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DEFENSE:
Over the past three years our Reserve and National Guard units
have significantly increased their role as members of our
armed forces “in theater”. However, they have
continually had their benefits lag behind their active duty
counterparts. In addition, veteran’s benefits have been
inadequately funded and issues of recruitment and retention
have failed to be addressed. During this session of Congress,
along with my Democratic colleagues, I have introduced legislation
to deal with each of these issues.
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ENERGY:
Throughout the term of this Administration,
there has been a continual lack of leadership regarding the
creation of a comprehensive energy policy that addresses our
country’s dependence on foreign oil. Since my arrival
in Congress, I have consistently focused on producing the
legislative polices and funding to provide alternative energy
sources including hydrogen fuel cell development.
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PRESCRIPTION
DRUGS: America has over 40 million elderly
and disabled citizens who rely on prescription medication
to maintain their health and wellbeing. Over the past few
years, prescription drug costs have skyrocketed and I believe
a real prescription drug benefit plan that allows Medicare
to negotiate lower prices for our seniors is long overdue.
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IRAQ:
From the NO vote I cast when asked to give the President the
authority to take military action against Iraq to my opposition
in giving amnesty to Iraqi insurgents who have killed Americans,
the current war in Iraq has been one of the most important
issues faced by Congress. During this same period of time,
regardless of my opposition to the war and the policies that
led up to the war, I have consistently supported our troops
and their need for appropriate equipment, as they honor our
country with their service.
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EDUCATION:
Although its intention was to provide for greater opportunities
for children, the current Administration and Republican leadership
in Congress has failed to adequately fund education from pre-school
through K-12 and higher education. As a former educator, I
have worked hard to try to provide the federal resources necessary
to give every child and young adult the full range of educational
opportunities.
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SOCIAL
SECURITY: The President
has made Social Security reform one of the major focuses of
his Administration. As a member of the House Ways and Means
Committee, I have been actively involved in this debate by
participating in Committee hearings and speaking about the
importance of Social Security on the floor of the House. I
remain unalterably opposed to privatizing our Social Security
system.
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