Issues

Long before I was a businessman or a physicist, I was a curious kid. I was always taking things apart to see how they worked, or trying to make something new. It was this curiosity combined with the excellent education I received from public schools and universities that led me to start a business with my brother and to later pursue a career as a physicist. As our economy becomes increasingly STEM-based, it has never been more important to ensure our students are getting the education and training they will need to thrive.

I believe adequate health care should be a right for every American. Health care is an issue that concerns every one of us, regardless of what we look like or where we come from. We all want what is best for the health and well-being of ourselves and our families. I was proud to vote for the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in 2010. Since its enactment, the law has given millions of Americans access to health care coverage.

The men and women who wear our nation's uniform are extraordinary people who are always prepared to meet the challenges of our time. I support measures to address veteran homelessness, improve the veteran health care system, and facilitate a smooth transition to civilian life for all returning veterans.

Every individual should have the right to live free from discrimination and pursue their dreams regardless of race, sexual orientation, or gender identity. As the son of a Civil Rights lawyer who wrote much of the enforcement language of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, this issue is a top priority for me. Since the Civil Rights Movement, we have made great progress toward equality, but our work is not over. We must continue to fight against efforts to weaken the Voting Rights Act of 1965, and I actively support legislation to restore this landmark legislation.

Every individual should have the right to live free from the fear of gun violence. The fact that 100 Americans die each day from guns is unacceptable. It's an epidemic that has affected communities in every part of our country, including our own. We must pursue common sense solutions to gun violence - including expanding background checks and banning the sale of military-style assault weapons. I am proud to join the vast majority of Americans who support these measures. Congress has a responsibility to protect innocent lives. Thoughts and prayers are not enough.

We are a nation of immigrants, and I am proud of the heritage of inclusion that defines us all as Americans. Our country thrives on the innovation, culture, and diversity that immigrants from all walks of life bring to the United States. The United States has served as a beacon of hope and opportunity for people who seek a better life. History has not looked kindly on us when we have prevented people fleeing violence from seeking refuge in this country.