Questions & Answers With Kevin
Answers from Kevin Levy…
Hi I live in the district. Would you caucus with the democrats? Since there are not other independents?
Thanks for the question, Mike.
Yes. I will be caucusing with Democrats.
But if there is a policy proposal put forth by a Republican that addresses money in politics/campaign finance reform, powerful environmental legislation, a woman’s right to choose, or other ideals that I believe in, then they will have my vote. Will that ever happen? It remains to be seen.
This question came from Mike H. in Portland 97202.
Can you share your thoughts on Oregon's crumbling infrastructure? Do you have any plans for things like improved roads and schools?
Thanks for the question, Megan.
I believe transportation and water infrastructure are key to a smooth-running system. As revenue comes into our state I want to make sure that those dollars will be allocated to projects that help to repair our crumbling infrastructure that focuses on lasting for generations.
Other infrastructure items I want to spotlight are communication networks and renewable energy infrastructure such as wind and solar.
And for our everyday lives, roads, potholes, and recreation infrastructure are vital.
This question came from M. Ferrell of Portland, Oregon.
I'm hopeful that we can get free WiFi to all of our communities, but especially to rural communities... do you have any thoughts on this issue?
Hi Megan, Thanks for this important question.
Having free WIFI across our entire state in today’s age, especially in our rural communities is as important as ever.
They are the highways to success.
One of the reasons why WIFI was not readily available was there weren’t enough potential customers in rural areas to entice internet service providers (ISPs) to invest in building those networks.
I feel it is important to communicate with House of Representatives from rural communities to hear their concerns and needs so that we can do better to make sure rural Oregon has fast and reliable WIFI and broadband service.
Agriculture in rural areas may become one of the largest driving forces for broadband infrastructure.
This question came from M. Ferrell of Portland, Oregon.
What's your view on the second amendment? And how do you interpret it?
Hey Zachary,
For something that was written over 200 years ago, everyone’s interpretation can take many forms. Even the courts have multiple viewpoints.
I support common sense gun laws.
I feel the majority of Americans would like to keep it “well regulated” as the Second Amendment states. Though as long as the NRA and gun industries are allowed to dump millions into our election system to help purchase unqualified politicians into office to write policies on their behalf, then it will never be well regulated and we will never be able to allow for common sense gun laws.
Money in politics kills.
This question came from Zachary in Eugene, Oregon.
What is your position on covid vaccine mandates for attending school or as a requirement for employment and health benefits? Should we place mandates and restrictions on individuals who choose not to get the covid vaccines?
Hey Nate, This is a very important question.
I am not in favor of mandates. I feel it is important that people make their own decisions to best dictate their lives.
That being said, if a private business requires a vaccine card to enter their premises then I support their right to decide what’s best for their business.
If individuals choose not to get vaccinated, I would be opposed to any restrictions at a government level against them.
I believe in their freedom of choice. Though, unfortunately, they have come to the conclusion that vaccines are more harmful to them than the actual virus.
My platform for fighting COVID-19 is better education. Most importantly I would encourage residents NOT to listen to social media or “opinion” news to get their medical facts. Misinformation is a killer. If Oregon’s health authorities, your medical provider or the CDC recommends something then I will support those recommendations.
This question came from Nate in Oregon City, Oregon.
My questions about you and your ideas rest completely in your description of the party you represent. What does the Independent party stand for? Please include in your detail the parties goals and how you plan to help achieve them. Extra credit for summing up why you chose to join our party and what a win would mean for you and also the Independent party as a whole
Hey Philip,
Everyone on the board of the Independent Party of Oregon has their own unique opinions and ideas that they stand for. I can’t speak on behalf of each board member. But for the most part, we do agree on many of the core principles. The environment, education, housing and campaign finances reform.
You can go onto the Independent Party of Oregon website to see what their goals are and you can browse mine to see what I stand for.
I am a registered Democrat, and for the most part, I’ve always been a Democrat. But I feel running as an Independent allows me a powerful edge over anyone in Oregon’s House of Representatives to help bring people together. Better communication is the key to unlocking our gridlock. My goal is simple. Making Oregon’s House work more effectively.
This question came from Philip in Portland, Oregon.