Farming is a time-honored way of life for many in western Pennsylvania. The industry ranks among the largest in the region and contributes to the economy by providing jobs and quality products. I have worked in Washington to help give 3rd district farmers the assistance they need to thrive within their livelihood... read more
Education is where the foundation of our children begins. I believe in a strong educational system that includes the cooperation and the coordination of parents, teachers and administrators. It is essential that we provide our community with a strong system that will prepare our children for the future of tomorrow. Throughout Pennsylvania’s 3rd district there are various colleges and universities that thrive in community involvement and provide students with a strong educational background. I am prepared to work with my colleagues on legislation that will benefit the educational system so that our youth may continue to flourish... read more
One of the biggest challenges our nation is facing today is high and unstable energy costs. I believe America must reduce its dependence on fossil fuels as part of a long-term energy policy which includes greater use of our renewable energy like biofuels and wind. We must also continue to build upon the work of past Congresses and move forward with initiatives that will reduce the price of gasoline over the long-term, impose tough standards to prevent future market disruptions and secure our oil and gas resources here at home. Additionally, we must put in place new incentives that bring more affordable and diverse energy into the marketplace and make the growth in our economy greener... read more
With our ever changing society and increased environmental awareness, Congress must work together to build an environmentally sound future for Americans. I understand the importance of protecting the environment and have initiated and supported legislation to achieve this without sacrificing western Pennsylvania jobs... read more
As a senior member on the House Ways and Means Health Subcommittee, I know first-hand the challenges we face regarding healthcare today. It’s clear, the American healthcare system is facing a financial crisis, and as a lawmaker and advocate of healthcare reform I believe we must do all that we can to advance policies that will guarantee universal access to affordable, quality care for working families and seniors... read more
For too long Washington has put partisan politics over the national interest, stifling any opportunity to move forward with a fair and frank national debate on the challenges of Iraq. This Congress, I have joined a bipartisan group of 28 House lawmakers in unveiling a "Bipartisan Compact on Iraq Debate," a series of eight principles to help guide the U.S. House of Representatives away from political infighting and toward a bipartisan solution on Iraq... read more
The American Constitution is the pillar of our democracy because it spells out our rights and responsibilities as citizens. We must protect those laws and be very certain that when we amend the Constitution it is with the best interest of the country in mind... read more
Every day a variety of issues come before Congress that impact workers in western Pennsylvania. Whether it is workplace safety of the right to choose leaders of unions or even how workers’ hard earned pensions are handled, Congress must make responsible decisions that protect workers’ interests. I have consistently promoted and enforced fair and equal principles within the workforce to maintain social and economic progress and establish a foundation of common values... read more
Since being elected to office in 1994, I have been a vocal advocate for western Pennsylvania in Washington, working to develop policies and legislation to help put our local economy back on a growth path. As the Ranking Republican on the House Ways and Means Select Revenue Measures Subcommittee, I play an active role in drafting tax legislation. A strong advocate for lower and fairer taxes, I have supported initiatives that will help to ease the financial burden on local families. I’ve worked to eliminate the marriage penalty, increase the child tax credit, and create tax incentives to increase access to higher education... read more
Since being elected to Congress in 1994, I have been a vocal advocate of fair trade and a strong, rules-based U.S. trade policy. As a senior member of the House Ways and Means Committee, I help develop trade legislation. One of my priorities is to strengthen our trade laws to further level the playing field for U.S. manufacturers, protect jobs and promote economic growth. I also serve as Vice-Chairman of the Congressional Steel Caucus and have been a member of the President's Export Council since 1998... read more
As guardians of freedom, our veterans have served the United States with the utmost of honor. The dedication and bravery made by American soldiers have allowed us to exercise our everyday freedoms. Many have made the ultimate sacrifice and it is our duty in Congress to make sure that veterans’ rights and interests are protected and served... read more