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| Improving The Economy |
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As I travel across the 6th District, it's clear to me that many families are struggling. Survey after survey indicates that Americans' number one concern is the economy. Sometimes these concerns come in the form of high gas prices, or the rising price of food, or increasing health care costs. Across the country, people are feeling the pinch in their pocketbooks. I believe that one of the reasons our economy is struggling is due to the federal government's spending habits. Eight years ago, the federal government had record budget surpluses. Looking into 2009 and beyond, our budget deficits are approaching $400 and $500 billion. Our national debt is now at $9.4 trillion and growing exponentially. Not only does this hurt the federal government's financial solvency; it hurts American families. Due to the amount of debt that is held in foreign hands, the American dollar has been severely weakened. Nowhere is this more present than in our current energy crisis. Because the dollar has declined, it now cost more to buy foreign oil, making the problem that much worse. I believe in a very simple concept that is unfortunately too often ignored: pay-go. Pay-go follows the same rules that most Louisianans follow when they balance their checkbooks. Any increases spending must be accompanied by a likewise reduction in other spending or increase in revenue. This Congress has enacted pay-go rules, but we must do more to get spending in line with revenues. In addition to improving our government's financial situation, I also believe that we should keep taxes low so that American citizens can achieve their dreams. I also believe in keeping taxes low for small businesses, which are the backbone of our economy. Supporting small business does not only mean keeping their taxes low, but also giving them the incentives they need to support their employees. That's why I'm a sponsor of the SHOP Act, which will give small businesses tax incentives to offer health insurance to their employees. It will also allow them to join in with other small businesses to reduce costs and access better plans. Supporting businesses also means supporting workers by keeping good jobs and attracting new ones. I support fair trade deals that do not only help foreign workers, but strengthen American business and workers and make them more competitive. Finally, I believe that we must continue to focus on creating good schools and preparing our children for the future. Education is essential for a strong economy; by improving our schools and catering them to the local economy, we will attract good jobs to Louisiana. For more information about my views and voting record, please visit the following pages: Lowering Gas Prices and Increasing Energy Independence Fiscal Responsibility Improving Health Care Education |
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