Author: Richard Urban

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West Virginia Legislative Session WV Elections 2024

#159-Interview with Donna Joy-Candidate for Board of Education-Jefferson County WV

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Jefferson County Public Schools Levy Allocation Concerns
Richard and Donna discussed the excess levy in Jefferson County public schools, with concerns raised about the transparency of its allocation, specifically whether it was being used for teacher salaries as advertised. Donna confirmed that the levy did go towards teacher salaries but Richard interjected that only about two percent goes for teacher salaries.  Donna also highlighted critical challenges facing the school system, such as a shortage of teachers and service personnel, a lack of emphasis on student achievement and marketable skills, and issues with discipline policy.
State Education Policy and Concerns
Donna and Richard discussed a perceived shift in the county’s discipline policy, which they believed negatively impacted teachers and students. Donna mentioned that there may be a request for a new excess levy for schools before the voters this November, which she will verify.  Richard noted a disconnect between spending and performance, with schools spending more but not necessarily seeing improved results. They discussed the issue of students being disciplined and returned to class by administrators without consequences. Donna shared her personal experiences and concerns about the current education policies and practices.
Addressing Education System Issues and Solutions
Donna and Richard discussed the current educational system’s shortcomings, particularly concerning resource allocation and school performance. Donna mentioned that schools are evaluated on a point system, which could affect the reporting of discipline problems. She also advocated for increased accountability among students and a renewed focus on academics.
Addressing Jefferson County’s Educational Challenges
Donna and Richard discussed the educational challenges in Jefferson County, with Donna expressing concerns about inconsistent standards and the need for consistency across schools. Donna, as a board member, reiterated her commitment to accountability and transparency, and her belief in promoting high standards for all students. She also noted the classroom experience of the current superintendent. Richard appreciated
Poverty’s Impact on Virtual Education
Donna discussed online Jefferson Virtual Academy. They expressed concern about the high student-to-teacher ratio, with three teachers assigned to 26 kids, while in-person classes might have 30 students and one teacher. Donna advocated for higher standards and better measures of student achievement.
Election Anticipation and Budget Discussion
Donna indicated that the Superintendent prepares the budget, and it is approved by the Board of Education almost as a formality.
Declining Enrollment and School Choice Impact
Richard and Donna discussed the declining enrollment in local schools. Donna expressed that it is good for parents to have the choices in education, including public schools, the Hope Scholarship and the new charter school, especially since public schools have declined in performance in recent years.
Concerns Over Covid-19 Relief Funds
Donna expressed concerns about the use of funds, particularly regarding the creation of new positions and the payment of additional stipends in the School Board office, making it top-heavy. Richard agreed and noted that the Kanawha County school district has about twice as many students but a smaller amount of central office staff per student.  This prompted discussions on potential policy adjustments for the next year. Donna had contacted the superintendent to seek clarity on the intricacies of the stipend system, acknowledging that the lack of transparency could lead to confusion among the public.
School Choice and Improving Public Education
Donna expressed regret over the deterioration of the public school system, which has led to people seeking alternatives. She emphasized that options are necessary to create healthy competition and motivate improvements within the public school system.
Evaluating System Integrity and Culture
Richard asked about yet another teacher at Jefferson high school arrested for criminal sexual behavior.  Donna responded by stating that she had requested an independent evaluation of Jefferson High School from both the former and current Superintendent.  The purpose of the evaluation is to examine the culture that seemed to allow such incidents to occur annually since 2016.
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West Virginia Politics WV Elections 2024

#158-Interview with Tricia Jackson-Republican Candidate for Auditor-WV

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Summary
Tricia Jackson’s Candidacy for West Virginia State Auditor
Richard introduced Tricia Jackson, a Republican primary candidate for West Virginia State Auditor. Tricia explained her decision to run for the position, citing her current role as a county commissioner in Jefferson County and her previous experience with the auditor’s office. She highlighted her background in budgeting, tracking taxpayer dollars, and her comprehensive understanding of the state’s bookkeeping, agencies, counties, and municipalities. She also emphasized her experience in executive-level operations, project management, and human resources.
West Virginia Checkbook and Project Mountaineer
Richard and Tricia discussed the West Virginia Checkbook and Project Mountaineer. Tricia clarified that Project Mountaineer is the operational name for the West Virginia Checkbook at the county and municipal level, used to track revenues and expenses. She noted that the system is currently voluntary and only 27 out of 55 counties are integrated. Tricia also suggested that legislation might be needed for boards of education to join the system. Richard expressed concerns about the lack of detailed financial information available to the public, to which Tricia confirmed that while payroll expenses are included, specific line items and salaries are not currently disclosed. Tricia explained her use of a ‘catch-all bucket’ term to describe services that are outsourced to the county, including professional services like public relations, attorney’s fees, and human resources. The discussion left an open question about the exact annual cost for outsourced expenses, like additional attorney’s fees, even though the county has its own attorneys.
Improving School Fund Allocation Transparency
Tricia and Richard criticized the lack of clarity and specificity in the allocation of funds in their school system. They noted that this led to confusion among taxpayers and teachers, with excessive funds seemingly supporting bloated administrative staff rather than benefiting teachers. They called for improved reporting and transparency, particularly regarding the allocation of funds for teacher salaries and school improvements. Tricia suggested standardizing reporting processes, providing tools to make reporting easier, and mandatory inclusion of school systems in the transparency portal. The issue of staff salaries was also raised, with Tricia indicating a need to investigate any legal restrictions on including this information.
Improving Accessibility, Availability, and Budget Prioritization
Tricia and Richard discussed ways to improve accessibility and availability of information from the portal, with Tricia emphasizing the need for an inclusive approach that caters to all users, including those with limited internet access. They also addressed issues related to budget management, specifically the problem of unused budgets at the end of the fiscal year. Tricia expressed her concern about the prioritization of spending, suggesting that essential services and small businesses should be given greater priority over multimillion-dollar corporations. The conversation indicated that the state legislature sets the budget, and the auditor tracks expenses.
Property Taxation and Assessment Issues
Tricia and Richard discussed the high taxation issues they face, particularly regarding property taxes. Richard expressed concern about the substantial amount he pays in property taxes, even as a senior. Tricia confirmed that the homestead credit is available to him but noted that it has not changed despite rising assessed values in their area. They also discussed the levy rate, which has remained the same for three years, and how it is adjusted to meet increased assessed values, resulting in no reduction in their tax bill. Richard brought up potential issues with property tax assessment, indicating significant variations in property values.
Assessor’s Office Oversight and Auditor’s Role
Richard and Tricia discussed the oversight of the Assessor’s office and the role of the auditor in addressing corruption and improving transparency. Tricia clarified that the auditor’s office has no direct oversight over the Assessor’s office but can review issues related to revenue impact. Tricia also emphasized her commitment to improving transparency and reducing fraud through better access to information. She pointed out three opponents in the upcoming election and explained that they all voted for the $300 million subsidy for Form Energy, which she feels is not in the tax payer’s best interest.
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West Virginia Politics WV Elections 2024

#157-Interview with Bryan McKinney-Republican Candidate for US Senator-WV

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Summary
Introducing Bryan McKinney as Senate Candidate
Richard introduced Bryan McKinney as a primary candidate for the United States Senate. McKinney, who works a regular job and has no prior political experience, expressed his excitement at the prospect of running.  He discussed his views on politics, including his discontent with the establishment and his belief that the government should not have excessive control over people’s lives. He also shared his criticisms of the current Senator, Justice, and also Congressman Mooney, highlighting their support for unnecessary government spending and their lack of commitment to individual freedoms.
Opposing Congressman Mooney’s Bill and FISA Extension
Bryan and Richard discussed their opposition to the $60 billion bill voted for by Congressman Mooney to support Ukraine. Bryan argued that the conflict in Ukraine should be resolved through a better solution rather than escalating it with more funds, and that the U.S. Government’s role should be to protect its own citizens and not provide aid to countries that do not share American values. He also expressed concerns about the U.S.-Mexico border, suggesting that military control might be a permanent solution to keep the country safe. Furthermore, Bryan criticized the recent FISA extension bill and the government’s approach of preventing crimes before they occur, comparing it to the tactics depicted in the movie Minority Report. Richard agreed with Bryan’s views on these issues.
Reducing Government Spending and Reform
Bryan and Richard discussed the issue of government spending, with Bryan expressing frustration about the large, unreadable spending bills passed by Congress. Bryan proposed that all spending bills should be one page (could refer to a more detailed explanation) and focused on the purpose of the government, with a focus on reducing unnecessary spending. He also suggested implementing term limits for government officials to prevent them from becoming entrenched in their positions and losing touch with the people they represent. Bryan further argued that many functions currently performed by the government, such as funding specific research projects, would be better handled by private organizations or state governments.
Addressing Poverty and Societal Issues in WV
Bryan and Richard discussed the issues of poverty and societal problems in West Virginia. Bryan criticized the government’s policies for driving businesses away and causing poverty, emphasizing the need to address the root causes rather than offering temporary solutions. Both agreed that family instability was a core cause of many societal problems and recognized the need for stronger families. Bryan highlighted the importance of providing good job opportunities to incentivize people to stay together and build a future. He expressed concerns about the economic impact of bringing in companies like Form Energy, suggesting they should collaborate with domestic manufacturers, and criticized the transfer of funds to companies connected to China and Bill Gates, who he believes have contempt for the coal and oil industries.
Job Market Challenges and Employment Barriers
Richard and Bryan discussed the current state of the job market. Richard expressed concern about the availability of jobs and noted that many people are out of the job market due to various reasons, including drug addiction and government assistance. Bryan agreed and highlighted the difficulties people with criminal records face in securing employment.
Family Structure, Work, and Government Involvement
Richard and Bryan had a discussion about the importance of family structure and the role of work in one’s success. Bryan agreed but highlighted the challenges of finding employment and questioned the government’s role in enforcing work requirements. Instead, Bryan suggested that such measures should be implemented at the state level, as they are easier to manage and more connected to the people. Bryan also shared their personal circumstances, working hard to support his family and being without pay for six months during the COVID crisis.
Education System and Vaccination Discussion
Bryan and Richard discussed the education system, with Bryan advocating for a more practical and competitive education for children, inspired by the education system in Japan. Bryan suggested that half of the school day should be dedicated to practical learning, including physical education, and that homework should focus on interesting and applicable topics. They also touched upon the topic of vaccination, with Bryan sharing his distrust of pharmaceutical companies due to the number of drugs withdrawn from the market due to side effects. He shared his decision to not vaccinate five of her six children, citing potential risks and the lack of liability for injuries. Richard acknowledged the difficulty in obtaining compensation through the Congressional fund for vaccine-related injuries.
Individual Rights and Government Overreach
Bryan and Richard discussed various issues related to individual rights and freedoms. They strongly supported the parent’s right to choose their children’s education, opposed mandatory vaccinations, and criticized the government’s overreach in healthcare. They also discussed the right to bear arms and supported the concept of national concealed carry. Bryan emphasized the importance of minimizing the government’s power and reducing its control over citizens’ lives.
Bryan’s Political Disillusionment and Campaign
Bryan expressed his disillusionment with the current political climate and his decision to run for office to provide an alternative choice for voters. He criticized his opponent, Alex Mooney, for his lack of private sector experience and his recent legal troubles. Bryan st wants his children to see him as a role model. Bryan shared that his campaign has been well received, with many people appreciating the chance to vote for someone other than the incumbent.
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West Virginia Politics WV Elections 2024

#156-Ritchie Robb-Democratic Candidate for Attorney General-WV

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Summary
Richie Robb’s Campaign and COVID-19 Concerns
Richie and Richard discussed Richie’s campaign for Attorney General in West Virginia. Richie emphasized his commitment to reviewing federal regulations affecting the state, particularly in regards to utility rates, environmental issues, and the opioid crisis. They also discussed concerns about utility rate increases in West Virginia and potential liability for damages from COVID-19 shots. Richie shared his personal experience with developing blood clots after receiving his second COVID-19 shot and expressed concerns about the potential side effects of the vaccines. None the less, Ritchie gives a certain deference to government authorities to take actions such as recommending COVID jabs, although he would look into the issue.
Utility Companies, Regulatory Agencies, and Balance
Richard and Richie discussed the perceived cozy relationship between utility companies and regulatory agencies, specifically the Public Service Commission. Richard shared his experience of being charged for a minor complaint related to water usage during the winter, implying that the system favors the utilities. Richie agreed, stating that there are constant allegations and suspicions that the Public Service Commission is in the pocket of the utilities. Both acknowledged the need for a more balanced approach to protect taxpayers and users. Richie mentioned a retired consumer advocate, Walter Washington, whom he plans to consult for his expertise if he were in office.
Combating Opioid Epidemic in WV
Richard and Richie discussed the opioid epidemic and its impact on West Virginia. Richie suggested a proactive approach to combat the issue, proposing to take the fight to the source by involving the Attorney General’s office, the military, and intelligence sources, similar to the successful strategy against terrorism. They also recognized the importance of strengthening families and addressing the root causes of drug demand and societal breakdown.  Ritchie indicated that he does not think there was systemic fraud during the 2020 elections.. Richie was the only candidate, according to him, providing a concrete platform to tackle issues, versus just repeating platitudes.
Attorney General Role and Qualifications
Richie and Richard discussed the role of the Attorney General in West Virginia, with Richie emphasizing the need for concrete action plans and qualifications from candidates. They also discussed a controversy in Jefferson County concerning the removal of two county commissioners. Richie explained that in West Virginia, local prosecuting attorneys have jurisdiction, not the Attorney General. Richie suggested that the Attorney General should only intervene if requested by the prosecutor.
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WV Elections 2024

#155-Interview with Janet McNulty-Republican Candidate for US Senator-West Virginia

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Candidate website:  mcnultywv.com

Summary
Janet McNulty Addresses Election Fraud and Jailings
Janet Mcnulty, a candidate for the United States Senate in West Virginia, discussed the issue of election fraud and the ongoing imprisonment of individuals accused of participating in the January 6 insurrection. She argued that the alleged election fraud should be investigated and that the individuals currently in jail, some of whom have not even been charged, are being unjustly held and deny their constitutional right to a trial by a jury of their peers. Janet also shared that she is a writer, publishing a variety of genres including paranormal, humorous mysteries, and dystopian series.
Addressing Vaccine Mandates and Civic Engagement
Richard and Janet discussed various issues facing the United States, focusing on vaccine mandates and the need for greater civic engagement. Janet emphasized the importance of individual choice in vaccination and criticized the 1986 legislation that exempted pharmaceutical companies from liability for faulty vaccines. She also highlighted the growing problem of tribalism and echo chambers in American society, leading to a lack of attention to current events and political issues. Richard agreed on the need for greater civic engagement and highlighted recent cases of weaponization within the Department of Justice.
Discussing Government Agencies, Funding, and Immigration
Richard and Janet discussed concerns about the growing power of government agencies, specifically the FBI, and their impact on individual rights. Janet opposed recent legislation providing substantial funds for Ukraine, Taiwan, and Israel, citing increasing national debt as a reason for concern. She also criticized the FBI’s actions, including warrantless searches, as violations of the 4th Amendment. They also discussed issues related to funding, border security, and immigration, with Janet proposing an itemized list of government expenditures to identify potential cuts, a temporary halt to all visa issuance and entry to assess legal status, and a focus on legal immigration.   Janet believers the policy of earmarks, where politicians’ pet projects are funded, should be eliminated.
Social Security System and Future Plans
Richard and Janet discussed the future of the Social Security system. Janet advocated for returning the system to its original founding purpose of providing retirement for senior citizens.and emphasized the need to make Social Secirity a true trust fund, where funds deposited are actually held in trust. She also expressed concern about the increasing divide in society and pledged to fight for term limits and the preservation of the Constitution if elected..
Strengthening Families and Reducing Societal Problems
Richard and Janet discussed the decline of two-parent families and its impact on society. They agreed that strengthening families, particularly through education and encouraging abstinence until marriage, could significantly reduce societal problems. They also discussed the issue of teenage pregnancies and abortions, suggesting that local communities should take a proactive approach to help youth make wise decisions. Janet indicated that she would have voted to investigate election fraud if she were in office on January 6th, 2021.
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WV Elections 2024

#154-Interview with Kevin Christian-Republican Candidate for Governor of West Virginia

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Candidate website:  kc4wv.org

Summary
West Virginia’s Economic Struggles and Leadership
Richard and Kevin, a candidate for Governor of West Virginia, discussed the state’s economic troubles. Kevin highlighted that West Virginia has been 70 years behind in transitioning its economy, citing the decline since the automation of its coal fields in the 1950s as a significant factor. He pointed out the failure of leadership in the state as a major contributing factor to the current economic situation.
Conservatism, Government, and COVID-19 Pandemic
Richard and Kevin had a discussion about the definition and application of the term “conservative”. Kevin explained his view that conservatism, in the context of government, should mean being economically responsible with shared resources for future generations. They also discussed the government’s role in managing the COVID-19 pandemic, with Kevin stating he did not support the excessive use of emergency powers by the executive branch. Richard raised a concern about government mandates, and Kevin responded that he does not support such mandates on private entities.
Discussing West Virginia Vaccine Mandates
Richard and Kevin discussed the vaccine mandates in West Virginia, particularly the requirement for children to receive 11 vaccinations to attend school. Kevin, a parent, believed that parents should have the final say on what happens to their children, and the decision to vaccinate should be based on the science and reason behind each vaccine. He also expressed skepticism about the efficacy and safety of some vaccines and mentioned that the science community lost credibility by overstating the risks of diseases like measles
Leadership, Communication, and Vaccine Mandates
Kevin and Richard discussed concerns regarding leadership and communication in handling the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in relation to vaccination mandates in various sectors. Kevin argued that private entities should have the freedom to decide their own rules, while also acknowledging that the government’s involvement was necessary, especially in the military. A point of contention arose around the dismissal of soldiers who refused the vaccine, with both expressing doubts about the necessity of dismissing soldiers who refused the COVID jabs.
Resource Ownership and West Virginia’s Revitalization
Kevin and Richard discussed the concept of resource ownership and distribution, with Kevin emphasizing the equal ownership of resources by all individuals. Kevin criticized the current system that allows a small percentage of the population to control a large amount of resources, exacerbating inequalities and poverty. He proposed a plan to address West Virginia’s economic issues by creating a state bank, with all citizens made shareholders, and funding it with the Federal Reserve’s quantitative easing policy. The capital generated would be used to restart the state’s extraction industry, with the revenues invested in future West Virginia. Richard raised concerns about the impact of federal regulations on coal extraction, to which Kevin clarified that the EPA’s power is constitutionally limited.
Addressing Societal Issues and Empowering Families
Richard and Kevin discussed the underlying causes of societal issues such as drug use, teenage pregnancy, and suicide  Richard proposed that societal breakdown is primarily caused by the breakdown of two-parent, husband and wife families, with 47 percent of all births in West Virginia being outside of marriage.   Kevin agreed that this is a core issue that is related to the economic concerns that he is focusing on. Both agreed on the necessity of community involvement, promoting local solutions, and enabling people to pursue their dreams.
Improving Election Integrity and Transparency
Richard and Kevin discussed the issue of election integrity, focusing on concerns about voting machines and the role of corporate money in elections. Richard highlighted problems with machines in Arizona and Michigan, while Kevin stressed the need to address the deeper issue of corporate influence in the election process. Kevin emphasized the need for fully open primaries.
Addressing Fraud and Improving Education
Kevin said that he supports the Hope Scholarship Program and more choices in education. Kevin emphasized the importance of addressing the root cause of the problem, which is the poor performance of public schools, and suggested that the solution lies in making public schools more successful to reduce the demand for alternative education options. Richard agreed with Kevin’s support for the scholarship program as a choice for education.
West Virginia Election and Candidate Focus
Richard and Kevin discussed the upcoming election in West Virginia. Kevin emphasized his focus on improving the lives of West Virginians and differentiated himself from his opponents by stating his sole allegiance is to the people of West Virginia, not corporate interests. He also invited voters to learn more about him through his website.
Categories
West Virginia Politics WV Elections 2024

#153-Interview with Daphne Andrews-Republican Candidate for the House of Delegates-WV 99th Delegate District

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Summary
Daphne Andrews’ West Virginia House of Delegates Campaign
Richard introduced Daphne Andrews as a West Virginia primary candidate running for the House of Delegates in District 99. Daphne, a constitutional conservative and defender of the First and Second Amendments, highlighted her commitment to fiscal responsibility, opposition to solar farms and the climate change green agenda, and her desire to attract American businesses to the state. She also expressed concern about the state’s direction in green energy and the welfare of children, citing a recent case in Boone County where the skeletal remains of a child were found after the family was reported to child protective services. Daphne also criticized the use of puberty blockers for children with depression or dysphoria.
Legislation, Green Energy, and Kabletown Project
Daphne and Richard talked about Wayne Clark, the founder of the Green Energy caucus for West Virginia, and his efforts to pass bills related to solar energy and zoning. Daphne brought up concerns about the Kabletown project and that environmental damage does not appear to be properly mitigated. Richard expressed his opposition to COVID-19 mandates and recalled a bill that was introduced in the 2021 legislative session that was passed by the House but destroyed by the Senate, with Senator Trump leading the charge in gutting the bill.
Covid-19 Impact and Medical Freedom Discussion
Richard and Daphne discussed the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on their lives and the healthcare system. Daphne shared her experience as a frontline worker during the first wave of Covid-19 and her frustration about the lack of preparation and understanding of the disease. She also highlighted the negative impact the pandemic had on children’s education and the health of senior citizens due to isolation. In addition, Daphne expressed her support for medical freedom and religious exemptions in vaccinations, being disappointed by Governor Justice’s veto of the recent bill to provide some religious exemptions.
Election System Integrity and Preferences
Richard and Daphne discussed the integrity of election systems in their state, specifically focused on the use of electronic voting machines and paper ballots. Richard expressed concerns about the potential for inaccuracies with electronic voting machines, referring to issues in other states. Daphne, who has experience working the polls, explained her preference for the Jefferson County’s system that uses a thumb drive inserted into the tabulator and paper ballots printed as a backup, but also emphasized the need for uniformity across the state to avoid confusion and doubt. Richard expressed his preference for hand-counted paper ballots.
Strengthening Families, Reducing Abortions
Richard and Daphne discussed ways to strengthen families and reduce the rates of abortion. They agreed on the need to focus more on the education of youth to avoid the root cause of abortions, which is sex outside of marriage.
Promoting Education and Opportunities Beyond High School
Daphne discussed the importance of promoting education and opportunities beyond high school for students in West Virginia. She emphasized that her husband, formerly a coach at Washington High School, taught all of his student athletes the values of God first, then family, then studies, and finally sports.  Daphne observed that most of his students went on to college or joined the military with success.
Property Tax Assessment and Voter Registration
Richard and Daphne discussed the issue of property tax assessment increases, with Daphne expressing support for capping or eliminating this tax. They also discussed the automatic voter registration at the DMV, with Daphne expressing dislike for this practice, citing a personal experience where her voter status was incorrectly changed. They both agreed that voter registration should be done through a form filled out deliberately, and not through an automatic system that could potentially lead to voter fraud.
Second Exit Road for Shannondale Community
Richard and Daphne discussed the need for a second exit road from the Shannondale community, which they both agreed could be a lifesaving measure in case of emergencies like forest fires. Daphne shared her personal experience of surviving a house fire and her opinion that the community needs a second exit. Richard suggested that the funding for such a project would likely require state support. They both agreed that the potential benefits of the second exit far outweighed any potential costs.
Daphne’s Comparison of Opponents Mike and Wayne
Daphne discussed the differences between her and her opponent, Mike Allers Jr., highlighting his support for unions and the Liberal West Virginia AFL-CIO’s endorsement of both him and Biden. She also criticized Mike’s stance on the Hope Scholarship and his lack of understanding about West Virginia. Furthermore, she revealed that Wayne Clark is involved in the green energy caucus and talked about not giving subsides to unproven technologies, like the company Form Energy company, which is developing an iron air battery. Daphne also mentioned that Wayne, another opponent, had previously been backed by the West Virginia Tea Party but later disappointed them with his actions.
Addressing West Virginia Tourism Concerns
Daphne mentioned that Wayne Clark only talked about tourism in his current campaign cycle, noting that he has not done anything to promote tourism.  Richard joked that the Blake Solar project is the current welcome sign for tourists entering Jefferson County.  Daphne also expressed her concern about the direction of the state, stating that the current government was not listening to its people. She, along with like-minded individuals, planned to take action for the people of West Virginia by going to Charleston to implement an agenda that is not controlled by special interests.
Categories
WV Elections 2024

#152-Interview with Joe Earley-Republican Candidate for the US House of Representatives-WV 2nd Congressional District

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Candidate website: joeearley4wv.com

Summary
Joe Earley’s Platform
Richard introduced Joe Earley, a US House of Representatives candidate from West Virginia’s second congressional district. Early, a 20-year US Army veteran, outlined his platform which included designating cartels as terrorist organizations, holding China accountable for precursor chemicals, building a border wall, and a five-year moratorium on immigration. He highlighted opioid poisoning, American energy constraints caused by excessive government regulations, and advocated for the first and second amendment. Early also expressed support for pro-life policies.
EPA Ruling, Congress Bills, and Conflict
Joe discussed the recent EPA ruling impacting West Virginia coal production and the current state of American energy. Richard and Joie also touched on recent bills passed by Congress, with Joe expressing opposition to the $60 billion of funding for Ukraine. The conversation included discussions on the ongoing conflict in Gaza, the US’s inability to fight a multi-front war, and the damaging effects of Marxist professors in the US.
Protecting Families and Opposing Warrantless Searches
Richard and Joe discussed the importance of strong families and the role of government in protecting them. Joe stated that he does not support warrantless searches on American citizens as enabled by the recent FISA extension and that hi is against the recent extension of the FISA 702 law, which he views as a violation of the 4th amendment. Joe also emphasized the importance of adhering to Biblical principles and the US constitution and the Bill of Rights to govern our nation. The decline of two-parent, husband-wife families was identified as a core cause of societal problems, and Richard and Joe agreed on the need to strengthen these families.
Balancing Budget, Reducing Taxes, and Revitalizing Industries
Richard and the Joe discussed the issues of government spending and the sustainability of the current levels. Joe emphasized the need for a balanced budget, reduced tax load, and decreased size of the IRS. He also highlighted the importance of revitalizing the energy industry and creating more jobs. Joe also mentioned reducing subsidies to unproven technologies, such as solar, wind and iron batteries. 
Vaccine Liability and Parental Rights Discussion
Richard and the Joe discussed the issue of vaccine liability and parental rights. Richard questioned whether people should have more freedom in choosing vaccinations, citing instances of injury from COVID-19 jabs. Joe said that vaccinations are considered as a preventative measure and that parents should have the right to decide whether to vaccinate their children or not. They further pointed out that the 1986 vaccine injury compensation program provides a shield of liability against pharmaceutical companies. The discussion also touched on the recent veto of the Religious Exemption Act for vaccinations in West Virginia by Governor Jim Justice. Joe indicated that he opposed Governor Justice’s veto and that Justice should have signed the bill.
Pharmaceutical Advertising and Election Integrity
Joe and Richard discussed concerns about direct advertising by pharmaceutical companies to consumers, arguing it should be unethical and against the law, affecting the patient-doctor relationship. They also raised concerns about election integrity, particularly regarding the 2020 election cycle, with allegations of fraud and ballot stuffing, leading to an illegitimate presidency. Joe indicated that corporations should not interfere in government proceedings, such as the Zuckerberg funding for ballot boxes, and should be held accountable for any negative actions.
Addressing Bureaucratic Overreach and Waste
Joe highlighted a problem in the government, specifically the conflated bureaucracy in agencies such as the Health and Human Services, Food and Drug Administration, CDC, and National Institute of Health. Joe argued that these agencies, non-elected officials, have usurped Congress’s authority to legislate and create law, and are currently funded on an annual basis. The campaign proposed to decrease and eliminate wasteful spending across these bureaucracies, starting with the Department of Education. Joe suggested that, rather, each state could be given a billion dollars if the Department of Education was eliminated, and that the state could be held to the standard of creating a good education system without federal intervention.
Categories
West Virginia Politics WV Elections 2024

#151-Interview with Jack Hefestay-Republican Candidate for County Commissioner-Charles Town District

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Candidate website: hefestay.com

Summary
Concerns Over New Solar Farms Development
Jack expressed concerns about the development of new solar farms in Jefferson County, highlighting issues such as the impact on farmland, potential environmental damage, and the long-term financial risks for the county. He argued that the initial presentation of the projects as beneficial to the community was misleading, and that the reality of the situation was quite different.
Jack’s Concerns on Jefferson County’s Future
Jack voiced concerns about the current state of affairs in Jefferson County, particularly the negative impact of the Solar Text Amendment and its aftermath. Jack expressed his belief that some commissioners have a hidden agenda, which he suggests is tied to financial gain, and that the situation is causing instability in the county. He also highlighted the problem of the budget and how it is linked to the solar issue, negatively affecting the county’s tourism and agritourism industries.
Solar Panels, Budget Allocation, and Raises
Jack expressed concern about the safety of solar panels in Middle Middleway Fire Department’s jurisdiction, as raised by Fire Chief and County Commission Candidate Michael Mood. He emphasized the need for more information about this issue. Furthermore, Jack discussed the challenges of budget allocation. He also mentioned his belief that the sheriff’s department officers deserve raises. 
Ambulance Services and Election Integrity
Richard and Jack discussed the impact of budget cuts on ambulance services in the Blue Ridge area. Jack expressed his opinion that the consolidation of ambulance services was not the best solution, as it increased response times in many areas, like on the mountain and other outlying areas.  In contrast, response times in other parts of the county were not significantly affected, or improved, such as in Charles Town. They also discussed issues of election integrity. Jack, who has worked as a pollworker for three elections, believed that the voting process in Jefferson County was being run well.  He mentioned that votes could be verified using the paper ballots printed by the voting machines.  However, Richard stated that to have such an audit, the challenging citizen or organization must pay 10’s of thousands of dollars to pay for the audit, which does not make that kind of challenge a viable solution for increasing election integrity.
School Levies and Election Process Discussion
Richard and Jack discussed the issue of school levies and the process of their elections. Richard expressed concern about the high percentage of property taxes allocated to schools and the potential for manipulation of the election process. Jack stated that levy elections should be held alongside general elections to ensure higher turnout and prevent special elections that can be repeatedly failed until passing. Richard planned to verify this information regarding changes to the election process that move school excess levies to the general election cycle.
Property Tax Rates and Impact Fees
Richard and Jack discussed the high property tax rates and impact fees in Jefferson County, with77 percent of the funds going to public schools. Jack believed that the impact fees were lowered to a small amount and should be increased to help the school burden and other public services. However, Richard suggested that the decline in school enrollment might not legally allow raising the impact fees. Richard mentioned that the funds were not being used appropriately, with a significant portion going to administrative staff and not teachers, who only received 2 percent of the excess levy funds.
Jack’s Transparency, Experience, and Stability Proposal
Jack differentiated himself from his opponent by emphasizing his transparency and his experience working with diverse groups of people, including his 25 years in the US Navy and 30 years at Lockheed Martin. He highlighted his ability to build collaborative efforts and listen to various groups before enacting decisions. Jack also expressed his concern about the county’s budget and the numerous administrator turnovers, and proposed to offer stability to the position. He mentioned being endorsed by multiple people in the county for his candidacy.
Categories
Christianity Sexual Ethics

#150-Iconic Symbol of American Freedom Destroyed in Likely Cyber Attack

What is the deeper meaning behind the destruction of the iconic Francis Scott Key Bridge near Baltimore, Maryland? What is the real pillar of the United States of America?

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