hollywoodtone.blogspot.com Interview with Andrew Pontbriand, candidate for Mass Senate
hollywoodtone.blogspot.com Interview with Andrew Pontbriand, candidate for Mass Senate
Worcester - Andrew Pontbriand announced his candidacy for the Massachusetts Senate earlier this month. He will be running in the Worcester-Norfolk district as a Libertarian candidate.
Pontbriand and Republican Ryan Fattman will both be attempting to unseat Democratic Party incumbent state Senator Richard Moore who has held the seat for eight terms. Pontbriand’s activism related to his support of the Second Amendment, opposition to sections of the National Defense Authorization Act, as well as his vocal opposition to the attempted U.S. war in Syria has garnered him some notoriety in activist circles. He is a regular contributor to The Activist Post as well as other activist related outlets. Though Pontbriand does not identify as being a part of the Anonymous collective, he has been supportive of some efforts undertaken by the activsts. On February 20, Pontbriand will be at the Big Bunny Market in Southbridge collecting signatures in support of his candidacy. Pontbriand interviewed with Digital Journal, shedding some light on his background, campaign, beliefs, and finances. Interview OK, Andrew tells us what prompted you to run the state Senate?
I decided to run for State Senate because I can no longer sit on the sidelines. Freedom is too important to me, and I believe people in my District, and in fact the entire state, are looking for 21st century solutions to the problems inherited from the 20th century. I am excited and honored to run as a Libertarian.You’re turning it into a three party race, how do you feel your chances are running under the Libertarian ticket?
I believe my chances are as good as Sen. Richard Moore, and Rep. Ryan Fattman's, with the exception of our lack of funds. We are just happy I will be able to be a part of the conversation, and at the end of the day the voters will choose.So why should someone vote for you? What makes you different than any other politician?
Well that question is complex as people generally vote their party line. However, Republicans and Democrats have held office from the lowest levels up to the Presidency for over 140 years, and no improvements have been made. People are looking for someone who defends the Constitution, and makes the tough choices that will improve the economic situation.Have you taken money from any special interest groups? What about donations from corporations?
As of right now, my campaign is completely grassroots and I have not yet filed for campaign donation eligibility. As far as corporate donations go, I do not affiliate myself with special interest groups, this is what I will be fighting on the Hill.Just to give the readers a quick rundown on your stances, you are pro-gun, pro-pot, anti-tax, anti-NSA, anti-TSA and pro-transparency. Is that correct?
A screenshot from Massachusetts Senate hopeful Andrew Pontbriand's Facebook page.
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That is correct. I believe in maximum freedom, maximum prosperity, and maximum transparency in government. Our decisions should be made closer to home.It’s the pro-transparency issue that caught my eye. On your site, you say you would propose a new law that gives citizens a reasonable amount of time to view the proposal before it is passed. Could you tell us a little bit more about that, and why you feel we need it?
I think far too many restrictive laws and regulations are put on the books every year both at the State, and Federal Level. I would propose a new measure that would give citizens a transparent view, and layman's understanding of proposals. Politicians represent the people, and it should at least seem that way; because the current political climate does not reflect any form of transparency.You have some affiliations with activist groups that some might call extreme. Care to comment on that? [It was clear from earlier conversations with Mr. Pontbriand that the interviewer was specifically referring to the Anonymous collective]
I work alongside any groups that support freedom and liberty.What will the number one priority be if elected?
My number one priority is the economy. Massachusetts is known as "Taxachusetts," and this needs to change. With a poor economy you cannot have freedom, as the disenfranchised give up and the few who benefit ignore the iceberg in the water. To be more specific, I would repeal the gas tax, seek to eliminate the State income tax, and limit State purchases of Militarized Police equipment. These are just some of the measures I have in mind economically I think most people in my district I have spoke to agree with.If someone wants to get involved with your campaign, what can they do?
If anyone wants to get involved locally they can visit the website and just send us an e-mail. As a third party, we can sure use any support. We should also have a donations site up by March 1st.Do you have anything else you would like to tell the readers?
I would just ask the readers to support any and all candidates who are challenging the status quo. We are in some amazing times, and only an informed, energized public willing to make tough choices can help restore liberty, freedom, and prosperity.
hollywoodtone.blogspot.com Interview with Andrew Pontbriand, candidate for Mass Senate