What we see in Washington today – partisan bickering, investigations, policy stalemates - is an example of where differences are highlighted, but indeed we should be looking at what we have in common, because I do believe there is more common ground than any of us realize. My focus as your Representative in Congress is to work on behalf of the people of the First District and their top concerns, and I will continue to serve as a strong supporter and vocal advocate for these ideas and principles to make sure our priorities are being addressed in Congress and we make progress toward their completion.
Congress’ first duty is to ensure a strong military and robust national defense to protect the homeland. Rebuilding our nation’s military is the only way to ensure the safety of our great nation. For too long our military has been crippled by a readiness crisis, and it has come at far too high a cost—the lives of our men and women in uniform. Through my role as the Ranking Member of the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee on the House Armed Service Committee, I get the privilege of working for our service members and fighting for Virginia’s economy every day.
As a lifelong conservationist,
I am committed to the preservation of our public lands, wetlands and vast natural resources. That is why keeping our Chesapeake Bay clean is a personal mission for me and why I’m an original cosponsor of H.R. 1620, the
Chesapeake Bay Program Reauthorization Act. The Chesapeake Bay Program Reauthorization Act would inject $455 million over the next five years into the Environmental Protection Agency’s Chesapeake Bay Program, which coordinates data collection and distributes grants to states for Bay restoration efforts. With every bill like this one, we are one step closer to ensuring that the Chesapeake Bay remains an economic driver for our region that will be enjoyed for generations to come.
I believe that economic growth and job creation is best supported by fewer, smarter regulations, affordable energy, a simpler tax system, and policies that encourage a better trained and educated workforce. Increasing STEM/CTE education gives students the opportunity to develop a practical skill set and enter the job market confident and well prepared. We can better prepare our professionals of tomorrow by increasing access to dual enrollment CTE training courses so students can work toward certifications and credentials in high school. I’ve hosted
nearly a half dozen CTE Symposiums where I’ve seen firsthand the value of forums that connect our students, educators, and businesses.
I strongly support expanding access to broadband in unserved areas, as high-speed internet is an absolutely critical tool for success in today’s economy. Unfortunately, there is currently a large economic disparity between urban and rural communities due to the uneven access to technology. This inequality puts rural education systems, small business owners, and farmers at a disadvantage. Closing the digital divide is the key to lifting up countless communities and populations in unserved areas. While Congress has made great strides in tackling this issue, more can and should be done. We must further emphasize policies that promote Public-Private Partnerships, improve current mapping inaccuracies, and prevent overbuilding. Through my
Rural Broadband Task Force, we are developing solutions to connect the unserved in the First District
Finally, I will continue to work to bring accountability back to Washington. We must hold government and representatives accountable and ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely. I am working hard to end the harmful cycle of shutdowns and partisan gridlock. I have introduced three pieces of legislation, The
No Budget No Pay Act,
the Stay on Schedule Resolution and the
Inaction Has Consequences Act ensure that Members of Congress feel the consequences of inaction. My legislation will hold Members to a higher standard and get the people’s work done.
I am optimistic for our future as a nation. I believe that we will continue our economic success and military effectiveness around the world. In addition to my priorities listed above, I will continue working to fix our crumbling roads and bridges, ensure veterans receive the benefits they deserve, cut the red tape hurting our businesses, lower the cost of health care, and secure our borders. With only a few weeks left in the year, I am ready to tackle these critical challenges facing the Commonwealth and the nation.
