Kerry Bentivolio for U.S. Congress 2012

Why I am Running: the System is Broken, the Economy is Broken, and Corruption is the Cause

I recognize that our current system of government and our financial system are broken. They are broken because the rule of law and many of our rights, which are supposed to be guaranteed by our Constitution, have been lost.

The “little guy” has lost his voice because it has been drowned out by moneyed interests, be they banks or other industry.

Most people do not begrudge others’ their fortunes and success when it has been earned in a legal manner. Yet, most folks are rightly outraged when certain persons steal from the general populace by either engaging in illegal activity or purchasing special exceptions to the laws that apply to the rest of us. When certain persons buy favoritism from elected officials and profit off of our hard work, we all ought to be outraged. This is not capitalism, it is fascism.

I intend to put the common man’s voice back into our government and for it to be on equal footing with that of those who wield big money. This is what our founders intended. Everyone has concerns and no one’s concerns are more important because they come with money attached.

I will return government power to the people by:

1. Making my office completely open and transparent.
 

2. Initiating a commission that will expose the cronyism that is at the root of our financial system’s and government’s corruption.
 

3. There will be prosecutions of those who have broken the laws. Our system only works of laws are applied EQUALLY TO EVERYONE. This means the laws that apply to the “little guy” also apply to those who, with their big money, are able to buy a Congressman.
 

4. I can’t be bought. I am here to equally represent everyone in the 11^th District of Michigan, not just those with money. If someone with a lot money agrees with my stance on an issue, they are welcome to contribute. If someone with relatively little money agrees with my stance on an issue, they are welcome to contribute as much effort or money as they are able. Be assured, though, I will not change my stances based on who offers to pay me off.
 

5. More government is not the answer to a failure of government; therefore, I will work to minimize the power of government over the everyday lives of the citizens of the 11^th District. Everyone has the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, without government interference.