Q&A with Kairis

1. Why are you running for this office, whether for re-election or election the first time? Is there a particular issue that motivates you, and if so, what is that? What will be your main priority in office?

I am running for office to give the voters a better alternative to the two major parties. The problems caused by the political system installed by the parties and their inability to address the problems are the reasons I am motivated to run. My main priority will be to show the citizens they deserve better than the "lesser of two evils."

2. If you are an incumbent, describe your main contributions. Tell us of important initiatives you've led. If you are not an incumbent, tell us what contributions you would make.

I would like to address three main initiatives. The first would be to reduce the detrimental influence of large political contributors. I would propose legislation that would prohibit any state contracts to corporations or individuals who contribute more than $500 to any state level candidate. The second would be to initiate the replacement of property taxes on residential property with a locally controlled income tax. My third initiative would be to replace the current placement and advancement of students by their age with advancement by performance in the basic academic areas of study. Schools need to concentrate on the basics of reading, language arts, and mathematics skills at the early levels. Those students who can excel will be able to do so without being held back due to their age. This program also would allow faster assistance to those who fall behind.

3. Under what circumstances, if any, would you support raising the state income or sales tax? Please explain.

My proposal to replace the property taxes on residential property with an increase in income taxes would of course raise the income tax. The sales tax is one of the most regressive taxes and should not be raised.

4. Do you support the expansion of gambling by adding slot machines at racetracks? Do you favor licensing and building new casinos? Please explain.

There are a number of questions that need to be addressed before considering the expansion of gambling. The first is the actual cost to the state. The current gambling situation does generate revenue for the host areas. However, a vast majority of the gamblers are Illinois residents. That means that money spent, and lost, gambling can not be spent on other items such as movies, restaurants, or other businesses. That means the taxes that would have been paid on those venues is lost. How much sales and income tax revenue is lost to gambling? There have been too many instances of "back room deals", inappropriate influence peddling and other questionable decisions made regarding the gambling facilities. Even a 2004 report by the Illinois Attorney General raised questions regarding questionable ownership and favoritism in awarding licenses. There are a number of out of state owners of the gambling facilities. Have any studies been done yet documenting corporate profits that have been transferred out of state?

5. Would you support giving voters the ability to recall elected officials?

Yes. The current elected officials are the main reason as to why I would support it.

6. Did you support the suburban tax increases that were used to keep the public transportation trains and buses running without cuts or fare increases?

N/A

7. If you are elected, will you vote for the current party leader of your legislative chamber? Why or why not?

N/A

8. What do you think of the idea, widely circulated, of impeaching Gov. Blagojevich?

I believe it to be an outstanding idea and would be the first to support or introduce it if elected.