Candidate Survey: Steven Wantz for House of Delegates, District 5
TheDuckpin.com Candidate Survey
Name *
Stephen Albert Wantz
Age *
64
Office Sought *
House of Delegates
County *
Caroll
District, if applicable *
5
Political Party *
Republican
Education *
Francis Scott Key High School / Western Maryland(McDaniel College)/ UMBC / University of Maryland Fire Rescue Institute / Baltimore County Fire Academy
Career/Occupation *
Baltimore County Fire Department / Carroll County Government / Wantz Lawn Care
Political Experience *
2 term Carroll County Commissioner 2014 to present
Social Media Accounts *
Facebook : Stephen Wantz
Website *
Why are you running for office? *
I will successfully complete 2 terms as Carroll County Commissioner. I am currently on the Board of Directors of the Maryland Association of Counties. I am on the Board of Directors of the Baltimore Metroplitan Council and immediate past chair. I owned a small business for 35 years. All of this experience leads to a high level of local government experience and ability to reach across the aisle and work with everyone to achieve what is best for this wonderful state. There are too many legislators that have zero experience in local government which leads to many negative decisions.
Who do you consider your political role model, and why? *
Ronald Reagan. Much like him I came from a background that did not include politics. As a firefighter I use common sense to ensure positive conclusions. I strongly believe in term limits and value the ability of positive people from various backgrounds who work together to achieve goals based on life experience.
What is your favorite book about politics and policy, and why? *
George W Bush Decision Points This book conveys my respect for life experienced individuals holding elected office. His critical decisions shaped his personal life which ultimately shaped his presidency.
What will be your top priority in office? *
As a moderate Republican in a strong Democratic assembly my learned ability to reach across the aisle and ensure decisions are based on the needs of all will be my priority.
What is the biggest issue facing your area? *
Carroll County is surrounded by the large metropolitan areas of Maryland. Our county's personality including ag preservation, low tax rates and growing population with increased governmental needs is an equation that is highly respected by all. The issue that one size does not fit all is crucial as I represent our county in Annapolis.
What are the three biggest issues facing Maryland? *
Tax burdens on citizens especially seniors, enhanced infrastructure needs especially transportation, and the one size fits all mentality in Annapolis that often leaves behind our rural counties.
What is your position on life issues? (abortion, assisted suicide) *
I have always had a strong pro-life stance. I do however support exceptions in cases of rape or incest. My concerns on assisted suicide: it creates a huge burden on physicians and their professional ethics, and I don't know how anyone can quantify their decisions on ending life as there is a fine line on people's morals and even the medical experts cannot agree so it is hard to give a firm answer. Both of these life issues require serious decisions and input by medical professionals.
What is your position on taxes and spending? *
I served two terms as Carroll County Commissioner and did not and fought back against tax increases. Spending should be accountable and verified.
What is your position on gun rights? *
I am a supporter of common-sense gun control. I have been in public safety for 47 years and fully understand the need to protect police officers. I support the second amendment as it pertains to self-defense inside the home. I am however in favor of background checks and have a difficult time understanding assault weapons. Common sense needs to prevail! I will listen to all ideas and concerns as the uptick in mass shootings is completely unacceptable.
What is your position on the legalization of marijuana? *
I am currently against the legalization of recreational marijuana but for medicinal marijuana. There is a myriad of unanswered questions that need to be addressed in reference to responsibilities and prohibition that will require a proactive approach to recreational use.
What is your position on the current three-tiered system for the sale and distribution of alcohol? *
I am fine with the current system and do have experience as a former liquor license holder. We are currently experiencing an increase in distillers, wineries, and breweries and it is important to protect this system to ensure tax revenues remain. Common sense tells me this three-tiered system works.
What is your position on land use, growth, and development? *
I have served on the Carroll County planning and zoning board as ex-officio for 4 out of my 8 years. I am very familiar with all of the above. I am for property rights and when inserted in the designated areas of growth with adequate facilities and infrastructure needs met, I respect all three areas as listed above. again, common sense management of land is crucial.
What is your position on crime and public safety? *
I am now on 47 years of public safety and you can find my vast experience in this field on my website. I am hard core for controlling crime to the most highest degree and ALL THINGS PUBLIC SAFETY is the number one priority of elected officials.
What is your position on county tax caps? *
I am in favor of county tax caps but am strongly for counties making their on decisions on these.
For candidates for the General Assembly: Legislators can receive $101 per day for lodging and $47 per day for meals during the 90-day General Assembly session. If elected, do you plan to accept these benefits? Why or why not?
I would have about a 90-minute commute to Annapolis so I may need to stay in town on some occasions based on meeting times. Lodging seems to be warranted. I do not believe I need a meal per diem.
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