Matthew T. Famiglietti (D)
Office Sought: U.S. House, District 8 (D)
Age: 57
Residence: Falls Church.
Education: BA, political science, College of Charleston; JD, University of South Carolina School of Law.
Occupation: Attorney, Law Office of Matthew T. Famiglietti PLLC.
Web site:http://www.MattTheDemocrat.org
E-mail address: Matt@MattTheDemocrat.org
Offices and positions held: Volunteer attorney, Legal Counsel for the Elderly and Archdiocese Legal Network; member, MoveOn.org.
What is the most urgent problem facing your jurisdiction?
We need affordable, accessible healthcare for everyone. Lack of healthcare coverage for so many people is a moral outrage. It is time for a single-payer national healthcare system that covers all individuals and all illnesses, including mental illnesses. Doctors should decide medical treatment, not insurance companies. The average citizen should receive the same quality of care as the president, vice president, congressmen and senators. I will fight to make this a reality when elected to Congress. Our citizens deserve nothing less.
Why should voters elect you?
I am a Democrat with a backbone. I'll fight for economic fairness in this country. I'll fight for tax cuts for the middle and lower classes. I'll fight to set a binding deadline to withdraw from Iraq and send that deadline to the White House. I am willing to confront the president in order to end this war. I'll fight for a single-payer, universal health care system covering every citizen. I'll fight to defend the Constitution and our civil rights. I'm not tied to lobbyists. I'll listen to all citizens. I'll respect you.
By summer 2011, it is predicted, Northern Virginia could be facing blackouts due to its growing demand for energy. Should Congress intervene now to prevent that possibility, and if so, what is the most important single step it could take?
Yes, Congress should create a solar bank to develop renewable energy sources. We must be willing to put research and resources into solar, wind and water energy. I do not favor the use of coal or nuclear power. Let's invest in public transit to reduce reliance on personal automobiles, give incentives for walkable communities and harness new energy sources like microbes. Let's recycle wasted energy from heat exhausts, and let's reduce energy consumption by developing more efficient technologies.
What impact does immigration have on your district?
Legal immigration creates diversity, tolerance, and adds to our cultural experience. It enhances our international relations by helping us understand people in countries around the world.
Illegal immigration is a national security issue and costs taxpayers.
All individuals applying for citizenship or legal residency should comply with American law.
Congress needs to pass a comprehensive immigration bill.
What steps, if any, should the federal government take to address funding issues for transportation projects?
There should be dedicated funds for Metro. Metro is a major means of transportation in Northern Virginia. It is deteriorating and needs more funding for repair and maintenance, especially for escalators and elevators. Modernizing Metro will have a direct impact on the quality of our environment in an extremely positive way. Local jurisdictions should also be willing to increase their share of dedicated funds for Metro. The federal government does not have the resources to handle the modernization that needs to be done. It must be a joint effort between federal, state and local authorities.
-- The Washington Post | Submit a correction request.
