2024 voter guide: Blane H. Miller III, candidate for Maryland’s 1st Congressional District

Blane H. Miller III

Candidate in Nov. 5 general election
Democratic
Havre de Grace, Harford County

Why are you running for office?

I’m running for office because our current representation is ineffective, absent, and fails to represent all of us. We need fresh, new ideas and someone ready to work across both aisles from day one to get the job done.

Do you believe, as President Joe Biden has said, that “democracy is on the ballot” and, if so, in what way?

First, I don’t believe the term “democracy” accurately represents our system of government. We have a Democratic Republic, which is a more precise description. Secondly, I disagree with Joe Biden’s assertion that democracy is on the ballot. Our country is larger than any two candidates or a handful of politicians. It is founded on one of the greatest pieces of literature ever written, the Constitution. I believe in the people, and that’s why I’m not overly concerned about this particular election.

Will you accept the presidential election result once the totals have been certified by the states and any legal challenges adjudicated?

Absolutely and unequivocally.

Do you support additional assistance for Ukraine’s military forces two years into Russia’s invasion?

While I believe in supporting our allies, I do not support additional assistance to Ukraine’s military forces two years into Russia’s invasion. In these challenging economic times, we must prioritize our own country’s needs and stop acting as the world’s police. The situation in Ukraine is complex and involves more than just Russia wanting to reclaim territory. It’s also about resources and Ukraine’s desire to join NATO, which would violate previous agreements not to expand NATO’s borders.

Moreover, Ukraine is known for its corruption, second only to Russia, and there needs to be greater oversight and transparency regarding how the aid is used. The recent surplus aid largely stayed in the U.S. to replenish our own weaponry and stockpiles. Therefore, the question of supporting additional assistance is not a simple yes or no.

Should the United States be speaking out more clearly, as Maryland Sen. Chris Van Hollen has suggested, about civilian casualties in Gaza?

First, let me be very clear about the situation with Israel and Hamas. I also 100% believe that The US should be speaking out as clearly if not more clearly than any politician about the senseless deaths of civilian casualties in Gaza. I denounce all forms of terrorism; there is no place in the world for such behavior. The attacks that occurred on October 7th were senseless and disgusting. This religious war has been ongoing for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. While casualties in war are inevitable, we must ensure that innocent civilians are not targeted. This is a tough situation, and as a nation, we should act as an arbitrator, not as the world’s police. Our country, which has been around for less than 300 years, should not bear the burden of solving every global conflict.

Israel should exercise restraint because they are better than the terrorists they are fighting. This relentless and reckless killing of civilians in Gaza must stop.

Should Congress act to protect abortion rights following the Supreme Court’s 2022 Dobbs decision?

I believe in total body autonomy, which includes women’s reproductive rights. However, as a man, I don’t think I should be telling women what to do with their bodies. I believe that abortion is a deeply personal matter that should be between a woman and her doctor. I also believe that Congress has the right to ensure these protections as outlined by the Constitution.

Currently, with the Supreme Court overruling Roe v. Wade and sending the decision back to the states, many women are now in jeopardy and facing potential health crises. While the Constitution does not specifically mention women’s reproductive autonomy, the 14th and 9th Amendments do address equal protection under the law and due process.

However, I do believe that the federal government’s role is to protect all citizens. The federal government needs to find a way to overturn or create measures to supersede these state-level restrictions.

Should the federal government revise the way in which it allocates visas so Eastern Shore crab processing plants can employ seasonal migrant workers?

Yes, absolutely. We should increase visa caps, simplify application processes, expedite processing times, ensure fair treatment for workers, and offer flexible visa terms. These are all progressive ways to address the labor needs in sectors where Americans are less inclined to work, particularly in H-2A agricultural and H-2B non-agricultural roles.

As climate change continues to cause rising sea levels and more severe storms, the low-lying 1st Congressional District with its hundreds of miles of waterfront is regarded as especially vulnerable. What should Congress do to deal with this threat?

I see Congress’s role as encompassing legislation, representation, oversight, and budgeting. First, I do not agree that climate change is causing rising seas and severe storms. There is as much scientific evidence supporting this view as there is denying it. I am not a scientist and do not have all the answers regarding climate change. However, I believe that every individual should strive to minimize their carbon footprint.

In times of emergencies, we can enact state and federal emergency measures, appropriate funds for disaster relief, and ensure that the executive branch is effectively implementing FEMA. When elected, I would be actively involved in these emergency situations, ensuring that my constituents know I am there for them in every possible way, because that is what real leaders do.

What action, if any, would you favor to curb unlawful crossings at the United States’ southern border?

We haven’t had any significant legislation since the 1990 Immigration Act. First, we need to start by following current immigration laws. Modernizing our current immigration laws and increasing legal pathways for immigrants.

Controlling the borders and ensuring we have clear entry points to prevent unlawful entries, as well as enhancing border security and infrastructure, is extremely important. We need to implement humane detention alternatives and develop a humane way of treating immigrants. Background checks to ensure that we are not allowing criminals and rapists from other countries to come here and threaten our American way of life.

We must address the root causes of migration and work with countries that are the worst offenders. It is important to remember that this country was founded on immigration and that it is deeply rooted in the idea that America is a land of opportunity. We can only uphold the American dream when we approach these issues humanely and with compassion

Editor’s note: Baltimore Sun Media received this candidate’s responses on Aug. 13.

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Baltimore Sun Media’s voter guide allows candidates to provide their background, policy and platforms on issues, in their own words. Any questions or feedback can be emailed to elections@baltsun.com, or read more about the questionnaire process.