Mr. Holcomb left us quite impressed with his vision. From school choice to anti-property tax stances, he firmly has set himself apart from Rep. Otto and the good old boy network. The discussion covered education, drug policy, the prison system, and taxation. As well as Rep. Otto's voting record, certain pieces of legislation that seemed to be in opposition to what one would consider a conservative viewpoint.
It was encouraging to hear the candidate speak of an upcoming meeting, with Debra Medina, to hammer out a more comprehensive plan on reducing and working towards the elimination of property taxes. His general idea is one based in truth, that property taxation is unconstitutional and against the very foundations of a free society, where one should be secure in his own property.
His views of cutting waste in education spending, as well as expanding the tax base, while making property taxes a possible onetime payment all seem like solid ideas.
When asked his views about polices on drugs and other issues, Mr. Holcomb made clear that we have many items in the state which are felonies that should only be misdemeanors. As for marijuana, he favors decriminalization over legalization. He went on to explain, while he would never condone anyone damaging him or herself via drug use, one cannot ignore the prison burden caused by such laws. In addition, the fact that what one chooses to do to their own body should not be punishable by felony charges.
When Ross Ward asked about Mr. Holcomb’s thoughts on Texas secession, his reply was quite impressive. He explained that he primarily believes that the Texas Nationalist Movement misses many steps. For one, the state has not tried to assert its independent rights very well thus far via the tenth amendment. The state has not yet attempted nullification. In other words, there many existing tools which have not been utilized to address the instances of federal over-reach into the state. To quote, "I believe there are several steps not addressed by Texas Nationalist Movement, as of yet, to be jumping directly to secession discussion."
Mr. Holcomb made clear his job is to work for the constituents in his district. Period. "I am elected to work for you, therefore, I'm not much interested in the opinions of the others", he stated.
Mr. Holcomb next expressed a very basic desire: for groups of citizens throughout the county to take part in discussions of the bills before congress and to provide him with feedback, so that the people of the district may guide him on his votes.
When asked about marriage, Mr. Holcomb made clear he does not support government being involved with marriage for anyone. He went on to promise that he will not vote yes on any attempt to further involve the state into marriage, whether it be concerning homosexuals or straight couples.
Overall, we are extremely impressed and fully support Mr. Holcomb in his bid to unseat Rep. Otto.
He will be speaking again November 8, 2013 at 7PM in the Dayton Civic Center for the RLC Meeting. We strongly encourage all members of the community to seek out this meeting or other upcoming events, which Mr. Holcomb will be attending, to hear his views.
In closing, the RLC would like to thank Mr. and Mrs. Brian Smith for opening their home to all of us to meet an become better educated on Mr. Holcomb's views and campaign.