Q&A with Republican Candidate Stephen Labate

Stephen Labate is the Republican candidate to run against Representative Steve Israel (D) this fall for the New York State 3rd Congressional District Seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. Labate holds the title of Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve and has served on missions in Iraq and at the Pentagon in his 24 years of service. Labate currently resides in North Babylon with his wife, Leticia, and twin six-year-olds, Michael and Maria.

Why are you running for Congress?

"I'm running because I have children I would do anything for. I've seen what's been going on in our country – a lack of leadership as well as in Congress. I decided to step up to the plate. I've seen this mismanagement of $16 trillion of debt that the leadership of our country has put on the backs of our children... I'm happy with the response I've had so far [to my candidacy]."

How will the redrawn districts in New York State affect your campaign?

"I think its improved our chances substantially. Two-thirds of the district is new to me as well as Rep. Israel. No matter where I go, where I fight the battle in, the reception is the same – people are terrified for the future of country, they're scared to death of Obamacare. They're scared of the cost its putting on every day Americans. The whole district is new to both of us.

I'll be one mile about outside of the district – you don't have to live inside to run; we've invested a lot of time into this and I'm obviously not going to run because of a mile."

What do you think makes you qualified to be our representative?

"Look at those with all of the experience – the people who are 'supposed to know what they're doing.' I have 24 years in the military, in the Pentagon and in Iraq. I'm running because I have twin six year olds I'm fighting for. I've never held office before, no legal experience – I'm solider and a dad. In the eyes of all the voters, I think it makes me uniquely qualified."

What do you feel is the biggest issue in your district?

"It's two fold because they intertwined – repealing Obamacare and jobs and the economy. One of the reasons business owners are only hiring part-time people is because they're concerned with health care costs and the impact of Obamacare on their businesses. Those are the two main points for me.

National defense – In January, our government will have slashed $550 billion on military. They never came back and handled it. This could be a disaster; my point is where is the outrage from Israel and Congress that this is happening. We have to remember theres a lot of bad people and countries that do not wish us well, we have to remember our premier fighting force. At this point, it seems we are surrendering it for political expediency."

Anything else you would like to add?

"In 2012, I feel as Americans we realize what has made us the most wealthy and prosperous. We know its not by the government trying to force prosperity. The reason we are who are is because of American genius and entrepreneurism. Folks trying to take a chance. We need to return to those values. We need to make sure the federal government doesn't stifle it with regulations and taxations."

More information on Stephen Labate can be found at his website or on his Facebook page.