Libertarian Laura Delhomme, who is running for delegate in Virginia’s 47th district, aims to end the state income tax, enact marriage equality, end the failed War on Drugs, and remove state restrictions on means of transportation.
“Taxes are too high,” Delhomme said in a debate with her opponent, Democrat Patrick Hope. “That’s because Virginia’s state spending is too high. I want to reduce both.”
Earlier this year, the legislature and governor passed a massive tax increase with the support of both Republicans and Democrats, including Republican Gov. Bob McDonnell.
“If elected, I will file a budget bill that cuts state spending immediately by 25 percent or more,” she said. “That will allow us to end the income tax and give back, on average, more than $3,400 to each Virginia household — every year!”
Delhomme vows to file a bill to end marijuana prohibition in Virginia.
“By establishing drug prohibition, our government has taken a modest problem and turned it into a huge problem,” she said. “Now we have to deal with drug gangs and black markets, and taxpayers have to pay to keep thousands of people in jail. I want to end this nonsense. Ending marijuana prohibition will make our neighborhoods safe; respect the rights of peaceful, responsible marijuana users; and keep taxes down.”
Delhomme said that unnecessary state involvement in transportation drives up costs, reduces choice, creates congestion, and provides opportunities for corruption. The solution, she argued, is more free-market initiative.
“I oppose regulations that restrict the supply of taxis and restrictions against private buses and jitney services,” she said. “More transportation alternatives will make it easier and cheaper to get around, and it will create much-needed jobs.”
Delhomme aims to fund any necessary transportation projects, such as new roads or rail systems, by cutting government waste, not raising taxes.
“If elected, I would not raise any taxes, including fees, to pay for transportation solutions,” she said. “If more money is to be spent on transportation, I would get those funds by cutting spending on other programs.
“The state has more than enough money, and taxes are already too high,” she continued. “We need to end the habit of dumping high costs on taxpayers. This will keep more money in their pockets to take care of their families and will force lawmakers to cut government waste.”
To learn more, visit Laura Delhomme’s campaign website or Facebook page.
