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I am a seasoned software engineer with a more-than-passing interest in the world of politics.
Programming
I have been developing software for nearly 30 years now, about 25 of those professionally. I currently work as an Independent Software Consultant for Pertino, Inc. I mainly write system level code on Windows and Linux (device drivers, kernel modules and services/daemons). I am extremely proficient in C, strong in C++ and competent in several other languages such as Java, PHP and assembly.
Politics
I am very libertarian in my view of government's role in our daily lives yet very conservative in my social views. I am not one who would compromise his believes in order to accomplish a desired goal. For example, I remember a politician at the local level state, "While I am philosophically opposed to eminent domain, I believe this is best for our city at this time." That is someone who has compromised their beliefs.
I have run for local office on three (3) separate occasions. I was not elected, partially because I could not enlist the support of those of influence. And, that was mainly due to the fact that I was not willing to compromise my beliefs or goals. For example, I received a call from a Council member during one of the elections who said they would throw their support behind me in the next election if I withdrew from the current one. I did not accept that offer because I had a message that needed to be heard during that current election cycle. My message was heard during that election cycle and action was later taken.
