After denying he would run for President, Robert Francis "Beto" O'Rourke stunned the political world Thursday when he announced his candidacy for President of the United States. The former "punk-rocker" believes that his message of unity will resonate with the American people. Specifically his policies on open borders, immigration reform and his wanting to save the world from the changing climate.
O'Rourke has a long list of accomplishments. Among them is his playing in a punk rock band, and two time arrest without conviction in his imprudent youth. The 46 year old democrat has been labeled by some as the "White Obama." He has been representing El Paso Texas in Congress since 2013, and recently lost to Ted Cruz when running for Texas Senator. Perhaps it was has narrow loss to Senator Cruz that propelled O'Rourke to seek a presidential win, or the amount of money he raised while running for Senate. He raised nearly $79M during his senatorial campaign.
Beto believes that there should be no border between Mexico and the United States, because as a kid, he would spend time in Mexico, before the events of 9/11.
In an interview with Chris Hayes of MSNBC, O'Rourke claimed he would remove the barrier between Mexico and the US if he could. This claim demonstrates his global view of the world.
A staunch supporter of the Green New Deal, O'Rourke, laying claim that he hasn't "seen anything better that addresses this singular crisis we face -- a crisis that could, at its worst, lead to extinction." He has also said, "the most pressing, the most urgent, the most existential challenge of them all is climate. And the scientists, beyond a shadow of a doubt, know that we have at a maximum 12 years in order to enact significant change to meet that threat and reduce the consequences of the decisions that we made in the past -- the consequences that our kids and the generations that follow will bear."
O'Rourke is not without controversy as the Red State ran article describing campaign violations within his campaign, alleging "O’Rourke’s campaign accepted “excessive” and “impermissible” donations from individuals from outside of the country."
Main media sources appear to be fully enamored with the Texan. Vanity Fair published a beautiful piece about him, detailing his influences throughout his life. While anchors at the desk of CNN and MSNBC have referred to him as a "fresh face" in politics.
WECU, is dedicated to bringing you the facts; and holding judgement on O'Rourke until evidence is presented that despite the media's portrayal of him being the second coming of Jesus Christ, he is a serious candidate. Should the ex-punk rocker, former nanny prove to be a contender in the Democratic race we will follow up on our coverage of him.
Your opinion matters, should you have an opinion, or a tip for us at WECU, please send us a note at admin@wecunews.com. Takes just a moment to interact with us. We are also on Facebook at WECU, and twitter @NewsWecu.