Volunteer Spotlight: March 2018

Harry I: Eastern Shore Team Leader

​Harry I. joined Represent Maryland after the 2016 presidential elections. He was a big supporter of Green Party candidates and, since one of the reasons he supported them is because they typically do not take big money donations, joining Represent Maryland was a natural step in his political activism. 

​Harry was the first treasurer of RepMD and helped us get up and running as a PAC with the State of MD. He also helped put on our RepDay2017 event and has helped by doing a lot of research since joining. Harry leads base building actions across the Eastern Shore, such as canvases and door knocks. We are happy to have you as a part of our group, Harry!

Name: Harry I
City: Centreville, MD
Age: 33
Time with RepMD: 1.5 years

How did you find out about RepMD?
Through RepMD Leader Cristi D.

What made you want to volunteer with RepMD?
After donating time to the Green Party, it was pretty clear to me that an anti-corruption movement was the way to go for real reform for a government that stood for all citizens. Represent Maryland is the best anti-corruption movement for Maryland with how it incorporates proven strategies to get its job done.

Why do you think getting big money out of politics is important?
Our politicians are practically forced to turn to big money sources for funding to compete. This gives them the bias to benefit the source of their funding, which may not be in the best interests for all of their constituents (and in many cases disadvantage or harm them). Removing big money sources as much as possible will be better for the welfare and interests of the population at large rather than 'big money' sources.

What is your favorite provision of the AACA and why?
My favorite portion of the AACA is the one that seeks to eliminate lobbyist bundling. By itself, it would make our politician's bias more clear. In conjunction with the rest of the AACA, I believe it would reduce the influence of "big money's" lobbyists.

Besides fighting corruption, what else do you like to do?
I like to do workout and yoga classes at my local YMCA. I also take part in Micah Ministries (a refugee assistance program) through St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Centreville when I can.

What do you think the biggest problem our country is facing is?
The military industrial complex is the biggest problem facing our society out of a large list of problems. 'Defense spending' is the largest part of our budget and it has run out of control.

Anything else you'd like us to know?
As the former Treasurer for Represent Maryland, I'm now looking into resuming my education and buying a home.