Candidate Profile-Vito Barbieri

Birth date: Oct. 22, 1951

Profession: Attorney

Educational background: AA Psychology; BS Law; JD Law

Public service (elected or appointed offices): None

Community service (service clubs, nonprofit boards, etc.): Vice Chair: Open Arms Pregnancy Care Center

How many years as a resident of your city: Six

Marital status: Married

Family: Two boys, One girl: James 17; Paul 15; Tina 13

Hobbies: Guitar; boating; snow skiing; camping

Why are you running for office?

District 3 needs a strong voice in Boise that will stand unwaveringly for conservative principles.

I believe I will continue the conservative representation that Rep. Jim Clark provided as well as blaze a new trail of leadership protecting our state rights, personal property rights, and establish an economic base that will provide jobs and lower taxes.

What do you see as the three biggest issues you’ll face? (And steps necessary to resolution.)

1) Taxes

2) Economy/Jobs

3) State Sovereignty

1) The Legislature must work to hold the line on taxes. Government, like families, must live within its means. Proper budgeting means “tightening our belt.”  Now, more than ever, strong leadership in Boise to oversee the budget is essential. One example: I’ll work to remove the tax on food that is burdensome for our seniors and those on fixed incomes.

2) A primary tool the Legislature has over the economy is a low regulatory oversight to free businesses to concentrate on profits. Reduced regulations will result in creating more jobs - which results in a healthy economy. One of the most important stands I’ll take is for individuals to produce on one’s own behalf by working to scale-back encroaching administrative regulations.

3) I will represent our right to exercise the 10th amendment and push back against the federal government continued encroachment: limiting their stronghold on our gun rights; control of our own timber and resources; wolves; and Obama-care.  I plan on providing legislation that will lessen the federal restrictions/control and return to local governance.

What specific skills or experience qualify you for this job?

I owned and operated Sunshine Trader Restaurant and understand the issues businesses experience. I have experience fighting in Federal Court as a lawyer for family and personal property rights. I sit on the governing board of Open Arms Pregnancy Care Center in Coeur d’Alene and stand, working with them, for the rights of the unborn.

Why should voters elect you, rather than an opponent?

I’m a good listener, but, a stronger voice of reason. Representatives should serve their constituents, not aspire to be career politicians. At 58, I’m not seeking a career enhancement, but dedicated to representing conservative values. I have a strong record of effectively representing families while protecting their property rights. I’m the only District 3 candidate endorsed by Idaho Chooses Life.