Joshua Krakow

Libertarian | Florida

Candidate Profile

Moderate

BIOGRAPHY

Name

Joshua Krakow


Party

Libertarian


Election Year

2024


Election

General


Race

State Rep., Dist 77


Incumbent

No


Links

Joshua Krakow websites FacebookYouTube

EDUCATION

Richard Milburn Academy, Ft Myers, High School, 2007

Fort Myers Technical College, Ft Myers, Automotive Technology, 2011

WORK & MILITARY

(Candidate did not provide)

AFFILIATIONS

Nub abilities, Winter Break Coach working with limb different kids, Single Dads Outreach

Active Dads Administrator, Peer to peer counselor, Bridge Youth Center, Support Staff

POLITICAL OFFICES HELD

Candidate did not provide

POLITICAL OFFICES SOUGHT

Candidate did not provide

OTHER INFORMATION

QUESTIONNAIRE

RIGHT TO LIFE

Under what circumstances should an elective abortion be allowed?

I am personally against abortion on moral grounds, but I do not support government regulation. Instead, I believe in removing government subsidies and allowing the free market to decide. Beyond government involvement, I see this as a moral issue that requires more open conversations within our communities. We need to discuss our values and reach shared agreements without resorting to force.

Chemical abortion drugs should meet essential safety standards (such as in-person consultation with a medical doctor) and require reporting to gather evidence on reactions and outcomes.

Neutral

It's challenging to strongly agree or disagree without a clear definition of chemical abortion drugs, as I don't consider Plan B to be one of them. I believe in upholding high standards, but government regulations often set expectations without ensuring proper oversight or accountability in the inspection process. This lack of liability in enforcement can undermine the effectiveness of those standards, making it crucial that any regulations are paired with meaningful oversight.

Abortion providers, including Planned Parenthood, should not receive taxpayer funds from federal, state, or local governments (including Title X grants).

Strongly Agree

I completely agree that we need much greater control over how our tax dollars are spent. Currently, we're forced to contribute to a pool that not only gets drained but is also never balanced, contributing to inflation that we didn't agree to. We need significantly more oversight on government spending and greater transparency in how our money is used.

I support 'aid in dying' laws which legalize assisted suicide and euthanasia.

Strongly Disagree

Given the tragic history of governments harming their own people, granting them the authority to assist in euthanasia or suicide is a very dangerous and slippery slope. It's a power that could be easily abused, and I'm strongly opposed to moving in that direction. The potential for misuse is too great to consider such measures, and we must be cautious to protect individual rights and lives.


ECONOMY

Free enterprise and the right to private property are essential elements of a productive economic system.

Strongly Agree

I believe that for economic stability and growth, it's essential for individuals to understand a market free from excessive government regulations. This knowledge allows them to invest wisely. Additionally, the impact of modern monetary theory has hindered economic growth in today's economy, making it even more crucial to promote financial literacy and reduce regulatory constraints that limit market potential.

What is your position on the minimum wage?

Minimum wage can price out workers whose value is lower than what a business can earn. The real issue is sound money. Like affordable housing, what’s affordable today may not be tomorrow, and wage adjustments don’t fully match inflation.

Should environmental and social issues, like ESG (environmental, social, and governance) ratings, be used as criteria in deciding where to invest public monies?

No

I do not believe that ESG initiatives improve the quality of products or services. In fact, they often have the opposite effect, potentially lowering quality while creating unintended consequences. When hiring decisions are influenced by diversity quotas, it can lead to doubts about whether individuals were selected for their qualifications or simply to meet a requirement. This not only harms the individual, but also undermines trust in the quality of the product or service.


RELIGIOUS LIBERTY

Under what circumstances can government close churches?

I believe that under no circumstances should the government have the authority to shut down any business, let alone a church. The government has far too much control over people’s lives, and this level of power is detrimental to individual freedoms. We would be much better off if we shifted towards empowering local communities and reducing the influence and overreach of government in our everyday lives.

Individuals and businesses should be required to provide services even if it would violate their moral and/or religious beliefs.

Strongly Disagree

I believe strongly in private property rights, and a business is a form of private property. I do not think the government should interfere by forcing businesses to serve any individual. It is in the best interest of business owners to welcome all patrons unless those patrons pose a direct threat to them or their community. Good business practices should come from the business owner’s judgment, not from government mandates or coercion.


HEALTHCARE

What most closely matches your view on healthcare: A) Healthcare for all should be guaranteed and funded by the government with no private healthcare option. (includes "universal healthcare," "medicare for all," etc.) B) Healthcare insurance funded by the government should be available for all who want it, along with private healthcare options. C) Medicaid and Medicare should remain available, but no other taxpayer-funded programs are necessary. D) Taxpayer funded health care should be abolished in all forms, and Medicaid and Medicare should be defunded.

I do not support any form of tax-funded welfare, including programs like Medicare and Medicaid. I believe that charity should be handled by the private sector, not through forced taxation. Genuine charity creates a sense of fulfillment for both the giver and the receiver, fostering a stronger community. On the other hand, welfare programs often lead to dependency for the recipient and leave the taxpayer with nothing but a lighter wallet, without the satisfaction that comes from voluntary giving.

Under what circumstances (if any) should a government, school, or employer be allowed to require vaccinations?

No government or government-funded entity should mandate vaccines for employees. As private property, businesses should decide who can enter, balancing inclusivity with their own concerns, while retaining control over their property.


NATIONAL SECURITY

The Chinese Communist Party poses serious military, cyber security, intellectual property, and global economic threats to the United States.

Neutral

I believe the greatest threat to America is our own government, particularly through overregulation that has driven jobs to be outsourced to other countries, leaving us vulnerable. The Chinese Communist Party is only a threat because of our dependence on China and our lack of self-sufficiency. This pattern mirrors many other nations that have lost their ability to sustain themselves. To strengthen our country, we must reduce government interference and focus on rebuilding self-reliance.

Is the United States' relationship with Israel important, and if so why?

The relationship between the U.S. and Israel is important due to the intelligence we gather from the Middle East. However, this need arises from unjust wars we've waged against countries that were never a direct threat. America has acted as the world's police for too long, forming alliances for protection. I believe we would be better off avoiding wars and quid pro quo arrangements, making America truly independent again.


IMMIGRATION

The U.S. should do more to physically secure the southern border.

Strongly Agree

A country cannot exist without borders, and to remain a country, we must sustain and protect ours. I believe we would benefit from an ostracization system rather than the current jailing system. Many violent individuals come to the U.S. because other countries are ostracizing their criminals into our borders. With the welfare system and the vast resources we offer, these individuals are incentivized to come, taking advantage of what we provide without contributing positively to our society.


EDUCATION

The state should fund education by allowing dollars to follow the child through programs which protect parents' freedom to choose their child's school – public, private, or homeschool.

Strongly Agree

I agree that tax funds should follow the student, whether they attend public, private, or homeschool, though I don't personally support government-funded education. Education works best when parents and teachers collaborate. Unfortunately, it now resembles daycare, with minimal parental involvement. If parents had more at stake, they might take education more seriously, as many have grown too complacent about the quality of their children’s education.


VALUES

Children are the most vulnerable members of society and must be protected from abuse, including gender ideology, grooming, and bodily mutilation.

Strongly Agree

I agree that children are our most vulnerable and must be protected from abuse, harmful ideologies, grooming, and body mutilation, but this responsibility lies more with parents than with the government. Too often, parents are not held accountable for their negligence or for blindly trusting strangers with their children. The government has fostered this by promoting public education and other systems that distance parents, all contributing to a decline in community and independence.

Parents should have the right to make decisions for their minor children.

Strongly Agree

Parents must retain the right to make decisions for their minor children. Our nation was built on limiting government control, yet over time we've accepted more regulation while becoming less tolerant of differing lifestyles. Rebuilding strong communities is essential to restoring balance and independence from government overreach. By focusing on local connections, we can ensure that families and individuals maintain their rights without unnecessary interference.

Taxpayer funds should be used to provide gender transition services.

Strongly Disagree

I believe tax dollars should not be used to fund individual healthcare services. Thomas Jefferson said, "To compel a man to furnish contributions of money for the propagation of opinions which he disbelieves and abhors is sinful and tyrannical." Many people share this sentiment, particularly when it comes to tax money funding gender transition services. Forcing taxpayers to finance procedures they fundamentally disagree with infringes on their personal beliefs.

Marriage is a God-ordained, sacred and legal union of one man and one woman. No government has the authority to alter this definition.

Strongly Agree

I believe marriage should be a religious practice, not regulated by the state. The fact that marriage has been extended to include same-sex couples, despite no religion historically endorsing such unions, opens the door to polygamy, which is a religious practice. However, I believe government should have no role in marriage at all—no tax breaks or financial benefits. Marriage should remain a personal relationship between individuals and their community, not the government.

Briefly describe your spiritual beliefs and values.

I grew up in a deeply religious home, where many of my core values were shaped by a non-denominational Christian Churchs. However, as I've faced harsh realities—losing close friends and surviving near-death experiences—I’ve shifted my beliefs toward the idea that we may live in a simulation. Despite this, I remain firmly rooted in the principle of treating others as I would want to be treated. I'm very grateful for what I have and love giving back to my community. My friendships and family mean everything to me, and anyone who knows me understands how evident that is in my life.


ELECTIONS AND VOTING

People should be able to vote without photo identification.

Strongly Disagree

I strongly oppose individuals voting without a photo ID, as the current structure gives the government significant power over us, making fair and honest elections crucial. While I believe we need to reduce the authority the government holds, and as we do, votes shouldn’t matter as much as they do now. However, I have a bill that I will introduce when elected, which will fortify our elections with double redundancies to ensure transparency and prevent manipulation.

States should join the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact which makes the Electoral College irrelevant.

Strongly Disagree

I recognize the importance of the Electoral College in giving more urban areas a voice in our political system. However, as I’ve stated before, the government should not have as much control over our lives as it currently does. Relying too heavily on majority rule, or "mob rule," often paves the way for forms of Marxism, which can undermine individual freedoms and personal responsibility. It's essential to strike a balance that prevents this kind of centralization of power.


EQUALITY

Is racism a threat to domestic security in the United States? Why or why not?

I believe our country faces existential threats due to the lack of community and shared morals in today's society. Racism, in my view, is often a byproduct of ignorance and, in many cases, negative personal experiences. If we focused on building stronger communities and reduced gentrification across the U.S., I believe racism and other forms of discrimination would largely fade. When people connect on a deeper level, they see everyone as a unique individual deserving of respect.

I agree with Critical Race Theory (CRT) which asserts that the institutions in the United States are fundamentally racist.

Strongly Disagree

I believe that in many ways, government policies fuel racial division through initiatives like DEI and critical race theory. These approaches often ostracize individuals by categorizing them based on their ethnicity or melanin content, rather than recognizing them as unique individuals. Treating people as mere representatives of a group, rather than acknowledging their individual identities, undermines the goal of unity and mutual respect in society.

Biological males should not be allowed to participate in women's sports or occupy biological women's spaces whether it be bathrooms, locker rooms, sorority houses, women's shelters, or prison.

Strongly Agree

From a moral standpoint, I believe men should not be in women's sports, bathrooms, or other spaces designed to provide women with safety and security. However, I don’t think policies should force businesses to comply with this. Businesses should have the freedom to operate as they see fit, and if people disagree with their decisions, they can choose to stop supporting them. For government-funded entities, I believe all funding should be removed from such initiatives.


ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT

Which comes closest to your view? (Select all that apply) A) Stricter environmental laws and regulations cost too many jobs and hurt the economy. B) Stricter environmental laws and regulations are worth the cost. C) Stricter environmental laws undermine U.S. energy independence and deter development of reliable electricity sources. D) Climate change is real and requires urgent policy action.

I believe environmental laws are overly strict and hinder our potential for prosperity. Nuclear power is, in my view, the best energy source we can produce. I also recognize the value of petroleum products and the loss we'd face if we stopped using them. While environmental pollution concerns me, the pollution we discuss is minimal compared to what is caused by war and poor government spending. Inefficient government spending has a far greater environmental impact than our energy production.

What do you believe is the most reliable energy source that will supply the growing demand for electricity?

I believe nuclear energy is our best option, especially if we standardize power plant technology to reduce complexities that make them hard to maintain. Current regulations make it difficult to build nuclear plants, driven by worst-case scenario fear


ABOUT YOU

Have you ever been penalized for sexual misconduct in either civil or criminal court? If so, please explain.

no

Have you ever been convicted of a felony? If so, please explain.

no

What do you think is the general purpose of government?

I believe the government’s role is to protect borders and our way of life. Sadly, corporations have turned regulations into a means of control, and the government now struggles to manage its own finances while trying to control the people it should protect. As a Libertarian, I agree with Orwell's view that the real conflict is between Libertarians and authoritarians. We must reduce government authority and prioritize individual liberty and freedom from government overreach.

When you consider your views on a wide range of issues from economic and social matters to foreign policy and religious liberty, which of the following best describes you overall?

Moderate

I am a firm believer in laissez-faire libertarianism, where government should not interfere in economic, social, foreign policy, or religious matters. These should be handled within communities, allowing for natural assimilation. Centralized control erodes community and leads to imposing authority, which is wrong. Force should be reserved for defense, not preemptive action. Many problems we see today are caused by government intervention, which often worsens the issues.


CRIMINAL JUSTICE & PUBLIC SAFETY

I support redirecting funds from police departments to community programs.

Neutral

While I believe in reducing government, I recognize its current role in maintaining infrastructure as we work to rebuild communities. Government often acts as a Band-Aid for the lack of community, and while imperfect, it can still hold things together. Removing it too quickly could create a power vacuum and lead to chaos, so we must proceed with care. For example, I believe my local sheriff misappropriates funds, and while our department has sufficient resources, better leadership could improve


2ND AMENDMENT

What restrictions on gun ownership are needed to protect public safety?

I believe that gun ownership and firearm restrictions should be nonexistent, as the Second Amendment grants the right to bear arms without infringement. However, I disagree with the current definition of constitutional carry, as it still requires the repeal of unconstitutional laws like the NFA. A well-armed society is a polite society, and in my view, a vote can be far more dangerous than any individual with a firearm.

Should teachers be allowed to carry guns at school?

Yes

I believe that gun ownership and firearm restrictions should be nonexistent, as the Second Amendment grants the right to bear arms without infringement. However, I disagree with the current definition of constitutional carry, as it still requires the repeal of unconstitutional laws like the NFA. A well-armed society is a polite society, and in my view, a vote can be far more dangerous than any individual with a firearm.

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