About the Candidate
Name: Peter Kopsaftis
DOB: Jan. 24, 1948
Occupation: Self employed
Political Experience: I am currently the Barrington Township Republican Committeeman and I have been involved in many Republican campaigns for decades.
Website: http://www.peterkforcongress.com
Facebook: @peterkforcongress
Candidate Statement
My name is Peter Kopsaftis. When I decided to run there were no Republican candidates running. My decision to run was based on my opinion that the incumbent Congressman is not adequately representing this district.
The theme of my campaign is Saving the American Dream. Those of us who were immigrants to this country and now citizens know what that dream is. The policies that are coming out of Washington, DC have drifted further and further toward the radical left. These policies, in some cases, are the same policies that have failed in other countries and forced the people of those nations to seek a better life in America.
The high taxes and spending on the Federal level are a form of socialism and social engineering that do not help lift people up instead disincentivize them and building a mediocre economy rather than a robust one. Government does not spend money efficiently whereas the Free Marketplace is much more efficient and dynamic.
If elected to Congress, I will first advocate for the people of the 8th Congressional District as I am their representative. I will not be afraid to vote against or for legislation before Congress. My criteria will be based on whether or not I feel the legislation is Constitutional or not, I will assess how that legislation affects my constituents, and I will make sure that spending bills do not contribute more government debt placed on our children and grandchildren including my granddaughter.
My issues are simple and straightforward. I support a strong national defense, I support local control of schools and education in general and I would oppose the federal overreach that we have seen out of Washington, DC that includes threats to parents who speak out at school board meetings. And I am for legal immigration that respects the laws of this country.
I’m blessed to have the support of many elected officials and leaders and I believe that I would be the best candidate to take on the incumbent in the General Election in November.
I would appreciate your vote. Peter Kopsaftis for Congress.
Candidate Q&A
Why are you running?
I am running because I think I can make a difference as a representative in Congress. I bring a different perspective as an immigrant, a grandfather, a businessman, and a person who has been active in the community for decades working with both Democrats and Republicans.
What does this office do well, and what needs fixing?
The only part of the office that I am aware of that needs to change is the representative who currently holds that seat. I don’t believe that his votes and his agenda match the people of the district and I think I can do a better job of putting the district and the constituents above the party affiliation.
What is the most pressing issue facing your constituents and how do you plan on addressing it?
Right now the most pressing issue is inflation and the economy. There is talk of a recession and there are still Democrats in Washington DC who are focused on social issues. Gasoline prices are continuing to spike and household spending has gone up over $400 per month in the average household across America. That will contribute to debt and less saving which does not bode well for the future.
What specific steps would you take to ensure your office is accessible and responsive to your constituents?
My office will be accessible because I am accessible. I plan to keep in touch with my constituents so that I will know their concerns and I will know which issues I need to advocate for in Congress. I will hire a staff who shares the same respect and empathy that I have for all people. We will also always keep in mind that we work for the people not the other way around.
