The Essential Issues

Government – I have more faith in the contributions of a small government that does most things well than a big government that does most things poorly.

Taxes – Our current tax system is stacked against middle class America, easily manipulated by special interests, and designed to take money out of your pocket and put it into others with minimal restraint.  I believe the Fair Tax lives up to its name in offering a system of taxation that will best support America’s future.

Iraq – Whether we should have gone to Iraq, and how we have handled events since that time, can be well argued - whether we continue the fight cannot. To leave now would mock the sacrifice of those who have served and take us from a path of hope and uncertain potential to one of surrender and assured chaos.

Health Care – The solutions to America's health care crisis are not to be found in socialistic models from other countries. What will work is encouraging competition, a renewal of personal wellness responsibilities, less smothering regulation, and a reemphasis on basic health services over a race toward expensive exotic interventions. Underfunded government promises of unrealistic levels of service are a major factor in health care costs.  Tax credits so that all Americans can purchase their own private policy make more sense than big government control over our health services.

Earmarks – A fair share of Washington handouts holds potential for uplifting WNC. Unfortunately, these borrowed monies rest on the futures of our children and grandchildren through a ballooning national debt of 8.9 trillion dollars that is anything but uplifting.

Social Security – Congress continues to sidestep accountability for fixing a safety net full of holes. Congress adds insult to injury by robbing social security funds at the same time they enjoy generous retirement and health care plans not available to average Americans.

The Economy – Unfair trade practices, tax burdens, excessive regulation, and misguided fiscal policies are impairing America's ability to compete in national markets with our historical enthusiasm and efficiency. It is no coincidence that at a time of unprecedented economic expansion, the average American remains fearful and unconvinced that the house will stand.