Candidate Survey: John Zittrauer for Montgomery County Council, District 4

TheDuckpin.com Candidate Survey

Name *

John Zittrauer

Age *

39

Office Sought *

County Council

County *

Montgomery

District, if applicable *

4

Political Party *

Democrat

Education *

Current student, Montgomery College

Career/Occupation *

Hospitality Industry - Bartender/Server/Supervisor

Political Experience *

Involved in street level activism for years, now looking to make the transition to affecting change from the inside

Social Media Accounts *

https://twitter.com/JohnZittrauer; https://www.facebook.com/friendsofjohnzittrauer https://www.instagram.com/johnzittrauer/

Website *

https://www.friendsofjohnzittrauer.com/

Why are you running for office? *

I'm looking to represent the people in this county who work hard to make ends meet, who live below the median household income level. My goal is to help people with the most needs live securely in this county. That involves housing, jobs, and education.

Who do you consider your political role model, and why? *

Thomas Merton used his faith and understanding of community to inform his politics, incorporating ideas like pacifism and nonviolent resistance into a genuine love for all of humanity.

What is your favorite book about politics and policy, and why? *

All the President's Men shows that no one should be above accountability to constituents.

What will be your top priority in office? *

Ending homelessness in Montgomery County

What is the biggest issue facing your area? *

We're a county of great means, so no one should have to sleep on the street.

What are the three biggest issues facing Maryland? *

Housing, education, and healthcare for all

What is your position on life issues? (abortion, assisted suicide) *

I believe in bodily autonomy, from the ability to decide when to have children to the ability to die with dignity.

What is your position on taxes and spending? *

I believe those who are fortunate enough to attain great means also have the most responsibility to give back to the communities that made their wealth possible. This county tends to find the money necessary for its priorities, and I want to prioritize those at the bottom of the socio-economic ladder.

What is your position on gun rights? *

I support the right to own a gun as well as common sense regulation like the banning of "ghost guns" and the requirement of a permit to own any gun, regardless of type.

What is your position on the legalization of marijuana? *

I am for full legalization and automatic expungement of nonviolent drug convictions.

What is your position on the current three-tiered system for the sale and distribution of alcohol? *

I would like to see fewer restrictions on sales and distribution. I believe it would help our growing craft brewing businesses to have their products available in more locations.

What is your position on land use, growth, and development? *

The population in this county is growing; people coming in need a place to live and work. I support the plan to loosen restrictions on zoning to allow more people to live near transit.

What is your position on crime and public safety? *

Any conversation around crime that does not discuss poverty is incomplete; to that end, eliminating homelessness and guaranteeing a job for anyone able to work does more to reduce crime than overpolicing. I also want to end cash bail and end the criminalization of addiction.

What is your position on county tax caps? *

I like the idea of a "circuit breaker" instead of a firm cap, to ensure county programs remain fully funded while limiting the burden on taxpayers.

Was Joe Biden legitimately elected President of the United States in the November 2020 Election? *

Yes

Do you pledge to accept the results of your election? *

Yes