Marc Allan Feldman (October 10, 1959 – June 22, 2016) was an American physician, political commentator and activist who combined a medical career with public engagement on issues of campaign finance and civil liberties. A practicing anesthesiologist with a focus on ophthalmic procedures, Feldman worked at the Cleveland Clinic from 1998 until his death. Outside medicine he ran a small business, Openivo, Inc., and served as president of the Ophthalmic Anesthesia Society, representing practitioners involved in anesthesia for eye surgery and related perioperative care.
Medical career and professional activities
Feldman's clinical work centered on anesthesia for ophthalmology, a subspecialty that requires attention to patient comfort, eye immobility and airway safety in often brief procedures. He combined clinical practice with involvement in professional organizations and education. In addition to his hospital affiliation, Feldman maintained private ventures and took part in public discussions about health policy and the practice of anesthesiology. For a general profile of his medical background see physician profile.
Political activism and 2016 presidential campaign
In January 2015 Feldman announced a bid for the presidency in the 2016 election as a member of the Libertarian Party. He framed his campaign around reducing the influence of large money in politics and promoting small‑dollar giving. Branded "Votes Not For Sale," his platform emphasized campaign finance reform, civil liberties and limited government; he publicly pledged not to accept donations larger than five dollars. The announcement and campaign context were covered in Libertarian circles and national media reports about third‑party candidates and grassroots fundraising efforts (2016 election, Libertarian Party).
Feldman participated in the Libertarian National Convention debate on May 26, 2016, sharing the stage with several better‑known contenders. Debate participants included former New Mexico Governor Gary Johnson, Austin Petersen, cybersecurity entrepreneur John McAfee and Darryl W. Perry; Feldman ultimately finished behind the leading candidates on the convention ballots, with the nomination going to Gary Johnson. Coverage of the debate and candidate field can be found in contemporary reports and recordings (Gary Johnson, Austin Petersen, John McAfee).
Death and legacy
On June 22, 2016, Feldman was found unresponsive at a motel in Brook Park, Ohio, and was pronounced dead at the scene. An autopsy attributed his death to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. His passing occurred in the middle of the presidential campaign season, prompting remembrances from colleagues in medicine and fellow activists who noted his efforts to draw attention to campaign finance issues and to model a small‑donor approach.
- Full name: Marc Allan Feldman
- Born: October 10, 1959
- Died: June 22, 2016 (atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease)
- Profession: Physician, ophthalmic anesthesiologist, business owner
- Political activity: 2016 Libertarian presidential candidate, "Votes Not For Sale" small‑donor pledge
Feldman's profile illustrates the intersection of a medical professional engaging in political activism and the growing interest in alternative campaign‑funding models. While he did not win his party's nomination, his candidacy highlighted debates about money in politics and the role of professionals outside traditional political careers seeking public office and reform.