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DARIEN, Conn. David Orner cant sit back while companies shed jobs and the countrys deficit grows. The Darien Republican wants to work to get the country back on its feet and has stepped up to challenge Jim Himes in Connecticuts Fourth Congressional District.
What weve seen in government the past few years is that there have been more regulations, tax systems have gotten more complicated. Thats not the right thing to do to create jobs, Orner said. The most important thing is for government to get out of the way of the private sector.
From his time as a tax lawyer and finance specialist, Orner said he understands the burdens that businesses face because of government regulations and complicated tax systems. He has been traveling the district to talk with people and says people feel uncertain. They are worried about losing their jobs or not being able to provide for their families. From the start, Orner said he wants to work on creating jobs and building an environment in which businesses can flourish to rebuild confidence.
After seeing coverage of the Occupy Wall Street protests, he says the anger of the protesters is misplaced and says the movement lacks a clear and discernible message. But at the same, he can understand the frustration.
Theres a large section of this country that feels disenfranchised. They feel that the American Dream is slipping away, he said.
Orner spent 10 years in the military as an intelligence officer in the Navy and said a strong national defense is vital to protect the nations interests. Personally, he learned a lot from his time in the service.
The military is really a great melting pot. You meet folks from every conceivable walk of life, and you learn to deal with people and get along. I think Ive really taken that into my professional life.
He says his biggest frustration with Himes has been a lack of independence. He thinks the representative votes along party lines too often, rather than focusing on what is best for his constituents. If elected, Orner is willing to think independently, and reach across party lines and hear everybodys point of view.
Its important to overcome the government inertia, he said. If you go to Washington with a set of views and never waver, were only going to have more of the same.
Orner is keen to get into the race and is hoping he will be given the opportunity to create jobs, scale back government control and make a difference for residents of the Fourth District.
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