This past year presented new opportunities and challenges that continue to shape our perspective and define the need for common sense solutions to carry America forward.  There is no question that 2009 was a historic test of our nation’s resolve:  unemployment reached record levels under an uncertain economy; victory in Iraq coincided with an escalation of forces in Afghanistan; and federal spending and health care reform consumed the national debate. 

These challenges, in addition to issues such as global security and immigration reform, are expected to be our central focus in 2010.  In anticipation of these discussions, I look forward to continue serving as your elected Representative in Congress and working alongside my colleagues to advance initiatives that reflect the best interests of our community and the American people. 

Altogether, my first year in Congress has been an inspiring and rewarding experience.  The year ended with a great opportunity to provide the weekly Republican radio address, immediately following remarks by President Obama.  My statement, which you can watch by clicking here, focused on the men and women of our military who are away from their families, those who are unemployed and less fortunate, and an alternative path towards economic recovery.    

Moving forward, I intend to maintain strong support for policies that reduce the tax burden on families and businesses, protect consumer choice and strengthen our national security.  Please take a moment to read my recent commentary reaffirming these priorities while also looking back at the past year in Congress.

Keeping Airline Passengers Safe

Many San Diegans, including myself, are frequent airline travelers who rely on trained professionals to identify potential threats and protect us from acts of terrorism and violence.  We must have complete confidence that every effort is made to ensure our safety and security when traveling domestically or abroad.

The President rightfully acknowledged that our security system did not work to prevent a possible act of terrorism on Northwest Airlines Flight 253.  While steps have already been taken to tighten certain security procedures (click here for a summary of these changes), it is important that Congress conduct its oversight responsibility and examine the circumstances surrounding this incident.

In light of this attempt and other related activity, we must not lose sight of the fact that we are engaging terrorist enemies across the world.  Among our priorities in this effort is to gain valuable intelligence to protect the American people and prevent the next attack.  Doing so requires that we consistently strengthen this capability and revaluate our homeland security procedures to keep pace with current threats.

2010 Jobs Fair

In September 2009, I hosted a community job fair that attracted numerous local businesses, joining them with qualified area job seekers.  The event was a tremendous success and I am excited about the opportunity to host additional job fairs and community forums in the future.

By subscribing to this newsletter, you will receive scheduling updates about these events. Also, I encourage you to forward this edition of my Washington Report to your friends and family so that they can sign up for my newsletter to receive additional information.

Health Care Update

Now that the Senate has passed its version of health care reform legislation, negotiations with the House are expected to commence.  During this process, differences between the House and Senate versions of legislation are reconciled and a single piece of legislation is returned to both chambers for a final vote. 

Although I have consistently stated the need for health care reform, I am strongly opposed to the legislation advanced in both the House and Senate – a position reinforced by the fact that the Senate bill includes special considerations, such as an exemption from Medicaid expansion costs, for selected states.  What’s worse, California would assume an estimated $4 billion cost increase under the Senate bill at the same time our State is experiencing a $21 billion budget deficit. 

In place of the House and Senate health care bills, I continue to support alternative proposals that empower patients and doctors, reduce long-term health care expenditures and improve accessibility.  There is still a long way to go before the House or Senate vote on a final version of health care reform legislation.  In the meantime, I will continue pushing for alternatives that responsibly reform our health care system without imposing new mandates or tax increases.