Jobs and the economy

Southwest Washington has been hit particularly hard by the downturn in the economy, and I believe we must do more to help those who are struggling. This begins by providing more retraining for displaced workers, reducing taxes on small businesses so they can hire again and providing regulatory stability. Already, I have worked in a bipartisan fashion in the Senate to pass meaningful reforms to our unemployment insurance and worker's compensation systems. There is more work to be done, but you can count on me to fight for your job and to improve our economy.

Improving our schools

I belive in today's global economy our students must receive a first-rate education. I support reforms that put more emphasis on classroom instruction and less on administrative bureaucracy. I also believe we need to give our principals greater discretion to hire and fire teachers based on performance in the classroom.

Holding the line on taxes and spending

We have a serious spending problem in Olympia. Despite a 33% increase in spending, the state has experienced record deficits in recent years. In order to make up this difference, the majority party passed the largest tax increase in state history and eliminated voter-approved initiatives to limit taxes and spending. I believe this is wrong. In 2010, I voted against these unnecessary tax increases and co-sponsored Initiative 1053 to return the voter-approved 2/3rds requirement to raise taxes. I have also consistently opposed state budgets that spend more money than the state receives in tax revenue. Just like our families, government must learn to do more with less during these tough times.

A clean environment

I support responsible environmental policies that improve our quality of life and that of future generations. The health and safety of our families and communities will always be a major priority for me.

Reducing crime in our community

A couple of years ago, I passed an important bill called the Chelsea Harrison Act, to put away violent offenders who threaten our communities. Violent offenders should receive tough penalties, and our communties should have the resources necessary to protect our families.