Do you support the findings of the Commission on Innovation and Excellence in Education? Are you committed to funding associated reforms, and if so, how?
Obike: Yes! Education is essential to building up strong leaders. I support the implementation of the commission’s proposal especially the equitable distribution of resources.
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Is Maryland’s transportation spending appropriately balanced between roads and transit? Does the state have the resources to meet its transportation needs? With the cancellation of the Red Line and the advent of BaltimoreLink, is the Baltimore region adequately served by transit?
Obike: We can never have enough transit opportunities since most commuters rely on the roads as well as public transportation to travel about the state. An equal distribution of resources between transit and roads is most desirable.
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Do you support the legalization of recreational marijuana?
Obike: No.
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At a time when the federal government’s commitment to Chesapeake Bay restoration is questionable, what new steps should Maryland take to protect this resource?
Obike: Working with the Chesapeake Bay Program and the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, the states of Maryland, Virginia and Pennsylvania have been able to bring lasting ecological improvements to the Bay. I plan to continue the support of these institutions to ensure the good health of the Bay.
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What steps should Maryland take to ensure the broadest possible access to affordable health care?
Obike: To ensure the broadest access to affordable health care, we need to ensure competition in the health care markets, reduce burdensome legal constraints on medical practices, and offer incentives for Marylanders to work in order to qualify for health care.
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What role should the state play in helping Baltimore address violent crime?
Obike: To reduce crime in Baltimore, we need to equip our law enforcement with the tools to fight violent crime.
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How would you characterize Maryland’s business climate? What can the state do to foster the creation of more family-supporting jobs?
Obike: Since 2014, when Governor Larry Hogan was first elected, the State of Maryland enjoyed a rebound in the business climate due to a favorable tax climate. I believe that the election/re-election of Republicans to office is one of the best things we can do to create a business friendly state.
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Do you support the creation of a non-partisan, independent body to draw legislative and congressional district maps after each census?
Obike: Yes, most definitely! Yes!
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Does the Law Enforcement Officers Bill of Rights adequately balance protections for police and the public? Should it be changed, and if so, how?
Obike: The Law Enforcement Officers need protection just as much as citizens do. However, I believe we have lost respect for authority, in general, regardless of profession. We should be engaging in a public service announcement (PSA) campaign to encourage respect for authority.
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What strategy would you adopt to address the opioid addiction and overdose crisis?
Obike: As a state, we need to support the federal government’s push to stop the flow of drugs coming into our country.
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What if anything should the state do to address income inequality?
Obike: For low-paying jobs, we need to enforce some wage increases. Additionally, encourage jobs training and replacement for interested workers.
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Do the state’s Public Information Act and open meetings laws adequately ensure Marylanders’ ability to exercise oversight of the government?
Obike: We could always have more oversight of government. I support more open access to public information.
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