Just a couple weeks ago, after a spirited debate from party members, the Libertarian Party of Virginia nominated Rob Sarvis as its gubernatorial candidate. Prior to the special nominating convention, I got in touch with Mr. Sarvis, and he agreed to answer a few questions for this blog. If you like what he says, you can go to his website (http://www.robertsarvis.com) and find out more about helping collect signatures so he can get on the ballot. Below are my questions with his responses-- enjoy!
How would your past political experience inform your decisions as governor?
1) There are a lot of people out there yearning for the option to vote for someone who is reasonable, who knows how to find real solutions to the problems we face, who isn't looking for wedge issues to divide the electorate, who isn't in bed with big business or other vested interests looking for special treatment, who respects people's freedoms and individual rights and will protect their civil rights and civil liberties, who simply wants good, evidence-based public policy. The two major parties in Virginia today aren't interested in putting up candidates that fit that description. I am the only candidate who can represent all Virginians and seek out common ground between legislators in both parties on the basis of reason rather than ideology.
2) There are many ways in which the electoral system protects incumbents and the two major parties, and that should change. I would like to see some reforms, including the adoption of term limits in both houses of the legislature, a reduction in the number of ballot signatures needed for statewide races, and more.
3) Virginia voters generally identify three priorities: the economy, education, and transportation. Republicans and Democrats pay lip service to all three, but are totally unserious about enacting real solutions. My focus will be solely on enacting real solutions.
Transportation has been a hot button issue in Virginia for years. How do you propose to find long term and cost effective solutions to the congestion problems in Northern Virginia and the rest of the state?
How do you think Virginia could implement more elements of school choice, so that all students have a fair shot at a good education?