Moser

Frustrated that no one has stepped up to challenge state Rep. Eugene DePasquale for the 95th District, a York City Libertarian has begun collecting signatures to get his name on the ballot this November.

David Moser, 34, said he is running "to protect the electoral process."

Moser said he is concerned Yorkers will be forced to settle for a representative handpicked by the Democratic Party and a costly special election if DePasquale wins both the 95th District seat and the job of state auditor general.

"He's just acting as a placeholder for the Democratic Party," Moser said. "People should have a choice."

Because he can't legally serve in both capacities, DePasquale has said he would resign from his House seat if he wins the auditor general race. The resignation would trigger a special election for the House seat, probably to coincide with the May primary, according to the Department of State.

Republican and Democratic candidates would be nominated by their parties and submit nomination certificates. Minor-party candidates would have to file nomination papers, according to the election code. Nomination papers and certificates would be due 50 days prior to the date of the special election.

Response: In response to Moser's criticism, DePasquale -- who has served York County's 95th House District since 2007 -- said he's not acting as a "placeholder." The voters will choose a representative, not political operatives, he said.

"The Democratic Party doesn't just get to pick public officials. That's just not how the law works," DePasquale said.

There won't be a Republican on the ballot for the 95th District in November. Kyle King, who works in the district attorney's office, had announced his intention to challenge DePasquale in January but bowed out a few weeks later after being told his candidacy was a violation of the federal Hatch Act.

Moser needs to collect 300 signatures by Aug. 1 to get his name on the ballot as a Libertarian candidate.

"It's late in the game, but it's definitely doable," he said.

Background: This is the second time Moser has run for public office. He tried unsuccessfully last year for a spot on the York City School Board. A 1996 graduate of Dallastown High School, Moser said he is working to start his own advertising business.

Moser said he is "about freedom in every way, shape and form." If elected, he said, he will focus on weeding out wasteful spending and promoting efficiency.

"I definitely feel our state is not that far behind the federal government as far as fiscal irresponsibility. It's time to crack down, see where we're wasting," Moser said. "If there's a way we can do it cheaper and more efficiently, that's where my interests are."

Moser said his platform "is pretty much a standard Libertarian platform."

"Generally, my perspective on things is less is more," he said.

-- Erin James may also be reached at ejames@yorkdispatch.com.