ISSUES

BALANCE THE BUDGET:

The rising federal deficient is out of control. American households must operate within their means and the federal government should be required to do the same. Rand Paul’s Penny Plan should be seriously considered.

EDUCATION:

If we do not teach what our Constitution represents, our children have little understanding of what freedom and democracy mean. Teaching civics in the classroom with experienced-based opportunities carries on the legacy of civic involvement and why democracy matters. Examples of civics in action is saying the Pledge of Allegiance and upholding dissenting opinions and dialogue on school campuses. Businesses are struggling with finding skilled employees. Bringing students and local businesses together to help students learn specialty skills will help these businesses in turn fulfill these jobs. The Department of Education wants to control state and local decisions. Education decisions are best made by parents and teachers at a local level.

HEALTHCARE:

Rising monthly healthcare premiums and expensive drug prices are no longer affordable for many of us. We need a competitive market and a transparent system where patients have a clear understanding of all costs involved. In Iowa’s rural areas, there is a shortage of physicians which reduces access to specialized medical care, ability to get timely appointments, and extends travel time to see a physician. Keeping medical clinics and hospitals open in rural communities is critical.

RURAL REVITALIZATION:

Washington is overlooking rural America. They bow to special interest groups who have relocated factories overseas in the pursuit of cheap labor. Rural revitalization needs less regulation and more incentives for businesses who want to work and grow in the Fourth District. It is increasingly difficult to farm or diversify because of expensive land and equipment costs and decreasing commodity prices. Creating diversity and new markets for farmers will allow for greater growth and opportunities.