Author: Richard Urban

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Candidate Interviews WV Elections 2024

#176-Interview with Steven Wendelin-Democratic Candidate for US House of Representatives-WV 2nd Congressional District

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West Virginia Congressional District and Election Discussion
Richard and Steven discussed the upcoming election and Steven’s candidacy for the US House of Representatives in the Second Congressional District. Steven explained that the district, which covers 27 counties and spans 10,000 square miles, was redistricted in 2020 due to a loss in population. He also highlighted the unique aspects of West Virginia’s constitution, which makes gerrymandering of Congressional seats virtually impossible. Steven, who lives in Hardy County, expressed his love for the natural beauty of the area.
Addressing Political Division and Accountability
Richard and Steven discussed the political division in the US and the need for a return to moderate policies. Steven emphasized the importance of balancing the budget and criticized the lack of accountability among politicians. He suggested that Congress should be held accountable for not passing a budget on time and proposed a rule where Congress would be sequestered until a budget is passed. Steven also proposed transparency in his future political dealings, allowing constituents to view his calendar and meeting notes. Richard agreed with Steven’s points and suggested that the electorate needs to hold politicians accountable through elections.
Funding and Support for Ukraine War
Richard and Steven discussed the funding of the war in Ukraine. Richard questioned the overall idea of the conflict and whether they should support it, given that they are funding it to a large extent. Steven clarified that the US is not directly funding the war but is providing aid in the form of munitions from their own stockpiles. He emphasized that the US is replenishing these stocks, which provides jobs.  He said that many munitions have an “expiration date”.  Richard challenged the assertion that Ukraine itself is not receiving substantial US funds. Steven strongly supports the US involvement in the conflict, viewing it as a necessary measure to counteract the aggression of the Ukrainian dictator, Putin. He also expressed concern about Putin’s intentions to expand his influence beyond Ukraine. Richard disputed this idea, of ‘the next country to be attacked will be Poland’, for example.
Balancing Budget: Cutting Spending, Increasing Revenue
Richard and Steven discussed the issue of balancing the budget, with Steven emphasizing the need to decrease spending and increase revenue. He shared his experience from his time in the Pentagon, highlighting significant waste in the Department of Defense, and suggested that eliminating this waste could still maintain a strong military while providing funds for other programs. They agreed on the need for tax code simplification and the reduction of loopholes for the wealthy. Richard proposed a 10% cut across the board, including entitlements, to balance the budget. Steven emphasized the importance of addressing discretionary spending before mandatory programs and expressed concern about the privatization of government functions, arguing that it has led to inefficiencies and increased costs.
Future of Coal Production in West Virginia
Richard and Steven discussed the future of coal production in West Virginia. Steven argued that coal is not going to completely disappear, as it is needed for other purposes like steel manufacturing. He also pointed out that the number of jobs related to coal in West Virginia is only about 7%, and that Walmart contributes more to the economy than any coal mine. Steven suggested that policies should not be made based on coal, but rather on more efficient and cheaper energy sources. Richard brought up the topic of new regulations from Biden that could potentially shut down coal production, but Steven did not comment on this as he had not read the regulations. Steven also mentioned that some coal power plants are being converted into green energy.
Nuclear Fusion, Electric Cars, and Abortion
Richard and Steven discussed the potential of nuclear fusion as a sustainable energy source, with Steven emphasizing the need for a shift towards it. They also discussed the rapid transition to electric cars and the potential for a more gradual shift, with Steven arguing for the need to get off fossil fuels. The conversation then shifted to the decline of traditional two-parent families and its impact on society, particularly in the context of youth education. Steven said that a loving family of any type is needed.  Richard emphasized the need for married two parent, male-female families and the need to shift the conversation away from abortion and toward abstinence before marriage and child bearing within marriage. Steven believes in “reproductive rights”, meaning abortion being available for women.
Hope Scholarship Program’s Impact on West Virginia
Steven and Richard discussed the impact of the Hope Scholarship program on public education in West Virginia. Steven expressed concerns about the program’s funding and its effect on teacher pay, while Richard focused on transparency in local property tax allocation and potential administrative waste. Steven expressed concern that private school tuition may go out of state.  Steven does not support the Hope Scholarship. They also noted the challenges faced by Jefferson County due to rapid population growth. Richard suggested that the Hope Scholarship could be seen as a cost-saving measure, but Steven disagreed, highlighting that his opponent, a big supporter of the program, does not have children attending West Virginia public schools.
Family Structure and Vaccine Choice
Steven supports “choice” for aborting babies, but strongly believes in forcing all West Virginia students to receive vaccines.  He said that science showing that vaccines are unsafe are “junk science”.  He claimed that soldiers not taking the vaccine caused a readiness issue, a concept that Richard challenged.  He said that soldiers are expected to follow orders to be vaccinated. Regarding family structure, Steven said the gender of the parents doesn’t matter as long as they are loving and supporting.  Richard brought up his disagreement with Governor Justice’s veto on a bill that would have allowed parents to decide whether their children should be vaccinated or not
Steven did not directly address this issue, but reiterated his stance on abortion “rights”.
Vaccinations, Mandates, and Campaign Finance
Steven and Richard discussed the importance of vaccinations, with Steven emphasizing their role in societal protection, with Steven generally agreeing with West Virginia’s “no vaccinations, no school” policy.  Richard emphasized the need for exceptions for those who choose not to vaccinate due to religious, medical or conscientious reasons. They also discussed the National Childhood Vaccination Act of 1986 and the issue of vaccine mandates in the military. Steven expressed his disapproval of pharmaceutical companies being protected from negligence or malfeasance. He also discussed his commitment to not taking money from special interests or PACs, his opposition to excessive money in politics, and his desire to limit campaign spending. Steven urged voters to examine the sources of their candidate’s funding, as it would reveal much about their true intentions.
Political Discussion and Campaigns
Steven expressed his appreciation for Richard’s efforts in educating voters and acknowledged the importance of having conversations about political issues.
Candidate website:   wendelinforcongress.com
Categories
Candidate Interviews WV Elections 2024

#175-Interview with John Doyle-Democratic Candidate for WV State Senator-16th Senatorial District

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John’s Background and Policy Support Discussion
John shared his background, which includes graduating from Shepherd University, serving in the army in Vietnam, and being elected to the House of Delegates. He expressed his support for clean air and water, good public schools, reproductive freedom for women, an elected Public Service Commission, and the right to repair products. He also mentioned Delegate Kayla Young’s bill for the right to repair agricultural equipment and his intention to introduce a similar bill for all products if elected.
West Virginia’s Budget Challenges and Coal Industry
Richard and John discussed the challenges facing West Virginia’s upcoming legislature. John identified the biggest issue as balancing the budget, as he believes the state is entering a period of reduced surpluses. He attributed this to the cyclical nature of budgetary cycles and one factor being the increasing competition from the Australian coal industry. John also noted that while the natural gas industry is picking up, it doesn’t provide as much employment as the coal industry. Richard sought clarification on the factors driving the surpluses and their potential decline.
Eliminating Personal Income Tax and Property Tax Implications
John and Richard discussed the implications of eliminating personal income tax and the potential impact on property taxes. John explained that personal income tax currently contributes 40% to the general revenue fund of the state, and eliminating it would likely require a significant increase in property taxes. Richard shared his concerns about large property tax increases, particularly in his area where land values had risen by 130% in one tax year. Both agreed that protecting homeownership in the state is crucial and that any increase in property taxes should be carefully considered. They also touched on the issue of school taxes, with Richard expressing concerns about the lack of transparency in the accounting for the $23,000,000 plus raised by the school excess levy, which is 40% of local property taxes.
Levies, Election Integrity, Immigration, and Budget Balancing
Richard and John discussed various topics, including the timing of levies, election integrity, and immigration. Richard questioned John’s stance on making voting easier, to which John responded that he believes there are enough safeguards in place to ensure integrity. They also discussed the issue of non-citizens voting, with John suggesting that the system is equipped to handle it. Lastly, they touched on the topic of balancing the budget, with John confirming it as a top priority.
Family Breakdown and Societal Issues Discussion
Richard and John discussed the role of family breakdown in societal issues. Richard argued the high rate of children born outside of marriage is a major driver, while John saw it as one factor but not the driver. They debated whether education encouraging traditional family values is appropriate. John opposed laws enforcing behaviors but supported helping single parents.
Education Funding and Hope Scholarship Discussion
Richard and John discussed their differing views on education funding and the Hope Scholarship. John expressed his respect for his opponent, Patricia Rucker, but highlighted their differences on the issues. He voted against the Hope Scholarship, viewing it as a voucher, and does not support taxpayer money going to private schools or home schooling if the family can afford it themselves. He believes stronger controls are needed on the supervision of parents and children in home schooling and on how the money is spent. Richard clarified that the Hope Scholarship goes directly to the school chosen, not to the parents of the student..
Discussing Education and Risky Behavior Consequences
Richard emphasized the importance of educating young people about the consequences of risky behavior, while John expressed concern about the potential for indoctrination. They also touched on the issue of suicide, with Richard noting that sexually active girls are six times more likely to attempt suicide. The conversation ended with Richard asking John if he had any further points to make.
Solar Farms, Zoning, and County Planning
Richard and John discussed the issue of solar farms in their county. John expressed his opposition to the idea of solar farms being a matter of right, which he believes would destroy zoning. He suggested that the county planning commission should impose more restrictions on these industrial solar plants. John also criticized the county’s comprehensive plan, stating that it needs to be revised and more public hearings should be held. Richard agreed with John’s points and expressed his concern about the lack of transparency in the planning process. They ended the conversation with John encouraging people to consider his candidacy for the State Senate.
Categories
West Virginia Politics WV Elections 2024

Stop Wasteful School Excess Levy Spending

I recently sent the following email to each of the five Jefferson County, WV Board of Education members and Superintendent Chuck Bishop, seeking details about how the Board of Education has spent our tax dollars.  The current School Excess Levy was voted in by the voters of Jefferson County on November 3, 2020.  It took effect on July 1, 2021, and extends until June 30, 2026.  the amount stated hat has been raised each year is $22,412,937, or about $2582 for each of about 8682 students.

The reason I sent the letter below is that the accounting for what our tax dollars are spent on is very opaque.  I believe in the necessity for transparency, honesty and accountability on the part of our Board of Education.
If the Board of Education cannot detail clearly where our tax dollars have gone and/or if they have wastefully spent our hard-earned tax dollars, then the next Excess Levy should not be approved.  If you pay $1000 per year in property taxes, $400 goes toward the excess levy.

The next Excess Levy for July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2031 will appear on the ballot on November 5, 2024.  The Board of Education is requesting the increased amount of $25,427,656 per year even though enrollment has declined and is projected to continue to decline.

Dear Superintendent Bishop and Board of Education Members:

Please provide answers to the following questions, in red about current Excess Levy spending so citizens can make informed choices about whether or not to support the request for an extension of this Excess Levy.
Please provide the actual amount spent for each lettered category below for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024 (July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024)
Additionally, please answer the questions numbered 1  through 4 below the text of the levy ballot measure.

A. Continue support of WVU Extension $30,000 Services (4-H in community and schools)  Amount spent:

B. Continue support of Shepherdstown, $90,000 Harpers Ferry/Bolivar and South Jefferson public libraries  Amount spent:
                Jefferson County health Department (immunization support)  $20,000
                Jefferson County Parks and Rec (student and family health)        $30,000
C. Continue to provide instructional support and technology hardware, software and infrastructure support for students.             $1,5000,000  Amount spent
1.Amount received by each school
     For each school, amount broken down by each category;
      Instructional support and technology hardware, software and infrastructure support                  
D. Continue to provide safety tools and instructional materials to each Jefferson County School   $1,314,180  Amount spent:
1. Amount received by each school
       For each school a list of the safety materials and instructional materials purchased
E. Continue to provide professional development to increase programs, national certification & other teacher/service personnel benefits to recruit and retain highly qualified staff  $1,814,179 Amount spent
List each professional development seminar by date, title and presenter(s)
          Provide the cost of each professional development seminar
          List and provide the cost of any other professional development materials or services purchased
H. Continue to provide salary assistance for teachers and service personnel not covered/required under the state formula (librarians, art teachers, music teachers, nurses, counselors, custodians, instructional assistants), stipends & extended contracts (coaches, band),
and substitutes.  $17,412,937  Amount spent:
1. Please provide:
a. Total amount of excess levy funds paid  librarians, art teachers, and music teachers and number of positions where the only funding is excess levy funding (no state funding)
b. Total amount of excess levy funds paid to custodians and number of positions where the only funding is excess levy funding (no state funding)
c. Total amount of excess levy funds paid to nurses and number of positions where the only funding is excess levy funding (no state funding)
d. Total amount of excess levy funds paid to counselors and number of positions where the only funding is excess levy funding (no state funding)
e. Total amount of excess levy funds paid to instructional assistants and number of positions where the only funding is excess levy funding (no state funding)
f. Total amount of excess levy funds paid to substitutes and number of positions where the only funding is excess levy funding (no state funding)
g. Total amount of excess levy funds paid to any position not listed above and name of each position and number of positions where the only funding is excess levy funding (no state funding)
h. Total amount of excess levy funds paid to central office staff where the only funding is excess levy funding (no state funding)
i. Total amount of excess levy funds paid to teachers who receive state funding, and number of positions, excluding extended contracts (coaches, band)
j. Total amount of excess levy funds paid for extended contracts, and number of positions
k. Total amount of excess levy funds paid to service personnel who receive state funding, and number of positions
l. Total amount of excess levy funds paid to central office staff who receive state funding and number of positions
m. Total amount of excess levy funds paid to non-central office administrative staff (Principals, schools secretaries, etc.) who receive state funding and number of positions
n. Total amount of excess levy funds paid to any position not listed above that receives state funding, and name of each position number of positions

2. Please provide, for the period July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024: 
a. Total number of students enrolled
b. Total number of central office staff
c. Total number of teachers
d. Total number of service personnel
e. Total number of non-central office administrative staff (Principals, school secretary, etc.)

3. Provide the amount collected during the last fiscal year that exceeded the projected amount of $22,427,656.  Provide a detailed breakdown of how the extra funds were spent, using the above categories and questions.

4. Did the Board of Education reduce the levy rate in any of the past three fiscal years (Excess Levy Ballot Item 3)?
If yes, what was the rate and what was the amount of reduction?

Sincerely,

Richard Urban

Categories
abstinence-centered education Family Family Breakdown Marriage

#174-Tricia Jackson on the Root Cause of Societal Decline

Richard and Tricia Jackson, primary candidate for West Virginia Treasurer, discuss how to tackle the issue of almost one half of all West Virginia births being outside of marriage. They talk about the need to present clear expectations and standards to children and youth. Helping children to develop emotional intelligence, and not just going by their feelings, was discussed as an important element of tackling this issue.
Richard discusses the idea of developing STAR (Students Teaching Abstinence & Responsibility) and other leadership clubs that emphasize character development and sexual abstinence.

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Categories
abstinence-centered education Family Breakdown Marriage Sexual Abstinence Sexual Ethics

#173-Kevin “KC” Christian on the Root Cause of Societal Decline

Richard and Kevin KC” Christian, primary candidate for West Virginia Governor, discuss the benefits and efficacy of character and abstinence-centered education for youth.  They dive into the process for forming an Urban Life Training Chapter in your local community.  Kevin shares about the importance of putting base desires in check while looking forward to a successful marriage and future.

Link for forming an Urban Life Training Chapter:  https://www.urbanlifetraining.org/index.php/chapters

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Categories
abstinence-centered education Family Family Breakdown Marriage Sexual Abstinence Sexual Ethics

#172-Joe Earley on the Root Cause of Societal Decline

Joe Earley, primary candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives in West Virginia, discussed how the continued upward spiral of outside of wedlock births drives all types of societal problems.
Joe discusses the deleterious effect of unfettered internet access on our children, and much more.

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Categories
abstinence-centered education Christianity Family Breakdown Marriage Politics School Boards Sexual Abstinence Sexual Ethics

#171-Jack Hefestay on the Root Cause of Societal Decline

Jack Hefestay and Richard discuss the root cause of societal decline, the breakdown of the family. Richard presents a practical plan to tackle this issue.
Jack and Richard discuss the current dynamic of discussing God in the public square.

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Categories
abstinence-centered education Family Family Breakdown Marriage Sexual Abstinence Sexual Ethics

#170-Richie Robb on Strengthening Families

Richie Robb and Richard Urban discuss the importance of focusing on the cause of societal problems, which is family breakdown.  In West Virginia, about one in two children are born outside of marriage. 
How can generational change occur?
Could part of the solution be banning cell phones in schools?

Join this crucial discussion by commenting below.

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Categories
Family School Boards Sexual Ethics

#169-Michael Marshall on Mandatory LBGTQ Indoctrination in Montgomery County Maryland Schools

Guest Michael Marshall discusses how Montgomery County Md. makes LGBTQ indoctrination mandatory. LGBTQ books are included in English lessons for grades as young as pre-school. Since these are not part of the Family Life Education classes, parents are not notified and are not allowed to opt out their children.
This has caused an uproar from a diverse group of parents across the county.

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Categories
West Virginia Politics WV Elections 2024

#168-Interview with Nate Cain-Republican Candidate for the US House of Representatives-WV 2nd Congressional District

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Candidate website:  https://natecain4wv.com/.

Summary

Call from God to Run for Office
Nate discussed his background, including serving in the military for approximately 20 years and then working in cyber security. He became an FBI whistle blower regarding Hillary Clinton’s pay to play schemes. His home was raided by the FBI after he came out as a whistle blower. He felt through several experiences, that God has called him to serve through running for the House of Representatives.

Nate’s Journey to Running for Office
Nate discussed his initial hesitation to run for office. However, after seeking guidance from God and experiencing a series of confirmations from God, he felt a strong calling to pursue it. He shared his decision with his stepmother and was encouraged by her support. A particularly impactful encounter with a couple who had been praying for righteous leaders further strengthened his belief that this was his true calling, and that his candidacy was a response to their prayers. This experience deepened his sense of purpose and motivation.

Societal Issues and Single-Parent Households
Richard asked Nate about the decline of society due to children growing up without the benefit of a married father and mother. He asked for opinions on this perspective. Nate agreed that the government should be in the business of promoting stable two-parent families when creating laws or looking at tax policies, for example. Nate also recognizes that a lot of our social ills are really spiritually based problems. He pointed out that private charity historically took care of people through charities, and that their motivation is more altruistic than that of government programs.

Cybersecurity and Onboard Technology in Shipping Industry
Nate discussed the vulnerabilities of the shipping industry’s cybersecurity and onboard technology. Nate shared his experience with cybersecurity, having started a company focused on this area before the Covid-19 pandemic. Nate, a former US Army soldier and cybersecurity expert, highlighted the increasing digitalization of ship controls and the potential for cyber-attacks.

Faith-Driven Campaign Strategy in WV House of Representatives Race
Nate shared his campaign strategy for West Virginia’s House of Representatives race, which has focused on serving people in their communities rather than relying on big donor money. Despite being an underdog against a well-funded opponent, Nate has raised over $100,000 from individual donors in 40 states, and his grassroots campaign has earned him favor. In the conversation, Nate also emphasized his commitment to representing the people and their needs if elected, rather than just voting conservative. Richard inquired about the biggest issue facing the country, to which Nate responded.

Abuse of Power and Cyber Threats
Nate addressed the main issue as being the abuse of power by the government, specifically the Justice Department’s focus on spying on American citizens. Nate also expressed concern over the extension of FISA and the huge amount of money being allocated to the FBI’s new building, suggesting that many members of Congress and the intelligence community are compromised. Nate claimed that this abuse of power poses a greater threat to the nation’s constitution and survival than foreign aggressors. Nate also highlighted the expansion of executive orders and judges legislating from the bench as contributing to the Republic’s peril. Secondly, Nate cited the cyber threat from China as a significant concern.

Nate’s Policies, Spirituality, and Election Fraud
Nate believes children benefit most from a traditional two-parent household and suggests the government should enact policies to promote this family structure. He argues social issues stem from a spiritual disconnect, proposing community organizations like churches take over responsibilities from the government. Nate believes that there was election fraud in 2020. He witnessed criticized the rushed certification process and pointed out that, for example, in Pennsylvania, there were ballots counted when a judge had stated that government officals had no right to change existing law. He expresses concerns over the treatment of January 6th protesters, arguing their rights were violated and calling for their pardons, as he does not believe any received a fair trial.

Reducing Government Spending
Richard and Nate discussed the sustainability of government spending. Nate argued that the current policies were unsustainable and compared it to stealing from future generations due to borrowing to give foreign aid, for example. Nate also cited corruption and lack of accountability as concerns and suggested limiting aid to selling arms instead. Furthermore, Nate proposed a strategy to reduce federal spending by shrinking the government through attrition, which would not disrupt the political culture and gradually downsize agencies.

Medical Freedom and Vaccination Choice Discussion
Richard and Nate discussed the issue of medical freedom and vaccination choice, focusing on the federal and state government’s role in vaccine mandates. Nate expressed his strong support for medical freedom and his belief that the government has no right to dictate what individuals can put into their bodies. Nate also believes the government’s vaccine mandate violates the Fourth and First Amendments. Nate shared his experience of being forced to leave his job because he refused to get vaccinated. He clarified that while they believe the government should not interfere with adults’ vaccine choices, the government should not not allow for the medical mutilation of children. He also pointed out that every vaccine has risks and that the decision to vaccinate should be left to the parents.

Nate’s Candidacy and Faith-Based Approach
Richard and Nate discussed the latter’s candidacy in the upcoming election. Nate emphasized his unique qualifications, which include being a former FBI whistleblower and a strong faith. He expressed his belief in the importance of honesty, integrity, and sacrifice in public service, and he urged people to pray for God’s help for our nation.