Like many of you, I have been very frustrated in the last few weeks as Congress has tried to complete its work on extending much needed tax relief for hard working families across this nation. Once again, negotiations were taken to the brink, this time as the deadline approached on the payroll tax holiday, unemployment benefits, and Medicare physician repayments. While the process as a… Read more »
Americans deserve their civil liberties as defined in our Constitution, and they also deserve to be protected from terrorists who wish to harm this country. I believe that we can meet both objectives. Read more »
[The NDAA] provides direction for the important missions and priorities of our armed forces, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure that our service members and their families have the resources and support they need and deserve. Read more »
The simple truth is that we must maintain this strong presence in order to protect sea lanes that are crucial to our economy, especially considering the large percentage of trade conducted by merchant ships crossing these seas. At the same time, a strong American presence in this region allows continued attention to activities conducted by nations such as Iran and even China, which is vigorously trying to gain influence in the Middle East. Read more »
Before this year comes to an end, Congress will face many challenges as it seeks to find solutions to aid our economy and get our nation back to work. It is my hope that folks in Washington hear the calls for civility and commonsense solutions that are coming from places like Fredericksburg, Yorktown, and Montross. Read more »
Despite widespread support across the Commonwealth for offshore energy exploration from federal, state, and local leaders, this decision effectively bans energy development off the coast of Virginia. Read more »
Our rights and freedoms as Americans are precious, and we must never forget the service and sacrifice of our veterans and their families in preserving our freedoms. The Commonwealth of Virginia is a place rich with military tradition, and I know that we are proud of the many Virginians who have served or who are currently serving today. Read more »
Without a doubt, Congress must make some tough decisions as we move through the process of fixing our federal budget. However, one of this body’s most significant responsibilities is to provide for a fighting force that will allow this nation to prevent and confront future threats while at the same time meeting our fiscal obligations. Simply put, the severity of cuts to our nation’s defense that are currently being discussed will weaken our force to an unacceptable level. Read more »
Each of our small businesses plays an important part in our economy, and the freedom for a business to grow is vital for a healthy economy. The company that Steve Jobs started in his garage is now a publicly traded company employing thousands of people, who support their families with their salary. Read more »
I often hear that the best thing Washington, DC, can do is to just get out of the way. As I travel up to Washington from Montross, I look at every vote and every action through the lens of how it will affect you. Last year, Congress considered legislation with changes in federal regulation for the financial sector. Unfortunately, we have recently seen the downside of too much regulation… Read more »
