Attention to Recent Celebrity Suicides, & Personal Reflection

With a lot of suicides in the news lately, we all become a little more aware of how depression, substance abuse, and mental health struggles don't discriminate between affluence, celebrity, mainstream, middle-class, the poor, race, religion, sex & gender... folks across all demographics are affected.

Though I don't presume to have ever experienced clinical depression, I did find myself going through what could be described as personal 'rough patches' at times in my 20's, exacerbated by varying choices that ultimately did damage to myself, to relationships, and probably stunted my growth in adulthood. 

I like to think I've since learned more about myself as a result of these deeply personal experiences - and to be blunt, that I've learned things to avoid, or watch very carefully, in my own thinking, behavior, and choices. To be mindful and aware of patterns that have led me off course in my youth. Conversely, looking back, my perspective is forever changed, I think, for the better - and I am at least more cognizant, at least somewhat able to visualize, having been through periods of a so-called 'darkness,' what it might be like for those who fall into such utter hopelessness (far worse than I ever did, thankfully) that they lose the capacity to "snap out of it" and see their way back to a place where they can rationalize and contract for their own safety. 

Far more impulsive men and women than myself have found themselves in some so-extremely-desperate, so-profoundly-barren place of hopelessness in the recesses of their own minds, and acting on impulsivity, made an insane, irrational choice to self-harm to the point of ending their own lives - seeing no way out, and having lost the capacity to do so. 

I'm so thankful that was never me, but sometimes I think of how it could have been.

If you know or suspect someone is struggling, speak up. It's that simple.

Best, always,

JD Sandy

More Endorsements Coming!

In coming days I'm sending out some more endorsements for local & statewide candidates for office.

Please note: In very few, select cases I'm aware I've 'endorsed' multiple people for the same seat; due to not being a public official myself, I have a unique opportunity to cast a light in many directions to multiple people for whom I want to attract attention. Anyone to whom I am directing attention is a candidate I feel you should check out, and I firmly believe these individuals have a significant ability to do an exemplary job in the seat of representation being sought.

These 'endorsements' are my way of getting the word out to the community - as I am aware, when it comes to voting locally, people don't always take the time to do their homework - luckily, I have! And I only pick the best & most dedicated to the wellbeing of our Maryland community.

Best,
-JDS

[JDforLiberty.com] 

ENDORSEMENT: Kinsey & Boccelli for Maryland State Delegates

Justin Kinsey and Raymond Boccelli for Maryland State Delegates

When I made the decision to run for office, I did so because I believe that public representation is in desperate need of an influx of “everyday Joe’s” who aren’t wrapped-up in allegiance to political parties, who haven’t been ushered into politics and public representation by “party insiders,” and who, rather than subscribing to “politics as usual,” are legitimately devoted to the people & well-being of our community.

I wasn’t coming into the race as a current or former politician, because we sure have enough of those; I’m not bought & sold and will not be obliged to “party insiders” - though I welcomed their support if they truly believe in my message; I’ve refused the “red tape” and conditions we sometimes find in political circles that can present as deterrents from new faces entering races. I honestly and earnestly guaranteed you that my only allegiance had been to YOU, for the short duration of campaign, and to the conservative values and fiscal responsibility that matter to so many in our communities. I’ve never been one to subscribe to “politics as usual.” I don’t run local political clubs with access to high-profile favorites & insiders. I’m a “free agent” who wants the same common-sense values and fiscally-conservative approaches to legislation concerning our community – just like so many of you.

In parting the race for State Delegate in my district, a two-seat district where neither incumbent is seeking re-election, I immediately called all attention to the two candidates I wholeheartedly support, the two who will have my votes. I did so because I know these two gentlemen embody precisely the same convictions with which I sought to run for representative office. They share many of my own beliefs and ideals about fiscal conservatism paired with individual liberty. And in just a few short weeks, I hope you’ll vote for Justin Kinsey and Ray Boccelli when you make your way to the ballot on Election Day.

Justin Kinsey is a liberty Republican with an unwavering work ethic, a long history of public service to the community as a volunteer firefighter and EMT, time spent in public service abroad overseas, and of service to his community in a multitude of other facets – as a teacher in public schools, as a professional in emergency services management, instruction, rescue, and hazmat disciplines. Take it from me: he’s smart, he’s articulate, he’s driven, and he’s dedicated to you and me. When you sit down and talk with Justin, the first thing you’ll realize is that the man is as sharp as a tack, and the second thing you’ll realize is how ambitious is his drive for public representation – there’s no ‘smoke & mirrors’ about his dedication to the community, or his understanding of how to improve the lives of the citizens of Maryland. Take it from me, as a former candidate in his very race, and as we’ve spoken a good deal over many months, that this man is seeking your vote for all the right reasons.

Raymond Boccelli is a highly-decorated military veteran with a mile-long list of special honors and recognition who served his country proudly and retired as a Major in the US Army Infantry; following his retirement, Boccelli has served as a Baltimore County Police Supervisor for many years. His uncompromising commitment to our community speaks for itself. He’s also just about the most amicable, transparent guy you’d care to meet – he’s upfront about his intentions in public representation, and his welcome spirit and generosity is a testament, in my opinion, to his humility before the community. Early in campaign season, Ray reached out to me, though we’d not been formally introduced, and told me to come out to his campaign kickoff event in Timonium. Ray saw that we had a unique opportunity for collaboration in a race where there were two vacant seats; his intentions were clearly to put the best interests of the community before the politics that surround public representation as it is intended to be – for the people of the community. That spoke volumes to me, and it is one of my fondest and most endearing memories of my time in the local political scene, that gesture of collaborative benevolence with the community’s best interests at heart.

Vote Justin Kinsey and Raymond C. Boccelli in the Republican Primary on June 26, 2018. www.JustinKinsey.com and www.BoccelliForDelegate.com – also connect with them directly via https://www.facebook.com/mjustinkinsey/and https://www.facebook.com/BoccelliforDelegate/

Thank you in advance.
God bless you, my friends.
And as always,
God Bless our United States of America.

In Liberty,
Joseph D. Sandy

ENDORSEMENT: Carl Magee for Baltimore County Sheriff

Carl Magee for Baltimore County Sheriff

Shortly after having made up my mind to pursue public representation in the 2018 Maryland elections, I had but a small group of men in whom I felt I could honestly confide how clueless I felt about the learning experience that is understanding and undertaking the launch of a grassroots campaign for office. I wasn’t discouraged, but knew it was one helluva learning experience I had in store.

But those men, some of them with extensive experience in local politics, and some of them at the head of their own campaigns for public office, pointed me to a gentleman who had previously run for Congress right here out of Baltimore County, Maryland, and who was speaking of possible plans to run for a more local level of office. They encouraged me to reach out right away – that he wouldn’t steer me wrong, that he was a straight-shooter who could tell me all about the scene and his experiences within it.

Five minutes later in a horrendous rainstorm outside of my day job, perched under a Victorian awning on grounds, I was on the phone with Carl Magee. Carl is, in fact, a straight-shooter: just earlier this evening as I write this, in fact, he and I were on the phone and I was reminding him of the first, and incidentally, perhaps the wisest, advice I’d gotten from him, received within the first five minutes of our first conversation, about the competitive nature of local politics, and how you know when you’re excelling. He spoke from his own experience earnestly, without reservation, with enthusiasm and zest for the process of campaigning, in a tone and with a vigor that would have made anyone who bore witness to the conversation absolutely certain that we were business partners or longtime friends. That’s just the kind of guy he is. He immediately started making tentative plans with me to do meet & greets locally, to speak at a few of the venues where he knew he would be making appearances later during the campaign season.

Though my own campaign went on hiatus and I made the decision to run for public office down the road following 2018, I’ve proudly watched Carl’s own campaign for Baltimore County Sherriff gain momentum these last several months. And it has been remarkable, folks. In no uncertain terms, people are flocking by the masses to Carl Magee. And it’s not hard to see why.

Mr. Magee is the only candidate in his race who explicitly calls for, in no uncertain terms, “No Sanctuary,” and his brazen and unapologetic conviction, a reflection of what so many property owners in Baltimore yearn for – a safer, more prosperous Baltimore County – is what sets him apart from his competition. His mission in Baltimore County is overwhelmingly clear: absolute transparency in public service, accountability, and a higher standard than what we have come to expect and consider the norm. His campaign focuses also on a need for increased school safety and protections for our constitutional rights as citizens of this great country.

Meet him at one of his events this season and he will shake your hand, look you in the eye, and you’ll know, personally and immediately, his absolute conviction to his cause. He’ll be there with his gorgeous wife and his family, and they’ll probably be hosting an event somewhere easily accessible in town (and with great food at that, so you’ll be well-fed and in great company!) – because that’s just who Carl is, and none of this is by accident. See, a true ‘people’s guy’ knows what the people want, all the way down to meeting the man himself in a comfortable & personal setting, where you can really get to see & hear Carl’s vision for Baltimore County. And that’s Carl Magee all the way, point-blank, from day one.

I’m proud to endorse Carl Magee for Baltimore County Sheriff, and I’m proud to call him one of those rare few you meet in life who would give you the shirt off their own back should you need it, who will break bread with you no matter who you are and talk facts. He’s a guy who will go out of his way to meet you and to invite you along for the ride; he teaches what he preaches when it comes to transparency. And that’s rare – truly rare – in the politics that accompany public representation. Carl Magee unequivocally keeps it real, and that’s the man we need in a position of trusted public representation. Trust is huge with Carl Magee, and I do trust him. I firmly believe you will, too, should you reach out to him and see why he is, as I am sure you will come to find as I surely did, the right man for this job.

Vote Carl Magee for Baltimore County Sheriff in the Republican Primary on June 26, 2018. https://carlhmageejr.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/CarlHMageeJr/ are the best ways to reach him.

Thank you in advance.
God bless you, my friends.
And as always,
God Bless our United States of America.

In Liberty,
Joseph D. Sandy

ENDORSEMENT: William T. Newton for Congress & Baltimore County Republican Central Committee

William T. Newton for Congress & Baltimore County Republican Central Committee

I’ll be the first to tell you I’m probably not the smartest guy in the room, and definitely not the most knowledgeable, but then, I know how to surround myself in the right people; I’d like to think I have an affinity, too, for picking out the sharpest ones in the bunch and knowing just where to turn for reference when it counts. And in the politics that surround public representation, coupled with the laws surrounding campaigning, it has always been learn-as-I-go; that’s what you do when you enter unfamiliar territory, and hopefully, you have the right people on whom you can count along the way.

Thanks to folks like William Newton who have never steered me wrong, I know that the community has great leadership and brilliant minds already serving it.

The fact is, while William Newton runs for public office, and already holds a seat on the Baltimore County Republican Central Committee, he has been at the helm for some time, working tirelessly and diligently to bring transparency to legislation and public representation. He is an absolute powerhouse in-and-of-himself within the conservative & Constitutionalist community, and thereby, to and for our community as a whole. I can endorse a great many candidates for public office in Maryland, but few have done the work that William Newton has over a great many years.

His work on election integrity, in particular, is unparalleled. His zest and vigor for the very principles of our great United States of America – those principles held most near & dear by Constitutionalists across the nation – and his drive to proclaim that, indeed, “America Is Rising,” brings hope to a community where all-too-often it seems that, little by little, we give away our rights and contort the vision our great Founders had for this land.

Newton is truly as solid as they come, and yet one of the most welcoming folks you’ll meet. I first met him at a meeting of many fellow liberty-minded conservatives in Baltimore County, hosted by another member of the Baltimore County Republican Central Committee. At that time I was still getting to know a number of the men & women who have been integral and active in the local political & public representation ‘scene’ (and though my campaign went on hiatus this election season, I’m happily still at it). Little did I know as he introduced himself egregiously and shook my hand, having complimented a few brief introductory remarks I had made to the group about considering a run for public office in the upcoming election year, that I was shaking the hand of a man who is perhaps one of the most knowledgeable men I have yet to meet in my journey. Newton is a man who didn’t owe me a passing glance, much as he has contributed to the community, but that didn’t seem to matter to him, and that just seems to be the kind of guy he is. That speaks volumes to me.

You will be hard-pressed to find a single person in the area who knows so much about the history of our nation, who holds such strong convictions about the importance of Constitutionalism both nationwide and right down to the most local public representation, or who dedicates so much of his time, energy, and stamina to liberty.

Nor will you find someone so forthcoming, pleasant, helpful, and kind as Mr. Newton. The man encouraged me from Day One in my pursuits, provided reference materials such as those related to election integrity (all of which are publicly available, of course – and if you ask, I know firsthand he’ll point you in the right direction), is always available with encouraging remarks, has a helluva sense of humor, and incidentally (and much to my delight), has a great deal of artistic flare, too! – which of course I appreciate as somewhat of a self-proclaimed artist in my own life pursuits.

I could try to touch on all of the work Mr. Newton has done in the name of upholding our rights in this great community, and I would fall absolutely short – luckily, Mr. Newton works daily in the pursuit of liberty through a strong social media presence to provide you the many fruits of his labors, and you owe it to yourself as an informed citizen to check out his accomplishments and his tireless work if you aren’t familiar. Nothing I state here can effectively do it justice, and you will see that his work and his pursuits speak to his deep convictions.

Vote William T. Newton for Congress & Baltimore County Republican Central Committee in the Republican Primary on June 26, 2018. www.Newton4Congress.com and https://www.facebook.com/LibertywithJusticeforall/

Thank you in advance.
God bless you, my friends.
And as always,
God Bless our United States of America.

In Liberty,
Joseph D. Sandy

ENDORSEMENT: Jay Payne for Baltimore County Council

Jay Payne for Baltimore County Council

Jay is no stranger to the local political landscape. One of the first things I noticed through social media during the time that I was initially considering a run for public office was that he had a passion for public representation and was a straight-shooter when it came to the questions that need to be asked of our public officials and those seeking seats of representation of the community. I admire that straight-forward, go-getter attitude. Social media made it apparent that he knew extensively many of the candidates and would-be candidates on the scene, too. But what was most impressive was his commentary and his knowledgeability regarding local matters of representation – and his apparent conviction, that of a true liberty man.

This is precisely the conviction we need in public office at the very local level. We’re talking local law and ordinances that impact the everyday lives of everyday citizens – all of us – in this community of Baltimore County. That’s where change happens and we experience it from local representation. Mr. Payne is the guy for the job. And a big part of that is a willingness to call ‘em like he sees ‘em, which lends itself to calling out the errors of others in public representation, including those of his competition, when it has compromised the integrity, liberty, and wellbeing of our communities and where our spending goes. This speaks to Mr. Payne’s ability to critically analyze where others have fallen short of providing the best public representation for our local community. It makes me confident that Jay can see the wrongs, and I believe he will work dutifully to make the right choices in a seat of representation on the County Council.

I have tremendous respect, admiration and appreciation of individuals with liberty at the forefront of their convictions, and I have appreciated how Jay has given fair and remarkably insightful feedback to a number of the postings on social media I made during my prospective run for State Legislature, as it encouraged me to vigilant critical thinking, which is vital to the best interest of the community. That being said, imagine my enthusiasm when Jay announced he was going for County Council to represent District 5!

I would gladly lend whatever services I might be able to provide to be of assistance to his campaign, and I encourage all of you reading to learn more about Jay and his plans for Baltimore County. The guy knows his stuff, and you owe it to yourself as informed citizens of this community to get to know his plans for our community.

Vote Jay Payne for Baltimore County Council in the Republican Primary on June 26, 2018. https://www.facebook.com/JayPayne4MD/

Thank you in advance.
God bless you, my friends.
And as always,
God Bless our United States of America.

In Liberty,
Joseph D. Sandy

ENDORSEMENT: Al Redmer for Baltimore County Executive

Al Redmer for Baltimore County Executive

With the support of Maryland’s own Larry Hogan, Al Redmer hardly needs endorsement by a virtual newcomer such as myself – me being a fairly-recent transplant to the GOP from the world of third-party liberty politics. His credentials speak to his forty-five-year commitment to public service: he’s served on many community councils over the years, excelled in the private sector, served District 8 as a Maryland State Delegate, and has held his current seat as Maryland Insurance Commissioner under two governors. Redmer is as well-acclimated to public service as any I have met among the ranks of local public representation & the politics that accompany it.

Instead, I’ll speak to what I’ve seen personally since I initially met Al, for those of you who have perhaps not had the pleasure. I met him walking into the campaign kickoff of a candidate for Baltimore County Council. He spent his evening egregiously welcoming all who attended, introducing himself to those who may not have previously made his acquaintance (including myself). We didn’t have the opportunity for much discussion about his plans for Baltimore County, but after all, we were there to support a candidate running for County Council for what I deem ‘all the right reasons,’ a true supporter of transparency and accountability who is driven by an ethos of fiscal conservatism and individual liberty. Later that evening, Al sent me a message directly saying it was a pleasure to have met earlier that day. To be direct and concise, Al Redmer is a long-time “key player” in Baltimore County and he certainly didn’t owe me so much as a passing glance – much less a sincere and personal message – and since then, as I’ve learned more about Al and his plans for the community, Al has kept in touch, even offering kind words of sincerity when I announced that I would be putting my own campaign for representative office on hold temporarily. He had absolutely nothing to gain from his kindness al along, but it would seem that’s just the kind of guy he is, and for that, I am so thankful – and impressed.

Since then, I’ve seen him at multiple community & campaign kickoff events; he’s always a man on the go, full of energy, a lot of personality and exuberance about public representation and the people of Baltimore County. I’ve been following him along the campaign trail, seeing him visiting many areas of Baltimore County meeting one-on-one with concerned citizens in many neighborhoods about their ongoing problems and needs for clean-up efforts across the county.

A coworker and I were discussing events around town not long ago and Al’s name came up – she shared with me that her fiancé has worked in his office in years past and that Al was the best boss a guy could ask for! Clearly his reputation precedes him.

You won’t hear that kind of praise in passing conversation about his opponents. But then, Al Redmer is a genuine, sincere, one-of-a-kind guy who is very in touch with the community he has represented in so many capacities for nearly five decades.

He has my vote, and I hope he will have yours as well.

Vote Al Redmer for Baltimore County Executive in the Republican Primary on June 26, 2018. https://www.facebook.com/AlRedmer2018/

Thank you in advance.
God bless you, my friends.
And as always,
God Bless our United States of America.

In Liberty,
Joseph D. Sandy

ENDORSEMENT: Erik Lofstad for Baltimore County Council

Erik Lofstad for Baltimore County Council

What you see is what you get with Erik Lofstad in his run for Baltimore County Council. There’s no smoke & mirrors with this guy – take one look at his campaign pages and you’ll see that he is quick to let you know exactly who he is, what he is all about, and what he promises he will do for Baltimore County. He’s a liberty man of integrity, honesty, and transparency.

Erik has done a tremendous job of making all of his plans for the county and his assessment of the happenings of the area as abundantly clear as possible for anyone who takes a moment to check out his noteworthy online media presence throughout the course of his campaign. He’s not afraid to call out where others fall short, and he’s quick to not just tell us, but to actually show us, what sets him apart. See his social media posts, multiple interviews, emphasis on diligent public representation rather than the ‘politics’ of it all, and it’s abundantly clear he knows how to lead – by example, rather than by mere proclamation.

In my experience with Erik and his lovely wife Deana, these two are truly a class act. Talk with Erik and you’ll learn how fervently he is committed to his community here in Baltimore County. See him doing door-to-door in the pouring rain to share his vision with his neighbors; read his insights about other candidates making their campaigns all about pandering and bleeding the pockets of the constituency. Erik is as down-to-earth, pragmatic, and sharp as they come, and he’ll make a tremendous difference on the Baltimore County Council.

Vote Erik Lofstad for Baltimore County Council in the Republican Primary on June 26, 2018. https://www.facebook.com/eriklofstadforcountycouncil/ & www.ErikLofstad.com

Thank you in advance.
God bless you, my friends.
And as always,
God Bless our United States of America.

In Liberty,
Joseph D. Sandy

ENDORSEMENT: Ed Hale Jr. for Baltimore County Council

Ed Hale Jr. for Baltimore County Council

One of the very first things that spoke to me about Ed Hale is his candor – he has done an exemplary job of making his plans for the county and his assessment of the happenings of the area with regard to overspending and misspending as abundantly clear as possible for anyone who takes a moment to check out his noteworthy online media presence throughout the course of his campaign.

He shares with you and I his personal experiences, good and bad, in brief vignettes, ultimately demonstrating how his experiences in business and life have shaped his understanding of business and the community’s needs – and you come to understand that Ed himself is in this for the right reasons.

Ed also understands the shortcomings of a career politician, and why he’s a necessary change on the Baltimore County Council. He’s not afraid to call out where others fall short, and he’s quick to not just tell us, but to actually show us, what sets him apart. Foremost is his accessibility to the community: see his social media posts, multiple interviews & endorsements, emphasis on diligent public representation rather than the ‘politics’ of it all. I, personally, have always been a tremendous advocate of term limits, and Ed Hale Jr. draws attention to the relevance of the need for term limits.

If you don’t already know him, look him up, and you’ll see it is abundantly clear that he knows how to lead – by example, rather than by mere proclamation. His leadership in business ownership, his insight into community concerns, and a drive to bring much-needed efficacy to the seat of public representation he is seeking: these are the reasons Ed Hale Jr. has my vote for Baltimore County Council in District 3.

Vote Ed Hale Jr. for Baltimore County Council in the Republican Primary on June 26, 2018. https://www.facebook.com/electedhalejr and www.EdHaleJr.com

Thank you in advance.
God bless you, my friends.
And as always,
God Bless our United States of America.

In Liberty,
Joseph D. Sandy

ENDORSEMENT: Joe Norman for Maryland State Delegate

Joe Norman for Maryland State Delegate

Maryland’s 8th Legislative District will do well to pay close attention to Joe Norman this campaign season. In Delegate Christian Miele’s own words, Joe is a “family man, successful small business owner, and a proven leader” in Baltimore County. Not only that, but Joe refers to himself as one of the “average Joe’s” that Annapolis needs in order to keep representation of our communities in perspective, and I couldn’t agree more. The last thing we need are more ‘career politicians’ representing us while gradually, year after year, drifting further and further away from us and our neighbors.

Joe’s not only working to support his own drive to representation of the community in the Maryland State Legislature – he’s also got a packed schedule of events around town in support of many other great candidates who are working collaboratively to keep a tight-knit Baltimore County moving in the right direction. Joe is a down-to-earth class act with the right firsthand tools to get the job done. If you aren’t familiar with him, and you’re voting in Baltimore County, you owe it to yourself to get familiar with him. It’s no wonder he’s getting endorsements everywhere – Joe is working diligently to keep our community connected, vibrant, and moving in the right direction. Check out his campaign scheduled appearances for the duration of the season and the many folks with whom he is collaborating in the interests of Baltimore County.

Vote Joe Norman for Maryland State Delegate in the Republican Primary on June 26, 2018. https://www.facebook.com/JoeForMD/

Thank you in advance.
God bless you, my friends.
And as always,
God Bless our United States of America.

In Liberty,
Joseph D. Sandy

ENDORSEMENT: Liz Matory for Congress

Liz Matory for Congress

Liz is the one and only candidate I can name who’s blatantly upfront about her sharp right turn from the world of the progressive left-wing arena of politics & public representation to her ‘rebirth’ as a Republican – she’s a powerhouse of information, firsthand experience, and eloquent truth.

Her book, “Born Again Republican,” offers an honest, blow-by-blow dissection of where the Left schemes & deceives, and she gives us tremendous insight as to happenings she’s discovered behind-the-scenes throughout her life, from her Washington DC upbringing to the life she proudly lives today as a conservative.

I could sing Liz Matory’s praises all day, but I find that through an incredibly strong social media presence daily, Liz eloquently but powerfully sums up the reality of politics in public representation: “Many Americans do not know the real truth about the two parties. They only believe what they’ve been told. I was just like that...until I learned the truth. It’s crystal clear now. In order for our country to survive, we must go back to our roots in the Republican Party and champion our shared conservative principles: Faith, Family, Freedoms, & Free Enterprise. It’s the only way out. Whether its criminal, immigration, [or] economic, our politicians continue to demolish our constitutional principles and degraded America herself.”

If you’re like me and you’re desperate for public representation that doesn’t aim to pull the wool over your eyes and feed you false narratives as a citizen of this great county, state, and nation – then you owe it to yourself to follow Liz and take heed to her wise words. She won’t steer you wrong, and she’s made a proud life of truthful conviction for the community she serves.

Vote Liz Matory for Congress in the Republican Primary on June 26, 2018. https://www.facebook.com/LizForCongress/

Thank you in advance.
God bless you, my friends.
And as always,
God Bless our United States of America.

In Liberty,
Joseph D. Sandy

ENDORSEMENT: Tammy Larkin for Maryland State Delegate

Tammy Larkin for Maryland State Delegate

Tammy Larkin is no novice to the realm of politics & public representation. I’ve been following her since she announced her candidacy at a meeting of Club Conservative, but I’ve learned that she has been an integral part of Women for Ehrlich, that she founded Conservative Women for Maryland, was a founding member of Club Conservative, was District Director for State Senator JB Jennings, and worked on the Change Maryland campaign leading to Larry Hogan’s election as Governor of Maryland – so she’s been a staple for many years on the scene.

What has stood out to me most, however, are her postings online about the importance of taking a hands-on approach to politics and public representation at the very local level, and I see her instilling that in her children as well. To me, that speaks volumes about her commitment to public representation.

It seems to me that you’ll be hard-pressed to NOT run into her in the White Marsh area given how busy she’s been this campaign season all over the area. Take one look at her strong social media presence and everywhere she’s been, notice the relentless, continuous door-knocking in her district (which is a critical key to running local and state-level races), and you can bet people will be turning out to the voting booths to elect Tammy to representative office.

Vote Tammy Larkin for Maryland State Delegate in the Republican Primary on June 26, 2018. https://www.facebook.com/pg/TammyLarkinForDelegate/

Thank you in advance.
God bless you, my friends.
And as always,
God Bless our United States of America.

In Liberty,
Joseph D. Sandy

ENDORSEMENT: Deb Sullivan for Baltimore County Council

Deb Sullivan for Baltimore County Council

If you’ve lived in Baltimore County and raised kids here, there’s a good chance you know Deb Sullivan, a current candidate for Baltimore County Council, this election season. If you’ve been up and down Martin Blvd., you’ve undoubtedly seen her campaign signs on nearly every local business in the area.

You may know her and her husband Wayne from their third-generation family-owned business based in Essex, or you know Deb through years of volunteer service in the community – from her years as PTA president in her children’s schools, to her work at a plethora of community events over the years where she has advocated for a safer Baltimore County.

Being an advocate & proponent of the recovery community myself, I am impressed that she’s been involved in multiple community efforts against substance abuse, which speaks loudly to her dedication to the problems Maryland is facing today concerning our overwhelming opioid epidemic.

She has lobbied and testified in Annapolis over other many other concerns in the community over the years, proving she has significant experience in local representation on behalf of our Baltimore County community. She is no stranger to public representation.

If elected, I feel that Deb Sullivan would be a tremendous asset to the people of Baltimore County.

Check out Deb Sullivan’s campaign for County Council: https://www.facebook.com/debsullivanforbc/

Thank you in advance.
God bless you, my friends.
And as always,
God Bless our United States of America.

In Liberty,
Joseph D. Sandy

April 2017: Endorsements for Local & State Races Upcoming

April 28 at 10:31pm · 
via facebook.com/ElectJoeSandy

Friends,

When I halted my political campaign for State Delegate back in February, I took a big step back from 'the scene' in the interim. I did so in lieu of a number of personal matters - regarding friends, a family member, and myself. I don't regret that decision. But it's important to me that you understand I have not pulled away from politics, nor do I plan to pull away from the world of local public representation.

The fact is that I needed to get some matters in order, and that I am ever mindful of the next few years. I am blessed and SO INCREDIBLY fortunate, sitting here this Saturday night with my little family, knowing that BIG things are in store! More to follow, of course.

For now, I am endorsing MY personal favorites for public representation, those who I know are right for the job, and who I support wholeheartedly.

 I hope that, come 2022, when I am seeking a position in the Maryland State Legislature, that they'll give me consideration.

I believe that I am a prime example of what a concerned citizen, a man of the people, and a well-rounded, open-minded, and liberty-first citizen of our great United States looks like - and that I have the honesty, fortitude, and best interests of the constituency in whole at heart.

I hope you'll get to know me. I hope we'll see one another at benefits and events for our mutually-supported candidates for public office. I hope that you'll stand beside me when I launch my campaign for public office in a few years. I hope that you will hold me accountable and ask the questions that you want to ask, because more than one of you are going to have some curiosity, and I am an open book, and always have been, so I hope you'll be willing to 'go there' and talk to me.

Most importantly, I hope you'll call me your friend.

Be blessed - I know, beyond all, that I certainly am.

In Liberty, always,
Joseph Sandy

01 March 2018: The End of the Campaign, and Moving Forward

A PUBLIC ADDRESS:
STATE OF THE CAMPAIGN & MOVING FORWARD 
Authored 01 March 2018

To my friends, colleagues, supporters, citizens of Legislative District 42B, all citizens of Baltimore County, and all citizens of the great State of Maryland:

As I indicated in a social media post yesterday, I've been on radio silence for several days due to a very serious recent emergency: a very near and very dear friend to me has been in extremely poor health, and for a number of days it was looking like this would be, as they say, ‘the end.’ Out of respect for privacy, I have refrained from further detail, other than to say that it brought my life to a screeching halt since the end of last week. Over the course of the last decade of my life I've lost too many friends & acquaintances before their time. That being said, the recent situation really, for lack of better words at the moment, ‘hit me hard’ for fear that I'd lose another - but thankfully, things are looking up.

I am also faced with my own handful of personal life changes that have come to fruition in the last several weeks which have cumulatively made a significant impact upon the routine of my life and my responsibilities - one is that a personal partnership of a number of years has come to an end, and that has necessitated a number of changes for me personally.

As my life is changing – some priorities and endeavors both public and personal having been neglected over the course of the last year, and still others coming into the forefront of my immediate focus, combined with a number of unavoidable unknowns in both the immediate and distant future – I have come to the conclusion over a number of days, and after consulting with a plethora of confidants and resources, that while I COULD continue my campaign for Maryland State Delegate, the absolute truth is that, at the present time, I lack the resources, time, and ultimately, the cumulative ability, to continue to be at the forefront of a significant political campaign – one that I have grown and fostered passionately with zest and vigor – one that deserves one hundred percent of what I might otherwise be able to give were I not faced with a number of recent circumstances and changes that inhibit my ability to give it my ALL. While I COULD, the question has become one of whether I SHOULD. I chose to become a candidate for representative public office because I want to do the best by the community in which I am so incredibly proud to have known virtually my entire life. And if I can’t give my ALL to this campaign, and thereby to the community I have aimed to intend to serve, then the campaign is not worth pushing forward. It is not an easy choice – believe me, it has been nearly my sole focus for over a year, since before its official formation – but I am an honest man, with myself and with my community, and with all of you reading this address. So I know the honest choice that must be made.

Today, 01 March 2018, I have officially withdrawn my candidacy for Maryland State Delegate in this upcoming 2018 election primary in June.

Throughout the course of this campaign, before its actual formation, when I was still just conceiving the possibility of running for an office of public representation, I came to the table with a set of values that paired fiscal responsibility with individual liberty, first and foremost. I stand by my convictions today, and will continue as such. I have throughout my life been a registered Democrat, and then a Libertarian, and today, a Republican. I have ALWAYS strived to put principle before Party, and to put people before Party – but never have my values changed, regardless of Party affiliation. I have enjoyed an amazing opportunity to open myself up, to make public my personal convictions, and MOST importantly, to have been blessed with the opportunity to be receptive to my fellow members of the community, and to hear what so many of them want for their (OUR) community. I built a campaign that aligned with my personal convictions – because I became keenly aware that so many in the community, regardless of political Party or affiliation (or lack thereof), shared the very same values. I am so thankful to have been blessed with the opportunity to see that reality in a very hands-on fashion over the past year. From the start, I knew that my campaign would bear the slogan, “For Liberty; For Our Community.” I know those very words I selected resonate with my neighbors and my peers and so many of you in the community. I hope that such an idea will continue to resonate. I have great personal faith that it will. I have great personal faith in YOUR ability to elect the best leaders for our community in the state legislature.

I made the decision to run for office because I believe that public representation is in desperate need of an influx of “everyday Joe’s” who aren’t wrapped-up in allegiance to political parties, who haven’t been ushered into politics and public representation by “party insiders,” and who, rather than subscribing to “politics as usual,” are legitimately devoted to the people & well-being of our community. An informed public is close to my heart – and the factors that have set me apart from other candidates in so many of these races are significant. I’m not a current or former politician, because we sure have enough of those; I’m not bought and sold, and will not be obliged to “party insiders” - though I welcomed their support if they truly believe in my message; I’ve refused the “red tape” and conditions we sometimes find in political circles that can present as deterrents from new faces entering races. I’ve honestly and earnestly guaranteed you that my only allegiance has been to YOU in this campaign, and to the conservative values and fiscal responsibility that matter to so many in our communities. I’ve never been one to subscribe to “politics as usual.” I don’t run local political clubs with access to high-profile favorites & insiders. I’m a “free agent” who wants the same common-sense values and fiscally-conservative approaches to legislation concerning our community – just like so many of you. And I chose to jump in. I am proud of that. I always will be.

But more than anything else, I am SO INCREDIBLY PROUD of the support you’ve all shown me, and even MORE than that (if that’s even possible!), I’m so PROUD that folks have taken the time to share their ideas, their own convictions, to have the conversation (we must ALWAYS remain willing to have the conversation, as a community) – it’s been a mind-blowing experience, one of the very greatest of my life, sincerely. To connect with so many people of differing ideas, convictions, proposals, and viewpoints. I’ve garnered support not only from fellow Republicans, but from many Libertarians, Constitutionalists, Democrats, a Green Party member or two, Independents, and unaffiliated citizens. How many other folks can say the same?

I am so, SO incredibly grateful to all of you. Beyond my ability to find the words to express it. It has been an honor.

So, as for moving forward: I want to direct your attention to two of the other candidates in the race from which I have withdrawn. These two gentlemen deserve your attention and I hope that you will lend them the consideration of taking the opportunity to let them know what YOU want from your legislative representatives – because I know them personally, I know that they care, and I know that they both have distinguished records of public service to the community. They are “in this” for the right reasons. They’re not mere “agents of the political machine” with mile-long list of endorsements from former and current politicians, riding on the “politics as usual” notion that “Big Money” and endorsements by the “political machine” will get them elected. There ARE candidates out there who would seem to (definitely) operate that way, unfortunately, and they aren’t worth your consideration – but the two gentlemen in this particular race for District 42B (much of Baltimore County) who are putting in the REAL grunt work, who I hope that you will take the time to give consideration, the two VERY good men who I will ABSOLUTELY support, endorse, and for whom I will vote on June 26th because their convictions and my own are so closely aligned, are THESE two gentlemen:

Justin Kinsey for State Delegate: https://www.facebook.com/mjustinkinsey/

Ray Boccelli for Delegate: https://www.facebook.com/BoccelliforDelegate/

Certainly, my friends, this is not a goodbye – rather, this is a show of my utmost appreciation, my respect for each and every one of you, and my sincere hope that you will stand by your convictions, uphold the principles of fiscal responsibility and individual liberty that make our nation the greatest on earth.

I hope that, if you aren’t already curious about politics at a local and state level, you start. Because the fact is, you can turn on the news any night of the week and hear about national politics and the happenings in the White House, sure. But the changes that really impact YOU are the happenings at the local and state level. And YOU have the power to choose WHO makes those decisions legislatively – such is the nature of the democratic republic that is the United States of America.

At the local level, my friends: whatever your political identity, and whatever your convictions, I hope that we, as a community, can agree that Marylanders deserve the best. Let’s all do our part to work to preserve liberty together, and keep the right principles and conscience at the forefront of our Maryland communities.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for everything. It has been an honor, and most certainly, a most-distinguished privilege.

God Bless You, my friends.
And God Bless America.

In Liberty, Now and Always,
Joseph D. Sandy

[By Authority of FRIENDS OF JOSEPH SANDY – Maurice Grace, Treasurer]


UPDATE: 03 March 2018

I want to thank all of you for the kind words and the tremendous outpouring of support, in response to my announcement that I have elected to suspend my campaign in lieu of a lot of other responsibilities to family, projects, endeavors, volunteerism in the community, and even life changes that are moving me in a better direction looking toward the future. My friends, I am not out of the "scene," but a campaign with me at the head of it deserves 100% of my attention, and that's something I intend to pursue in the next election cycle locally. Thank you all SO much for all of your consideration and support!

Campaign Finance, My Mission, & Representing the Community

January 17, 2018
CAMPAIGN FINANCE, MY MISSION, AND REPRESENTING THE ENTIRETY OF THE COMMUNITY

News sources & people wrapped-up in political campaigning will insist that the public reporting of the amounts of money raised and spent to date will indicate a candidate's strength in the upcoming primary election, June 26th, here in Maryland. They will say that the more money one has raised this far in advance, the greater their "strength.”

I am proud to announce to you that, to date, I have not asked for a dime from any one of you watching. I have deliberately avoided literally SELLING my campaign, to date: my ideas about individual liberty, my ideas for how the community may prosper, pledges that I will work against the expansion of Section 8 housing and illegal immigration throughout our communities, a pledge that I will work to reduce unnecessary surveillance devices in Maryland that serve only to generate income for the state by taking it out of your pocket, and that I will support legislation calling for term limits.

I've done so because I want to reiterate to the voters in Baltimore County that I am perhaps the ONE candidate, or one of the FEW, in this race who is NOT bought & sold, who does NOT play "politics as usual," and who is NOT endorsed by a mile-long list of current and/or former politicians. I don't run political clubs or special interest groups. I am proud to say that my life today is very much about public service, rather than about cozying-up to politicians past and present, or lamenting to a radio audience of similar or perhaps identical political conviction as my own. I do not "tow the party line" just for the sake of doing so. I frequently discuss, and often debate, with others in the community, publicly via social media, about REAL issues impacting members of our community; this is an almost DAILY reality for me. And I love it. It's very possible that it may very well set me apart from other candidates in my race. You'll never have to wonder whether I'm just PANDERING to you. I like to have a real conversation.

I am a member of the Republican Party because my personal values and convictions of fiscal responsibility and individual freedom for ALL AMERICANS, regardless of conviction, align most closely with true Republican ideals as they are intended. That being said, my choice of political party does NOT turn me off to ideas proposed by Democrats, or Libertarians, or Green Party members, or anyone else anywhere on the spectrum of personal beliefs, convictions, or political party. We are PEOPLE, you and I, not just RED AND BLUE DOTS on a map, or numbers on a piece of paper. I pledge to give honest consideration and remain willing to work ACROSS THE AISLE, should I be elected, when it comes to solutions and legislation that BEST BENEFITS THE ENTIRE COMMUNITY for whom I will work. And that's what I want everyone in the community to understand first and foremost about my campaign. And that is why I have avoided coming at you all for donations this early in the game.

Of course, the reality is that I will need funding and support to keep going. But the most important thing, in THIS RACE, for a newcomer like me, is that I will be knocking doors throughout Baltimore County over the course of the next several months, leaving flyers and pamphlets and cards, and encouraging YOU to join me in having these conversations. Because that is how I learn - and that is how I hope to have the opportunity to be the best public servant I possibly can be, for the ENTIRE community. And I ask for you to fill-in the bubble next to my name on the ballots in June and November this year.

Yes, I'm going to raise money during this campaign, that’s a reality, because promotional materials aren't cheap. You know this. And I hope you do choose to give a little something. Twenty bucks from a couple hundred people, let’s say, would send me a LONG way. But the BEST INDICATOR, in my opinion, of a TRULY STRONG CANDIDATE, is one who is willing to actually HAVE THE CONVERSATION with you. The one who is willing to ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS publicly on social media or in person. The one who is willing to come to you, come to your door for a couple of minutes and talk about the issues that concern you and your family in our community. Because I believe that it doesn't matter how many television ads you run, or how many wealthy friends you have, or how big your average campaign contribution is ... I believe what matters most to you when you go to that voting booth and elect LOCAL public officials is, "Hey, I remember that guy, he came to my door." Or, "Hey, I know that guy, we talk online all the time." And PRESENCE in the COMMUNITY - not just in political circles or by way of fat paychecks or donations - PRESENCE is what SELLS to hardworking people like you and me. And no amount of money is going to get in the way of that between now and June.

If you’re in the Baltimore County area and would like to make an appointment to talk, or if you have a community event, or maybe a community association meeting you’d like for me to attend, anything like that, I’m happy to oblige. I’m available in Parkville, Carney, Towson, Hampton, Lutherville, Timonium, Cockeysville, Hunt Valley, Sparks Glencoe, Parkton, & Freeland. So get in touch! Hopefully I’ll be seeing you soon. AND, if you’re interested in making a donation, I’d certainly appreciate it – links will be available online soon, but for now you can send a check to Friends of Joseph Sandy, PO Box 42160, Baltimore MD 21284.

Thank you in advance.

God bless you, my friends.

And as always,

God Bless our GREAT United States of America.

In Liberty,
Joseph D. Sandy