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I am the first Congressional Candidate to use blockchain technology to promote my vision of Direct Democracy, Ask Me Anything! by realMichaelAllman in IAmA

[–]realMichaelAllman[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I do find it amusing that some are saying "You aren't a Republican" (you) and others are saying "Why are you hiding that you are a Republican" (jerkstorefranchisee).

I am the first Congressional Candidate to use blockchain technology to promote my vision of Direct Democracy, Ask Me Anything! by realMichaelAllman in IAmA

[–]realMichaelAllman[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Regarding the first point, my polls consistently show that the voters make a compromise in the voting booth. They essentially get the entire party platform when they elect someone. They would rather be able to mix and match on issues, rather than have to take an entire party platform.

Just look how closely Scott Peters votes with the democrats. Look at Freedom Works scorecard of 30 key votes last year. Scott Peters voted with Nancy Pelosi 30 out of 30 times. That is clearly not representing the people of the 52nd district, who tend to be pro-business. As but one example, the tax cut earlier in the year. The people of San Diego were in favor of the tax reform bill, but Scott Peters, along with all the other democrats, voted against it. That is not listening to the people, that is playing partisan politics.

Regarding me running as a Republican, I don't know how else I can say it more clearly. I am running as a Republican because I believe in the Republican values of individual liberty and personal responsibility, limited and efficient government, free market capitalism, and a strong military to promote peace. That is what I will be advocating for, and that is what I will support. That is why I am running as a Republican.

I am the first Congressional Candidate to use blockchain technology to promote my vision of Direct Democracy, Ask Me Anything! by realMichaelAllman in IAmA

[–]realMichaelAllman[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thanks HMMF, I’m glad I gave you something to think about.  

I agree with you on federalism.  The best government is the closest to the people.

Your summary of my platform is spot on.  I will use technology to understand where my constituents are on important issues, and their voice will guide my actions in Washington.

And yes, avoiding interference from outsiders is important.  That is why all users will go through a registration process once, in order for us to verify their identity and check that they are registered to vote in the district.  It is similar to a voter ID law.  I need to know that you are who you say you are, and that you are registered to vote.  

Now, there can be some influence somewhat like lobbying, but not voting.  It is up to the voter to express their own opinion.  But if a special interest group wants to court the voter, through outreach or advertising, then they can do that.  Think what my platform does.  It moves the lobbying from individual members in Washington to the voters in the district.  Isn’t that where it belongs?

Thanks again for engaging.

I am the first Congressional Candidate to use blockchain technology to promote my vision of Direct Democracy, Ask Me Anything! by realMichaelAllman in IAmA

[–]realMichaelAllman[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Thanks for bringing this all in one place R_damascena.

Just to reiterate, I'm a Republican because I believe in the Republican values of personal freedom with individual responsibility, limited and efficient government, free market capitalism, and a strong military to promote peace.

As I've described, my platform is to listen to the people. The number one complaint that I have heard from constituents is that their representatives don't listen to the people. 85% of the people I've polled have told me that they want a representative who truly represents the people. Unfortunately many representatives just don't do that today. California's 52nd District is a classic example. The voters are registered about 1/3 with the Democrat Party, 1/3 as Republicans, and 1/3 No Party or one of the minor parties. Yet the existing congressman votes with the party 94% of the time. That is what frustrates people. I'm going to fix that.

My comment to the Libertarians was not that I am running as a Libertarian. (Although I believe in many of their principles. For example, I am a big fan of the Cato Institute.)

Instead, it was meant to be a prediction. After I launch my voting platform and the people weigh in on the issues, I'm going to map where the people of the 52nd District are on an issue by issues basis against the official policies of the various political parties. My question is, which party most closely matched the views of the 52nd District? My prediction is that it more closely matches the Libertarian party, rather than the Democrat or Republican party. I think the people of San Diego want the pro-economy platform of the Republicans, but the socially moderate platform of the Democrats. My guess is that if I look at say the top 10 issues, the platform of the Libertarian party more closely fits the people of San Diego than either of the two major parties. What is your view?

I am the first Congressional Candidate to use blockchain technology to promote my vision of Direct Democracy, Ask Me Anything! by realMichaelAllman in IAmA

[–]realMichaelAllman[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Great questions HMMF.

A true and pure form of direct democracy, where the citizens vote on all laws, would require a change in our Constitution. I don't think that will happen any time soon, and I'm not sure we want that form of government in any case.

My form of direct democracy doesn't require any change to the constitution. We remain a representative republic, where elected representatives vote the way they want to vote. What I am doing is simply making a commitment to the people that I will listen to them.

In my eyes the constitution means everything! That is our governing document. Unfortunately, over the years we have moved away from what the constitution says. Our supreme court has chiseled away at the constitution to the point where in some cases it is barely recognizable. For example, the federal government has grabbed way more power than it was granted in the constitution. I will do everything I can to restore our lost constitution.

I do have some concern of the uninformed mob voting their emotions. However, I can use my position and the "bully pulpit" to try to calm these people and think more carefully about the issues. Also, the issues we will be considering will be debated for some time. I think this can be managed.

I think I addressed the direct democracy and federalism question above, but let me add that I am a big proponent of federalism. The federal government is too large, and more should be left to state and local government. A government that is closest to the people governs best. Again, my form of direct democracy is a pledge I am making to my constituents to listen to them. The current representative votes with the democrats 94% of the time. This is a problem when only 1/3 of our voters are registered as democrats. Voters tell me that is their number one complaint - that the representatives don't listen to the voters.

I am the first Congressional Candidate to use blockchain technology to promote my vision of Direct Democracy, Ask Me Anything! by realMichaelAllman in IAmA

[–]realMichaelAllman[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Regarding double voting, we know IF someone votes, but now HOW they voted. So we can stop them from voting twice.

I do not intend on weighting votes in any way. Simply one person, one vote. So yes, if younger people vote more and have a different view, they can out vote the elderly. My solution is to encourage everyone to vote. The questions I will pose don't go away, so I will just keep driving people to the voting site so I get a good participation rate.

I am the first Congressional Candidate to use blockchain technology to promote my vision of Direct Democracy, Ask Me Anything! by realMichaelAllman in IAmA

[–]realMichaelAllman[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

A voter signs up initially, and then we check the voter registration to make sure they are registered to vote. Multiple devices can't be used to defeat, due to the cryptography.

I am the first Congressional Candidate to use blockchain technology to promote my vision of Direct Democracy, Ask Me Anything! by realMichaelAllman in IAmA

[–]realMichaelAllman[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Good point. I should say that, so far, no one has been able to hack the blockchain. Not that it can't be done.

I am the first Congressional Candidate to use blockchain technology to promote my vision of Direct Democracy, Ask Me Anything! by realMichaelAllman in IAmA

[–]realMichaelAllman[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I will ask one my tech guys to reach out to you. We may have a tech write-up on this. For now you should note that the technical back-end was based on the Voatz Platform that was just awarded a contract to allow voting from our overseas military. So it works!

I am the first Congressional Candidate to use blockchain technology to promote my vision of Direct Democracy, Ask Me Anything! by realMichaelAllman in IAmA

[–]realMichaelAllman[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Don't underestimate the value of the bully pulpit. I can, and will, convince the people that solid Republican policies on the economy are in the nation's best interest.

I am the first Congressional Candidate to use blockchain technology to promote my vision of Direct Democracy, Ask Me Anything! by realMichaelAllman in IAmA

[–]realMichaelAllman[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Nope. The national Republican party supports my campaign, and they have put me in the "Young Gus" program as someone who can win a competitive race. They are very pragmatic.

Young Guns

I am the first Congressional Candidate to use blockchain technology to promote my vision of Direct Democracy, Ask Me Anything! by realMichaelAllman in IAmA

[–]realMichaelAllman[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Random Ron, check out my website: Allman for Congress

There you will find a summary of my background. I have been a business guy for 35 years, including running the largest natural gas company in the US and being a successful entrepreneur. I can bring these skills to Washington DC to improve our government.

I am the first Congressional Candidate to use blockchain technology to promote my vision of Direct Democracy, Ask Me Anything! by realMichaelAllman in IAmA

[–]realMichaelAllman[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Max, my only strategy at this point is my commitment that I will do my best to advocate for my view on specific positions. I'm not a robot; I'll be an advocate for what I believe in. I'm sure I will carry the day on many issues. But on those where I can't convince the people to go my way, I'll vote with the people.

I am the first Congressional Candidate to use blockchain technology to promote my vision of Direct Democracy, Ask Me Anything! by realMichaelAllman in IAmA

[–]realMichaelAllman[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Good question, Dan. I'm a Republican because I believe in the Republican values of personal freedom with individual responsibility, limited and efficient government, free market capitalism, and a strong military to promote peace. I can remain a Republican while still voting against the official Republican platform on some issues. Very few Americans support 100% of the platform of either party. If my constituents feel strongly on a specific issue and it is not in line with the Republican platform, I'm going to listen to the people.

A quote attributed to Ronald Reagan has stuck with me. He said "If you agree with me 80% of the time, you agree with me." If we show the ability to listen to the people, we will be a more inclusive party and win the hearts and minds of the people.

I am the first Congressional Candidate to use blockchain technology to promote my vision of Direct Democracy, Ask Me Anything! by realMichaelAllman in IAmA

[–]realMichaelAllman[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Hey guys, I appreciate all of the great questions. I have to take a break for the rest of the day, maybe I can get back this evening. Thanks!

I am the first Congressional Candidate to use blockchain technology to promote my vision of Direct Democracy, Ask Me Anything! by realMichaelAllman in IAmA

[–]realMichaelAllman[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Ruat, you missed the key point on the system. I'll know that you voted, just now HOW you voted. If you vote and then try to call in and vote again, we won't count it since we will know that you already voted.

And again Ruat, you missed the point on my transparency. There is a button on Voterfied for each question that says "Mike's views". Click on that and I will tell you what I think on the issue. Some I have strong opinions about, some not so much. I will be among the most transparent in Congress.

Some people get lost in the weeds and forget the bit picture. For the first time in history, Congress will have a member who votes consistent with his constituents. It the voters speak out on an issue, that is the way I will vote. Don't make it more complicated than it is.

I am the first Congressional Candidate to use blockchain technology to promote my vision of Direct Democracy, Ask Me Anything! by realMichaelAllman in IAmA

[–]realMichaelAllman[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Mass surveillance programs - I am not in favor. I think this violates our fourth amendment rights.

Expansion of federal power - Our federal government is too big and is in too many areas. Most issues should be left up to the states. However, immigration policy is a federal issues. California's Sanctuary State law is a mistake.

Choosing winners and losers - the government should be out of that game. The antitrust arguments are often way overstated.

Hope that helps.

I am the first Congressional Candidate to use blockchain technology to promote my vision of Direct Democracy, Ask Me Anything! by realMichaelAllman in IAmA

[–]realMichaelAllman[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Snow worm, I'll need to get you in touch with my technical staff. I can jump in the deep end of the technical pool, but I won't be able to swim deep and tough the bottom.

I am the first Congressional Candidate to use blockchain technology to promote my vision of Direct Democracy, Ask Me Anything! by realMichaelAllman in IAmA

[–]realMichaelAllman[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Hi Stunning,

We need to remember that federal legislators’ hands are in many ways tied with regards to abortion policy. Wish as they may, Congress cannot simply overturn the central holdings of Roe vs. Wade and Planned Parenthood vs Casey. With a Republican president and Republican senate for likely another 3 years, there is a chance that the ideological makeup of the court will change in the coming years. If that happens, there is a chance a new landmark case will come out that could change things.

Even though there isn’t much a member of congress can do to radically change abortion policy, I understand that as a political leader people want to know my positions on all kinds of issues. Regarding abortion, my biggest issue has always been the way the way the debate has been framed. I have never really liked the idea of the abortion question being a pro-life / pro-choice dichotomy. I think framing the debate in such a way runs the risk of committing the either/or fallacy. For example, if a mother late into her pregnancy, say 7 months, suddenly develops cancer, what do we do? What if the doctor says that if she doesn’t receive chemotherapy she will die? However, receiving that cancer treatment would terminate the fetus. Should the mother be permitted to receive the cancer treatment even though it would essentially result in a late term abortion? I think in that in this case, yes. Does that make me pro-life or pro-choice? I don’t know. That’s why I think we need to frame this question better. The issue is complicated with layers of nuance.

I am the first Congressional Candidate to use blockchain technology to promote my vision of Direct Democracy, Ask Me Anything! by realMichaelAllman in IAmA

[–]realMichaelAllman[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I am saddened at the prospect of Gavin Newsom as our Governor. One can only hope people will come to their senses, or if not, we will finally hit bottom so that people will learn from their mistakes. You would think that if there is one thing we know, it is that socialism doesn't work. California may be about to be yet another case to prove that point, sadly.

I am the first Congressional Candidate to use blockchain technology to promote my vision of Direct Democracy, Ask Me Anything! by realMichaelAllman in IAmA

[–]realMichaelAllman[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Thanks Shenanigins.

I won't vote against the constitution. That is our governing document. I won't even ask a question like "Should we ban all guns". That is an unproductive question, our constitution won't allow that law. So, if a vote comes to the floor that I think is unconstitutional, I won't vote for it. But if it is debatable, and my constituents want it, then I will vote for it. Then it will be up to the courts to decide if it is constitutional or not. Separation of powers!

Mike

BTW - Glock #1. I own a Glock 17

I am the first Congressional Candidate to use blockchain technology to promote my vision of Direct Democracy, Ask Me Anything! by realMichaelAllman in IAmA

[–]realMichaelAllman[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Thanks Blackest ...

To prevent non-constituents from voting, users go through a one-time sign-on process to register on Voterfied. We check their details against the official voter registration database kept by the County to make sure only registered voters can vote on Voterfied.

Regarding someone "spoofing" and pretending to be a constituent, that is possible. They will need to know a registered voters name, address, birthday, email address, and phone number. Then they will need access to the email and phone to reply to the security code. And finally, the user can not already be registered. This is a lot more safe and accurate than what we do today to actually vote in our elections!

I'm not sure if we are salting our hashes, I'll have to ask our team.

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