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2008 Presidential Candidates	2008 Presidential Primaries		Contact Information
		Lanakila Washington- Independent Campaign Site YouTube Page MySpace Profile Discuss Lanakila Washington's response at the forum.
Issues: Family Life, Political Experience, Personal Career, Who You Admire Most, Iraq, Afghanistan, Osama Bin Laden, Iran, Military, Counter-Terrorism, Immigration Policy, National ID Card, Security Agencies, Gun Control, Drug Policy, Medical Marijuana, Entitlement Programs, Medicine and Medical Care, Taxes, Budget, Dollar, Economy, North American Union, Environment, Energy Policy, Abortion, Gay Marriage, Net Neutrality, Federal Judges, Education, Domestic Policy, Foreign Policy, Miscilanious
Questionaire:
Tell us about your family life.
I grew up in the South Bronx , born on May 28, 1962. I was given the name James k. Washington and in August 2001, I was bestowed with the name "Lanakila" which means "victory or to be victorious" in Hawaiian. Through the Children International Organization, I have become a sponsored parent to Edward who resides in the Philippines . I recently laid my mother to rest. She passed away on August 18, 2007 from heart failure. I am currently working on a foundation in her name. The Washington family is a very large close-knit family that comes from Jacksonville North Carolina .
Tell us about your political experience prior to running for president.
Before running for president, I had the experience of working behind the scenes with the Democratic Party. I attended many events including a fund-raiser given by Hillary Clinton and Bill Clinton’s second inauguration event. I tested the waters with a run for United States Senate in 2003. The overall experience in politics is having a passion for the happiness of people, good judgment and handling the pressure of the job. Today, I am the founder of the Humanistic Party. I know that I have what it takes to handle the job as President of the United States .
Tell us about your personal career prior to politics.
I have accomplished many things in my personal career prior to politics. I worked in the entertainment field as a singer, model, and dancer. I have appeared in many movies and television programs such as "Law and Order" "Third Watch" "NYPD Blue" "Spiderman 3" and some commercials. I was the executive producer of my own show "Celebrity Entertainment Profile" talk show that aired on the Bronxnet Cable Network. I am now involved in home based travel, focus groups and community activist work.
Please discuss a public figure from the past 300 year who you admire most.
The public figure that I admire the most is Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. It was his words to me in a dream that encouraged me to make the run for president in 2008. I was visiting family in Atlanta when I experienced this encounter. Martin stood for equality, peace and justice. We all know how compassionate he was about the happiness of people. He spoke about a dream and he spoke about being at the mountaintop and seeing the Promised Land. I will realize his dream in creating the Promised Land that he saw from the mountaintop. There are other public figures that inspire me such as Ramtha the enlightened one and Daisaku Ikeda.
Do you think the US should have entered the war in Iraq?  Why or why not?  What is your strategy for finishing the war in Iraq.
I do not think the US should have entered the war in Iraq . The reasons to go in were false. There were never any weapons of mass destruction found. The person who gave the intelligence to the US through talks with Germany was telling lies and it makes me wonder how long everyone knew it was all lies. If you go to my "Myspace" page, go to the video page and listen to "Truth Be Told" you will know the real reasons for going into the Middle East . My strategy for ENDING the war is to bring the troops home. Operation Exit Plan will go into effect the moment I step into the White House. Congress will not have to worry about a bill to make it happen. My operation is a 6-9 month process, which will safely bring the troops home and close the bases. There are other steps that must be taken to rebuild what was destroyed and it will take the international community and the United Nations to be involved. Using our fabulous space technology and our special forces to capture Bin Laden is a cause that I will put into action. Working with the international community to shut down terror groups is another goal. Developing humanistic relations is what I will work on with my Secretary of State in order to secure True Peace.
While it is rarely mentioned in the news anymore, the US troops are still in Afghanistan.  What are your plans for that theater of operations?
My plans for this theater are to bring down the curtains. Its time for the Afghan Government to take over their affairs. Its time for the US to stop controlling how people choose to live. Its time to end all wars. The situation is turning into a question of existence or non-existence for all humanity and we must act now. I know of someone who lost their life during an operation in Afghanistan . David died on April 5, 2005 , one of 18 men who went down in a helicopter. The year before when he was home for the holidays, I promised him that I would put an end to the war. Operation Exit Plan will affect the troops in Afghanistan as well.
The US initially went to war with Afghanistan under the presumption that Osama Bin Laden would be captured or killed.  Why do you think he has not been apprehended yet?  What do you plan to do about this?
The question has always been raised in my mind about Osama Bin Laden not being apprehended. Listen to my speech "Truth Be Told" on myspace videos. It is very strange that he is able to release tapes at certain times to the media. Give orders to be carried out by his group and although we, the United States , have the best space intelligence in the world, we cannot track his feed signal or his location. What I plan to do is have our government come clean about their knowledge on Bin Laden where about and do what is necessary to bring him to justice. We can use our un-manned technology to locate and capture him. There was no problem in finding Sadam underground, what is stopping the success of finding Bin Laden?
Iran has been spoken of by some as a potential threat to the United States.  Is Iran a threat to the United States?  What should be done about this?
It is my feeling that the United States has a problem with Iran because of the non-renewal of oil contracts with them, according to a report that I received from an international action group. Iran has not broken any international laws with respect to their nuclear program. As long as Iran complies with the rules set forth by the United Nations Security Council I see no threat. My goal is to develop "Humanistic Relations" with the government of Iran and through these talks change how they view America . The next step is to encourage environmentally safe energy technologies in order to reduce and put an end to nuclear technology. I will effectively take the lead in this endeavor to ensure true peace.
Are there any policies you would like to change or implement in the US Military and the Department of Defense?  Do you have any concerns about the oversight of these organizations?
There are a few changes that I would like to see in our US Military. Based on personal surveys conducted there ought to be more sensitivity training from the drill sergeants to the troops. When our men and women are being sent overseas they should know as much as possible about the land, the culture and the people. Lack of culture and education of a foreign country causes a huge breakdown in communication and lost of life if combat is involved in the operation. I want to see a better retirement system in place, a boost in salary across the board and better equipment. They cannot protect America if they do not have the means to do it right.
Legislation and policy since 9/11 have attempted to increase Counter-Terrorism measures.  Many Americans feel this has come at the expense of civil liberties.  What if anything do you plan to change in this regard?
The counter-Terrorism measures must be reviewed by my administration. Americans earn the right to stand up for their civil liberties. We must all take responsibility to say something when we see or know something. It is up to our government to know when to take action to encounter terrorist threats. Once the policy is, reviewed changes will be made to really dogwatch suspects while allowing our fellow Americans to enjoy civil liberties.
Do you plan to make any changes regarding US immigration policy and border enforcement?
The US immigration policy must be a policy that will work on both sides of the table. An open discussion with the government of Mexico is what I look forward too. We need to examine the reasons for the acts of illegal immigration, talk about the economic infrastructure of the country and what must be done to make it work for the people. The border must be patrolled and wired from one end to the other. NO MORE CROSSING. I have a planned program that will decrease illegal border crossing and encourage legal immigration.
Some people have discussed the idea of introducing a national ID card.  How do you feel about this?
I do not favor this idea. We need to introduce and put into effect a national health care plan for all Americans, giving them the option to use holistic, western or combined care.
What are your plans and opinions on the Enforcement, Intelligence and Security organizations such as the Department of Homeland Security, Central Intelligence Agency, Federal Bureau of Investigation, National Security Agency, Secret Service, Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms and the Drug Enforcement Agency?
What I plan to do is to review the operational structure of each agency and make the necessary changes that will enhance its operation.
What is your stance on gun control?  What do you plan to change or implement regarding the specific policies on shotguns, rifles, handguns and assault weapons?
I will put the ban back on assault weapons and review the policy with respect to registration for shotguns, rifles or handguns. I want to see a strong gun crime bill put in place. Longer sentences and higher fines when convicted of any gun crime.
What is your stance on US drug policy?  Do you plan to make any changes on the enforcement of Drug Prohibition Policy?
My administration and I will review the policy and the ongoing operations and based on the strength and weaknesses we will make the necessary changes.
Do you intend to legalize marijuana for medical use?
Yes, marijuana for MEDICAL USE ONLY should be a choice given from doctor to patient. It has been found very useful to reduce the pain experienced by people with many different diseases.
Government entitlement programs such as Social Security, Medicare and Welfare are going farther from fiscal solvency.  What measures will you take on this?  Do you plan on making any changes in the coverage or scope of current entitlement programs?  Please outline any specific changes you will make.
Social Security, Medicaid, Medicare, these programs must be saved. In order to ensure the existence of these programs we must first strengthen the economic infrastructure of America by putting more jobs in the system. The more people we have working the more money will be paid into the system. The Welfare to work program will be reviewed. We need more incentives in place to motivate and encourage people to become independent of the Welfare system.
Many people, especially the elderly are worried about the cost of medicine and medical care.  What do you plan to do about this?
I want to see a “One Card System” for our elderly and veterans. I did research and surveys and found out that the current plans are too confusing and many of our elderly and veteran citizens still don’t have enough out of pocket cash to make up the co-payments. Medicine and medical care should be reduced for our elderly and veterans.
What is your record on raising or lowering taxes?  Do you plan to raise or lower taxes as President?  Why?
I do not have a record on raising or lowering any taxes. My first priority is to look at the national budget and examine our finances. Raising taxes is not the focus of my administration. I have a plan that will create financial independence for every state in the union.
How do you plan on ensuring the fiscal solvency of the United States Government?  Please outline any specific plans you have for this end.
When you go to my main website, http://www.washingtonforpresident.us, you can go to the “National Budget” link to view my fiscal plan for the government. I do have several cabinets to introduce to my administration. I must review the government agencies operational structure and make sure that they are creating value for our government and the people.
The US Dollar is losing its value compared to other world currencies.  What do you plan to do about this?
I feel that in order to strengthen our dollar value, we must become competitive in the market of production. We need to create what I call “corporate in source” which means to bring production of products and services into America . This creates jobs, which will build up our economy. With the best training and development in production the value of our products will = or raise the value of our dollar.
What are your long term plans to improve the United States Economy?
My long term plans to improve the US economy is to first create more jobs coming into America . Corporate incentives are the key to winning over corporations and companies that are currently doing business outside of the United States . The next step is to create learning and training centers so that job performance will be at the top of the line. I have a plan called the SRS plan. This plan will offer the employer an incentive for every employee who takes advantage of this plan. For example, this plan would put $32000 in your pocket at the end of a 10-15 year term of saving $100 a month. At the same time, the state in which you live in would collect 10% or about $6,000 from each participant. At a rate of 20,000 people saving $100 a month, the state will average close to $130,900,000.00. There are several denominations to choose. It starts from $25 a month. The states money can be used for so many programs such as education, healthcare, etc. Surveys were taken to see how many people would take advantage of such a program and no one has turned it down. In fact, people wish that this plan were available to them now.
President Bush agreed to the Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America in 2005.  Do you believe this is a good thing?  Do you plan on making any specific changes to the agreements in this partnership?
I have to get with my staff and examine this partnership. If the plan does not create value for the happiness of the American people, it will be reformed.
Many people are worried about environmental concerns such as Global Warming, the Depletion of the Ozone Layer, and Pollution.  What do you intend to do about this?
On the issues of Global Warming, I plan to set up a cabinet that will take action on an international scale to stop global warming. I will open up humanistic relations with companies that can provide mass production of solar, wind, bio, water and other environmentally safe technologies. I will also develop talks with the international community and countries that currently use nuclear technology and encourage a new wave of energy to save the planet. We must get everyone on board this project. I will ask Al Gore to head this cabinet. He and other people are in the forefront of saving the planet and I join him in the effort. As President, this will take place during my first year in office.
Do you plan to make any changes regarding US energy policy?  Please address transportation, and power distribution.
In order to make changes to end global warming we need to make changes in energy. The policy will be reformed. There are companies that are working hard to create new environmentally safe fuels. We have the product available. Car companies are taking giant steps in designing fuel-efficient vehicles. We need to step up the renewable fuel program and start using these products for all of our transportation. It saves money for our airline industry, train, bus, and trucking industry. When you save money in this area, spending becomes easier on the consumer. The economic tree now has a new branch to sprout new leaves of ideas, which will bare the fruit of a healthier America and a healthier planet. With respect to power distribution, I am taking a look at the power of solar and wind technology. This will be the new way of power for America
Abortion is a heated debate among many Americans.  What are your personal feelings on Abortion?  Do you plan on making any changes in current abortion policy?  If so, how do you plan to accomplish your changes?
Abortion has always been a heated issue mainly because of religious ethics. People make choices and they bare the responsibility for the choices that they make. Government should not play a role in the final choice of a woman’s right to choose. Abortion should be a “case by case” situation. You have women who have been raped or you may have a young child who is pregnant by incest. There are many cases of unwanted pregnancies and the woman in that position may desire to make a choice. I leave that choice up to the woman and her belief system.
What is your stance on Gay Marriage? Do you plan to make any changes regarding policy in this area?
I prefer not to use labels on people, “gay, straight, etc.” We must first remove ourselves from labeling so much of what we do. I do not have a problem with two men or two women upholding a ceremony to pronounce their eternal love for one another. Marriage should stand for two loving human beings, who have experienced love for one another and wish to share it with their family and friends. Copulation is not the only way of becoming a parent. Many children in this world do not have parents and are seeking loving homes. We must realize that we are all the “Lord God of our beings” and that we need not judge Gods creation. Man has lived a life of judgment for eons and it has caused nothing but dis-harmony, hurt and war. Love is an emotion that lives within. Marriage between two people who experience the emotion of love for one another is what matters.
What are your opinions on the idea of “Net Neutrality”?  What do you plan to do about “Net Neutrality”?
The issue of “Net Neutrality” is still being debated. I stand for equality and fairness in the service of the net.
Do you have a set of standards by which you intend to appoint Federal Judges?  What standards must a potential Federal Judge or Supreme Court Justice meet to gain your approval?
Before I make any attempts to appoint new judges, I will first look at the judges we have in place. The standards that a potential Federal or Supreme Court Justice must meet would be fairness, compassion and understanding. I would examine that by looking at the history of rulings by such a candidate to determine my final decision on appointing.
What are your plans for the US education system?  Is the “No Child Left Behind Act” a good thing?  Do you plan on making any changes to the “No Child Left Behind Act”.  How do you plan on changing US policy regarding elementary school, high school, and higher education?
My goal for the US education system is to reform it. Our children are left behind especially when it comes to the level of graduated students from high school and college. There is a school system in Japan called the Soka School System. The founder, Daisaku Ikeda, a Nobel Peace Prizewinner and third president of the Soka Gakkai International, has formed a school based on his mentor’s dream. The school system ranges from kindergarten to college. In fact, one of the college campuses are here in America . Soka University of America in California . The school system has a very high graduation rate. The students not only learn academics but they learn to become “world class” citizens and become global leaders. That is what our youth need. I will remove the “no child left behind act” and work on a program that will enhance the American youth learning skills. College will become more affordable and I look to raise the salary and build a good retirement system for our teachers, nationally. This all takes work and I am ready to do what it takes for the happiness of the American people.
What issues are of strongest concern to you regarding domestic policy?  What changes will you make?
My greatest concern of many when it comes to domestic policy is the care of the American people. There are citizens that are poorer than some third-world countries, right here in our country. Housing, schools, learning centers, jobs, care for our elderly and veterans. These domestic issues have been left behind by the current administration. Our roads and highways are in bad shape. The change is to take that 192 billion dollar month war money and put it where it will create value for the American people and still protect our soil. It can be done and it will be done.
What issues are of strongest concern to you regarding foreign policy?  What changes will you make?
I’ am often called a big dreamer when it comes to foreign policy. I say, “So be that” because my biggest concern is the circle of diplomatic foreign relations that have fallen apart over and over again. Our counter parts meet at the table, sign deals of peace but no action is taken. The changes that I will make will be to encourage “Humanistic Relations.” It is all about developing heart to heart dialogue, cultural exchange and education. It is about soft power and creating waves of true peace. The result is that you have a bond of friendship. The creation of a new dawn of true peace. This is the “Promised Land” that Martin Luther King Jr. talked about and I will carry it out for the sake of humanity’s happiness.
Please take this opportunity to address any miscellaneous concerns, plans or policies that were not discussed in this questionnaire.  Also use this opportunity to make any closing statements.
America seeks change. I’ am seeking the office of President of the United States with a life long will to create that change for the happiness of you the people. America seeks somebody who will step up to the plate and end the war. America is seeking somebody who will step up to the plate and care for the environment and this planet. America is seeking somebody who will step up to the plate and work for the happiness of the people. It is my determination to manifest what America seeks. The “Promised Land” must be built. It will take all of us to manifest the dream. I ask you to spread the word to all that you know about my vision for this great country. From the lord God of my being I thank you for this time, so be that.