Michael "Mike" Scala

I fundamentally oppose both.

My article on SOPA can be found here: http://scalaforcongress.com/index.php/component/k2/item/10-we-must-defeat-the-stop-online-piracy-act-sopa

Codifying indefinite detention (NDAA) likewise offends the principles of our Constitution. I find the justification that constitutional rights are narrower in wartime personally offensive. For one, we've been "at war" our whole lives. If we're going that route, let's at least require Congress to formally declare war. As it stands now, the freedoms promised by the Bill of Rights are never guaranteed because we're in a perpetual state of war. Using the War on Terror as an excuse to restrict due process is almost as tenuous as using the War on Drugs. Weren't we told the terrorists attacked us because they were jealous of our liberties? We've responded by making our country more like theirs. Stopping the publication of ship departure dates during a war is one thing (Near v. Minnesota). Indefinite detention without trial is unacceptable.

I like that Rep. Meeks opposes privatizing Social Security, stands his ground in the face of media attacks, and makes a good faith effort to explain his votes to protesters.

I dislike the Democratic Party's lack of conviction, passive-aggressive treatment of the working class, and apparent inability to communicate a cohesive message.

I think it should be treated in a similar way as alcohol. It's ridiculous that marijuana use in the privacy of one's own home is unlawful.

I would pass a constitutional amendment overturning the Supreme Court's Citizens United decision. Corporations would no longer be allowed to use the "independent expenditure" loophole to spend unlimited amounts of money on elections. If we can put the power in the people's hands, the rest will fall into place.

1) I believe people are entitled to know the facts and make their own judgments. However, the media absolutely does tend to sensationalize these kinds of stories. I'd prefer to see greater focus on the issues. I'm more concerned about Rep. Paul's recent statements in opposition of the Civil Rights Act, for example, than newsletters from 20 years ago.

2) I support the movement and find it astounding that it's been so sustainable. This is the kind of energy I would have loved to see when the Supreme Court appointed Bush president, or when the Patriot Act was enacted. It's time to translate the movement into political action by electing frustrated citizens who recognize fundamental reforms (i.e., getting the money out of politics) are necessary.

3) At this point in my life, I'd say my father. He died when I was 19, which now feels like an eternity ago. I have my memories, but I would cherish the opportunity to spend more time with him. It's surreal to realize he never knew me as an adult.

Term limits become increasingly necessary as the system continues to provide unfair advantages to incumbents. If we can sufficiently curb the influence of big money on our elections and put candidates on a level playing field, we won't have a pressing need for term limits. In theory, the people should be able to elect whomever they wish. If they feel incumbents have overstayed their welcome, they can vote them out. Of course, we need to level that playing field first.

Yes, I can and will win this race. I believe my biggest obstacle is the incumbent's access to corporate dollars. That's really what the election is about: a hometown candidate challenging the machine. Queens voters will better relate to my message, but I'll need the resources to convey it to them.

I don't know about street cred, but it's true that Hip Hop has a special relationship with Queens. It won't hurt. One thing it can do is mobilize the younger generation who may not always vote.

I view health insurance the same way I do education.

If you want to go to a private school, that's your choice. But those institutions should be held accountable to prevent abuse. I also think there needs to be a strong public system in place. Likewise, if you want to buy private insurance, that's your prerogative. However, we shouldn't allow those companies to take advantage of people. And the public option, or the availability of Medicare for all, should also be in play.

I believe in the right to contract, but not when the terms are unconscionable. When it comes to issues like health care, more is at stake than with other transactions.

The laptop I'm using right now has Vista, and it's horrible.

Yes, because the big money usually goes to the incumbents. As mentioned, Citizens United should be overturned so that corporations can't buy elections anymore. I am intrigued by the idea of publicly funded elections.

To be honest, the customs are as much a problem as the laws are. Nobody wants to support candidates unless they come to the table with a lot of money. Policy is almost an afterthought, and that has to change.

Here's an article I wrote about the influence of money in politics: http://scalaforcongress.com/index.php/component/k2/item/11-money-shouldnt-rule-our-politics