Fiscal ResponsibilityGovernment should have a limited budget that reflects the vitality of the federal/state/County/City economy, while keeping taxes to a bare minimum. Local ControlGovernmental power and functions should be as close to the citizens as possible for maximum oversight, control, and responsiveness. Free MarketsProduction and prices should be dictated by the laws of supply and demand without the interference of government…
Continue reading
There’s always much discussion about the deep divides we face in this country. This is especially the case every two years, when we mark our ballots for our chosen political candidates during election season. The public health emergency that started just over a year ago with the COVID-19 outbreak has truly served to highlight and clarify the fundamental contrasts in…
Continue reading
Oregon’s state motto was adopted in 1987. It’s “Alis Volat Propriis,” which is Latin for “She Flies With Her Own Wings.” In many respects, that motto reflects the state’s pioneer spirit. But taken further, it’s almost become an excuse for Oregon to do things that none of the other 49 states are willing to do. A prime example is the…
Continue reading
Before I decided to run for Clackamas County Commissioner, all of my public service experience was as a member of the United States military. I was initially commissioned in the U.S. Marine Corps, followed by service with the US Army and rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and was awarded the Bronze Star druring the Iraq War. As such, the world…
Continue reading
I’ve been serving on the Clackamas County Board of Commissioners for about three months now. So far, it’s been a very interesting and educational experience, as there is a lot that goes into managing the daily operations of one of Oregon’s most populated counties. Because the commissioners are elected officials, we conduct our business in meetings that are open to…
Continue reading
Ideally, government agencies exist to serve the public and solve problems. But it doesn’t always work out that way. Some agencies seem to do more to create and perpetuate those problems for the sake of justifying their own existence. And when those same problems persist, bureaucrats at those agencies claim it’s because they need more money. Taxes are raised over…
Continue reading
I decided thirty one years ago that I was going to build my dream home just outside of Sandy. There were many reasons I chose to make rural Clackamas County my permanent residence. I was drawn by the area’s majestic scenery and natural beauty. The outdoor recreational opportunities are literally endless out here. Sandy’s small-town feel means that neighbors are…
Continue reading
Throughout history, many great political leaders got their start in the military. A shining example is President Dwight Eisenhower. As the head of the Allied Command in World War II, Eisenhower was responsible for organizing and orchestrating the famed D-Day invasion of the Normandy beach that culminated in Europe’s liberation. He later went on to become president, and his accomplishments…
Continue reading
As a combat veteran it is a point of pride for me to be able to say that I served my country honorably in multiple branches of the military. I chose to pursue a career as a military officer largely because I believe in the values that our great nation was built upon. Those values as set forth in our…
Continue reading