In the past year and a half, Congress has devoted nearly two trillion dollars on a failed economic stimulus package and bailouts for huge financial firms, along with ownership in two car companies. In addition, the Democratic leadership has further increased spending in all of the annual government funding bills to the tune of 16.8 percent over the past two years. These astronomical spending increases don’t include the proposed $1.2 trillion cost for a government takeover of health care or the $800 billion price tag for a job-killing cap and trade bill.
I have opposed all of this legislation, not because I believe Congress should do nothing, but because I believe the misplaced priorities of Congress have resulted in too much debt, fewer jobs, and bigger government that the public doesn’t want and can’t afford.
And just when you thought the federal government had borrowed and spent its way into more debt than imaginable, yet another “stimulus” package is coming our way, courtesy of Speaker Nancy Pelosi. This legislation pumps billions into the very same programs included in the original stimulus legislation, where in many cases, very little of the money from the first bill has even been spent. The first “stimulus” certainly hasn’t been successful in creating jobs. The President said the first package would keep unemployment below 8 percent, but today we are at 10 percent unemployment.
Furthermore, each dollar spent in this package will have to be borrowed, adding $150 billion in new debt. The Democrat leadership is transferring unspent or returned TARP bailout money to this new stimulus package, but that money is supposed to go toward debt reduction.
Many American families are struggling with paying their bills every day, while the Democrats in Congress continue to spend their tax dollars with reckless abandon. Ultimately, these same families will have to foot the bill for this runaway spending in the form of tax increases or more debt placed on their children and grandchildren. You can wrap it in shiny paper and promises, and even put a bow on top, but underneath this “Son of Stimulus” is still a package that repeats the same failures of the first stimulus and adds billions of dollars in new debt.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Friday, December 11, 2009
Spend, Spend, Spend
Every Member of the House has a voting card that we use to cast our vote on legislation. It is a card that I carry with honor and a great sense of responsibility. However, in the last few years, we have seen Speaker Pelosi and her liberal Congress take that voting card and turn it into a credit card.
The leadership in Congress doesn’t get it. Just this week, at a time when the national debt has increased more than a trillion dollars already this year, they rushed through a package of annual government funding bills that increase spending 12.5 percent more than last year and 24 percent more than what was spent the year before that.
Spending at these rates, using borrowed money, means that Congress has reached the national borrowing limit for the fifth time in the past two years after already increasing the debt limit by nearly $3 trillion in that time period.
Knowing well just how much they have spent and plan to keep on spending, the Democrats in Congress are looking to increase the federal debt limit by up to $1.8 trillion. To reduce accountability for these spending decisions, the leadership plans to attach this debt limit increase to the Department of Defense funding bill that provides the resources our troops depend on daily.
The vote on the debt limit should be a separate vote. It is pure politics to use a must-pass bill for Defense funding as a vehicle for raising the debt limit. Our soldiers are fighting for our inherent freedoms, not our debt. That’s why I introduced H. Res. 949 last week, which changes the rules in the House so we have to take a stand-alone vote on debt limit increases and pass such an increase with a 2/3rds vote.
The American people sent us to Washington to use their money wisely. Yes, both Republicans and Democrats are to blame for not taking a stronger stand on spending. However, now is the time to stop the unsustainable spending and borrowing. Congress must put down the credit card, and pick up responsible spending and deficit reduction.
The leadership in Congress doesn’t get it. Just this week, at a time when the national debt has increased more than a trillion dollars already this year, they rushed through a package of annual government funding bills that increase spending 12.5 percent more than last year and 24 percent more than what was spent the year before that.
Spending at these rates, using borrowed money, means that Congress has reached the national borrowing limit for the fifth time in the past two years after already increasing the debt limit by nearly $3 trillion in that time period.
Knowing well just how much they have spent and plan to keep on spending, the Democrats in Congress are looking to increase the federal debt limit by up to $1.8 trillion. To reduce accountability for these spending decisions, the leadership plans to attach this debt limit increase to the Department of Defense funding bill that provides the resources our troops depend on daily.
The vote on the debt limit should be a separate vote. It is pure politics to use a must-pass bill for Defense funding as a vehicle for raising the debt limit. Our soldiers are fighting for our inherent freedoms, not our debt. That’s why I introduced H. Res. 949 last week, which changes the rules in the House so we have to take a stand-alone vote on debt limit increases and pass such an increase with a 2/3rds vote.
The American people sent us to Washington to use their money wisely. Yes, both Republicans and Democrats are to blame for not taking a stronger stand on spending. However, now is the time to stop the unsustainable spending and borrowing. Congress must put down the credit card, and pick up responsible spending and deficit reduction.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Even breathing has a cost these days
As the deficit continues to grow and jobs are lost every day, the Obama Administration has once again introduced more costly regulations and energy taxes that will kill jobs and drive up energy prices. Yesterday, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) declared the air we breathe as a danger to the public and therefore, it would take steps to regulate carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases labeled as pollutants under the Clean Air Act. Apparently, carbon dioxide, the very gas that we exhale when breathing, is a danger to our health. Not only is breathing now an endangerment to other humans, but it will also prove to be expensive. These detrimental claims would implement costly restrictions on vehicle and industry emissions, severely restricting businesses, and promoting bad public policy, like a national energy tax, that will take our economy from bad to worse.
It is no accident that this announcement was made the same day as the climate change summit opened in Copenhagen. President Obama needed something to show the summit, and the EPA delivered. As we witnessed with the administration’s recent EPA decision, liberal Democrats will stop at nothing to overcome the strong objections of the American people to a cap and tax system. The American people deserve to have their voices heard in this important debate, not silenced by bureaucrats at the United Nations.
To stop the EPA from enforcing such misguided regulations, I joined Rep. Marsha Blackburn, in January, as an original cosponsor to H.R. 391 that would legislatively prohibit the EPA from regulating carbon dioxide under the Clean Air Act. Adding more costly government mandates and increasing energy costs will result in further limiting economic growth and job creation in our already struggling economy. This is a troubling equation that provides further evidence that the President Obama’s agenda is becoming increasingly driven by Speaker Pelosi and her liberal special interest groups at the expense of families and small businesses.
It is no accident that this announcement was made the same day as the climate change summit opened in Copenhagen. President Obama needed something to show the summit, and the EPA delivered. As we witnessed with the administration’s recent EPA decision, liberal Democrats will stop at nothing to overcome the strong objections of the American people to a cap and tax system. The American people deserve to have their voices heard in this important debate, not silenced by bureaucrats at the United Nations.
To stop the EPA from enforcing such misguided regulations, I joined Rep. Marsha Blackburn, in January, as an original cosponsor to H.R. 391 that would legislatively prohibit the EPA from regulating carbon dioxide under the Clean Air Act. Adding more costly government mandates and increasing energy costs will result in further limiting economic growth and job creation in our already struggling economy. This is a troubling equation that provides further evidence that the President Obama’s agenda is becoming increasingly driven by Speaker Pelosi and her liberal special interest groups at the expense of families and small businesses.
Mr. President, you can't keep spending money we don't have
Just because the President and his Administration now expect TARP to be cheaper than they originally thought, that doesn’t mean TARP has no cost. TARP will still cost the taxpayers billions of dollars at the end of the day.
If TARP really will cost less than anticipated, that’s good news, but that doesn’t mean there is surplus money to spend. If the President wants to spend more on another stimulus, that money still has to be borrowed and added to the national debt. This faulty government accounting will catch up with us, and our creditors will begin calling.
It’s an interesting coincidence that the White House has determined TARP will be cheaper just when they are looking for a way to justify more spending. However, the American people know the difference between ending TARP, getting their money back and reducing the debt and spending that money on something else.
NOTE: Yesterday, I sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner urging him to end TARP, as well as ensure all TARP repayments, dividends, and other income go toward debt reduction rather than more spending.
If TARP really will cost less than anticipated, that’s good news, but that doesn’t mean there is surplus money to spend. If the President wants to spend more on another stimulus, that money still has to be borrowed and added to the national debt. This faulty government accounting will catch up with us, and our creditors will begin calling.
It’s an interesting coincidence that the White House has determined TARP will be cheaper just when they are looking for a way to justify more spending. However, the American people know the difference between ending TARP, getting their money back and reducing the debt and spending that money on something else.
NOTE: Yesterday, I sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner urging him to end TARP, as well as ensure all TARP repayments, dividends, and other income go toward debt reduction rather than more spending.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Taxpayers Should Not Be Funding Embryonic Stem Cell Research
Yesterday the Obama Administration announced the first wave of federally funded human embryonic stem cell research. This news is disheartening to me, as well as many others around the nation who strongly believe in the inherent preservation of life from its beginning.
Embryonic stem cell research is disrespectful to the sanctity of life and uses taxpayer dollars to support research whose only proven result at this time is the destruction of human embryos. Moreover, other means of conducting research using adult stem cells and other alternatives to embryonic stem cells offer more promise. For example, a study in 2007, conducted by Brazilian and American scientists, found that adult stem cells could be used to treat those suffering from Type 1 diabetes. Instead of forcing millions of Americans to fund research that they believe crosses ethical boundaries, we should instead focus our resources on these alternative forms of stem cell research.
On Wednesday, National Institutes of Health Director Francis Collins was quoted, in favor of this research, as saying, "What we're talking about today is just the beginning." I agree with her, but in a different sense. It is the beginning of destroying innocent human life funded by the American taxpayers. I hope that you won’t stand for this, and as your representative in Congress, neither will I. I remain committed to supporting promising ethical research on adult stem cells and opposing research that does not treat human life with the dignity it deserves.
Embryonic stem cell research is disrespectful to the sanctity of life and uses taxpayer dollars to support research whose only proven result at this time is the destruction of human embryos. Moreover, other means of conducting research using adult stem cells and other alternatives to embryonic stem cells offer more promise. For example, a study in 2007, conducted by Brazilian and American scientists, found that adult stem cells could be used to treat those suffering from Type 1 diabetes. Instead of forcing millions of Americans to fund research that they believe crosses ethical boundaries, we should instead focus our resources on these alternative forms of stem cell research.
On Wednesday, National Institutes of Health Director Francis Collins was quoted, in favor of this research, as saying, "What we're talking about today is just the beginning." I agree with her, but in a different sense. It is the beginning of destroying innocent human life funded by the American taxpayers. I hope that you won’t stand for this, and as your representative in Congress, neither will I. I remain committed to supporting promising ethical research on adult stem cells and opposing research that does not treat human life with the dignity it deserves.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Another “stimulus” is not the solution
Nearly 10 months after signing his $787 billion economic stimulus bill into law, President Obama will host a Stimulus II Jobs Summit tomorrow. According to the Chair of his Council of Economic Advisors, the purpose is to “jump-start job creation.”
For months, the White House has been focused on pushing a massive government takeover of our health care system and an expensive cap and tax bill through Congress, both of which would cost us jobs. As unemployment continues to soar, a Jobs Summit would have been timelier before borrowing and spending billions of dollars.
People are tired of Washington running amuck with their hard-earned tax dollars. It’s time for a change in economic policy. With all the uncertainty the government has created about taxes, energy costs, health care mandates and other things that impact job creators, it’s no wonder employers are concerned about hiring.
This afternoon, Republican Whip Eric Cantor (R-VA) delivered economic remarks at the Heritage Foundation, during which he detailed a conservative vision to revitalize the economy, create jobs and restrain spending.
As a member of the Economic Recovery Solutions Group for House Republicans, my colleagues and I have been meeting all year on ways to improve the economy. And lately our focus has been on a no-cost jobs plan. As the President kicks off his jobs summit tomorrow, I encourage you to visit http://republicanwhip.house.gov/uploadedfiles/JobsProposals.pdf and learn about the common-sense proposals that Mr. Cantor laid out and which I support.
Instead of mounting unprecedented rates of federal debt, we need a plan that focuses on job creation instead of more spending legislation masked as a jobs creation bill. While President Obama, Speaker Pelosi and the liberal Congress continue to push us deeper into debt, I stand with the American people. We must begin practicing fiscal restraint. While they continue to expand government control, I will continue to promote and support long-term job creating solutions.
For months, the White House has been focused on pushing a massive government takeover of our health care system and an expensive cap and tax bill through Congress, both of which would cost us jobs. As unemployment continues to soar, a Jobs Summit would have been timelier before borrowing and spending billions of dollars.
People are tired of Washington running amuck with their hard-earned tax dollars. It’s time for a change in economic policy. With all the uncertainty the government has created about taxes, energy costs, health care mandates and other things that impact job creators, it’s no wonder employers are concerned about hiring.
This afternoon, Republican Whip Eric Cantor (R-VA) delivered economic remarks at the Heritage Foundation, during which he detailed a conservative vision to revitalize the economy, create jobs and restrain spending.
As a member of the Economic Recovery Solutions Group for House Republicans, my colleagues and I have been meeting all year on ways to improve the economy. And lately our focus has been on a no-cost jobs plan. As the President kicks off his jobs summit tomorrow, I encourage you to visit http://republicanwhip.house.gov/uploadedfiles/JobsProposals.pdf and learn about the common-sense proposals that Mr. Cantor laid out and which I support.
Instead of mounting unprecedented rates of federal debt, we need a plan that focuses on job creation instead of more spending legislation masked as a jobs creation bill. While President Obama, Speaker Pelosi and the liberal Congress continue to push us deeper into debt, I stand with the American people. We must begin practicing fiscal restraint. While they continue to expand government control, I will continue to promote and support long-term job creating solutions.
A New Way Forward in Afghanistan
Last night, as a nation, we heard the President’s new Afghanistan strategy. After months of deliberation the President appears to be taking decisive action. I am glad to see that. The longer we wait to take action, the stronger a foothold al-Qaeda and the Taliban threaten to gain in Afghanistan and Pakistan. National security is one of the most critical issues facing our nation, and the War on Terror is not yet over. This long overdue speech culminates a decision-making course that began in March with the announcement that the United States would pursue a broad counterinsurgency strategy to defeat the Taliban and al-Qaeda.
Although I support the President’s decision to provide sufficient U.S. forces in order to achieve success in Afghanistan, I continue to have questions as to whether this plan will fully accomplish our mission in the region. I am also deeply concerned about announcing an “exit strategy” before we’ve provided more troops and resources to help achieve success, and whether this signals to the Taliban and al-Qaeda that they can run out the “Washington clock.”
The mission of rooting out al-Qaeda and preventing a Taliban takeover is achievable, but only if we provide our commanders and troops the resources they need to clear, hold and bring stability and security to Afghanistan. We must reaffirm our commitment to Afghanistan. Success will be defined as a stable country that denies the Taliban and al-Qaeda a safe haven to launch attacks against the Afghan people, Afghanistan’s neighbors, or the United States and its allies.
In the coming days and weeks, I look forward to Congress hearing directly from General McChrystal on whether this force will provide the resources he needs to hold and bring stability and security to Afghanistan. Additionally, the upcoming testimony by Secretary of Defense Gates, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mullen, and Secretary Clinton will provide additional insights on the President’s plan for the way forward.
Although I support the President’s decision to provide sufficient U.S. forces in order to achieve success in Afghanistan, I continue to have questions as to whether this plan will fully accomplish our mission in the region. I am also deeply concerned about announcing an “exit strategy” before we’ve provided more troops and resources to help achieve success, and whether this signals to the Taliban and al-Qaeda that they can run out the “Washington clock.”
The mission of rooting out al-Qaeda and preventing a Taliban takeover is achievable, but only if we provide our commanders and troops the resources they need to clear, hold and bring stability and security to Afghanistan. We must reaffirm our commitment to Afghanistan. Success will be defined as a stable country that denies the Taliban and al-Qaeda a safe haven to launch attacks against the Afghan people, Afghanistan’s neighbors, or the United States and its allies.
In the coming days and weeks, I look forward to Congress hearing directly from General McChrystal on whether this force will provide the resources he needs to hold and bring stability and security to Afghanistan. Additionally, the upcoming testimony by Secretary of Defense Gates, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mullen, and Secretary Clinton will provide additional insights on the President’s plan for the way forward.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Terrorists Are Not Welcome
Throughout our nation’s history, the people of the United States have not taken attacks on their freedom lightly. The deliberate terrorist acts of September 11, 2001 will never be forgotten by the American people. Even considering transporting self-confessed September 11th mastermind Khalid Sheik Mohammed and his co-conspirators to the U.S. for trial in a New York City civilian court is a blatant disregard to the safety of all Americans.
To prevent the Obama Administration from granting these war criminals the same judicial due process rights of Americans citizens, I have joined with my fellow Texan, Congressman Louie Gohmert, as an original cosponsor of H.R. 4127.
H.R. 4127 would amend the Military Commissions Act of 2009 to make it mandatory that all “alien unprivileged enemy belligerents,” be tried for either a term of incarceration or death and stand trial in a constitutionally established military commission rather than a civilian court. These “alien unprivileged enemy belligerents” would include any detainees in Guantanamo facing trial.
So often we forget the sound principles of our nation. If we look to the Constitution for guidance, we will find the best path for bringing these foreign terrorists to trial. Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution provides Congress with the authority to establish tribunals and such military commissions. In fact, it is Congress, not the President or Supreme Court, that is given complete authority to establish all courts and their jurisdictions that are inferior to the Supreme Court under Article III, Sections 1 & 2.
As a Member of Congress, I took an oath to protect American citizens against all enemies, foreign and domestic. This legislation is an important step in doing just that. There is no clear reason why these terrorists should be brought anywhere in the United States. Foreign terrorists who violently attack our nation have no claim to the same Constitutional rights of the American people that they sought to destroy. One step on American soil is simply one step too far. I will do all that I can in Congress to protect our nation’s safety and uphold our own inalienable rights under the Constitution.
To prevent the Obama Administration from granting these war criminals the same judicial due process rights of Americans citizens, I have joined with my fellow Texan, Congressman Louie Gohmert, as an original cosponsor of H.R. 4127.
H.R. 4127 would amend the Military Commissions Act of 2009 to make it mandatory that all “alien unprivileged enemy belligerents,” be tried for either a term of incarceration or death and stand trial in a constitutionally established military commission rather than a civilian court. These “alien unprivileged enemy belligerents” would include any detainees in Guantanamo facing trial.
So often we forget the sound principles of our nation. If we look to the Constitution for guidance, we will find the best path for bringing these foreign terrorists to trial. Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution provides Congress with the authority to establish tribunals and such military commissions. In fact, it is Congress, not the President or Supreme Court, that is given complete authority to establish all courts and their jurisdictions that are inferior to the Supreme Court under Article III, Sections 1 & 2.
As a Member of Congress, I took an oath to protect American citizens against all enemies, foreign and domestic. This legislation is an important step in doing just that. There is no clear reason why these terrorists should be brought anywhere in the United States. Foreign terrorists who violently attack our nation have no claim to the same Constitutional rights of the American people that they sought to destroy. One step on American soil is simply one step too far. I will do all that I can in Congress to protect our nation’s safety and uphold our own inalienable rights under the Constitution.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Failure at Recovery.gov
Have you heard of Utah’s 7th Congressional District or Florida’s 86th District? Neither have I. Apparently, these non-existent Congressional districts have received millions of dollars in stimulus funding, marking yet another failure in transparency at the White House.
In early 2009, President Obama and Speaker Pelosi forced the $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act through Congress. This massive spending legislation was billed as a so-called “economic stimulus,” and was promised to create jobs, spend money on “shovel-ready” projects and turn around our economy. Unfortunately, the “stimulus” has done very little to boost job growth. In fact, the U.S. has lost over 2.8 million jobs since it was signed into law.
Now we find out that there have been serious inaccuracies when it comes to reporting the use of stimulus funds on Recovery.gov, the federal government’s tracking website. Recovery.gov was set up at a cost of $18 million to provide Americans “unprecedented oversight and transparency” as well as direct access to how their tax dollars are being spent in the stimulus package.
Recovery.gov relies on self-reporting by recipients of the stimulus money. Apparently no one checks to verify the accuracy of their reports. Last week, the Obama Administration removed more than 60,000 jobs from its most recent report on the stimulus because of “unrealistic data.” To make matters worse, this week ABC News reported that millions of dollars have been spent and many jobs created in Congressional Districts that don’t even exist.
This leads me to ask: How can we expect this Administration to manage billions of dollars stimulus funds when they can’t even accurately run a website?
In early 2009, President Obama and Speaker Pelosi forced the $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act through Congress. This massive spending legislation was billed as a so-called “economic stimulus,” and was promised to create jobs, spend money on “shovel-ready” projects and turn around our economy. Unfortunately, the “stimulus” has done very little to boost job growth. In fact, the U.S. has lost over 2.8 million jobs since it was signed into law.
Now we find out that there have been serious inaccuracies when it comes to reporting the use of stimulus funds on Recovery.gov, the federal government’s tracking website. Recovery.gov was set up at a cost of $18 million to provide Americans “unprecedented oversight and transparency” as well as direct access to how their tax dollars are being spent in the stimulus package.
Recovery.gov relies on self-reporting by recipients of the stimulus money. Apparently no one checks to verify the accuracy of their reports. Last week, the Obama Administration removed more than 60,000 jobs from its most recent report on the stimulus because of “unrealistic data.” To make matters worse, this week ABC News reported that millions of dollars have been spent and many jobs created in Congressional Districts that don’t even exist.
This leads me to ask: How can we expect this Administration to manage billions of dollars stimulus funds when they can’t even accurately run a website?
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Fort Hood Families Benefits Protection Act
The shooting at Fort Hood on November 5th took the lives of thirteen brave men and women. Like everyone around the nation and in the 19th Congressional District, I was deeply saddened by the events that unfolded at Fort Hood. It is a tragedy we will never forget.
Because this was an act of terror in our own backyard, I believe the Army and civilian personnel who were wounded or killed in the shooting attack on Fort Hood should be granted the same benefits and recognition as combat casualties in Iraq and Afghanistan. I have joined with my fellow Texan, Congressman Carter, in a bi-partisan effort to introduce H.R. 4088, the Fort Hood Families Benefits Protection Act. This bill would ensure that the members of the Armed Forces and civilian employees of the Department of Defense who were killed or wounded in the shootings at Fort Hood receive the same level of benefits as those who are killed or wounded in a terrorist attack or while serving on active duty with the Armed Forces.
H.R. 4088 is an important step in protecting these families who might not otherwise see maximum life insurance payments in addition to other benefits. The bill would also allow for the fallen military personnel to receive the Purple Heart, and civilians to receive the Medal of Freedom.
My thoughts and prayers continue to be with the families of these victims, and those who were wounded in this violent attack. We will never forget their sacrifices. May God continue to watch over the Fort Hood family.
Click here to read the full text of H.R. 4088.
Because this was an act of terror in our own backyard, I believe the Army and civilian personnel who were wounded or killed in the shooting attack on Fort Hood should be granted the same benefits and recognition as combat casualties in Iraq and Afghanistan. I have joined with my fellow Texan, Congressman Carter, in a bi-partisan effort to introduce H.R. 4088, the Fort Hood Families Benefits Protection Act. This bill would ensure that the members of the Armed Forces and civilian employees of the Department of Defense who were killed or wounded in the shootings at Fort Hood receive the same level of benefits as those who are killed or wounded in a terrorist attack or while serving on active duty with the Armed Forces.
H.R. 4088 is an important step in protecting these families who might not otherwise see maximum life insurance payments in addition to other benefits. The bill would also allow for the fallen military personnel to receive the Purple Heart, and civilians to receive the Medal of Freedom.
My thoughts and prayers continue to be with the families of these victims, and those who were wounded in this violent attack. We will never forget their sacrifices. May God continue to watch over the Fort Hood family.
Click here to read the full text of H.R. 4088.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Jobs, Jobs, Jobs
Yesterday, I posted a story from Politico that indicated a shift in strategy by the Obama Administration to focus on spending and the deficit.
For months, my Republican colleagues and I have been arguing the necessity of fiscally responsible solutions to tackle the immediate challenges facing the American people. Unfortunately, Democrats in Washington continue to ignore us and the real concerns facing your families.
As many have pointed out, Republicans did not stand strong enough for a limited government when they were in charge in Congress. However, Speaker Pelosi and President Obama have since floored the accelerator and dramatically increased spending and the role of government, refusing to make tough choices. If Congress goes along with President Obama’s budget plan, the national debt would reach $24.498 trillion by 2019. Our children and grandchildren should not be forced to pick up the tab for the unyielding spending of the federal government.
With unemployment at a 26-year high of 10.2%, reports coming in that “stimulus job” claims were wildly overstated, and a White House “jobs summit” in the works, Speaker Pelosi and her liberal Congress may finally be realizing their so-called stimulus has ultimately failed to get Americans back to work. I believe the priority of the President and Congress should be jobs, jobs, jobs.
I urge you to check out the following chart from the Heritage Foundation based on White House estimates and actual unemployment.
You and I both know that massive government spending is the most inefficient and ineffective way to promote economic growth. Instead of weighing down the economy with unprecedented deficits and a job-killing agenda, we need to put the economic power back in the hands of families and employers.
For months, my Republican colleagues and I have been arguing the necessity of fiscally responsible solutions to tackle the immediate challenges facing the American people. Unfortunately, Democrats in Washington continue to ignore us and the real concerns facing your families.
As many have pointed out, Republicans did not stand strong enough for a limited government when they were in charge in Congress. However, Speaker Pelosi and President Obama have since floored the accelerator and dramatically increased spending and the role of government, refusing to make tough choices. If Congress goes along with President Obama’s budget plan, the national debt would reach $24.498 trillion by 2019. Our children and grandchildren should not be forced to pick up the tab for the unyielding spending of the federal government.
With unemployment at a 26-year high of 10.2%, reports coming in that “stimulus job” claims were wildly overstated, and a White House “jobs summit” in the works, Speaker Pelosi and her liberal Congress may finally be realizing their so-called stimulus has ultimately failed to get Americans back to work. I believe the priority of the President and Congress should be jobs, jobs, jobs.
I urge you to check out the following chart from the Heritage Foundation based on White House estimates and actual unemployment.
You and I both know that massive government spending is the most inefficient and ineffective way to promote economic growth. Instead of weighing down the economy with unprecedented deficits and a job-killing agenda, we need to put the economic power back in the hands of families and employers.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Is the President finally getting the picture?
According to an article last week in Politico, President Obama plans to address cutting the federal deficit and domestic spending in 2010. While that is all well and good, isn’t this reaction almost a year late?
Since President Obama took office we have seen unprecedented government spending, 26-year high unemployment rates, and an ever-expanding federal debt. For 2009, the federal budget deficit hit $1.4 trillion, meaning the government spent $1.4 trillion more than it took in. In October, the start of the new fiscal year, the deficit hit a record of $176.4 billion for just one month. With a start like that, the red ink for 2010 is looking a lot like 2009.
This year we have seen President Obama and Democratic leaders in Congress push a tax-loaded cap and trade plan, costly health care legislation, and an economic “stimulus” package, some of the largest spending programs in our nation’s history. Certainly Congress needs to address the deficit, but we should have started before it became this large.
As many have pointed out, Republicans did not stand strong enough for a limited government when they were in charge in Congress. However, the current Democrat Majority and President Obama have since floored the accelerator and dramatically increased spending and the role of government, refusing to make tough choices and putting all the sacrifice on future generations. Digging the hole even deeper is not the answer.
We must do something more than simply “address” these issues. We need concrete, common-sense solutions that will outline exactly how we will decrease spending and borrowing, without further burdening taxpayers. The real road to economic recovery starts with a return to the principles of fiscal discipline. I have introduced my own bill, H.R. 534 the Responsible Government Empowerment Act, and am a cosponsor of the Spending, Deficit and Debt Control Act of 2009, which outlines how Congress can return to fiscal discipline by putting a lid on spending, combating waste, placing a cap on deficits and creating a legally binding budget. While I hope President Obama’s rhetoric will truly yield reality in the future, what we really need are solutions, like these bills, that put a plan into action right now.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Veterans History Project
The stories of war are invaluable memories of our nation’s history. They are remembrances of the struggles and sacrifices Americans have faced to guarantee freedom for their fellow citizens and for nations around the world living in oppression. Through the Veterans History Project (VHP), we can learn from the past and carry the legacy of these brave men and women into the future.
An act of Congress established the VHP in 2000 to ensure that the service and sacrifice of our veterans are recorded for future generations. As a part of the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress, the VHP’s goal is to preserve, and “make accessible the personal accounts of American war veterans so that future generations may hear directly from veterans and better understand the realities of war.” A collection of these records will be compiled in an online database and kept on permanent collection at the Library of Congress in Washington, DC. Information regarding this worthwhile endeavor can be found at: http://www.loc.gov/vets.
So far the VHP has collected over 65,000 individual accounts of wartime. However, there are countless numbers of veterans whose stories are not recorded, many of these in the 19th District. I encourage all veterans to record their stories for future generations.
To learn more about how to participate in the Veterans History Project, click here. You can also access this, and other information for veterans, by visiting my website.
An act of Congress established the VHP in 2000 to ensure that the service and sacrifice of our veterans are recorded for future generations. As a part of the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress, the VHP’s goal is to preserve, and “make accessible the personal accounts of American war veterans so that future generations may hear directly from veterans and better understand the realities of war.” A collection of these records will be compiled in an online database and kept on permanent collection at the Library of Congress in Washington, DC. Information regarding this worthwhile endeavor can be found at: http://www.loc.gov/vets.
So far the VHP has collected over 65,000 individual accounts of wartime. However, there are countless numbers of veterans whose stories are not recorded, many of these in the 19th District. I encourage all veterans to record their stories for future generations.
To learn more about how to participate in the Veterans History Project, click here. You can also access this, and other information for veterans, by visiting my website.
Celebrating the Marine Corps 234th Birthday
On the 234th birthday of the United States Marine Corps, I extend my heartfelt well wishes to U.S. Marines in the 19th Congressional District and around the world. Since the birth of our nation, the Marines have diligently defended our Constitution, ensuring the many freedoms we value.
On this day before Veterans Day, it is only right that we honor the brave spirit and valor of the Marine Corps. Our Marines can always be found where the fighting is the toughest, and where pure strength and courage are what pulls them to ultimate victory. From all who have gone before us to those who are serving this great nation now, we remember you and lift you up in our prayers. May God bless you all, and may He continue to bless the United States of America.
Semper Fidelis!
On this day before Veterans Day, it is only right that we honor the brave spirit and valor of the Marine Corps. Our Marines can always be found where the fighting is the toughest, and where pure strength and courage are what pulls them to ultimate victory. From all who have gone before us to those who are serving this great nation now, we remember you and lift you up in our prayers. May God bless you all, and may He continue to bless the United States of America.
Semper Fidelis!
Monday, November 9, 2009
20th Anniversary of the Berlin Wall
On November 9, 1989, the Berlin Wall came down, leading to the unification of a nation once separated by armed guards and barbed wire, forever connected by history -- it was a movement of peace, not force. Today, we commemorate the 20th anniversary of that historic day. It was in the spirit of that Shining City on the Hill when on the sunset of his presidency Ronald Reagan stood upon the world stage, and amplified the words that millions of others who knew of freedom were feeling “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall,” which culminated in millions being free for the first time in their lives.
It’s difficult to imagine that just twenty years ago the people of East Germany lived in an oppressed environment, cut off from the free world. The peaceful dismantling of the Berlin Wall was a symbol of freedom for the people of East Germany along with many around the world facing similar persecution, marking the beginning of the fall of Communism.
The fall of the Berlin Wall and the hope brought by the reunification of Germany is one memory that will forever stand out in my mind. We all need to remember the Berlin Wall. Today we are once again reminded of just how precious our freedom really is, and we proudly join with the people of Germany in celebrating this monumental anniversary.
It’s difficult to imagine that just twenty years ago the people of East Germany lived in an oppressed environment, cut off from the free world. The peaceful dismantling of the Berlin Wall was a symbol of freedom for the people of East Germany along with many around the world facing similar persecution, marking the beginning of the fall of Communism.
The fall of the Berlin Wall and the hope brought by the reunification of Germany is one memory that will forever stand out in my mind. We all need to remember the Berlin Wall. Today we are once again reminded of just how precious our freedom really is, and we proudly join with the people of Germany in celebrating this monumental anniversary.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Mandatory Provision of Social Security Account Numbers and Notification of Mismatches and Multiple Uses
There are countless flaws in Speaker Pelosi’s health care bill. One of these directly impacting the 19th Congressional District, and all American taxpayers, are the provisions in this legislation that fail to adequately verify U.S. citizenship for federal benefits and would potentially provide health care to millions of illegal immigrants. According to analysis from the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) the number of illegal immigrants covered under Speaker Pelosi’s health care takeover (H.R. 3962) has increased by 2.5 million from their original bill, H.R. 3200.
Any federal benefits that illegal immigrants may receive will be 100 percent funded by our tax dollars. The American people should not be forced to finance benefits for illegal immigrants. This morning I joined with Joe Wilson, Sam Johnson and several of my Republican colleagues in the House for a press conference on the shortcomings in Speaker Pelosi’s health care takeover, and how we can best address these particular issues.
In an effort to prevent chronic identity theft and abuse of taxpayer dollars, I have submitted an amendment to Speaker Pelosi’s health care bill that would require anyone participating in the health insurance exchange to have his or her social security number verified. The Social Security Administration will be responsible for monitoring and notifying the Department of Homeland Security if there are social security mismatches.
The process put into place by this amendment would take steps to curb the number of those who have entered this country illegally, using stolen social security numbers, from illegally obtaining federal benefits.
Any federal benefits that illegal immigrants may receive will be 100 percent funded by our tax dollars. The American people should not be forced to finance benefits for illegal immigrants. This morning I joined with Joe Wilson, Sam Johnson and several of my Republican colleagues in the House for a press conference on the shortcomings in Speaker Pelosi’s health care takeover, and how we can best address these particular issues.
In an effort to prevent chronic identity theft and abuse of taxpayer dollars, I have submitted an amendment to Speaker Pelosi’s health care bill that would require anyone participating in the health insurance exchange to have his or her social security number verified. The Social Security Administration will be responsible for monitoring and notifying the Department of Homeland Security if there are social security mismatches.
The process put into place by this amendment would take steps to curb the number of those who have entered this country illegally, using stolen social security numbers, from illegally obtaining federal benefits.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
“House Call” in Washington
To the people of the 19th Congressional District and America, I have heard your voice. I heard you in August and I hear you now. I understand you’re mad and frustrated about the political circus occurring in Washington. Enough is enough. Today, Speaker Pelosi heard you loud and clear.
We don’t want a government takeover of our health care. Rather, we need a balanced approach that puts patients first. We need real answers that make sense in the real world. Health care reform must be based on competition, preserve the relationship between doctors and patients, and reduce health care costs for American families without a massive government intrusion.
My colleagues and I are on the side of the American people. We have answered your calls for reform by putting forward common-sense health care legislation that reduces the deficit, lowers insurance premiums, and improves coverage for those with pre-existing conditions.
As your voice in Congress, I will continue to fight for the choice you deserve. A one-size-fits-all plan will not work. You know what is best for your families better than the government does.
Speaker Pelosi, listen to the American people. Health care is too important to get wrong.
Click here to listen to my speech at the "House Call."
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Pelosi's Manager's Amendment
Last night, House Democrats submitted a 42-page amendment to the proposed health care bill, setting the 72-hour review period into motion. The amendment is a package of changes to Speaker Pelosi’s 1,990-page bill. All of these amendments have been pre-approved by the Democrat Majority without Republican input. This amendment will push the text of the bill to well over 2,000 pages.
As it stands now Speaker Pelosi’s bill permits federal funds to be used for abortion in government-run insurance plans. Supporters of the bill say that only private funds will be used to fund abortion in the government insurance plan, but this simply is not true. The bill places individual premium payments into a federal Treasury account that may be used to pay for abortions. It is important to take notice that these premiums are federal funds. Going even further, this legislation will attempt to subsidize private insurance plans that cover abortion.
Pelosi's plan is to demand that the House pass the bill under a "closed rule," which is a procedure that would not allow any amendments to H.R. 3962 to be considered. On top of that the proposed manager’s amendment does not even address the issue of abortion. Instead it includes things like changes to biofuel tax law.
If this bill passes without removing the abortion provisions, this will be the first time in decades that federal dollars will go towards abortion. I cannot stand for the federal funding of abortions- it is one of the many reasons I continue to oppose this bill.
As it stands now Speaker Pelosi’s bill permits federal funds to be used for abortion in government-run insurance plans. Supporters of the bill say that only private funds will be used to fund abortion in the government insurance plan, but this simply is not true. The bill places individual premium payments into a federal Treasury account that may be used to pay for abortions. It is important to take notice that these premiums are federal funds. Going even further, this legislation will attempt to subsidize private insurance plans that cover abortion.
Pelosi's plan is to demand that the House pass the bill under a "closed rule," which is a procedure that would not allow any amendments to H.R. 3962 to be considered. On top of that the proposed manager’s amendment does not even address the issue of abortion. Instead it includes things like changes to biofuel tax law.
If this bill passes without removing the abortion provisions, this will be the first time in decades that federal dollars will go towards abortion. I cannot stand for the federal funding of abortions- it is one of the many reasons I continue to oppose this bill.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Reading Speaker Pelosi’s Bill
Earlier this afternoon, I joined my Republican colleagues to sit down, read and discuss portions of Speaker Pelosi’s health care bill. This was a great opportunity to read through the bill, and discuss the misguided policies and consequences of this legislation with my colleagues. Unfortunately, this may well be our only chance to openly speak-out against the bill. We are continuing to hear that Speaker Pelosi may restrict all amendments and severely limit any debate on the House floor. This is unacceptable. Congress needs time to openly debate 1,990 pages of legislation.
As I continue to review this legislation, I am convinced that this truly is the worst bill ever with very few benefits to the people of West Texas and the Big Country.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Democrats reveal newest health care “plan”
Today we learned after weeks of closed door meetings, Speaker Pelosi and House Democrats produced a bill that is essentially the same as the one they started with months ago. As facts about the legislation begin to trickle out, I am disappointed to see very few improvements, and even more choices being taken away from the American people. After all the debate in Congress and across the country, we see almost 2,000 pages of the same bad legislation we saw this past summer.
Since August, the people of West Texas and the Big Country have been telling me they want real solutions for the health care system in America. They have also been telling me there is a big difference between the RIGHT and WRONG way to reform health care.
As I begin to review this 1,990 page piece of legislation, I promise the people of the 19th Congressional District that I will keep their best interests in mind and continue to embrace an approach to health care that puts patients before profits and politics. A sound health care reform plan should expand access to affordable options, especially for those with pre-existing conditions; protect Americans from being forced into a government-run insurance plan, making certain that medical decisions are made by patients and their doctors; and let Americans who like their health care coverage keep it, while giving all Americans more choices to find a health plan that best meets their needs.
I believe we can fix what is broken in our current health care system, without introducing a massive government takeover. As we begin debate on this enormous piece of legislation, I will continue to fight for a bill that will offer common-sense solutions to the health care challenges we face that the people of West Texas and the Big Country can support.
Since August, the people of West Texas and the Big Country have been telling me they want real solutions for the health care system in America. They have also been telling me there is a big difference between the RIGHT and WRONG way to reform health care.
As I begin to review this 1,990 page piece of legislation, I promise the people of the 19th Congressional District that I will keep their best interests in mind and continue to embrace an approach to health care that puts patients before profits and politics. A sound health care reform plan should expand access to affordable options, especially for those with pre-existing conditions; protect Americans from being forced into a government-run insurance plan, making certain that medical decisions are made by patients and their doctors; and let Americans who like their health care coverage keep it, while giving all Americans more choices to find a health plan that best meets their needs.
I believe we can fix what is broken in our current health care system, without introducing a massive government takeover. As we begin debate on this enormous piece of legislation, I will continue to fight for a bill that will offer common-sense solutions to the health care challenges we face that the people of West Texas and the Big Country can support.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Pushing the debt ceiling
Every day the federal debt clock ticks away at an alarming rate, tallying up how much our government is borrowing to cover more spending. As of this week, only a few hundred billion dollars separated us from our current eye-popping national debt and the self-imposed debt ceiling of $12.104 trillion. According to press reports, Democrats are planning to attach legislation to increase the national debt ceiling to the Fiscal Year 2010 Defense funding bill to avoid taking a separate vote on adding more debt. Congress shouldn’t tie funding for our troops in harm's way to an increase in its ability to borrow and spend.
This week the U.S. Treasury will auction off $123 billion in debt to investors around the world to finance our government spending habits. We continue to rely on countries such as China and Japan to purchase our debt, and these countries are questioning our commitment to get a handle on our spending.
The federal deficit for the 2009 fiscal year, which just ended, is $1.4 trillion. Due to policy proposals that would further increase spending, the White House has projected that the annual federal deficit will remain above $1 trillion through 2011.
Congress and the President must work together to take control of this situation now. If we fail to do so, our children and grandchildren will be forced to deal with even more difficult decisions than we face.
The problem of borrowing up to the debt limit is not a new one. Yes, previous Congresses, including Republican-led ones, have failed to control their spending habits. Since 1940, Congress has increased the debt ceiling more than 90 times. We cannot afford to continue allowing this out of control spending that pushes borrowing to these extreme limits.
Simply expanding the debt ceiling is not a long-term solution. I believe Congress should stop passing bills to increase spending this year and instead freeze spending at last year’s levels. I submitted an amendment that would have done just that. While this is not a complete solution to our spending problem, we have to start somewhere. If we simply continue to increase spending when it is clear we can not afford to do so, we only add more deficits and more debt.
This week the U.S. Treasury will auction off $123 billion in debt to investors around the world to finance our government spending habits. We continue to rely on countries such as China and Japan to purchase our debt, and these countries are questioning our commitment to get a handle on our spending.
The federal deficit for the 2009 fiscal year, which just ended, is $1.4 trillion. Due to policy proposals that would further increase spending, the White House has projected that the annual federal deficit will remain above $1 trillion through 2011.
Congress and the President must work together to take control of this situation now. If we fail to do so, our children and grandchildren will be forced to deal with even more difficult decisions than we face.
The problem of borrowing up to the debt limit is not a new one. Yes, previous Congresses, including Republican-led ones, have failed to control their spending habits. Since 1940, Congress has increased the debt ceiling more than 90 times. We cannot afford to continue allowing this out of control spending that pushes borrowing to these extreme limits.
Simply expanding the debt ceiling is not a long-term solution. I believe Congress should stop passing bills to increase spending this year and instead freeze spending at last year’s levels. I submitted an amendment that would have done just that. While this is not a complete solution to our spending problem, we have to start somewhere. If we simply continue to increase spending when it is clear we can not afford to do so, we only add more deficits and more debt.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
President Obama, stop limiting immigration enforcement
The best thing we can do to keep Americans safe is to identify and deal with those who are in this country illegally. It is imperative that local law enforcement officials continue to be permitted under the authorities provided by ICE ACCESS (Agreements of Cooperation in Communities to Enhance Safety and Security) which provides local law enforcement agencies an opportunity to team with ICE to combat specific challenges in their communities. That is why I joined with my fellow Texan Lamar Smith and 52 other Members of Congress to send a letter to President Obama voicing our continued support for the 287(g) program. For those unfamiliar with 287(g), this program allows state and local law enforcement agencies to partner with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to effectively implement federal immigration laws. Just a few days ago the President issued strict restrictions on agencies operating the 287(g) program, preventing state and local law enforcement officers from arresting many of the illegal immigrants with whom they may come into contact.
It makes no sense to limit or restrict a program that is clearly working and making our streets safer. Over the past several years we have seen thousands of illegal immigrants, who otherwise would have gone undetected, identified in jails thanks to the 287(g) program. ICE’s website even supports the successes of this program: “The 287(g) program has emerged as one of the agency’s most successful and popular partnership initiatives as more state and local leaders have come to understand how a shared approach to immigration enforcement can benefit their communities.”
We should be thanking local law enforcement agencies for helping to confront the challenge of illegal immigrants being in our communities before they threaten American lives and national security instead of stripping them of their authority. I urge President Obama to reverse his negligent actions against the 287(g) program and refrain from limiting local agencies’ ability to help enforce our nation’s laws. I would also encourage you to reach out to your local law enforcement authorities to learn of their interest in the 287(g) program.
It makes no sense to limit or restrict a program that is clearly working and making our streets safer. Over the past several years we have seen thousands of illegal immigrants, who otherwise would have gone undetected, identified in jails thanks to the 287(g) program. ICE’s website even supports the successes of this program: “The 287(g) program has emerged as one of the agency’s most successful and popular partnership initiatives as more state and local leaders have come to understand how a shared approach to immigration enforcement can benefit their communities.”
We should be thanking local law enforcement agencies for helping to confront the challenge of illegal immigrants being in our communities before they threaten American lives and national security instead of stripping them of their authority. I urge President Obama to reverse his negligent actions against the 287(g) program and refrain from limiting local agencies’ ability to help enforce our nation’s laws. I would also encourage you to reach out to your local law enforcement authorities to learn of their interest in the 287(g) program.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Who knows best: The federal government or the American people?
Here we go again. Today, the Financial Services Committee approved H.R. 3126, legislation that will create a so-called Consumer Financial Protection Agency. As Deputy Ranking Member of the Financial Services Committee, I voted against this reckless bill. This is yet another example of the Democrat Majority expanding government, killing jobs and limiting choices. We can all agree reforms such as better disclosures and more enforcement are needed, but creating yet another government agency is not the right solution.
This massive government bureaucracy will raise costs for consumers, reduce the number and type of products available to them and increase micromanagement by the federal government.
There is a better solution, and the Republican substitute offered in the Financial Services Committee improved consumer protection in a way that genuinely addresses the concerns of consumers without limiting access to credit, imposing excessive compliance and litigation costs on small businesses, creating a massive new government bureaucracy, and undermining safety and soundness of financial institutions.
Our country was built on choice. Why the Democrat Majority believes the American people aren’t smart enough to make their own decisions completely baffles me.
This massive government bureaucracy will raise costs for consumers, reduce the number and type of products available to them and increase micromanagement by the federal government.
There is a better solution, and the Republican substitute offered in the Financial Services Committee improved consumer protection in a way that genuinely addresses the concerns of consumers without limiting access to credit, imposing excessive compliance and litigation costs on small businesses, creating a massive new government bureaucracy, and undermining safety and soundness of financial institutions.
Our country was built on choice. Why the Democrat Majority believes the American people aren’t smart enough to make their own decisions completely baffles me.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Obama’s Health Care Plan Hurts Small Businesses
As a former small business owner, I understand the pressures faced every day by small businesses across the 19th District. Small businesses represent more than 99 percent of all businesses in the nation, and make up half of the U.S. economy. Since the current recession began almost two years ago more than 7 million jobs have been lost, many of these from small businesses. The Department of Labor reports that 263,000 jobs were lost in September alone.
In these difficult economic times, we need to help small businesses grow jobs instead of enacting massive taxes that will inflict further harm upon small businesses and eliminate millions of additional American jobs. Instead of scrapping these job-killing bills and starting over, the Democrats’ plan for government run health care would impose more than $820 billion in new taxes on the American people, including new payroll and income taxes on small businesses.
These taxes have to be paid by someone. And if Speaker Pelosi gets her way, she will enact a $544 billion surtax on the so-called “rich” to help pay for their government takeover of health care. According to data from the IRS, more than half of those targeted under this new health care surtax are small businesses, many of which are already facing challenges.
Why are Democrats pushing a government takeover of health care that will inflict harm on small businesses and make job losses even worse? These are not the types of policies that will help small business get back on their feet and create new jobs. Many small businesses simply cannot afford to pay for their employees’ health care, and others struggle to cover rising health insurance premiums. To me it sounds like small businesses, which are the very backbone of our economy, are getting the short end of the stick in this health care debate.
In these difficult economic times, we need to help small businesses grow jobs instead of enacting massive taxes that will inflict further harm upon small businesses and eliminate millions of additional American jobs. Instead of scrapping these job-killing bills and starting over, the Democrats’ plan for government run health care would impose more than $820 billion in new taxes on the American people, including new payroll and income taxes on small businesses.
These taxes have to be paid by someone. And if Speaker Pelosi gets her way, she will enact a $544 billion surtax on the so-called “rich” to help pay for their government takeover of health care. According to data from the IRS, more than half of those targeted under this new health care surtax are small businesses, many of which are already facing challenges.
Why are Democrats pushing a government takeover of health care that will inflict harm on small businesses and make job losses even worse? These are not the types of policies that will help small business get back on their feet and create new jobs. Many small businesses simply cannot afford to pay for their employees’ health care, and others struggle to cover rising health insurance premiums. To me it sounds like small businesses, which are the very backbone of our economy, are getting the short end of the stick in this health care debate.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Just Because It's Cheaper Doesn't Mean It's Better
A recent analysis by the Congressional Budget Office estimated the costs of two health care plans proposed by the Democratic House Leadership. Both plans hover around the $900 billion price tag, one at $859 billion and the other at $905 billion. While they are cheaper than the $1.2 trillion original plan, these options are still not the answer to the health care debate.
This so-called cheaper version would significantly expand Medicaid, allowing millions of new people access to the program. Once again, Speaker Pelosi is fudging the numbers and hiding the true cost of this legislation because both state and local governments aid in picking up the Medicaid tab.
I fail to see how tacking on increased Medicaid costs to state governments already struggling for funding for existing programs is a good plan. It goes to show that just because this plan might be slightly cheaper, doesn’t mean it’s a better plan. Once again, the liberal Democrats are putting the cart before the horse--pushing a complete health care overhaul they don’t know how to pay for no matter how low the final cost may be.
This so-called cheaper version would significantly expand Medicaid, allowing millions of new people access to the program. Once again, Speaker Pelosi is fudging the numbers and hiding the true cost of this legislation because both state and local governments aid in picking up the Medicaid tab.
I fail to see how tacking on increased Medicaid costs to state governments already struggling for funding for existing programs is a good plan. It goes to show that just because this plan might be slightly cheaper, doesn’t mean it’s a better plan. Once again, the liberal Democrats are putting the cart before the horse--pushing a complete health care overhaul they don’t know how to pay for no matter how low the final cost may be.
SACking ACORN
Taxpayers in the 19th District are fed up with the corrupt organizations their tax dollars have supported. It’s time for this liberal Congress to stop protecting ACORN and end all misuse of public funds. Yesterday, I became a cosponsor of the Suspend ACORN Certification (SAC) Act, a bill aimed at preventing the misuse of public resources designated for federally-approved housing counseling activities.
Currently, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) lists ACORN as a certified, accredited housing counseling agency, allowing it to access federal counseling grants and leverage other state, local, and private resources using their “HUD-approved” status.
The IRS and Census Bureau have already cut ties with ACORN, and I believe it’s time for HUD to do the same.
In the past ACORN has been linked to voter fraud and most recently, ACORN employees were accused of providing criminal tax evasion advice. Despite these accusations, ACORN still retains its HUD certification.
The SAC Act would suspend HUD certification and funding of housing counseling activities under ACORN and its affiliates pending a comprehensive audit by the HUD Inspector General. The audit would examine the use of HUD funds by ACORN and its affiliates – including state chapters and organizations sharing staff, directors, and finances.
An organization like ACORN doesn’t deserve public funding. We need to ensure that there are guidelines set in place to investigate groups like ACORN that have been involved in shady businesses. As your representative in Congress, I will continue to fight to make sure this organization and others like it stop receiving your hard-earned tax dollars.
Currently, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) lists ACORN as a certified, accredited housing counseling agency, allowing it to access federal counseling grants and leverage other state, local, and private resources using their “HUD-approved” status.
The IRS and Census Bureau have already cut ties with ACORN, and I believe it’s time for HUD to do the same.
In the past ACORN has been linked to voter fraud and most recently, ACORN employees were accused of providing criminal tax evasion advice. Despite these accusations, ACORN still retains its HUD certification.
The SAC Act would suspend HUD certification and funding of housing counseling activities under ACORN and its affiliates pending a comprehensive audit by the HUD Inspector General. The audit would examine the use of HUD funds by ACORN and its affiliates – including state chapters and organizations sharing staff, directors, and finances.
An organization like ACORN doesn’t deserve public funding. We need to ensure that there are guidelines set in place to investigate groups like ACORN that have been involved in shady businesses. As your representative in Congress, I will continue to fight to make sure this organization and others like it stop receiving your hard-earned tax dollars.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Mr. President, remove Kevin Jennings
Mr. President, remove Kevin Jennings.
I have joined with my colleagues to send a letter to President Obama asking for the removal of Kevin Jennings from the Education Department's Office of Safe and Drug Free Schools.
As the founder of the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN), Mr. Jennings has played an integral role in promoting a pro-homosexual agenda in America’s schools—an agenda that contradicts with the values we in the 19th Congressional District are trying to instill in our children.
As the “safe school czar”, Mr. Jennings is responsible for ensuring our schools and students are drug free. Yet, his own history of serious drug and alcohol abuse puts his ability to promote a drug free lifestyle for students in doubt. It is clear that Mr. Jennings is unfit to serve in this capacity.
Why wasn’t he properly vetted by the Administration? The more we learn about Kevin Jennings and other so-called czars, the more we question who these individuals are and what exactly they stand for. In the wake of these revelations about Mr. Jennings, the President should remove him immediately and suspend any further appointments of these so-called czars. Individuals who are not qualified for such positions should not be permitted to set policy that directly affects our children. President Obama should fire Kevin Jennings immediately and replace him with someone who has a record of educating children in a safe and moral environment.
We can all support the President’s right to have a well-honed team of serious-minded public servants to help him do his job. However, without a full, proper and public vetting, it’s clear that less-qualified and some with a conflict of interest are setting policy in America. That is why I introduced H.R. 3613, the Transparency and Executive Accountability Act. This would require that not only do Senate-confirmed nominees need to provide proper documentation and go through a thorough vetting, but also White House staff that advise the President on policy. By shining more light on who these people are and their role in the White House, the American people are in a better position to judge their qualifications and hopefully the Administration will take greater care with making these decisions. My hope is that this Administration will meet its promises of openness and transparency that Americans expect.
I have joined with my colleagues to send a letter to President Obama asking for the removal of Kevin Jennings from the Education Department's Office of Safe and Drug Free Schools.
As the founder of the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN), Mr. Jennings has played an integral role in promoting a pro-homosexual agenda in America’s schools—an agenda that contradicts with the values we in the 19th Congressional District are trying to instill in our children.
As the “safe school czar”, Mr. Jennings is responsible for ensuring our schools and students are drug free. Yet, his own history of serious drug and alcohol abuse puts his ability to promote a drug free lifestyle for students in doubt. It is clear that Mr. Jennings is unfit to serve in this capacity.
Why wasn’t he properly vetted by the Administration? The more we learn about Kevin Jennings and other so-called czars, the more we question who these individuals are and what exactly they stand for. In the wake of these revelations about Mr. Jennings, the President should remove him immediately and suspend any further appointments of these so-called czars. Individuals who are not qualified for such positions should not be permitted to set policy that directly affects our children. President Obama should fire Kevin Jennings immediately and replace him with someone who has a record of educating children in a safe and moral environment.
We can all support the President’s right to have a well-honed team of serious-minded public servants to help him do his job. However, without a full, proper and public vetting, it’s clear that less-qualified and some with a conflict of interest are setting policy in America. That is why I introduced H.R. 3613, the Transparency and Executive Accountability Act. This would require that not only do Senate-confirmed nominees need to provide proper documentation and go through a thorough vetting, but also White House staff that advise the President on policy. By shining more light on who these people are and their role in the White House, the American people are in a better position to judge their qualifications and hopefully the Administration will take greater care with making these decisions. My hope is that this Administration will meet its promises of openness and transparency that Americans expect.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Letter to Speaker Pelosi
Yesterday, we saw the Senate Finance Committee approve legislation that will increase health care premiums, raise taxes and endanger the health care coverage Americans already have. The American people want reform, but not in the shape of a bill that would impose nearly $400 billion in new taxes and put health care into the hands of the federal government.
To make matters worse, the legislation House Democrat leaders are putting together to bring to the floor is being discussed behind close doors without any transparency. This is unacceptable. The American people deserve to know exactly what their health care reform is going to look like.
Today, I sent a letter to Speaker Pelosi requesting more transparency on behalf of the American people. The Speaker must allow all Members enough time to review the combined bill text, have a full budget score, and write amendments. She cannot continue to shut Members out of this process and limit their ability to represent constituent viewpoints.
Attached to the letter, I have also included all the comments I received from my Coffee with the Congressman events in August. I believe it’s important the Speaker know exactly how the people of the 19th Congressional District feel about her government-run health care. Although she chooses to ignore Republicans, she’s going to have to start listening to her boss, the American taxpayers.
The text of the letter to Speaker Pelosi is available here. My YouTube video can be seen here.
To make matters worse, the legislation House Democrat leaders are putting together to bring to the floor is being discussed behind close doors without any transparency. This is unacceptable. The American people deserve to know exactly what their health care reform is going to look like.
Today, I sent a letter to Speaker Pelosi requesting more transparency on behalf of the American people. The Speaker must allow all Members enough time to review the combined bill text, have a full budget score, and write amendments. She cannot continue to shut Members out of this process and limit their ability to represent constituent viewpoints.
Attached to the letter, I have also included all the comments I received from my Coffee with the Congressman events in August. I believe it’s important the Speaker know exactly how the people of the 19th Congressional District feel about her government-run health care. Although she chooses to ignore Republicans, she’s going to have to start listening to her boss, the American taxpayers.
The text of the letter to Speaker Pelosi is available here. My YouTube video can be seen here.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Cleaning Up Congress
Rep. Charlie Rangel, Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, is the subject of an ongoing investigation by the House Ethics Committee. The Committee is looking into whether Rangel failed to pay taxes and report hundreds of thousands of dollars in income and property. These are very serious charges; Member of Congress need to lead by example when it comes to following the law.
Why is Congressman Rangel allowed to lead the Ways and Means Committee, which writes our tax laws, when his record of paying his taxes is very much in question?
I am frustrated by the false promises and double standards of Speaker Pelosi and her Democrat Majority. When the Democrats took control of the House in 2006, Speaker Pelosi pledged to “drain the swamp” in Washington, and “turn this Congress into the most honest and open Congress in history.” I ask the Speaker now: Where is this honesty and openness?
Today, Republican Conference Secretary John Carter (R-TX) offered another resolution to remove Congressman Rangel from his chairmanship until a thorough investigation has been completed. Unfortunately, Speaker Pelosi opposed the resolution and once again broke her promise to the American people.
Congress is charged with a great responsibility-- representing the people that sent them to Washington. We must do everything in our power to uphold the Constitution and the law, which is why I will continue to push Speaker Pelosi for the openness and honesty she promised the American taxpayers.
Why is Congressman Rangel allowed to lead the Ways and Means Committee, which writes our tax laws, when his record of paying his taxes is very much in question?
I am frustrated by the false promises and double standards of Speaker Pelosi and her Democrat Majority. When the Democrats took control of the House in 2006, Speaker Pelosi pledged to “drain the swamp” in Washington, and “turn this Congress into the most honest and open Congress in history.” I ask the Speaker now: Where is this honesty and openness?
Today, Republican Conference Secretary John Carter (R-TX) offered another resolution to remove Congressman Rangel from his chairmanship until a thorough investigation has been completed. Unfortunately, Speaker Pelosi opposed the resolution and once again broke her promise to the American people.
Congress is charged with a great responsibility-- representing the people that sent them to Washington. We must do everything in our power to uphold the Constitution and the law, which is why I will continue to push Speaker Pelosi for the openness and honesty she promised the American taxpayers.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Unemployment rate still on the rise
Last week, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the unemployment rate rose to 9.8% and 263,000 more Americans lost their jobs in September. Americans haven’t seen the unemployment rate reach this level in 26 years.
As the unemployment rate continues to rise, it’s obvious that President Obama and the liberal Congress’ misguided economic policies are failing. The American people are demanding to know, where are the jobs? However, the only thing growing for the President is his more than trillion dollar deficient. It has become obvious that more government spending and raising taxes are not the solutions that will bring about jobs and stimulate our economy.
Millions of Americans are waking up today and openly discussing whether we're on the brink of having a "failed state" in America, that state being California. Years of anti-growth and massive spending have cut deeply into a major economic engine, with many openly fearing the long-term implications they may have on the rest of the country. In that same argument inevitably is a discussion of what's working: pro-growth, business-friendly, low-tax states like Texas are welcoming new workers from California everyday. It's clear to me what's happening on the state level is sadly being attempted at the federal level with tax hikes looming to pay for massive public programs that are being debated in Congress today.
I believe the way to put our country back on track is to start with fiscal discipline in the federal government and tax relief for the public. In order to effectively stimulate the economy, we must reduce the tax rates, reduce regulatory burdens where possible, and cut spending to leave more resources available for the business community. We need real solutions to put the American people back to work instead of more job-killing tax-and-spend policies.
As the unemployment rate continues to rise, it’s obvious that President Obama and the liberal Congress’ misguided economic policies are failing. The American people are demanding to know, where are the jobs? However, the only thing growing for the President is his more than trillion dollar deficient. It has become obvious that more government spending and raising taxes are not the solutions that will bring about jobs and stimulate our economy.
Millions of Americans are waking up today and openly discussing whether we're on the brink of having a "failed state" in America, that state being California. Years of anti-growth and massive spending have cut deeply into a major economic engine, with many openly fearing the long-term implications they may have on the rest of the country. In that same argument inevitably is a discussion of what's working: pro-growth, business-friendly, low-tax states like Texas are welcoming new workers from California everyday. It's clear to me what's happening on the state level is sadly being attempted at the federal level with tax hikes looming to pay for massive public programs that are being debated in Congress today.
I believe the way to put our country back on track is to start with fiscal discipline in the federal government and tax relief for the public. In order to effectively stimulate the economy, we must reduce the tax rates, reduce regulatory burdens where possible, and cut spending to leave more resources available for the business community. We need real solutions to put the American people back to work instead of more job-killing tax-and-spend policies.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
American Energy Freedom Day
One year ago today, the Congressional moratorium placed on drilling of the Outer Continental Shelf and oil-shale formations of the United States expired. We celebrated this occasion as American Energy Freedom Day, with hopes that the end of these moratoriums would allow Americans to access our own energy resources and lead to a new energy policy that enables us to fully develop American sources of oil and natural gas.
On this anniversary, we are no closer to the goal of American energy freedom. Despite the fact the moratorium on most OCS exploration has been lifted for a year, the Obama administration is content on imposing a de facto ban that could last up to another three years, until at least 2012 – and there is no guarantee they will act after then. Knowing how long extensive exploration and production takes, this is something we cannot afford to continue to put off. Along with many lawmakers, Congressman Neugebauer urges Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar to open these areas to gas and oil drilling.
Allowing domestic production in the OCS would help to create American jobs, while lowering the cost of gasoline and home heating oil. In fact, according to a recent analysis by the Heritage Foundation, “increasing domestic production by 1 million barrels per day would reduce imported petroleum costs by $123 billion, generate an additional $7.7 billion in economic activity, and cost $25.6 billion in additional oil production costs. The net gain to the economy would be $105 billion. The impact on employment would be an increase of 128,000 jobs.
Congressman Neugebauer believes the only way we can reduce our dependence on foreign oil is by increasing production here at home from all energy sources, using our own resources, improving our efficiencies and conserving when possible while continuing to invest in solutions based on science and not politics.
One way to achieve this is through the American Energy Innovation Act. This all-you-can-create approach will pave the way for a 21st century energy economy by providing incentives to create renewable fuel options, promoting conservation and efficiency, and encouraging responsible production of American energy.
America needs an energy policy that chooses neither winners, nor losers, but recognizes the need for an all-of-the-above strategy without neglecting our traditional sources of fossil fuels.
On this anniversary, we are no closer to the goal of American energy freedom. Despite the fact the moratorium on most OCS exploration has been lifted for a year, the Obama administration is content on imposing a de facto ban that could last up to another three years, until at least 2012 – and there is no guarantee they will act after then. Knowing how long extensive exploration and production takes, this is something we cannot afford to continue to put off. Along with many lawmakers, Congressman Neugebauer urges Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar to open these areas to gas and oil drilling.
Allowing domestic production in the OCS would help to create American jobs, while lowering the cost of gasoline and home heating oil. In fact, according to a recent analysis by the Heritage Foundation, “increasing domestic production by 1 million barrels per day would reduce imported petroleum costs by $123 billion, generate an additional $7.7 billion in economic activity, and cost $25.6 billion in additional oil production costs. The net gain to the economy would be $105 billion. The impact on employment would be an increase of 128,000 jobs.
Congressman Neugebauer believes the only way we can reduce our dependence on foreign oil is by increasing production here at home from all energy sources, using our own resources, improving our efficiencies and conserving when possible while continuing to invest in solutions based on science and not politics.
One way to achieve this is through the American Energy Innovation Act. This all-you-can-create approach will pave the way for a 21st century energy economy by providing incentives to create renewable fuel options, promoting conservation and efficiency, and encouraging responsible production of American energy.
America needs an energy policy that chooses neither winners, nor losers, but recognizes the need for an all-of-the-above strategy without neglecting our traditional sources of fossil fuels.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Committing to Afghanistan
Our national security is one of the most important issues facing our nation. The War on Terror is not over. The threat to our security is still great, which is why it is important President Obama clarify where he now stands on the Afghanistan strategy.
I am deeply concerned the President may abandon the counterinsurgency strategy that he endorsed just six months ago. Abandoning Afghanistan at this critical juncture would be a huge victory for the terrorists.
I believe we owe it to the brave men and women serving in Afghanistan to get the job done right and provide them with the resources they need to succeed in their mission. Prior to his recent comments, I supported the President’s comprehensive strategy in Afghanistan. Under his plan, our Armed Forces would be given the tools to beat back the insurgents, deny Al Qaeda and the Taliban safe haven in the country, and give the Afghan government time to build long-term economic and political stability.
The President cannot delay. Postponing this important decision will only put our troops in Afghanistan in greater danger. I call on President Obama to take a stand on Afghanistan and set his polices based on the unvarnished guidance provided by our Commanders on the ground, not the political opinions of a liberal Congress.
I am deeply concerned the President may abandon the counterinsurgency strategy that he endorsed just six months ago. Abandoning Afghanistan at this critical juncture would be a huge victory for the terrorists.
I believe we owe it to the brave men and women serving in Afghanistan to get the job done right and provide them with the resources they need to succeed in their mission. Prior to his recent comments, I supported the President’s comprehensive strategy in Afghanistan. Under his plan, our Armed Forces would be given the tools to beat back the insurgents, deny Al Qaeda and the Taliban safe haven in the country, and give the Afghan government time to build long-term economic and political stability.
The President cannot delay. Postponing this important decision will only put our troops in Afghanistan in greater danger. I call on President Obama to take a stand on Afghanistan and set his polices based on the unvarnished guidance provided by our Commanders on the ground, not the political opinions of a liberal Congress.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Federal Reserve Transparency Act
In the past year, we have had overwhelming intervention by the federal government in our financial system. The American people are tired of Washington’s bailout obsession and have watched the Federal Reserve’s balance sheet grow rapidly.
While the Federal Reserve has provided more information to the public through new reports such as these monthly reports, there are certain areas in which the law currently prohibits a full audit of Federal Reserve actions.
For that reason, I am a co-sponsor of H.R. 1207, the Federal Reserve Transparency Act. If enacted, this legislation would allow the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to conduct a full audit of all activities of the Federal Reserve Board and regional Reserve Banks. More openness in the Fed’s operations will enhance public understanding of the institution and foster greater accountability for its decisions, which affect the economic well-being of every American.
As Congress continues to debate financial regulatory reform, I will continue to support common-sense legislation that will stop bailouts, end the government’s practice of picking winners and losers and restore market discipline. In addition to supporting Congressman Paul’s legislation, I also support the House Republican Regulatory Reform Plan. The Republican alternative includes other reforms reign in the expansion of the Federal Reserve’s authority, including provisions that will prevent the Fed from bailing out individual firms, as was done with AIG and Bear Stearns, in the future.
While the Federal Reserve has provided more information to the public through new reports such as these monthly reports, there are certain areas in which the law currently prohibits a full audit of Federal Reserve actions.
For that reason, I am a co-sponsor of H.R. 1207, the Federal Reserve Transparency Act. If enacted, this legislation would allow the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to conduct a full audit of all activities of the Federal Reserve Board and regional Reserve Banks. More openness in the Fed’s operations will enhance public understanding of the institution and foster greater accountability for its decisions, which affect the economic well-being of every American.
As Congress continues to debate financial regulatory reform, I will continue to support common-sense legislation that will stop bailouts, end the government’s practice of picking winners and losers and restore market discipline. In addition to supporting Congressman Paul’s legislation, I also support the House Republican Regulatory Reform Plan. The Republican alternative includes other reforms reign in the expansion of the Federal Reserve’s authority, including provisions that will prevent the Fed from bailing out individual firms, as was done with AIG and Bear Stearns, in the future.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
If the President won’t shed light on czars, Congress will
Did you know that senior advisors in the White House, also known as "Czars" are not required to file their disclosure forms with the Office of Government Ethics? Seems like a double standard to me.
Last night I introduced H.R. 3613, the Transparency and Executive Accountability Act, which would require all Executive Branch employees at this senior level file their paperwork with the Office of Government Ethics, and no longer just the White House ethics office as it is presently the case.
You deserve to know what type of people are advising the President and this legislation will shine more light on these people and their role in the White House as well as reduce the time-consuming task of searching unreliable websites, filled with incomplete information and miscommunication.
I have heard your demands loud and cjavascript:void(0)lear. As your Representative, I want you to know that I working to do something about it. I believe the people of West Texas and the Big Country deserve maximum transparency from the President, Administration and Congress. It’s time we bring real change and openness to Washington, instead of making mere campaign promises.
Last night I introduced H.R. 3613, the Transparency and Executive Accountability Act, which would require all Executive Branch employees at this senior level file their paperwork with the Office of Government Ethics, and no longer just the White House ethics office as it is presently the case.
You deserve to know what type of people are advising the President and this legislation will shine more light on these people and their role in the White House as well as reduce the time-consuming task of searching unreliable websites, filled with incomplete information and miscommunication.
I have heard your demands loud and cjavascript:void(0)lear. As your Representative, I want you to know that I working to do something about it. I believe the people of West Texas and the Big Country deserve maximum transparency from the President, Administration and Congress. It’s time we bring real change and openness to Washington, instead of making mere campaign promises.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Preparing for Flu Season and H1N1 Update
With the start of the school year and the arrival of fall, it is time to start thinking about the cold and flu season. This year, with the development of the H1N1 virus, we need to be especially mindful of protecting ourselves and our families from these flu viruses. In an effort to keep you informed, I wanted to provide you and your family with some information on how to stay healthy.
First and foremost, prevention is the key. The best way to prevent the spread of H1N1 is to follow the same steps you would to prevent any other flu: wash your hands with soap and warm water, cover your mouth when sneezing or coughing, and stay home from work or school if you are sick to prevent the spread of the flu to others.
For more information on the H1N1 virus, and ways to help keep you and your family healthy, I encourage you to visit www.flu.gov.In addition, I would recommend checking in with the State of Texas website as well as your local county, and school district for further information.
First and foremost, prevention is the key. The best way to prevent the spread of H1N1 is to follow the same steps you would to prevent any other flu: wash your hands with soap and warm water, cover your mouth when sneezing or coughing, and stay home from work or school if you are sick to prevent the spread of the flu to others.
For more information on the H1N1 virus, and ways to help keep you and your family healthy, I encourage you to visit www.flu.gov.In addition, I would recommend checking in with the State of Texas website as well as your local county, and school district for further information.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
The Defund ACORN Act
Today, the House of Representatives voted 345-75 to pass the Defund ACORN Act, which I am an original co-sponsor of. The amendment would prohibit any organization, including ACORN, that has been indicted for violations of State or federal election laws, or that employs an individual who has been indicted for violations of state or federal election laws, from accessing federal taxpayer dollars.
This is a small victory for the American taxpayers in the ongoing battle to stop the federal funding of ACORN. However, we cannot give up the fight until all government ties to this corrupt organization are severed. As your representative in Congress, I will continue to fight to make sure this organization and others like it stop receiving your hard-earned tax dollars.
This is a small victory for the American taxpayers in the ongoing battle to stop the federal funding of ACORN. However, we cannot give up the fight until all government ties to this corrupt organization are severed. As your representative in Congress, I will continue to fight to make sure this organization and others like it stop receiving your hard-earned tax dollars.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
The Taxpayers are Tired of Funding ACORN
There seems to be a lot of hypocrisy going on in
Today, I joined with my Republican colleagues to send a letter to President Obama asking him to disclose and terminate all taxpayer funding of ACORN. If the President does not to take action, I have also signed onto legislation to stop federal funding of ACORN once and for all.
The American taxpayers have spoken loud and clear; they are tired of funding this organization. It’s time for
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
We need better regulators, not more regulators
In the past year, we have had overwhelming intervention by the federal government in our financial system. The American people are tired of Washington’s bailout obsession. It is time for the government to now move forward with a more aggressive exit strategy.
Unfortunately, President Obama’s promise of reform will only expand the government’s role and perpetuate the “too big to fail” and bailout mentality.
The American people deserve a better solution. Based on the principles of ending taxpayer bailouts, getting government out of picking winners and losers, and restoring market discipline, the Republican Regulatory Reform Plan calls for simplification for consumers, not duplication and creation of a new bureaucracy. Our plan says failing firms won’t be able to count on the taxpayers for a bailout.
We need to enact reform that will tighten up the regulatory structure and protect the taxpayer. Rather than more bailouts and more bureaucracy, we need more regulator accountability and more taxpayer protection.
Unfortunately, President Obama’s promise of reform will only expand the government’s role and perpetuate the “too big to fail” and bailout mentality.
The American people deserve a better solution. Based on the principles of ending taxpayer bailouts, getting government out of picking winners and losers, and restoring market discipline, the Republican Regulatory Reform Plan calls for simplification for consumers, not duplication and creation of a new bureaucracy. Our plan says failing firms won’t be able to count on the taxpayers for a bailout.
We need to enact reform that will tighten up the regulatory structure and protect the taxpayer. Rather than more bailouts and more bureaucracy, we need more regulator accountability and more taxpayer protection.
NOTE: To view the Republican Regulatory Reform Plan click here.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Supporting Congressman Joe Wilson
Congressman Joe Wilson’s apology to the White House was both appropriate and adequate, especially since President Obama immediately accepted. When the President of the United States accepts an apology, no observer has an additional claim. Unfortunately, Speaker Pelosi and the Democrat Majority are trying to play partisan politics by drafting a resolution that will call on Congressman Wilson to apologize again on the House Floor.
Although I did not entirely agree with the timing of Congressman Wilson’s comments, I do understand his frustrations. President Obama promised in his address to Congress that, “There are also those who claim that our reform effort will insure illegal immigrants. This, too, is false—the reforms I’m proposing would not apply to those who are here illegally.” However, President Obama’s statement was not supported by the facts, especially in light of two House committee votes, the findings of the Congressional Budget Office, and a Congressional Research Service report.
The American people deserve to know the truth about the President’s health care proposal. I will work with my colleagues in Congress to ensure that Americans have full access to all the information about these proposed health care plans
Although I did not entirely agree with the timing of Congressman Wilson’s comments, I do understand his frustrations. President Obama promised in his address to Congress that, “There are also those who claim that our reform effort will insure illegal immigrants. This, too, is false—the reforms I’m proposing would not apply to those who are here illegally.” However, President Obama’s statement was not supported by the facts, especially in light of two House committee votes, the findings of the Congressional Budget Office, and a Congressional Research Service report.
The American people deserve to know the truth about the President’s health care proposal. I will work with my colleagues in Congress to ensure that Americans have full access to all the information about these proposed health care plans
Friday, September 11, 2009
Remembering the September 11th terrorist attacks
Today, we remember the thousands of innocent Americans that lost their lives in the September 11th terrorist attacks. Eight years after the attack, our nation still mourns for all those who lost their lives.
On this day, we also reflect on those who have given their lives in the fight against terrorism to ensure that we will never again have a tragedy like this occur in America. As we face these terrorists abroad, we must never stop our efforts to find and eliminate them. This is a task we will uncompromisingly pursue to protect our nation and honor all those who lost their lives.
On this day, we also reflect on those who have given their lives in the fight against terrorism to ensure that we will never again have a tragedy like this occur in America. As we face these terrorists abroad, we must never stop our efforts to find and eliminate them. This is a task we will uncompromisingly pursue to protect our nation and honor all those who lost their lives.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Coffees with the Congressman
I would like to thank everyone for the wonderful audience participation at our Coffees with the Congressman in Lubbock, Abilene, Hereford and Plainview. It was great to hear your thoughts and concerns about reforming our health care system. With such great success, I look forward to today’s Coffee in Big Spring as well as my upcoming Coffees in Albany and Graham.
As I said last week, I understand that many of you are strongly opposed to a government-run health care plan and I agree with you. Our healthcare system needs to be reformed, but like you, I do not believe bigger government and more spending is the solution. I want you to know that as long as a plan to nationalize our healthcare system is on the table, I will vote against it. You deserve a better plan that will reform the system but also keep taxes low and give you choices.
As I said last week, I understand that many of you are strongly opposed to a government-run health care plan and I agree with you. Our healthcare system needs to be reformed, but like you, I do not believe bigger government and more spending is the solution. I want you to know that as long as a plan to nationalize our healthcare system is on the table, I will vote against it. You deserve a better plan that will reform the system but also keep taxes low and give you choices.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Travels This Week
Today, I am in Plainview to meet with the local Rotary Club as well as host a "Coffee with the Congressman". On Wednesday, I will be in Big Spring for several meetings and a Coffee. Following my events on Wednesday, I will be heading to Albany and Graham for the remainder of the week.
As I travel through West Texas and the Big Country, I hope you will be able to join me to discuss health care and other important issues that are on your mind.
As I travel through West Texas and the Big Country, I hope you will be able to join me to discuss health care and other important issues that are on your mind.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Upcoming Coffees
With Congress out of session in August, I’m taking advantage of the opportunity to make my way around the 19th district. At the end of the month, I will be hosting “Coffee with the Congressman” to discuss the current state of health care and the economy.
Abilene Coffee
Monday, August 24th
2:30pm-3:30pm CDT
McMurry University Campus, Radford Auditorium
14th & Sayles Blvd.
Abilene, TX
Lubbock Coffee
Tuesday, August 25th
3:30 pm – 4:30 pm CDT
First United Methodist Church
1411 Broadway Avenue, Great Hall
Lubbock, TX
Hereford Coffee
Monday, August 31st
2:30 pm – 3:30 pm CDT
Hereford Community Center, Banquet Room
100 Avenue C
Hereford, TX
Plainview Coffee
Tuesday, September 1st
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm CDT
Plainview ISD Education Complex Boardroom
2411 Yonkers
Plainview, TX
Big Spring Coffee
Wednesday, September 2nd
3:00 pm -4:00 pm CDT
Hall Center for the Arts at Howard College
1001 Birdwell Lane
Big Spring, TX
Albany Coffee
Thursday, September 3rd
10:30am-11:30am CDT
Aztec Theatre
141 S Main St,
Albany, TX 76430
Constituents interested in attending one of these meetings can visit my website, www.randy.house.gov, or call my office, toll free, at 888-763-1611 for additional details.
Abilene Coffee
Monday, August 24th
2:30pm-3:30pm CDT
McMurry University Campus, Radford Auditorium
14th & Sayles Blvd.
Abilene, TX
Lubbock Coffee
Tuesday, August 25th
3:30 pm – 4:30 pm CDT
First United Methodist Church
1411 Broadway Avenue, Great Hall
Lubbock, TX
Hereford Coffee
Monday, August 31st
2:30 pm – 3:30 pm CDT
Hereford Community Center, Banquet Room
100 Avenue C
Hereford, TX
Plainview Coffee
Tuesday, September 1st
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm CDT
Plainview ISD Education Complex Boardroom
2411 Yonkers
Plainview, TX
Big Spring Coffee
Wednesday, September 2nd
3:00 pm -4:00 pm CDT
Hall Center for the Arts at Howard College
1001 Birdwell Lane
Big Spring, TX
Albany Coffee
Thursday, September 3rd
10:30am-11:30am CDT
Aztec Theatre
141 S Main St,
Albany, TX 76430
Constituents interested in attending one of these meetings can visit my website, www.randy.house.gov, or call my office, toll free, at 888-763-1611 for additional details.
Blog Updates From My Travels Around The 19th District
Beginning next week, I will be traveling around the 19th District and look forward to visiting with you.
I will be hosting several meetings on health care and the economy and am interested in hearing about how these important issues are affecting you and your family and what you think Congress should do to improve health care and revitalize our economy.
As I travel through West Texas and the Big Country, I will keep you updated with posts and videos documenting my travels.
I will be hosting several meetings on health care and the economy and am interested in hearing about how these important issues are affecting you and your family and what you think Congress should do to improve health care and revitalize our economy.
As I travel through West Texas and the Big Country, I will keep you updated with posts and videos documenting my travels.
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