The following is a compilation of the unedited responses from Calvin DeWeese, Libertarian candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives, to the 2018 Amarillo Pioneer Voter Guide Questionnaire. Sagan is running unopposed in the March Democratic primary and will face incumbent Republican Mac Thornberry and Democrat Greg Sagan in November.
Name:
Calvin DeWeese
Office Sought:
U.S. House of Representatives, District 13
Occupation:
Parole Officer
What is your educational background?
Baccalaureate Degree
Please list any of your political, civic or non-profit experience.
I am an Honorably Discharged Veteran. I have been a Volunteer Fireman and Volunteer Emergency Care Attendant. I have coached youth sports and assisted with Boy Scout and Girl Scout activities.
Why did you decide to run for the U.S. Congress?
I do not believe the average tax paying citizen is being represented in Congress.
Would you vote to end the NSA's domestic surveillance program? Why or why not?
Yes. Our country was founded on the principles of Due Process. The surveillance of American Citizens without a Search Warrant based on articulated probable cause is a violation of the Constitution.
Do you plan to host any town halls in your district during your first term in office?
I have not planned any at this time, but if elected I will be conducting town hall meeting in my district. I will have these meetings to make sure I know and understand what the people I represent need and want from their representative.
When redistricting is set to occur, how should the process be conducted?
I am not sure. What I have seen in the past when districts were redrawn, they are reorganized to give one party an advantage in future elections. I would be against any redistricting that took away a fair and equitable election for the people.
Do you support new campaign finance limits? Why or why not?
I am not sure, I have not studied this subject enough to give a good answer. I will say that I find it very interesting that the two major political parties spend millions of dollars to get people elected to jobs that only pay a fraction of that amount.
Do you support term limits?
I like the idea of term limits but I also respect the right of the People to be able to elect the person they feels best represent them.
Would you vote for any budget that would increase the federal deficit?
No. We as nation are over taxed. Our elected officials should be working to lower the tax burden on the American People, not working to find new ways to get more from us. Also, running a country on deficit spending destabilizes the currency and sets the economy up to fail. Sooner or later the entities the Government is borrowing from to create the deficit will come to claim payment. What most American people don't understand is, not only does our government "borrow" against our future production, it also uses our land and resources as collateral.
Would you support any legislation that would prohibit the use, manufacturing, ownership or carrying of firearms?
No. The Right to Keep and Bear Arms, is essential for the continued freedom of the American People.
Would you support legislation aimed to audit the Federal Reserve?
Yes. The Federal Reserve is a private bank, just like any other private bank in the United States. I do not see where the Federal Reserve should not have the same over site as any other financial institution.
Would you support the use of military force without a declaration of war?
No. The Constitution outlines the proper procedure to engage in war with an enemy of the United States. If the Congress, the official and designated representatives of the American People do not declare war on an enemy, we must believe the People they represent do not condone the war. After all, it is our sons and daughters that will be sacrificed in any war.
Do you support net neutrality?
I believe the internet should remain free. Government regulation will interfere with freedom of speech and the free exchange of ideas between the American People.
How are you better prepared than your opponent(s) to step into this role?
I am better prepared because I am just an average working man. I know how the legislation that has been passed is hurting Americans. I will vote against every bill that raises taxes or further restricts the "inalienable rights" of the American People. I am not a member of the Republican or Democrat parties. If I am elected I will be able to represent the people of my district and not be obligated to vote according to what the red or blue party bosses demand.
Are you supported by any political action committees? If so, which ones?
No, I am not supported by any PACs.
Why should voters choose you in 2018?
Voters should choose me because I WILL represent the people of my district and I WILL vote against any legislation that increases the tax burden on the American People. I Will vote against any legislation that takes away more of our Liberty. I WILL work to repeal legislation that is interfering with the American People's God given rights to be secure in their person and property. I Will introduce legislation to strengthen the America People's Civil Rights. The other political parties have a long history of increasing taxes and taking Liberty. They will continue to do what they have been for the last 150 years. If you really want something different you have to vote for something different.
