Issues

To learn more about my stance on specific issues, and for links to legislation, select from the list below.

Agriculture As Ohio’s first Senator on the Agriculture Committee in more than forty years, I am honored to represent our state’s farmers.
Civil Rights Throughout my career, in Columbus and Washington, I have opposed discrimination in every form and fought to protect the civil rights and liberties of all citizens.
The Economy As Ohio and the nation move into the 21st century, we must rebuild the infrastructure of the urban centers of our great cities, reinvigorate struggling midsize communities, empower rural areas to secure needed services and infrastructure, and protect the quality of life in all of our towns and suburbs across the state.
Education Investing in our education system is essential to ensuring Ohio’s future. By investing in Ohio’s youth and young people from all over the nation, we prepare and help produce the leaders of tomorrow.
Election Reform I strongly support measures to ensure protection of the fundamental right to vote and believe that maintaining the integrity of our electoral process is critical to America’s democratic institutions.
Energy I continue to work with businesses, research institutions, labor unions, entrepreneurs, and community leaders to position Ohio as a leader in the alternative energy sector.
Foreign Policy Our nation's foreign policy should be grounded in our values and directed toward advancing global peace and prosperity. A commitment to diplomacy is required to address threats to our national security, and global collaboration is required to address threats to the public health and the environment.
Health Care Health Care is an important issue for all Ohioans, and I am working hard to ensure a better system for everyone.
Homeland Security Ohio’s first responders are our first line of defense in ensuring our communities and our families are safe.
Housing For most families in Ohio, their home provides a lot more than just shelter. Homes are full of family memories, and in many cases, a substantial share of a family’s savings as well. Stable, affordable housing is one of the keys to good neighborhoods, schools, and communities in which to live and work.
Immigration I have supported legislation to curb illegal immigration by increasing criminal penalties for immigrant smuggling and document fraud, eliminating the use of government documents that are easily forged, and doubling the number of border patrol guards.
Improving Ohio's Infrastructure Infrastructure systems built decades ago are increasingly strained by the daily demands placed on them. Investment in Ohio infrastructure projects such as the modernization of our wastewater systems, roads, and bridges, is critical to meeting the evolving needs of the state.
Jobs Ohio is home to the most talented labor force in the world. Rich in natural resource and with a strong entrepreneurial spirit, the Buckeye state is poised to lead the way nationally in manufacturing and small business development.
Protecting our Natural Resources Throughout my career I have fought for environmental protections and conservation of our natural resources. We have made our air cleaner to breathe and our water safer to drink, but environmental stewardship is an ongoing responsibility. From combating climate change to protecting our streams, forests, and wildlife, it is important that we continue to protect our environment for both current and future generations.
Social Security For more than seventy years, Social Security has provided a vital safety net for hard-working Americans. In Ohio, over 90% of our seniors receive Social Security with nearly half of them depending on benefits to stay above the poverty line.
Social Services Low income individuals should have access to the assistance and tools they need to reach their goals, and the government should offer support systems that enable people to rise out of poverty.
Supporting Our Troops Our troops must get the support and the protection they need. From providing them with body and vehicle armor, to boosting their base pay, our troops must come first.
Trade Fair Trade is vital to our nation’s economic future. But the trade deals of the past decade have failed Ohio workers and small businesses.
Transition to Digital TV In February of 2009, all television broadcasts will transition from analog to digital. Is your TV ready?
Veterans Nothing is more important than honoring our promises to veterans. Serving on the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee is an honor and a duty I do not take lightly. VA benefits are earned benefits and the men and women of our armed forces should receive those benefits on a guaranteed and timely basis.