Issues
Creating Jobs and Boosting Central Washington’s Economy
The number one focus of this Congress must be creating jobs and getting our economy back on track.
From my time as a small business owner, I understand the hard work it takes to succeed and create jobs. And, I know that the bigger government, higher spending and new taxes being pushed by President Obama and his liberals who control most of Washington DC are not the way to get it done.
Cutting Spending, Putting a Stop to Historic Deficits
Families and businesses in Central Washington must live within a set budget – and when times get tough we don’t fix it by spending more. Why should it be any different for the federal government?
With record levels of debt, massive stimulus spending bills, new taxes and a government takeover of health care – our nation is headed in exactly the wrong direction.
Repealing Obamacare
Too many Americans find it difficult to afford the health care they need.
Under ObamaCare; health care costs will increase, many Americans will be forced out of their existing plans, Medicare will be cut, choices will be eliminated and the federal government will become involved in decisions that should be made by you and your doctor.
An All-of-the Above American Energy Solution
The last thing Central Washington families, farmers and small businesses need is for the federal government to implement a national energy tax that will make electricity, gas and diesel more expensive.
As the Chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee, I am working to stop President Obama and Nancy Pelosi’s blockade of American-made energy that is driving up prices for everyone.
Keeping Taxes Low
Increasing taxes would harm our economy and cost jobs. We need to stop brand new taxes like the cap-and-trade national energy tax and prevent tax increases in order to allow Americans to keep more of their own money to save, spend or invest. Our complex tax system needs to be reformed and make simpler, fairer, more consistent and less of a burden.
Leveling the Playing Field for Central Washington Farmers
Agriculture drives the Central Washington economy. To protect jobs and grow our economy, we need to open new markets overseas and lower unfair one-way trade barriers.
Water, Dams & Low Cost Power – Preserving our NW Way of Life
In dry Central Washington, almost every aspect of our way of life is affected by water and the dams that harness our rivers’ great potential. They irrigate crops, generate clean low-cost power, transport products to port and protect against floods. Our reservoirs serve as a place for recreation and tourism.
Safeguarding Social Security
As a parent and grandparent, I want to ensure that Social Security is there not only for today’s seniors, but also for future generations to come.
While reforming Social Security we must avoid pitting grandparent against grandchild.
Making Medicare Work for All Seniors
I often hear from Central Washington seniors who are concerned about being able to find a doctor that will see Medicare patients.
And, I expect to hear even more as President Obama’s new health care law leads to Medicare cuts, and seniors with certain Medicare plans face higher costs and fewer benefits staring this fall.
Keeping Promises Make to our Veterans
Keeping our nation’s commitment to those who served and fought to protect our freedoms is a national priority.
Promises were made to our veterans and those promises must be kept.
Ending Bailouts
I voted against the Bush Bailout and I voted against each and every Obama bailout.
I am fighting back against liberals who are trying to make the bailouts permanent and I am backing a proposal to end the bailouts right now and use remaining money to pay down the national debt.
Improving Education for Every Child
Every child deserves a quality education.
I’m a proud product of the Pasco public schools. My children attended Pasco public schools too.
I’m committed to ensuring that parents and teachers have the tools and flexibility they need to make the best decisions for our children.
Securing America
Protecting the American people from foreign enemies is the first responsibility of the federal government. It’s the very reason the federal government was established.
Our military is the finest in the world – and our troops deserve the full support and resources needed to protect themselves and America.
Hanford Cleanup
Nuclear production at Hanford helped win World War II and provide the nuclear deterrence that helped defeat communism and end the Cold War.
This nuclear production also resulted in a large amount of nuclear waste. The federal government has a moral and legal obligation to cleanup this waste in a safe, efficient and timely manner.
Our Environment: Central Washington is a Beautiful Place to Live
Having grown up in Central Washington, I have always been captivated by the beauty of our lands and I want to ensure that our children and grandchildren have the same opportunity to enjoy them.
I support efforts to protect and conserve our waterways, public lands and other natural resources. And, I’m committed to ensuring that Central Washington residents have a meaningful role in how our resources are managed.
