Issues
Working to Lower Energy Costs
I believe in an "all of the above" approach to solving our country's energy needs. It means a stronger commitment to efficiency and conservation. It means a real investment in new energy technologies like shale oil, wind, solar, hydropower and biomass. And it means more domestic drilling for oil on land and in our coastal waters. I am committed to meeting America's energy needs with American resources.
Resources:
American Energy Act
Declaration of American Energy Independence
My Seattle Times column on how we can become an energy independent country
Campaign ad on meeting America's energy needs with American resources
Increasing Access to Affordable Health Care
Everywhere I go across Eastern Washington, I hear about the high cost of health care. I know every American needs access to high quality, affordable health care. But the wrong way to assure high quality and affordability is a massive government-run program that spends more on bureaucracy than it does on patients. I developed a five point health care resolution that increases affordability, access, accountability, quality and choice without creating an expensive government-run bureaucracy.
Helping Grow the Economy and Create Jobs
I know the number one solution to our economic problems is a stronger, more vibrant small business community. I am proud to promote policies that encourage small business and help those who want to start a small business. I am working on regulation reform that reduces red tape and helps business grow. I am fighting to keep taxes low. Over 2.3 million Washington families benefited from the 2001 and 2003 tax cuts that included eliminating the marriage penalty tax and expanding the child tax credit, and now some in Congress want to raise those taxes. I know tax increases are exactly the wrong way to strengthen our struggling economy. That is why I remain committed to making those tax cuts permanent.
Supporting Eastern Washington's Farmers
I grew up on a farm. I know the challenges family farmers face. And in the 5th Congressional District alone, agriculture is a $1.1 billion industry. But if we're not careful, we run the risk of someday becoming as dependent on foreign food as we currently are on foreign oil. That's why I support policies that expand markets for our farmers, reduce their energy costs, increase their water supply and assure the future vitality of our land and our family farms.
Fighting for Our Core Values
I am married to Brian Rodgers, a retired Navy Commander. Last year, we were blessed with the birth of our son Cole. As a new mom, I have a new perspective on my role representing Eastern Washington in Congress. I have a renewed effort to protecting our values of freedom, opportunity, faith in God, commitment to family and personal responsibility. I remain an advocate for protecting the traditional family, supporting life and preserving the Second Amendment.