2013 Survey Response: A CONSISTENT ETHIC OF LIFE IN PUBLIC POLICY 1.  A consistent ethic of life focuses on the major life issues of abortion, euthanasia, persistent poverty, unjust war, capital punishment, the use of nuclear-arms, violence, racism and exploitation.  While these are nationally debated issues, there are community manifestations of these that local governments can address.  Will you as a regional government official do all in your power and authority to implement public policies and facilitate community action that further a consistent respect for all human life?     Yes — the Freeholder position deals with government structure and not policy. Even so, I have always been pro-life.   ABORTION 2. Even dedicated proponents of abortion acknowledge that life begins at conception.  What do you believe?  Does a unique human life begins at conception?        Life begins at conception. Unique, individual and precious. 3. The 14th Amendment states "nor shall any state deprive any person of life, liberty or property without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws." The Supreme Court in Roe v. Wade, 1973, stated that "if this suggestion of personhood is established, the appellant's case, of course, collapses, for the fetus' right to life would then be guaranteed specifically by the [14th] Amendment."  The Court regrettably concluded though that "we need not resolve the difficult question of when life begins. When those trained in the respective disciplines of medicine, philosophy, and theology are unable to arrive at any consensus, the judiciary, at this point in the development of man's knowledge, is not in a position to speculate as to the answer."   Do you believe that the right to life of the unborn child is guaranteed by the 14th Amendment?      Absolutely. 4.  Is taking the life of a pre-born child through abortion ever permissible?        Check all that apply: _____ No, it's never permissible __×___ Yes, to save mother's life _____ Yes, in cases of rape or incest _____ Yes, for physical deformity _____  Yes, for genetic predispositions _____  Yes, for gender _____  Yes, for race _____   Yes, for economic hardship _____  Yes, to punish spouse _____  Yes, it's always permissible   5. Do you support parental notification and/or consent before a minor (under 18 years of age) could have an abortion? A judicial bypass of parents would be allowed when necessary.  A 2013 poll commissioned by Human Life WA, found Washington State voters are widely supportive of laws requiring "parental involvement" in abortion decisions for girls under the age of 18 (62-29% with just under 10% undecided).  Read a summary of the results here.  Do you support: Notification?  Yes Consent?    Yes CONTRIBUTIONS OF RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATIONS 6. "Religious communities are the largest and best-organized civil institutions in the world, claiming the allegiance of billions across race, class, and national divides. These communities have particular cultural understandings, infrastructures, and resources to get help where it is needed most" (World Conference of Religions for Peace).  Southwest Washington has a broad range of religious communities that contribute substantially to the welfare of families, children, seniors, the homeless, sick, and refugees.  They are a highly valued part of our community which respects and defends human life at every stage.  Are you an active member in a church, synagogue, temple, mosque or other religious assembly? If so, you may state here where at:  Prince of Peace Lutheran Church                                                                   Battle Ground, WA   FAITH-BASED AND NEIGHBORHOOD PARTNERSHIPS 7. The White House's Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships ensures that religious and other community organizations are able to compete on an equal footing for participation in Federal programs without impairing the character of such organizations and without diminishing the religious freedom of those served.  Does the collaboration of government with faith-based charitable works lawfully ensure fair treatment of religious organizations, and is it good for our communities?      There is always danger when collaborating with government, but on the whole I see this as beneficial. Fair treatment for all is the standard. Best outcomes always the goal.   QUALIFICATIONS 8. Please state your professional experience, community involvement, education and other qualifications for this position.      I have had a life long interest in government and politics, and have lived in Clark County for 26+ years. With a BA in Political Science and earning an MBA while working and raising my family, my time has been filled to overflowing. I recently retired from a wonderful career in the medical industry and look forward to transitioning to new pursuits — the most immediate as a Freeholder, working with others to construct a better government structure for our county. I have been active in the North Clark County Food Bank, my local church, and as a charter member and officer of Lewis River Rotary. POLICY POSITIONS 9. You may state here any policy positions you have in relation to the office you are seeking:     I most strongly endorse a more representative structure, increasing the number of commissioners and electing each by district. With proper safeguards, extending the privilege of initiative and referendum to the people of Clark County is also an item to be included in the charter. I currently am leaning towards an elected executive to provide overall leadership to the county, giving a separation of powers and a check-and-balance to the governmental process.   10. May Life PAC post your returned survey on our website? Yes       Surveys are posted only with your permission. Please give your campaign web address if you have one: www.ralph-in-2013.com   Thank you for this opportunity to respond to your survey.