Philip Cook – Candidate for District 17 State Senate (Moderately MOCO Candidate Introduction Series)

This post is part of the Moderately MOCO Candidate Introduction Series. Candidates who did not receive the questionnaire via email or need more information can get access through our contact form. The information in this post was submitted directly by the candidate and does not represent the views of Moderately MOCO or its publication.

Basic Information

Political Party: Democratic

Campaign Website: www.philipformaryland.org

Social Media: Facebook | Instagram: @philipcookformaryland

Why Are You Running For Office?

I’m running for office because I’m tired of representatives who say the right things while our real priorities get left behind. We leaders who will fight for working class families that are having trouble making ends meet. We urgently need universal healthcare, universal pre-K and school lunches, as well as affordable housing. The residents of Gaithersburg and Rockville need a leader who will fight for them in Annapolis.

What Is The Biggest Issue Facing Voters In This Race?

The biggest issues facing voters is housing affordability. People can no longer afford to live in Rockville and Gaithersburg. They are moving to Damascus and Frederick. For renters we need to pass statewide rent stabilization legislation. For people looking to buy we need to pass legislation banning private equity from being able to purchase single-family homes in Maryland. Both of these actions would help with housing affordability for renters and home-owners alike.

What Experience Best Prepares You For This Role?

I am on the Gaithersburg Olde Towne Advisory Committee, was previously on the Board of Appeals for several years. And I believe that we need more people with science backgrounds in government. Scientists ensure that policy is data driven by evidence, rather than ideology.I have always advocated for the most vulnerable residents of our community. I have written several letters of good character and visited friends and community members that have been abducted by ICE.

What Would You Like Voters To Know About You Personally?

I’d like voters to know that I am not a politician. I am an ordinary family man going through the same affordability issues everybody else is. I have lived in Gaithersburg for the past 10 years with my wife and our two boys. We are active members of St. Martin of Tours Church in Gaithersburg as faith is a big part of our lives as well. I enjoy spending time with my family, running, and coaching my sons track team.

---