(Photo courtesy of Moe Barakat)
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EG: Thank you, sir, for being open to answering questions for The Easton Gazette. What inspired you to take this huge step and run for the United States Senate?
MB: As a businessman and a non-career politician, I've observed firsthand the troubling direction our
country has taken over the past few years. Economic conditions have deteriorated significantly, with inflation soaring and the cost of living escalating, severely impacting everyday Americans. Energy prices have risen drastically, placing a heavy burden on families trying to make ends meet. Furthermore, the situation at our southern border is unacceptable. Millions of illegal immigrants have entered our country unchecked, compromising our national security, escalating the drug crisis, and straining our resources. This unchecked influx and our open borders policy are not only threats to our national sovereignty but are also exacerbating crime rates and directly impacting our communities and children. These issues have placed an unsustainable strain on our ability to care for our citizens, effectively leaving many behind. We cannot claim to be a sovereign nation without a secure border. Additionally, I've witnessed troubling infringements on our rights, including freedom of speech and expression. Voices that express dissent are often censored, contributing to a polarized justice system that undermines the very foundation of our democracy. As a single father, these issues are not abstract but personal. I feel a profound responsibility to protect our country and ensure our children's safe, prosperous future. I'm stepping into this race to defend the liberties and rights that are the essence of our great nation. It's time to bring practical, experienced leadership to the Senate, someone who understands the real-world implications of policy and is committed to serving the people over politics.
EG: Do you think the healthcare needs of Maryland’s women and children are being met?
MB: While Maryland has made significant progress in healthcare, we still need to meet the healthcare needs of women and children fully. As a senator, I would prioritize addressing the gaps in care. This means advocating for better prenatal and postnatal care to ensure healthy outcomes for mothers and babies. Additionally, I will work to expand access to pediatric care, including mental health services, which are crucial for the development of our children. Another critical area is the affordability and accessibility of healthcare. I aim to support policies that lower healthcare costs and remove barriers to access, such as transportation or insurance coverage limitations. This includes advocating for more community health centers, vital in providing care to underserved areas.
EG: Illegitimacy and fatherless homes have become endemic in our society, creating great social
instability. I know that in some countries in the past, such as France, couples were monetarily
rewarded if they married before beginning a family. Do you see any practical way that we can
encourage young couples to marry before they begin their families?
MB: Addressing the issue of fatherless homes and enhancing societal stability requires a comprehensive
approach emphasizing financial incentives and educational awareness. Economic incentives, such as tax
or housing credits, can provide immediate, tangible benefits, encouraging young couples to marry
before starting families. These incentives can help stabilize the economic foundation of young families,
deciding to marry more appealing. However, the cornerstone of this approach must be robust educational programs. I propose integrating relationship and family planning education into high school curricula and community programs. These initiatives would equip young adults with the necessary skills and knowledge to manage healthy, stable relationships and responsible parenting.
Additionally, fostering a culture that values committed relationships through public awareness
campaigns can reinforce the benefits of stable family structures. By combining these educational efforts
with financial incentives like tax and housing credits, we can encourage young couples to marry before
starting families, leading to more excellent societal stability and improved outcomes for children.
EG: During the COVID-19 pandemic, do you think that certain experts like Dr. Fauci were given too much authority?
MB: During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Fauci and other leading health experts were entrusted with
significant authority to guide the nation through an unprecedented health crisis. While relying on expert advice is crucial, centralizing authority in a few individuals, especially when alternative expert opinions are sidelined, can lead to an imbalance. This can create unchecked authority that might not fully consider the multifaceted impacts of decisions. This became evident as measures were implemented that affected millions health-wise and their social, educational, and psychological well-being. Schools were closed, businesses shuttered, and everyday interactions were severely restricted, leading to long-lasting consequences. The psychological impact on individuals and the massive economic and financial damage were profound. Extreme caution often influenced decisions, which, while it might intend to safeguard health, also caused significant disruptions. As a senator, I advocate for a more balanced approach where diverse perspectives from multiple experts are considered to prevent the concentration of too much authority in any individual. This ensures that decisions are well-rounded and consider all societal impacts, not just the immediate health concerns. Such a balanced approach would help mitigate extensive secondary consequences in future crises.
Moreover, I will always support individual rights and freedom of expression to ensure a balanced understanding of crises. A complete, rounded set of medical opinions is vital to better managing any pandemic. A crisis should never reach a point where it infringes on individual rights, especially when decisions need a balanced perspective. Upholding these principles is crucial to managing any public health emergency effectively and respectfully.
EG: The opinions of physicians which differed from Dr. Fauci were not only ignored during the pandemic but treated with contempt. Do you see yourself being able to take a stand like Senator Rand Paul?
MB: As indicated in the previous answer, I respect the courage to challenge prevailing views when necessary. As a senator, I advocate for diverse expert opinions in public health decisions, ensuring robust debate and well-rounded policies.
EG: While many of us are glad Roe was overturned, we are still fighting the culture of death in our own state. Do you see anyway of persuading people into seeing other options to abortion?
MB: It's crucial to address the issue of unintended pregnancies and the choices facing individuals in these situations with comprehensive education and robust support systems. Education is a fundamental tool to help mitigate unintended pregnancies through early education on parenting, motherhood, and responsible relationships. These programs inform young people about the biological and emotional aspects of relationships and emphasize the associated responsibilities and consequences. For those facing unplanned pregnancies, we must establish a robust support system that can assist in all aspects of the decision-making process, including understanding the medical and psychological consequences of any procedure. This is crucial for making informed decisions that respect the individual's rights and well-being. Furthermore, expanding educational programs about women's health is essential to provide thorough information on the long-term effects on women's health. Knowledge empowers women to make decisions that are best for the future. Additionally, expanding understanding and accessibility of adoption options is essential. Providing comprehensive education about these options can help ensure that individuals facing unplanned pregnancies understand all available paths and can make informed choices. Maryland has established laws regarding abortion, but regardless of the legal framework, education on any subject is necessary for all to make informed decisions. By enhancing our educational efforts and support systems, we can better equip our citizens to handle these challenging situations with the dignity and knowledge they deserve.
EG: So many woke agendas are being pushed on students all over America. IF Trump wins and if
you win, could you see yourself working with Trump 47 to rid our schools of the DEI agenda?
MB: If elected, I would ensure that educational content is balanced and inclusive of all perspectives. I
would support measures that promote academic excellence and critical thinking over any particular agenda.
EG: Many of us are appalled by the Ivy League universities becoming the scene of anti-Semitic demonstrations. No one has to like Israel but the attacks upon Jews are reminiscent of the Nazis. How did we get to this point and how do we get out of it?
MB: The rise of anti-Semitism at our educational institutions is profoundly troubling and undermines
the core values of diversity and acceptance these institutions stand for. To combat this, it's crucial to understand the factors contributing to such hostility, including societal and political polarization and misinformation. Educational institutions must actively combat bigotry through comprehensive academic programs that teach the history of anti-Semitism, the Holocaust, and Jewish contributions to society. Additionally, universities must enforce strict policies against discrimination and hate speech, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all students. Promoting dialogue among diverse student groups through interfaith forums and cultural exchange programs can also help dismantle stereotypes and foster empathy. As a senator, I would support initiatives that enhance security for minority students and provide resources to combat hate crimes on campuses effectively. By addressing these issues proactively, we can begin to reverse the trend and uphold the integrity of our educational institutions.
EG: “Build Back Better” has never materialized. If you were in the Senate would you try to do
something about our infrastructure?
MB: As a senator, my approach to infrastructure goals would focus significantly on public-private
partnerships (PPPs). These partnerships are crucial as they leverage private sector efficiencies and help
manage costs more effectively, ensuring taxpayer money is used judiciously. I prioritize infrastructure projects that enhance individuals' lives, such as improving local transportation, ensuring clean water access, and expanding broadband coverage. These areas immediately affect citizens' daily lives and provide tangible benefits.
Furthermore, I am committed to advancing Maryland's interests by securing federal funding for these
critical infrastructure projects. Maryland must receive the support it needs to modernize and sustain its
infrastructure, vital for our state's economic growth and quality of life. Oversight is another crucial aspect of my infrastructure strategy. I will ensure that projects stay within budget and on schedule. Public-private partnerships are precious because they typically include mechanisms for better cost control and accountability, helping to avoid the budget overruns common in purely public projects. By focusing on these areas—leveraging PPPs, choosing projects with immediate community impact, advocating for Maryland's needs, and ensuring rigorous oversight—I aim to deliver infrastructure improvements that are both impactful and cost-effective, benefiting Maryland and setting a standard for the rest of the nation.
EG: What are the three most dire situations in America this spring of 2024?
MB: Economic Conditions and Inflation: The first and foremost issue is the deteriorating economic condition, marked by persistent inflation and a rising cost of living. Energy prices have surged, deeply affecting everyday Americans, from how they heat their homes to how they commute. These economic pressures are not isolated but impact various aspects of life, contributing to broader financial instability for families and businesses. As a senator, I would focus on implementing policies that address these economic challenges by stabilizing energy prices, enhancing the efficiency of our financial policies, and providing relief to those most affected by inflation.
Border Security and Community Safety: The second critical issue is the state of our national security, particularly concerning our southern border. The increase in illegal crossings has not only strained our resources but has also led to higher crime rates, including drug trafficking, which directly impacts community safety across the country. Effective border management is essential not only for controlling
immigration but also for curbing the influx of narcotics and reducing related crime. Strengthening our border security and enhancing law enforcement capabilities will be vital to restoring safety and security in our communities.
Political Division and U.S. Foreign Policy: Lastly, the intense political polarization is undermining the effectiveness of our government. This division affects every level of government and impedes our ability to enact policies that benefit all Americans. Furthermore, our foreign policy challenges continue influencing our
national security and economic stability. The U.S. must navigate international relations judiciously to protect our interests at home and abroad. My commitment would be to work towards bridging divides and fostering a more united political environment that prioritizes American citizens' well-being and freedom while promoting a foreign policy that safeguards our global interests and respects international partnerships.
These issues are interconnected, impacting not just isolated areas but the very fabric of our nation. Addressing them requires comprehensive solutions considering economic, security, and political dimensions to ensure all Americans' prosperous, safe, and united future. As a senator, I would prioritize these issues, advocating for policies that directly confront these challenges and work towards a more stable and inclusive America.
EG: Thanks so much, sir, for your honest answers which will help Marylanders get to know you as a candidate. I invite everyone to check out your bio, HERE.
