Adam Answers the Candidate Questionaire

[ronpaulhawaii]

Talked to Adam today, in the interests of efficiency it would be better to collect a bunch of questions, which I will forward for him to answer. Post questions here and I'll collect them on 4/22/09...

Thanks

[Kludge]

Opinion on Gay Marriage?

Should the U.S. intervene in genocides outside of the U.S.?

Should owners of child pornography be prosecuted?

Should drunk driving be illegal?

If you had the option, would you make it federal policy to deny public schools' ability to create "zero tolerance" gun bans on "their" property?

Do you believe there is an organized attempt to create a New World Order? If so, what do you believe the goals of that New World Order are, and how long do you believe such an effort has been happening?

Would you support dismantling the U.S. nuclear arsenal, and if so, under what conditions, and if not, would you ever consider using them?

What do you believe the role of government (if any) is?

Favorite type of cookie?

[Njon]

Should Roe v. Wade be overturned and the federal government kept out of social issues entirely? Should Congress pass the We the People Act?

Can the federal government only prosecute those crimes specifically enumerated in the Constitution (e.g., treason, piracy and other crimes on the high seas, crimes on federal territory, counterfeiting, etc.) as Thomas Jefferson discussed in the Kentucky Resolutions of 1798 (http://www.constitution.org/cons/kent1798.htm), and all other federal criminal statutes should be completely repealed as unconstitutional?

Seeing as how in the founders' day a 'jury' tended to know about, or be told about, their nullification powers, should Congress pass a law explicitly requiring all federal criminal juries to be informed about jury nullification?

Look at http://www.whitehouse.gov/administration/cabinet/ Which departments on that list should be abolished?

[muzzled dogg]

who do i make the check out to?

[heavenlyboy34]

For Adam-

How do you feel about the modern secessionist movement?
Do you agree that individuals and militias should have the legal right to own the same kind of weapons that the government does? (WMDs, tanks, RPGs, heavy arms, etc.)

[nayjevin]

would you vote your conscience or the will of your constituents, if they differ?

how would you have handled the Katrina rescue effort if it were in your state?

[nayjevin]

What is the difference between your policies and those of George Bush?

What is the difference between your policies and those of Barrack Obama?

What is the difference between your policies and those of Ron Paul?

[thasre]

What are your thoughts on a resolution to the problem of illegal immigration?
What can our country do to make legal immigration less burdensome?

I had more questions, but I can't think of any at the moment...

[DirtMcGirt]

Your favorite fiction book?

[He Who Pawns]

Do you have anything negative in your past that would be potentially embarrassing or campaign-ending if revealed?

This is the very first question any campaign manager would ask.

[nayjevin]

What accomplishments most qualify you for this office?

Do you have a sense of pride for this state? Would you put this state over neighboring states? What uniquely qualifies you to represent this state?

What is unique about this state which might make governing decisions different than that of, say California, Florida, New York, or Kansas?

[Sandra]

I like jaynevins questions. It would be great to apply them to all candidates so we'll know their stance .

[nayjevin]

who do i make the check out to?

this is still my favorite :)

[evilfunnystuff]

some awesome questions here

maybe you can get him to youtube the answers that would be cool and it couldnt hurt to have more kokesh vids out there

[evilfunnystuff]

one question i would have aside from the other great ones here is

How would you respond to an opponent/reporter trying to cast you in a negative light, based on your demotion and discharge for bringing a pistol from iraq to the us?

[AZ Libertarian]

What is Adam's stance on ASPARTAME. I know this to be a BIG ISSUE in New Mexico.

[Adam Kokesh]

Michael,

Thanks for getting this started. No need to collect the questions. I'm happy to be a part of this discussion directly.

RPF,

Thanks for even considering me running in 2010. It's something I've been seriously considering, and want to make the decision with the input of RPF because it's such a critical part of the movement. As I said to Kurt, “The main question for me now is whether or not it’s the right thing for the cause of freedom. We need rallying points going into 2010, and if this campaign can be one of them, I will step up. I would be asking for a lot of help from people all over the country and I have to make sure that this would be an effort worthy of their support.”

A lot of good questions have been asked here. Even from my detractors. He Who Pawns even raises some good ones, although in a demeaning manner that would suggest he has something against me personally, or maybe just Marines. I'll do my best to answer his legitimate questions too.

I will try to answer every single question, but not individually because there is some redundancy and overlap, but I will be checking in here, so if you think I missed something important, feel free to repeat it, PM me, or email me at adam.kokesh@gmail.com. If RPF doesn't think this run is a good thing for the movement, it probably isn't. I wouldn't go ahead without your support.

Love, faith, respect,

Adam

Opinion on Gay Marriage?

The government should be completely out of the marriage racket. “Marriage” is a sacred compact between individuals. The government should not be interfering in any way with individuals contracting by mutual consent.

Should the U.S. intervene in genocides outside of the U.S.?

If by the US, you mean our government, no. History has shown the governmental law of unintended consequences applies to all aspects of our foreign policy. If our government really wants to do something about genocide, it should focus on ending all of the ways in which it makes possible and promotes genocide. The only way the US should “intervene” in foreign conflicts, is by our own sovereign citizens sharing the wealth of a free society in such a way that alleviates the suffering associated with such conflicts and makes them less likely to occur.

Should owners of child pornography be prosecuted?

This is not a federal issue anyway, but generally the government should not be deciding the definition of pornography in such a way that can result in punishing individuals when the crimes associated with child pornography happen independently of the ownership, which may or may not even be encouraging the crimes. Those crimes of exploitation associated with child pornography should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

Should drunk driving be illegal?

Yes. Just as much as driving in any other condition that beyond a reasonable doubt puts the physical safety of others at risk. This needs to be very narrowly defined in the bigger sense of course so as not to interfere with the fundamental right to decide what you put in your own body.

If you had the option, would you make it federal policy to deny public schools' ability to create "zero tolerance" gun bans on "their" property?

While I believe in the absolute right to use appropriate force in self-defense and the right to keep and bear arms, I don't think this would be the right place to press and make progress on this issue. We have a lot of work to do in getting the federal government out of education and localizing school control, and that would be my priority. So, no.

Do you believe there is an organized attempt to create a New World Order? If so, what do you believe the goals of that New World Order are, and how long do you believe such an effort has been happening?

I think many of the claims of the level of organization are greatly exaggerated! I don't believe there are specific goals of the "NWO," but rather various forces that conspire to concentrate power in the hands of the power-hungry. In a way, those forces are as old as human society.

Would you support dismantling the U.S. nuclear arsenal, and if so, under what conditions, and if not, would you ever consider using them?

I would support dismantling the US nuclear arsenal and I think it's inevitable. We should do so as soon as we don't need them. And already, we have way more than we need to cover the globe, so I would support an immediate drawdown, but not complete dismantling. Hopefully, we can set an example. I would only use them if there was a clear and present danger to the American people that matched the scale of the damage caused by a nuclear weapon. It is difficult to imagine a likely case.

What do you believe the role of government (if any) is?

As a voluntarist, I would like America to be a society where what we call government is made possible by only interactions in which there is no violence, threat, or coercion. Some would say this is contrary to the definition of government. Fair enough. Until then and in order to make that possible, we should be striving to get our government back inside the roles prescribed in the Constitution.

Favorite type of cookie?

I believe as a politician, I'm obliged to say chocolate chip, or something all American like that. But the truth is, I'm a sucker for Samoas, the Girl Scout cookies.

Should Roe v. Wade be overturned and the federal government kept out of social issues entirely?

Abortion should be a states issue. Social issues entirely? Hard to say as you could call anything a social issue. As legislation, the Constitution clearly says what powers are enumerated to Congress, and I think most legislation passed these days regarding social issues is grossly unconstitutional.

Should Congress pass the We the People Act?

Yes. I think it should because it serves to decentralize power. I'm a localist.

Can the federal government only prosecute those crimes specifically enumerated in the Constitution (e.g., treason, piracy and other crimes on the high seas, crimes on federal territory, counterfeiting, etc.) as Thomas Jefferson discussed in the Kentucky Resolutions of 1798 (http://www.constitution.org/cons/kent1798.htm), and all other federal criminal statutes should be completely repealed as unconstitutional?

Yes! Anything else, would be a violation of the tenth amendment: The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.

Seeing as how in the founders' day a 'jury' tended to know about, or be told about, their nullification powers, should Congress pass a law explicitly requiring all federal criminal juries to be informed about jury nullification?

Sounds like a great idea! I would have to consider the exact mechanism, but I would think it an appropriate issue for Congress to address and would like to see juries informed of their duty of nullification.

Look at http://www.whitehouse.gov/administration/cabinet/ Which departments on that list should be abolished?

I hope this isn't a pop quiz on the legality of each one! I can at least tell you that my priorities for abolishing would be education, energy, commerce, and agriculture. Most of the rest should go eventually, but some need to be phased out carefully. There are aspects of our government that are outright criminal and should be ceased immediately. There are also many upon which we as a people have become dependent upon for basic services (a horrible dilemma) and we need to be weaned off them.

who do i make the check out to?

Believe me, you'll know when/if we start collecting checks!

How do you feel about the modern secessionist movement?

I feel pretty good about it! At some point secession may be the only way to restore liberty. Some think we've come to that point. I don't have any illusions about what the US itself is. There is only one thing sacred about this country, and it's not our flag, our military, our economy, our government, our Constitution, or even the Declaration. The only thing sacred about this country is the principle of liberty. I will fight for my principles first, my country second, my government last. Secession is an important tool of government accountability, but it is among the last that should be considered. I love my country and think its worth fighting for long before giving up on it.

Do you agree that individuals and militias should have the legal right to own the same kind of weapons that the government does? (WMDs, tanks, RPGs, heavy arms, etc.)

No. The right to keep and bear arms had the logical limit of the understanding of the day which was individually carried weapons. More importantly, I think it comes to appropriate proportionate use of force for defense. I would like to see that established as an absolute line in legislation, as most gun control laws cross that line, and are completely wishy-washy as to any underlying guiding principles. If we could restore the institution of the militia as our founders intended it, it should be allowed to have heavier weapons commensurate with its increased responsibility. I would do what I can as a Congressman, to make that possible.

would you vote your conscience or the will of your constituents, if they differ?

I would vote my conscience and the Constitution. If the founders intended our republic form of representative government to be nothing more than an aggregator of public opinion, it would look a lot different.

how would you have handled the Katrina rescue effort if it were in your state?

I would look to Ron Paul for guidance as a more experienced Congressman who has dealt with similar although smaller scale situations in his district.

What is the difference between your policies and those of George Bush?

I don't think God talks to me about policy.

What is the difference between your policies and those of Barrack Obama?

I don't think Marx talks to me about policy.

What is the difference between your policies and those of Ron Paul?

Not much. We are guided by the same principles.

I know those last three were serious questions, but each answer could be a book! Feel free to get more specific.

What are your thoughts on a resolution to the problem of illegal immigration?

In a nutshell, tall fences, wide gates. The security situation with the border is obscene. Securing the borders is a priority for me. At the same time, we need to create a generous guest worker program, separate from a path to citizenship, that acknowledges and does not try to interfere with the basic economic realities of eager employers and employees looking to exchange money for labor. Creating such a program will also reduce a lot of the pressure on the border making it much easier to secure properly.

What can our country do to make legal immigration less burdensome?

End the nanny state.

Your favorite fiction book?

Animal Farm. But I guess that doesn't count because it's only part fiction.

Do you have anything negative in your past that would be potentially embarrassing or campaign-ending if revealed? This is the very first question any campaign manager would ask.

Thank you He Who Pawns. This is a very important question, but it's probably the second that a campaign manager would ask. The first is usually, “how much money can you get?” I have had extensive conversations about this with people that would fall more into the consultant category, and I am not without my liabilities. The big one is having brought a pistol back from Iraq. It was a souvenir that I purchased from an Iraqi Police Officer, and I was in violation of General Order 1A. It's the same one that bans US Military Personnel in the Middle East from having pornography. I was demoted to Corporal from Sergeant as a result, right before getting out. You could say I was combining two of my favorite things, civil disobedience, and firearms. More importantly, as Chesty Puller said, “You're not a real Marine until you get busted down once or twice.” That's the only significant one that is public already, and I'm not too worried about it. I have a few small things like anyone else that could be embarrassing, (I've never been a fan of parking regulations) but nothing that would be campaign-ending.

What accomplishments most qualify you for this office?

Having served in combat and seen the pain caused by our criminal foreign policy, having made the connection of that to all victims of statism, and my passion that I draw from that experience combined with a proven dedication to the principles of liberty qualify me for this office.

Do you have a sense of pride for this state?

Yes. There's a reason it's called “The Land of Enchantment” and the people here are incredible.

Would you put this state over neighboring states?

It already is!

What uniquely qualifies you to represent this state?

It would be up to the voters of the district to decide if I am qualified to represent them as individuals.

What is unique about this state which might make governing decisions different than that of, say California, Florida, New York, or Kansas?

I would not be taking on any kind of governing authority for the state, so I'm not sure this is relevant. Feel free to rephrase, repeat, or expound.

What is Adam's stance on ASPARTAME. I know this to be a BIG ISSUE in New Mexico.

I know there was a bill here a few years ago to ban it, but I don't think it's a big issue still. I would be opposed to anything that interferes with the basic human right to decide what you put in your own body. When it comes to regulating food and drugs, the government should stay as far away as possible and the FDA needs to be phased out immediately, having been responsible for millions of deaths.

There were also some questions somewhere else about my potential opponent and there's some good info that I didn't know about on the page about the district at www.draftkokesh.com (http://www.draftkokesh.com). According to his financial disclosure forms, http://pfds.opensecrets.org/N00029562_2007_Nom.pdf his net worth is between $25m and $50m, the bulk of which is in something called, “NM Public Employees Retirement.” If someone could explain to me how that's possible, I'd appreciate it. If our hero here is referred to as “Dr No,” Ben Ray Lujan could be “Dr. Yes.” According to his voting record at Project Vote Smart, he's never voted against a significant piece of legislation that made it to the floor:
http://www.votesmart.org/voting_category.php?can_id=102842

[ronpaulhawaii]

:cool:

[kathy88]

Excellent read. We're really pulling for you Adam. We still need to know where to send the check :) I had a friend of mine watch one of your videos yesterday, two of her three sons are in the military right now. She loved it and was going to try to email it to them.

[Bruno]

Thank you very much for the responses, Adam! I saw you for the first time watching you speak at the Rally for the Republic and was impressed with your speech.

Looking forward to supporting you if you run! :)

[kathy88]

Are we free to cut/paste these questions and answers elsewhere? I'm linking the Kokesh pledge page with video on my blog, and I'd like to include this.

Thanks,

Kathy

[nayjevin]

Michael,

Thanks for getting this started. No need to collect the questions. I'm happy to be a part of this discussion directly.

RPF,

Thanks for even considering me running in 2010. It's something I've been seriously considering, and want to make the decision with the input of RPF because it's such a critical part of the movement. As I said to Kurt, “The main question for me now is whether or not it’s the right thing for the cause of freedom. We need rallying points going into 2010, and if this campaign can be one of them, I will step up. I would be asking for a lot of help from people all over the country and I have to make sure that this would be an effort worthy of their support.”

A lot of good questions have been asked here. Even from my detractors. He Who Pawns even raises some good ones, although in a demeaning manner that would suggest he has something against me personally, or maybe just Marines. I'll do my best to answer his legitimate questions too.

I will try to answer every single question, but not individually because there is some redundancy and overlap, but I will be checking in here, so if you think I missed something important, feel free to repeat it, PM me, or email me at adam.kokesh@gmail.com. If RPF doesn't think this run is a good thing for the movement, it probably isn't. I wouldn't go ahead without your support.

Love, faith, respect,

Adam


Excellent, thank you.


What is unique about this state which might make governing decisions different than that of, say California, Florida, New York, or Kansas?

I would not be taking on any kind of governing authority for the state, so I'm not sure this is relevant. Feel free to rephrase, repeat, or expound.I really meant 'legislative' decisions as opposed to 'governing'. Thought constituents might like to know what you believe the most pressing issues are there locally, and whether they differ from other geographical locations.


I know those last three were serious questions, but each answer could be a book! Feel free to get more specific.

Those answers satisfy me! I think it might make a good checklist or press release or something to compare your stances on major issues with these three, but doing that further here isn't at all necessary for me.

[Roxi]

thanks adam, great responses... you would make an excellent congressman IMO....


and thats not just because we have the same favorite cookie :D

[Njon]

Mr. Kokesh,

I'm pretty satisfied by your answers. Though on marriage, it would be good if you said you'd at least recognize the ability of states to handle the issue as they wish.

And I'm very impressed that you spoke about restoring the Constitutional militia. Next to ending the Federal Reserve, restoring the Constitutional militia is the most important thing our nation can do to prevent a police state.

[klamath]

Michael,

Thanks for getting this started. No need to collect the questions. I'm happy to be a part of this discussion directly.

RPF,

Thanks for even considering me running in 2010. It's something I've been seriously considering, and want to make the decision with the input of RPF because it's such a critical part of the movement. As I said to Kurt, “The main question for me now is whether or not it’s the right thing for the cause of freedom. We need rallying points going into 2010, and if this campaign can be one of them, I will step up. I would be asking for a lot of help from people all over the country and I have to make sure that this would be an effort worthy of their support.”

A lot of good questions have been asked here. Even from my detractors. He Who Pawns even raises some good ones, although in a demeaning manner that would suggest he has something against me personally, or maybe just Marines. I'll do my best to answer his legitimate questions too.

I will try to answer every single question, but not individually because there is some redundancy and overlap, but I will be checking in here, so if you think I missed something important, feel free to repeat it, PM me, or email me at adam.kokesh@gmail.com. If RPF doesn't think this run is a good thing for the movement, it probably isn't. I wouldn't go ahead without your support.

Love, faith, respect,

Adam

Opinion on Gay Marriage?

The government should be completely out of the marriage racket. “Marriage” is just a special name for a special type of contract. The government should not be interfering in any way with individuals contracting by mutual consent.

Should the U.S. intervene in genocides outside of the U.S.?

If by the US, you mean our government, NO. History has shown the governmental law of unintended consequences applies to all aspects of our foreign policy. If our government really wants to do something about genocide, it should focus on ending all of the ways in which it makes possible and promotes genocide. The only way the US should “intervene” in foreign conflicts, is by our own sovereign citizens sharing the wealth of a free society in such a way that alleviates the suffering associated with such conflicts and makes them less likely to occur.

Should owners of child pornography be prosecuted?

No. This is not a federal issue anyway, but generally the government should not be deciding the definition of pornography in such a way that can result in punishing individuals when the crimes associated with child pornography happen independently of the ownership, which may or may not even be encouraging the crimes.

Should drunk driving be illegal?

Yes. Just as much as driving in any other condition that beyond a reasonable doubt puts the physical safety of others at risk. This needs to be very narrowly defined in the bigger sense of course so as not to interfere with the fundamental right to decide what you put in your own body.

If you had the option, would you make it federal policy to deny public schools' ability to create "zero tolerance" gun bans on "their" property?

While I believe in the absolute right to use appropriate force in self-defense and the right to keep and bear arms, I don't think this would be the right place to press and make progress on this issue. We have a lot of work to do in getting the federal government out of education and localizing school control, and that would be my priority. So, no.

Do you believe there is an organized attempt to create a New World Order? If so, what do you believe the goals of that New World Order are, and how long do you believe such an effort has been happening?

Yes, but I think many of the claims of the level of organization are greatly exaggerated! I don't believe there are specific goals of the NWO, but rather various forces that conspire to concentrate power in the hands of the power-hungry. In a way, those forces are as old as human society.

Would you support dismantling the U.S. nuclear arsenal, and if so, under what conditions, and if not, would you ever consider using them?

I would support dismantling the US nuclear arsenal and I think it's inevitable. We should do so as soon as we don't need them. And already, we have way more than we need to cover the globe, so I would support an immediate drawdown, but not complete dismantling. Hopefully, we can set an example. I would only use them if there was a clear and present danger to the American people that matched the scale of the damage caused by a nuclear weapon. It is difficult to imagine a likely case.

What do you believe the role of government (if any) is?

As a voluntarist, I would like America to be a society where what we call government is made possible by only interactions in which there is no violence, threat, or coercion. Some would say this is contrary to the definition of government. Fair enough. Until then and in order to make that possible, we should be striving to get our government back inside the roles prescribed in the Constitution.

Favorite type of cookie?

I believe as a politician, I'm obliged to say chocolate chip, or something all American like that. But the truth is, I'm a sucker for Samoas, the Girl Scout cookies.

Should Roe v. Wade be overturned and the federal government kept out of social issues entirely?

Abortion should be a states issue. Social issues entirely? Hard to say as you could call anything a social issue. As legislation, the Constitution clearly says what powers are enumerated to Congress, and I think most legislation passed these days regarding social issues is grossly unconstitutional.

Should Congress pass the We the People Act?

Yes. I think it should because it serves to decentralize power. I'm a localist.

Can the federal government only prosecute those crimes specifically enumerated in the Constitution (e.g., treason, piracy and other crimes on the high seas, crimes on federal territory, counterfeiting, etc.) as Thomas Jefferson discussed in the Kentucky Resolutions of 1798 (http://www.constitution.org/cons/kent1798.htm), and all other federal criminal statutes should be completely repealed as unconstitutional?

Yes! Anything else, would be a violation of the tenth amendment: The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people.

Seeing as how in the founders' day a 'jury' tended to know about, or be told about, their nullification powers, should Congress pass a law explicitly requiring all federal criminal juries to be informed about jury nullification?

Sounds like a great idea! I would have to consider the exact mechanism, but I would think it an appropriate issue for Congress to address and would like to see juries informed of their duty of nullification.

Look at http://www.whitehouse.gov/administration/cabinet/ Which departments on that list should be abolished?

I hope this isn't a pop quiz on the legality of each one! I can at least tell you that my priorities for abolishing would be education, energy, commerce, and agriculture. Most of the rest should go eventually, but some need to be phased out carefully. There are aspects of our government that are outright criminal and should be ceased immediately. There are also many upon which we as a people have become dependent upon for basic services (a horrible dilemma) and we need to be weaned off them.

who do i make the check out to?

Believe me, you'll know when/if we start collecting checks!

How do you feel about the modern secessionist movement?

I feel pretty good about it! At some point secession may be the only way to restore liberty. Some think we've come to that point. I don't have any illusions about what the US itself is. There is only one thing sacred about this country, and it's not our flag, our military, our economy, our government, our Constitution, or even the Declaration. The only thing sacred about this country is the principle of liberty of which it is a symbol. I will fight for those principles first, my country second, my government last.

Do you agree that individuals and militias should have the legal right to own the same kind of weapons that the government does? (WMDs, tanks, RPGs, heavy arms, etc.)

No. The right to keep and bear arms had the logical limit of the understanding of the day which was individually carried weapons. More importantly, I think it comes to appropriate proportionate use of force for defense. I would like to see that established as an absolute line in legislation, as most gun control laws cross that line, and are completely wishy-washy as to any underlying guiding principles. If we could restore the institution of the militia as our founders intended it, it should be allowed to have heavier weapons commensurate with its increased responsibility. I would do what I can as a Congressman, to make that possible.

would you vote your conscience or the will of your constituents, if they differ?

I would vote my conscience. If the founders intended our republic form of representative government to be nothing more than an aggregator of public opinion, it would look a lot different.

how would you have handled the Katrina rescue effort if it were in your state?

I don't really know. I would look to Ron Paul for guidance as a more experienced Congressman who has dealt with similar although smaller scale situations in his district.

What is the difference between your policies and those of George Bush?

I don't think God talks to me about policy.

What is the difference between your policies and those of Barrack Obama?

I don't think Marx talks to me about policy.

What is the difference between your policies and those of Ron Paul?

Not much. We are guided by the same principles.

I know those last three were serious questions, but each answer could be a book! Feel free to get more specific.

What are your thoughts on a resolution to the problem of illegal immigration?

In a nutshell, tall fences, wide gates. The security situation with the border is obscene. Securing the borders is a priority for me. At the same time, we need to create a generous guest worker program, separate from a path to citizenship, that acknowledges and does not try to interfere with the basic economic realities of eager employers and employees looking to exchange money for labor. Creating such a program will also reduce a lot of the pressure on the border making it much easier to secure properly.

What can our country do to make legal immigration less burdensome?

End the nanny state.

Your favorite fiction book?

Animal Farm. But I guess that doesn't count because it's only part fiction.

Do you have anything negative in your past that would be potentially embarrassing or campaign-ending if revealed? This is the very first question any campaign manager would ask.

Thank you He Who Pawns. This is a very important question, but it's probably the second that a campaign manager would ask. The first is usually, “how much money can you get?” I have had extensive conversations about this with people that would fall more into the consultant category, and I am not without my liabilities. The big one is having brought a pistol back from Iraq. It was a souvenir that I purchased from an Iraqi Police Officer, and I was in violation of General Order 1A. It's the same one that bans US Military Personnel in the Middle East from having pornography. I was demoted to Corporal from Sergeant as a result, right before getting out. You could say I was combining two of my favorite things, civil disobedience, and firearms. More importantly, as Chesty Puller said, “You're not a real Marine until you get busted down once or twice.” That's the only significant one that is public already, and I'm not too worried about it. I have a few small things like anyone else that could be embarrassing, (I've never been a fan of parking regulations) but nothing that would be campaign-ending.

What accomplishments most qualify you for this office?

Having served in combat and seen the pain caused by our criminal foreign policy, having made the connection of that to all victims of statism, and my passion that I draw from that experience combined with a proven dedication to the principles of liberty qualify me for this office.

Do you have a sense of pride for this state?

Yes. There's a reason it's called “The Land of Enchantment” and the people here are incredible.

Would you put this state over neighboring states?

It already is!

What uniquely qualifies you to represent this state?

It would be up to the voters of the district to decide if I am qualified to represent them as individuals.

What is unique about this state which might make governing decisions different than that of, say California, Florida, New York, or Kansas?

I would not be taking on any kind of governing authority for the state, so I'm not sure this is relevant. Feel free to rephrase, repeat, or expound.

What is Adam's stance on ASPARTAME. I know this to be a BIG ISSUE in New Mexico.

I know there was a bill here a few years ago to ban it, but I don't think it's a big issue still. I would be opposed to anything that interferes with the basic human right to decide what you put in your own body. When it comes to regulating food and drugs, the government should stay as far away as possible and the FDA needs to be phased out immediately, having been responsible for millions of deaths.

There were also some questions somewhere else about my potential opponent and there's some good info that I didn't know about on the page about the district at www.draftkokesh.com (http://www.draftkokesh.com). According to his financial disclosure forms, http://pfds.opensecrets.org/N00029562_2007_Nom.pdf his net worth is between $25m and $50m, the bulk of which is in something called, “NM Public Employees Retirement.” If someone could explain to me how that's possible, I'd appreciate it. If our hero here is referred to as “Dr No,” Ben Ray Lujan could be “Dr. Yes.” According to his voting record at Project Vote Smart, he's never voted against a significant piece of legislation that made it to the floor:
http://www.votesmart.org/voting_category.php?can_id=102842
Thank you Adam! I agree with very much of what you stand for with a few exceptions.
This question has been brought up on these forums in the past. Some of us felt a little uncomfortable with the part of your speech at Saint Paul that talked about watering the tree of liberty. (with Blood?). I myself served in Iraq as did my son who as a marine spearheaded the assault on Fallujah. I believe wars are one of the worst insanities mankind has invented. No, I am not a pacifist as I believe there are times man must fight but I believe that it must be the last, last, last possible resort. The mention of violence in our movement sets my teeth on edge.
Please elaborate on your thoughts on this?

[Kludge]

Wow. Very impressive answers! You have what I can give (well, split between you and BJ if he runs...).

:cool: :D

[specsaregood]

Adam, thank-you for coming here to answer the questions directly.

My question is about character and convictions. It is easy to say the right things when campaigning or considering campaigning; but it is an entirely different thing to follow through once elected -- this is why many of us support Ron Paul. He has proven his convictions through his actions.

So my question: What makes you think that you could follow through and remain principled if elected? I would like to say that I could do the same thing as Ron Paul -- turn down the bribes, lobbyists and "easy" votes if I was elected; but I also realize that once elected it would get really hard to follow through and I have my doubts on whether I could resist all the temptations thrown at elected officials in exchange for votes. I'm sure that more than a few politicians got into politics for noble reasons and were corrupted by the environment; why would you be different?

Thanks again.

[thasre]

So... when do we do a money bomb? ;)

[JoshLowry]

Great answers. Thanks Adam.

Pledge if you have not yet!

http://www.ronpaulforums.com/kokeshad.png (http://www.draftkokesh.com/)

[ronpaulhawaii]

Are we free to cut/paste these questions and answers elsewhere? I'm linking the Kokesh pledge page with video on my blog, and I'd like to include this.

Thanks,

Kathy

Cut and paste away. Thanks :)

And maybe all the readers here can get at least one friend to sign up, today

;):D

[Epic]

Run for Congress... that's an order...

You had me at "as a voluntaryist..."

[asimplegirl]

Well, I cannot necessarily put money behind anything right now, but I must say that after learning about Mr. Kokesh the last few days, I am very excited about him filling any role that he is able to.

I have confidence in him.

BTW, Adam, there is a samoa ice cream made by Edy's right now as a limited edition thing, just so you know. :)

[He Who Pawns]

Thank you He Who Pawns. This is a very important question, but it's probably the second that a campaign manager would ask. The first is usually, “how much money can you get?” I have had extensive conversations about this with people that would fall more into the consultant category, and I am not without my liabilities. The big one is having brought a pistol back from Iraq. It was a souvenir that I purchased from an Iraqi Police Officer, and I was in violation of General Order 1A. It's the same one that bans US Military Personnel in the Middle East from having pornography. I was demoted to Corporal from Sergeant as a result, right before getting out. You could say I was combining two of my favorite things, civil disobedience, and firearms. More importantly, as Chesty Puller said, “You're not a real Marine until you get busted down once or twice.” That's the only significant one that is public already, and I'm not too worried about it. I have a few small things like anyone else that could be embarrassing, (I've never been a fan of parking regulations) but nothing that would be campaign-ending.

Thanks. Sounds about right. Who gives a fuck about the pistol thing - that is not damaging, IMO. Anyone would like to do the same in a war zone. Tons of military people have tried this. I brought back bags full of souvenirs from the first Gulf War, when things were less locked down.

Two more:

Do you have the funds to support yourself through a long campaign, and dedicate yourself fulltime to the effort?

You're not a 911 Truther, are you?

[JoshLowry]

Do you have the funds to support yourself through a long campaign, and dedicate yourself fulltime to the effort?

I think he will be looking to us for donations. I'll give what I can!


You're not a 911 Truther, are you?A 911 Truther asked Adam what he thought here:

youtube.com/watch?v=5ft2JWoJeYw

Paraphrased:
We are no where near the truth. Conspiracy theories are speculations. No one knows what really happened. I'm speculative, but the point, we've been lied and manipulated to. Even more important is realizing that the day has been used against us in so many bullshit ways.

[He Who Pawns]

I think he will be looking to us for donations. I'll give what I can!

For his personal life? Or for the campaign? I'm asking if he personally has the loot to take a year off and campaign fulltime.


A 911 Truther asked Adam what he thought here:

youtube.com/watch?v=5ft2JWoJeYw

Paraphrased:

Politicians need to be DEAD clear that 911 was not an "inside" job or any type of conspiracy where the US government itself attacked our own people, or they have zero chance of getting elected. In fact, such nonsense severely damages the cause of liberty, as we saw happen in the GOP debates when Dr Paul literally had to beg on national TV for 911 Truthers to stop using his candidacy to promote their absurd cause.

911 Truth = Doomed candidacy for Adam. I cannot stress this strongly enough.

[JoshLowry]

For his personal life? Or for the campaign? I'm asking if he personally has the loot to take a year off and campaign fulltime.

I always thought that you lived off the donations for that year because one would be campaigning full time.

[He Who Pawns]

I always thought that you lived off the donations for that year because one would be campaigning full time.

Hehe. I don't think so. But I guess if the candidate can live frugally enough it can be justified. Just a "salary" as a "candidate" I guess.

[Theocrat]

Do you agree with John Adams when he stated, "[W]e have no government armed with power capable of contending with human passions unbridled by morality and religion... Our constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other" (Source: John Adams, The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States, Charles Francis Adams, editor [Boston: Little, Brown, and Co. 1854], Vol. IX, p. 229, October 11, 1798.)?

[He Who Pawns]

Do you agree with John Adams when he stated, "[W]e have no government armed with power capable of contending with human passions unbridled by morality and religion... Our constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other" (Source: John Adams, The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States, Charles Francis Adams, editor [Boston: Little, Brown, and Co. 1854], Vol. IX, p. 229, October 11, 1798.)?

Theo, what do you want him to do, endorse some BS religious Amendments or something?

BTW, it's not really the immorality of people that is the cause of our troubles, it's their laziness and desire for socialism and redistribution.

[Theocrat]

Theo, what do you want him to do, endorse some BS religious Amendments or something?

BTW, it's not really the immorality of people that is the cause of our troubles, it's their laziness and desire for socialism and redistribution.

I'm just interested in his worldview when it comes to the nature and heritage of our republic.

By the way, I didn't know your name was "Adam Kokesh".

[nayjevin]

bump

[Adam Kokesh]

Thanks for keeping the questions coming!I'm grateful to have a piece of the brainpower of RPF put towards helping me out here. So here's my thinking on the next batch:

Are we free to cut/paste these questions and answers elsewhere?

Absolutely! My policy as an activist and speaker has been to do everything for free or at cost for the cause, including most of the graphic design work that I do. I get paid gigs and jobs every now and then and so far it has been enough for me live off. One of the greatest benefits of having been in the Marines is having a really low standard for standard of living. I spent most of 2007 couch-surfing (homeless) in order to keep active and was happy and comfortable doing so. Anyway, as it sort of says on my blog, everything I do is creative commons, so repost away!

Some of us felt a little uncomfortable with the part of your speech at Saint Paul that talked about watering the tree of liberty. (with Blood?). . . . I believe there are times man must fight but I believe that it must be the last, last, last possible resort. The mention of violence in our movement sets my teeth on edge. Please elaborate on your thoughts on this?

I agree with you that violence should only be the last resort, and I thought I mentioned that clearly enough in my remarks in St Paul. It is the commitment that physical resistance requires that we must have NOW in order to minimize, or make entirely unnecessary, any future violence. But make no mistake, there is already incredible violence being committed AGAINST our movement and the first blood in our generation's fight against statism has already been spilled. My good friend and fellow IVAW member Nick Morgan was trampled by a police horse at Hofstra and required facial reconstructive surgery. The tree is being watered as we speak by resisters throughout this country. Fortunately, a drop of patriot's blood is worth a gallon of a tyrant's for nourishing the tree of liberty.

What makes you think that you could follow through and remain principled if elected? . . . I'm sure that more than a few politicians got into politics for noble reasons and were corrupted by the environment; why would you be different?

I would hope that my record as an activist has demonstrated my commitment to principles, but there will always be those that don't consider it enough or are not familiar with the risks that I've taken and the sacrifices that I have made for the cause, and they need to be convinced as well. I hope that I can demonstrate through my analyses of various issues to be philosophically consistent in a way that inspires that essential confidence. I think someone asked me somewhere else what motivates me. Aside from the basic argument from morality and the tragedies of our violence-based society, I have to admit, I am motivated by the glory. By that I mean the respect of people that I respect. I am not motivated by the money, or the power, or even the fame (except as necessary for glory!) and I would never want to be more famous than respected.

So... when do we do a money bomb?

You'll know. ;)

Do you have the funds to support yourself through a long campaign, and dedicate yourself fulltime to the effort?

I have a meager savings in gold and silver and have managed to support myself with the occasional speaking honorariums and paid graphics jobs. See answer to first question.

You're not a 911 Truther, are you?

No, I'm a 9/11 Liar! J/K I think this was addressed, but just to be perfectly clear: We don't understand completely what happened on 9/11 because the government has withheld certain information and evidence. Until we have that disclosed in a more open fashion, any theories about what happened on 9/11 are speculation.

Do you agree with John Adams when he stated, "[W]e have no government armed with power capable of contending with human passions unbridled by morality and religion... Our constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.”

Yes I do. Part of the take-away from this is that government cannot legislate morality or religion. I would just hope that in this day and age we can embrace the respect for religious freedom that our founders fought for and entrust each individual to define it for themselves in such a way that appropriately bridles “human passions” and only interfere with their lives when those passions become an intrusion on the life, liberty, or property of others.

[LATruth]

You're not a 911 Truther, are you?



Yeah, because having someone who wants the TRUTH would be so bad in office. We ALL know the "official story" is a lie. Why do we continue to belittle those that seek the truth? Not seek conspiracies, but TRUTH.

The Orwellian state we live in has made the word conspiracy and untouchable pariah, don't think for a second that it wasn't planned to be that way, or plotted, or conspired.

You guys are starting to make me ill to my stomach.

[Working Poor]

thanks adam, great responses... you would make an excellent congressman IMO....


and thats not just because we have the same favorite cookie :D

Congressman:confused: I was hoping you were running for President so I could vote for you...

[Working Poor]

Are you too young to be President?

[LATruth]

You have to be 35 years old to be eligible for President.

[Gaius1981]

Would you consider "Happy Gilmore" your finest achievement?

[bucfish]

Would you run as a REPUBLICAN?

[phill4paul]

Good answers Adam. Be honest, and don't play the rhetoric game ... Be a statesman, not a politician. Win or lose, you will spread an honest and appropriate message, so long as you stick your principles, and ignore the know-it-all's who tell you how you should behave. :cool:

+1

[nayjevin]

btw adam I can't express how impressed I am with your answere to these questions.... keep being honest, don't compromise your message - politics are changing imo- what you are saying is popular, and very respectable.

[ClayTrainor]

btw adam I can't express how impressed I am with your answere to these questions.... keep being honest, don't compromise your message - politics are changing imo- what you are saying is popular, and very respectable.

Same here.

Adam,

I know for a fact that you will be a force to be reckoned with if you run. I will work my ass off for you as well man.

I'm trying to come up with a couple of unique concepts for 30 second TV Spots. I'll definitely be putting my marketing brain to work for you man :cool:

Anyways, I really hope you run. Just thinking about it gets me excited and ready to work :cool:

[He Who Pawns]

Wow, that's messed up. All the 911 Truth question stuff just vanished from this thread.

[LATruth]

Wow, that's messed up. All the 911 Truth question stuff just vanished from this thread.

Because your ad hominem attacks are quite pathetic.

[ClayTrainor]

If you guys want to continue discussing this 911 issue, go to the Vent

http://www.ronpaulforums.com/showthread.php?t=190389

Lets not turn this into a 911 debate thread :)

[phill4paul]

Edited for miss-placed joke. Sorry.

[nayjevin]

Because your ad hominem attacks are quite pathetic.

What's that?

http://i44.tinypic.com/353edsi.jpg

[Kraig]

For whatever it's worth I am now 100% sold on Adam and will do what I can to help get him elected. :D

[Paulitical Correctness]

This is the second most excited I've been over a run.

[Bill M DC]

Thoughts on slave reparations for PROVABLE descendants of slaves in the form of truly equal primary and secondary schooling and full college scholarship and free tutoring etc. to all takers.

I do not in any way believe in a nanny state but I do believe we have a debt with interest that remains unpaid.

[Kludge]

Thoughts on slave reparations for PROVABLE descendants of slaves in the form of truly equal primary and secondary schooling and full college scholarship and free tutoring etc. to all takers.

I do not in any way believe in a nanny state but I do believe we have a debt with interest that remains unpaid.

Indeed.

The United States owes well over one-million square miles of land to the Natives.

[Kraig]

Thoughts on slave reparations for PROVABLE descendants of slaves in the form of truly equal primary and secondary schooling and full college scholarship and free tutoring etc. to all takers.

I do not in any way believe in a nanny state but I do believe we have a debt with interest that remains unpaid.

Not only does this open a can of worms with no end in sight (see native American comment) but the descendants themselves were never slaves and those who would be forced to pay for their scholarship were never slave owners. There is no moral justification for this.

[Bill M DC]

Indeed.

The United States owes well over one-million square miles of land to the Natives.

Agreed...

[CUnknown]

I have a question. First let me say that I am 100% behind your run and will participate in the money bomb(s) regardless of your answer!

But, seeing as you live in a Democratic district, your answer here may be important. I'd like to know your opinion on global warming, alternative energy, cap & trade, and/or a carbon tax.