Issues
2nd Amendment
As a member of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus, and a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association, it is my belief the 2nd Amendment must be upheld. The United Nations is attempting to pass a Small Arms Treaty, which would restrict the ability of small arms to be sold worldwide.
Agriculture
Agriculture is a cornerstone of the economy in the 8th District of Tennesee. With many of our families depending on the agriculture industry to quite literally put food on the table, it is important to have stong agriculture polity. I was a vocal supporter of H.R. 1947, the "Farm Bill."
Christian Values
I believe that the most basic human right is the right to life. My belief that life begins at conception and that abortion is not an option make me a decidedly pro-life member of Congress. I am a supporter of the effort to put an end to the many abortions that occur every year in this country. In the 113th Congress, I have cosponsored seven different bills to end abortions.
Defense and National Security
Throughout the history of the United States, a strong national defense has been critical to the preservation of liberty at home. This chapter of our history should be no different, which is why I will work to ensure that all the branches of our military will be provided with the tools they need to ensure our freedom.
Economy and Jobs
I believe that getting the economy back on track needs to be the number one priority of this Congress. Government needs to foster an environment where it is possible for small businesses to grow and create jobs both in Tennessee and across the nation. The answer to our economic problems is not more government spending.
Education
K-12 Education
The American education system is in crisis and it is in need of serious reform. For far too long, political leaders have tried to dictate to teachers and schools what they need to accomplish. This kind of micro managing is not working, and we need to do right by our children and work to reform the system of education in the United States.
Energy
High gas prices affect everyone. Energy prices heavily influence the economy in West Tennessee, and it is important that we support a comprehensive approach to energy production. I could not disagree more with those that believe in a very narrow limiting energy policy.
Financial Services
Health
I believe that all Tennesseans deserve access to affordable, high quality health care. However, I do not believe that moving our healthcare system to a single payer system that would put a government bureaucrat between you and your doctor is the way to accomplish this.
Immigration
The United States is a nation founded and built by immigrants. For centuries, the United States has stood as a beacon of freedom and hope, and throughout that time, millions across the globe have come to the United States in search of the American Dream.
Protecting Our Seniors
The fact is, Medicare is growing at an alarming rate of 7.25% a year. We must work to ensure Medicare remains solvent for today’s seniors and future generations of Americans.
Tax Reform
I support policies that move the tax code to a flatter, simpler system for all Americans. If the average American could better understand why they were being taxed, and where their tax dollars were going, some faith in government may be restored.
Veterans
The state of Tennessee has a proud military heritage, and we need keep our promises to those brave men and women who have defended our freedom through their service in the Armed Forces. I will work hard to see that these veterans receive the full support of the federal government for their much-appreciated service.