Jasen Wunder
Candidate in Nov. 5 general election
Libertarian
Sykesville, Carroll County
Age: 42 on day of General Election (Nov. 5)
Occupation: Paramedic
Education: Associate of Applied Science Degree – Emergency Medical Services
Previous political experience: None.
Why are you running for office?
To implement term limits and reduce congressional pay to $69,000 annually. A representative should not earn more than twice their constituents’ salaries.
Do you believe, as President Joe Biden has said, that “democracy is on the ballot” and, if so, in what way?
Both sides employ this tactic to mobilize their supporters to vote. However, this approach fails to address the underlying issues, resulting in increased military conflicts, higher taxes, and diminished liberties for American citizens.
Will you accept the presidential election result once the totals have been certified by the states and any legal challenges adjudicated?
Yes. We need to get past this idea that if our side doesn’t win, the elections are rigged.
Do you support additional assistance for Ukraine’s military forces two years into Russia’s invasion?
No, you have the right to donate your money as you choose. However, someone in Washington does not have the right to send your money to a cause they believe. I would end all foreign aid and encourage individuals to donate their money in a way that aligns with their beliefs.
Should the United States be speaking out more clearly, as Maryland Sen. Chris Van Hollen has suggested, about civilian casualties in Gaza?
Absolutely, I understand Israel’s perspective. They want to eliminate an organization that poses a threat to their existence. This does not grant them the authority to kill innocent people that Hamas puts in their path.
Should Congress act to protect abortion rights following the Supreme Court’s 2022 Dobbs decision?
I can comprehend both perspectives on the issue of abortion. While I firmly believe that the government should not interfere in women’s personal decisions regarding their bodies, I also recognize that a fetus possesses fundamental human rights to exist. Consequently, I will abstain from voting on any legislation that aims to restrict or expand abortion access.
Constituents are increasingly expressing concern about suburban crime. What more can the federal government do to help?
Stop locking up nonviolent drug offenders. Instead, allow the police to concentrate on actual crimes that directly involve victims, such as assault, theft, murder, and rape.
How would you rate outgoing Rep. C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger’s performance over 21 years in office? And how would you compare or contrast it with your approach?
I would grade him an F. His policies have consistently endorsed continuous wars, restricted individual freedom, and burdened the middle and lower classes with increased taxes. My priorities include bringing all our troops home, closing every military base worldwide, reducing taxes across the board, particularly for the middle and lower classes, and ending the NSA surveillance programs. I have pledged to serve only one two-year term and accept a salary that is commensurate with the national average.
What action, if any, would you favor to curb unlawful crossings at the United States’ southern border?
I firmly believe in the free movement of people in and out of the country. In my opinion, border control should be left to the individual states.
Editor’s note: Baltimore Sun Media received this candidate’s responses on Aug. 18.
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