interesting, if predictable, to hear the thrust of their solutions to the mess we have in Delaware right now in this area. The lawyer seeks new laws, the businessman seeks transparency and free market policies, and the agent promised to reduce premiums.
Tom Kovach and Rose Izzo are vying to replace John Carney. Mr. Kovach is currently the President of the New Castle County Council, and though his job kept him from attending the meeting last night, my son had good things to say about him when he was working with the state Republican party.
If you want to learn more, check out the links on this website for First State Patriots and Founders Values. Both non-partisan groups are dedicated to educating the citizens of Delaware on issues and have a lot of good information available on their websites and at their monthly meetings.
Remember that this nation only succeeds when we the citizens take seriously our responsibility to participate in the process!
Very good post. Keep up the good work.
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