First-timer Phillips gunning for McCarthy's seat

Independent Terry Phillips, a native of Fresno who now lives in Bakersfield, is running for office for the first time.

“I’ve been having a great time. It’s been so interesting. So far it has been all positive,” said Phillips who is running against House Majority Whip in the United States Congress Kevin McCarthy of the 22nd District of California.

The election is Nov. 6.

An independent journalist by trade Phillips, a small business owner, has lived and traveled nationwide and overseas. Though he has never served in government he has campaign and life experience.

“If there was a time where someone like me could run and win this is it,” stated Phillips who added that his personal roles in Congress would be to serve his constituents and act as a mediator. “I hate the fact that our government has turned into a partisan battleground.”  

His platform contains a variety of issues, but a major issue is the economy.

“The whole country has one top priority, to solve the economic crisis,” explained Phillips “It’s clear that we need to put people back to work.”

He pointed out that the Valley has always had three big industries; oil, agriculture and health care. However, he added that residents must look beyond these areas and expand. His approach is to begin investing in education at all levels so that students can become employable. He further explained that the Valley has tens of thousands of people who could be trained in many fields like engineering and manufacturing.

“Why is it that we don’t have a Central Valley version of Silicon Valley,” asked Phillips.

He also discussed the issue of minimum wage.

“Some people want to do away with minimum wage. If people don’t earn enough money the cost to society goes up,” added Phillips.  

If elected he intends to change a few things including installing live streaming video in his office and having more public activities.

“Hearings, meetings and round tables should be public,” added Phillips.    

His promise to the voters is this: “As an independent I can promise that I will not vote because some party or corporation tells me too,” stated Phillips.

For more information visit www.terryphillips.org.