TEXAS ELECTIONS 2014- THE CANDIDATES AND THE CHALLENGERS AND WHERE THEY STAND 36 DISTRICTS
http://www.familysecuritymatters.org/publications/detail/texas-2014-candidates-for-congress-where-they-stand
PRIMARY HELD ON MARCH 4, 2014
Please note: Senator Cornyn (R) Incumbent won and probably faces Dr. David Alameel (D) unless there is a runoff for Democratic Candidate on May 27, 2014.
In District 4: Incumbent Ralph Hall (R) did not have a decisive victory over his Republican Challenger John Ratcliffe (R)and faces a runoff on May 27, 2014.
In District 36: David Stockman (R) left his seat to run against Senator Cornyn, and lost.
Dr.Brian Babin (R) – and Ben Streusand (R)will face a runoff on May 27, 2014.
Third parties- Independents and Libertarians have until June 2014 to file.
To see the actual voting records of all incumbents on other issues such as Foreign Policy, Second Amendment Issues, Homeland Security, and other issues as well as their rankings by special interest groups please use the links followed by two stars (**).
SENATE
Ted Cruz (R) Next election- 2018
John Cornyn (R ) Incumbent
http://www.ontheissues.org/senate/john_cornyn.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
HEALTHCARE
http://www.johncornyn.com/issues/health-care/
Senator Cornyn has introduced the Healthcare Bureaucrats Elimination Act to protect access to Medicare for Texas seniors by repealing Obamacare’s unelected panel of government bureaucrats who are tasked with making decisions that could severely limit patient care.
Following the discovery of evidence that the IRS has been targeting Texans, Senator Cornyn also introduced the Keep the IRS Off Your Health Care Act, a bill that will prohibit the IRS from implementing or enforcing any provisions of Obamacare.
Senator Cornyn believes the Obamacare must be repealed and replaced. Texans deserve patient-centered reforms that lower costs and increase access – without bankrupting families and small businesses.
IMMIGRATION
http://www.johncornyn.com/issues/immigration/
While immigration reform begins at the border, it does not end there. Forty percent of those here illegally first arrived with a lawful visa but never left when it expired. Senator Cornyn believes a biometric entry-exit system should be implemented, and Texas employers must have a rock-solid way of verifying the status of workers they hire. He believes we must expand the number of visas we provide to include both those with advanced degrees in STEM-related fields, as well those working in labor-intensive industries like construction. And finally Senator Cornyn believes we must find a compassionate solution to deal with the more than 11 million people living here illegally, while still respecting the rule of law.
ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT
Burdensome, one-size-fits-all regulations from Washington threaten to hamstring Texas job creators and could lead to increased energy prices for consumers across the state. Senator Cornyn has been leading the fight in Congress against the EPA’s unilateral inclusion of Texas in a massive air quality program without allowing for adequate time for review or input from the state. And when the Fish and Wildlife Service threatened the West Texas economic boom by listing the tiny sand dune lizard as endangered, Senator Cornyn partnered with local and state officials to block the listing, potentially saving thousands of jobs. Senator Cornyn is also a leading supporter of the Keystone pipeline, which would carry crude to Texas’s Gulf Coast refineries and create tens of thousands of jobs in our state in the process.
Dr.David Alameel (D ) Challenger- Dentist
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
IMMIGRATION
David Alameel supports the DREAM Act and comprehensive immigration reform that is both humane and respectful of our laws.
We can’t let a problem become a tragedy, especially for the hundreds of thousands of children born or raised in America who live in a twilight zone of uncertainty for themselves and their families.
We need to create:
- A faster track toward a program of lawful work permits.
- A responsible roadmap to citizenship for law abiding and hardworking people who have no criminal record and are only asking for a fair opportunity.
WOMEN’S RIGHTS
David Alameel believes in a woman’s right to choose and that politicians or the government should not interfere in these deeply personal decisions that should be made by a woman, with her family, her doctor and her God.
That is why Dr. Alameel will always fight to protect Roe v. Wade, which the Supreme Court set as the law of the land decades ago, from Washington politicians who are seeking to undermine the basic rights and freedoms of millions of Texas women.
Furthermore, in the United States Senate, Dr. Alameel will demand equal pay for equal work between men and women. In the 21st Century, there is no excuse for discrimination in the workplace or for U.S. Senators like John Cornyn who voted against the commonsense Lilly Ledbetter Act. David Alameel would be a proud vote in favor of this important legislation.”
JOBS AND ECONOMY
The super-rich and mega-corporations have rigged the system in their favor. They are pulling the strings of puppet politicians like John Cornyn and other Washington Republicans in favor of Wall Street – not hardworking Texas families.
We need to stop sending politicians to Washington who care more about the bottom line of CEOs on Wall Street than working families in Texas.
As Senator, David Alameel will advocate for:
- Forcing big corporations and Wall Street executives to pay their fair share in taxes.
- Creating good paying jobs in Texas that can’t be shipped overseas.
- Taking big banks to court when they ruin our economy, not giving them another bailout.
- Ending tax breaks for corporations that ship American jobs to places like China and India
- Raising the minimum wage so families can work with dignity, put food on the table and keep a roof over their heads.
- Extending unemployment insurance benefits to the long-term unemployed
- Ensuring tough enforcement of equal pay laws which helps all of our families
U.S. CONGRESS
District 1:
Louie Gohmert (R ) Incumbent
Serving his fifth term in the United States House of Representatives, Congressman Louie Gohmert was first sworn in January 4, 2005
During these trying economic times, Rep. Gohmert is developing innovative solutions to jumpstart our economy and offering practical alternatives to the government’s bailout frenzy. His “Federal Income Tax Holiday” gained widespread national support from the grassroots level to national leaders, allowing taxpayers to decide how best to spend their hard-earned money
Louie serves on numerous House committees and subcommittees. He was recently named Vice Chair of the Judiciary subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism and Homeland Security due to his extensive knowledge stemming from years in the court room.
He is also a veteran having served his country as Captain in the U.S. Army.
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Louie_Gohmert.htm **
Shirley McKellar (D) Challengerhttp://www.votemckellar.com/
http://www.votemckellar.com/keyissuesm.html
District 2:
Ted Poe (R) Incumbent
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Ted_Poe.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
ENERGY
I support an all-of-the above (not a none-from-below) energy policy that includes feasible alternative energies. The U.S. must take advantage of its own natural resources instead of relying on unstable Middle Eastern dictators.
I strongly support approving the permit for the Keystone XL Pipeline, which would bring approximately 750,000 barrels of oil from our stable neighbor and ally, Canada, right into southeast Texas. That’s almost as much oil as we import from Saudi Arabia. The Keystone Pipeline is estimated to create at least 20,000 immediate union and non-union jobs, which is needed in the Gulf area still hurting from the continuing “permitorium.”
HEALTHCARE
I opposed the government takeover of healthcare bill because it was unconstitutional, and I voted for its repeal last year. I believe our current healthcare system needs reform, but I do not support the “reform” that was passed. I believe in the doctor/patient relationship and that a patient must retain a choice in determining his/her doctor.
I voted against Obamacare and have voted repeatedly for its repeal.
IMMIGRATION
I support immigration – legal immigration. This country was built by immigrants, and our culture is rich with the contributions of many diverse backgrounds. The current immigration system is broken. There are millions living in the U.S. in the shadows. We don’t know who they are. That is very concerning. Those that want to come to the U.S. must have a reformed, streamlined system for them to proceed legally. I believe that many of those who come to the U.S. do not come here to get a free check from the U.S. or to stand behind their neighbors on an unemployment line. We must reform our broken immigration system to allow those who come here and contribute to our society to be able to do so within clear legal parameters that does not include a form of amnesty
FOREIGN AFFAIRS
I believe we must rethink the way that we provide foreign aid to countries. We currently provide aid to 157 countries, many of which hate the U.S. We don’t need to pay them to hate us; they’ll do it for free. Congress currently votes on foreign aid in one package – with an up or down vote on all 157 countries combined. I’ve introduced legislation to change this process and to require an up or down vote on each country. I think this would drastically change the amount of aid we provide. However, I do strongly support economic and military assistance to Israel and other allies, and I oppose any Middle East peace plan that weakens the security of Israel. Having had the opportunity to visit Israel personally, I understand the importance of a free and safe state of Israel. I also support foreign aid to our allies, who support us in the United Nations and other forums, in order to promote U.S. interests abroad, the U.S.’s overall security and our economic base for increased exports that lead to more jobs at home.
District 3:
Sam Johnson (R )Incumbent
http://www.ontheissues.org/tx/Sam_Johnson.htm **
Sam Johnson served his country for 29 years, as an Air Force fighter pilot and veteran of the Korean and Vietnam Wars.
In 1966, his F-4 was shot down over Vietnam. He spent almost seven years as a prisoner of war … nearly half of that in solitary confinement. During this period he was repeatedly tortured.
Highly decorated for his service to our country, Sam also served as the director of the Air Force Fighter Weapons School (“Top Gun”). He also flew with the Air Force Thunderbirds precision flying team
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
IMMIGRATION
“If you are here legally, you ought to be rewarded. If you are here illegally, you ought to be deported.” Congressman Sam Johnson
Immigration is one of the most serious issues facing Texas, and yet, unfortunately, the extremes on either side of this issue in Congress are using it as a pawn for political gain. Everyday Congress fails to act on immigration, our nation suffers: our porous borders issue a direct invitation to terrorists seeking to take American lives.
I believe being an American is a privilege, not a right. If you get in line and wait your turn to become a citizen, I say great. I’ve attended American citizenship ceremonies, and they’re some of my most rewarding memories from my time in service. However, I have zero tolerance for those who break the rules and demand special treatment.
I support an “enforcement first” approach. I am strongly opposed to both illegal immigration and a repeat of the 1986 amnesty.
ENERGY
Instead of Washington telling people and businesses what to do, I say let’s promote American energy to create American jobs that will spur the American economy.
It is important that the U.S. maintains an “all of the above” energy plan with the ultimate goal of energy independence. Our policy should support increased energy production right here at home from a variety of sources that will reduce our reliance on foreign sources.
I believe we can do this by investing in American energy that is both efficient and environmentally sound by making a commitment to groundbreaking research and advancing alternative and renewable energy technologies. With the U.S. importing over half of our oil needs, America simply must produce more of our own energy.
I have cosponsored a number of common-sense pieces of legislation that would address these issues and put our country on a path towards energy independence and scale back bureaucratic blockades to domestic production.
HEALTHCARE
The newly introduced Affordable Health Care for America Act, H.R. 3962, costs nearly $1 trillion and represents three months of intense secret negotiations among House Democrats. The 2,000 page bill hurts seniors with sweeping cuts to Medicare, forces Americans to buy health insurance, taxes all Americans who do not purchase “government approved” health coverage, limits personal choices and individual decisions, and jeopardizes the health insurance Americans already have – and often times like.
District 4:
***Ralph Hall (R ) Incumbent Faces a runoff with John Ratcliffe (R) on May 27,2014
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Ralph_Moody_Hall.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
ENERGY
http://ralphhall.house.gov/exposing-epas-flawed-science-and-jobkilling-regulations
This Administration, utilizing the EPA, has circumvented scientific integrity, openness, and transparency in an attempt to justify proposed job-killing regulations. The EPA regularly fails to analyze and communicate scientific uncertainties, refuses to make key scientific data publicly available, inflates health benefits while understating actual economic costs, and short-changes the peer review process.
HEALTHCARE
http://ralphhall.house.gov/health-care/
As Chairman of the Sub Committee on Health Care, Congressman Hall has voted nearly 50 times to end this intrusive, job killing entitlement program and is helping lead the effort to ensure that Obamacare is repealed and replaced with sensible legislation that keeps decisions regarding personal healthcare needs in control of patients and their Doctors, not the federal government. By simply allowing patients to take their health insurance with them wherever they go we can drive down costs and dramatically reduce the number of people who are uninsured in America.
IMMIGRATION
http://ralphhall.house.gov/immigration/
We must first enforce border security to stop the flow of undocumented immigrants into the United States. If we don’t, our school systems, health care delivery systems, and national security will continue to be compromised. Our law enforcement officers on the border face many challenges to protect national security and properly enforce the law. We need to look at solutions that will allow them to work more efficiently and effectively, such as increased border patrol and technology along our borders.
I have continuously pressed for enforcement of our current immigration laws and have consistently supported legislation aimed at reducing undocumented immigration, strengthening our borders, holding individuals who employ undocumented immigrants accountable for breaking the law, and reducing the incentives that attract undocumented immigrants to the United States.
GOP CHALLENGER John Ratcliffe
http://ratcliffeforcongress.com/on-the-issues/#content
HEALTHCARE
From the second President Obama forced through a 2,300 page law that no one read, Obamacare has proved to be government at its worst – intrusive, expensive and ineffective. John will fight to repeal this disastrous piece of legislation and put patients back in control of their own healthcare.
ENERGY
Energy Independence
It’s time for an all-of-the-above energy policy which embraces our domestic resources, peels back the overreach of the EPA and approves the Keystone XL pipeline.
IMMIGRATION
As U.S. Attorney, John arrested over 300 illegal immigrants on a single day. As a former terrorism prosecutor, he knows the threats an unsecured border can bring to our national security. In Congress, he’ll fight to lock down our borders and will continue to oppose amnesty for illegal immigrants.
District 5:
Jeb Hensarling(R ) Incumbent
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Jeb_Hensarling.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
http://www.jebhensarling.com/issues
JOBS AND ECONOMY AND REGULATION
The economic growth that our country needs originates from the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of the American people. House Republicans have passed more than 40 bills aimed at empowering small business owners, reducing regulatory burdens, fixing the tax code, increasing competitiveness for American manufacturers, encouraging entrepreneurship and growth, maximizing domestic energy production, and paying down America’s unsustainable debt burden.
Government Regulation Gone Wild
Today there are more federal regulations on the books than any other time in our nation’s history. Something is wrong when Congress is forced to stop the EPA from issuing rules regulating the dust on farms. House Republicans continue their efforts to provide relief from this record government intrusion with legislation such as H.R. 367 – The Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act of 2013 – a bill that would increase accountability for and transparency in the federal regulatory process by requiring Congress to approve all new major regulations.
HEALTHCARE
The Supreme Court’s disappointing and regrettable decision to uphold Obamacare does not change the fact that this law increases health care costs, cuts more than $500 billion from Medicare, forces people who like their current private insurance into exchanges, threatens quality of care, and assaults religious freedom while also making it harder for small businesses to create jobs.
House Republicans have continued their efforts to dismantle and repeal this bill through hearings and votes to:
- Repeal the long-term care provision of Obamacare after the President’s own Secretary of Health and Human Services called its framework “totally unsustainable.”
- Stop the job-killing medical device tax.
- Do away with the panel of 15 unelected, unaccountable government bureaucrats the plan puts between patients and their doctors to control Medicare costs through rationing.
ENERGY
Jeb has worked with the House Conference to pass such bills as the Domestic Energy and Jobs Act to expand our nation’s energy supply and stop the job-crushing regulations that hinder our nation’s economic growth.
District 6:
Joe Barton (R ) Incumbent
http://www.ontheissues.org/tx/joe_linus_barton.htm **
http://joebarton.com/priorities/
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
JOBS AND ECONOMY
It is time to put Americans back to work. The best thing Washington can do is get out of the way so our nation can do what it does best: create, innovate, and lead. I have joined my colleagues to support the Plan for America’s Job Creators. It is a pro-growth agenda that doesn’t raise taxes on working families or small business owners. Some highlights include:
- Empowering small business owners
- Reducing regulatory burdens
- Fixing the tax code to help job creators
- Increasing competitiveness for American manufacturers
- Encouraging entrepreneurship and growth
- Maximizing domestic energy production to ensure an energy policy for the 21st century, including an “All of the Above” approach that combines traditional and alternative sources to keep power affordable and reliable
- Paying down America’s unsustainable debt burden and start living within our means
HEALTHCARE
The battle to repeal and replace ObamaCare isn’t easy, but it is a fight we will eventually win. This trillion dollar job-killing, care-rationing, tax-raising law is proving itself to be unsustainable, unaffordable, undesirable and I believe, unconstitutional.
I continue to work to make sure we replace ObamaCare with common sense, market-based reforms that will actually lower costs for small businesses, expand access to affordable care, and protect jobs.
I think the current law over-reaches and expands the role of the federal government into places it doesn’t belong. Medical decisions should be made by a doctor and patient, not a Washington bureaucrat.
David Cozad (D) Challenger
https://secure.actblue.com/contribute/page/texasus6
District 7:
John Culberson (R) Incumbent
http://www.culbersonforcongress.com/
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/John_Culberson.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
ECNOMIC GROWTH, ENERGY AND REGULATIONS
https://culberson.house.gov/issues/issue/?IssueID=109035
Low taxes, smart and limited regulations, and robust American energy production are the key to economic growth. The Obama Administration has overseen the four lowest years of federal acres leased for energy production since 1988 and energy producers on federal lands have to wait on average 30 percent longer for drilling permit approval than applicants applying for state permits. One of the most important things that the government can do is approve the Keystone XL Energy Pipeline. Keystone XL will create over 20,000 jobs while battling the high price of gas.The Keystone pipeline had been planned for years, is supported by Republicans, Democrats, and labor unions, but President Obama blocked it.
HEALTHCARE
I am fully committed to repealing and replacing the Affordable Care Act. House conservatives have tackled Obamacare on all fronts and share the same end goal: full repeal.
James Cargas (D ) Challenger http://www.jamescargas.com/
http://www.jamescargas.com/issues
District 8:
Kevin Brady (R )Incumbent
http://www.bradyforcongress.com/
http://www.ontheissues.org/Tx/Kevin_Brady.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
HEALTHCARE
http://kevinbrady.house.gov/obamacare/
ObamaCare. It’s unaffordable, unworkable, unfair, and unpopular. And as someone recently reminded me, it’s also unwanted.
Despite remaining deeply unpopular with the American people and despite the constant delays, the White House is absolutely determined to force the President’s signature health care law upon the American people.
Republicans in Washington are equally determined to do everything we can to protect the American people from this travesty of a law.
We have been fighting for years to defund and repeal ObamaCare and have been successful seven times in getting the President to sign legislation that repeals a part of ObamaCare. But we won’t stop until the entire law is just a bad memory.
IMMIGRATION
http://kevinbrady.house.gov/kevin-brady-in-the-news/whos-leading-immigration-reform-in-the-house/
On this issue, because there are so many diverse opinions, it works to our advantage to have different people bringing ideas forward–from security issues to workforce laws to legal status, all that,” said Rep. Kevin Brady, R-Texas.
Brady, one of the Republicans who wants legalization for undocumented immigrants to be tied to improvement in border security, added: “It may be counterintuitive, but I believe the more people on the Republican side we have engaged in this, the better our chances of finding and passing a solution this year.”
ENERGY
http://kevinbrady.house.gov/energy-environment/
More American-made Energy — Not More Games, Solyndras or taxpayer subsidized cars
America needs to find more sources of energy and use less of it.
Unfortunately, Congress has focused too often on gimmicks aimed at scoring political points instead of real solutions. Suing OPEC, mandating longer lasting light bulbs, windfall profits taxes and punishing American companies for producing energy and jobs here at home not only doesn’t work, energy costs go up on working families and small businesses. Instead of preventing companies from leasing new federal lands, perpetuating moratoriums that have forced 11 rigs to leave the Gulf of Mexico and stopping coastal states from sharing in revenue generated from off-shore oil exploration, we should be embracing an ‘All of the Above’ energy strategy for America.
Traditional forms of energy. We need to unlock the vast resources of America’s deep oceans, the U.S. arctic reserve and oil shale of the Midwest and Rocky Mountains. By exploring more, we could displace all the oil we currently import from unstable and unfriendly nations.
District 9:
Al Green (D)Incumbent
http://www.ontheissues.org/Tx/Al_Green.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
IMMIGRATION
Voted NO on building a fence along the Mexican border.
ENERGY
Rep. Al Green was one of 19 Democrats who voted for the Keystone XL Pipeline with no limiting amendments
District 10:
Michael McCaul (R) Incumbent
http://www.ontheissues.org/Tx/Michael_McCaul.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
HEALTHCARE
http://www.michaelmccaul.com/issues/health-care
I will fight to repeal and replace this government takeover of 1/6 of our economy and the coverage mandates that I believe are unconstitutional. Every American should have access to quality care that is more affordable and accessible regardless of pre-existing conditions. This can be done largely by allowing Americans without employer-sponsored care to buy their own plan on the same tax-advantaged system employers enjoy, by pooling businesses and groups to lower costs, and without new taxes that kill jobs. H.R. 3218, which I co-sponsored, is among the Republican alternative plans that would help to achieve this goal.
ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT
http://www.michaelmccaul.com/issues/energy-environment
My votes and work to support Alternative Energy and the Environment have included:
- Major supporter of research and development for clean energy technologies, plug in hybrid vehicles, nuclear power, solar power, bio-fuels and clean coal technologies.
- Voted to Expand America’s oil refining capacity to lessen our dependence on Middle Eastern oil.
- Supported creating thousands of new American jobs by allowing oil exploration in the deep seas.
- Helped give states more power to protect their coastlines.
- Supported environmentally-safe energy production in Alaska which will create at least one million jobs and increase the supply of American made gasoline.
- Voted to speed up the permit process to bring new oil refineries on line and drive down gas prices.
Tawana Cadien (D )Challenger http://www.tawanacadienforcongress.com/
HEALTHCARE
The assurance of a fair and balanced system in regards to health care is also an important factor for the constituents of District 10. Many of you have either seen or heard disturbing news reports in regards to women’s health and the possibility of coverage for women’s preventive health screenings being dissolved. These possible changes will not only be devastating to District 10, but to the nation as a whole. As an RN Educator and public speaker on breast, testicular, and prostate cancer, I know the importance of preventive health screenings. Preventive health care screenings do help to save lives. Anyone still living with a late cancer diagnosis is sure to echo me in saying that preventive health screenings are vital. I recently spoke to one of my high school classmates that shared with me her experience with being diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of thirty. A male classmate of mine was also diagnosed with testicular cancer at the age of thirty. Both of these individuals shared in great detail the anguish of knowing that they quite possibly could not have been here to share in the nurturing of their children if they had not been screened and diagnosed in the early stages of the disease. The aftermath of a late diagnosis does have a ripple effect that impacts children, families, and communities. Decisions made in regards to the health of women and men alike must be made with a heart for people and not policy.
District 11:
Mike Conaway (R ) Incumbent
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Mike_Conaway.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
HEALTHCARE
Voted to repeal Affordable Care Act (Obamacare)
DEFENSE AND MILITARY
While the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are winding down, we cannot abandon our commitment to a robust national defense. We cannot hollow out our armed forces like we did in the 1990s, which left us unprepared for the wars of the 2000s.
War is unforeseeable, so we must always remain prepared. Throughout our history, the threats to our freedoms have changed, but the need for a strong military has not. Today, in a dangerous world filled with threatening nations like Iran and North Korea and terrorist groups like Al-Qaeda and their affiliates in Africa and Asia, a strong military will keep us safe and deter those who would do us harm.
In the 11th congressional district of Texas, we are also proud of our men and women at Goodfellow Air Force Base, home to the 17th Training Wing. The men and women of Goodfellow are dedicated professionals and valued members of Concho Valley and the San Angelo community. Their jobs are crucial to the continued success of our military, and we support them.
JOBS , ENERGY, REGULATIONS
Energy production does not need to come at the expense of environmental safeguards. All Americans, no matter what their political stripe, should strive to be good stewards of the Earth and the bounty we have been given. No one wants to breathe dirty air or drink filthy water, but we must balance the benefits of environmental standards with the cost to implement them.
Alongside traditional fuels, renewable technologies like wind, solar, geothermal, and others are rapidly advancing here in Texas. These energy sources currently produce a small fraction of our total energy needs, but in time as they become cost competitive with fossil fuels, they will represent an important part of our energy portfolio.
Voted to prohibit job killing EPA regulations .Supports domestic energy drilling
IMMIGRATION
Border security and enforcing the law must be starting points for any discussion about immigration reform. We cannot make lasting reforms without first ensuring that every immigrant enters our country lawfully.As we secure the border, we must also design a new set of policies to drive our immigration laws.
Finally, as we consider what to do with the 11 million immigrants who are already here, amnesty cannot be an option. Each year, millions of people from around the world apply to immigrate to the United States in hopes of making a better life for themselves and their family. They all follow the rules, and almost all of them are turned away or have been waiting for years for approval.
Allowing the illegal immigrants to step in front of these lawful applicants is not only unfair to those who have been waiting but rewards illegal behavior. Current illegal immigrants must face penalties for their actions and wait at the back of the line – back behind everyone else who followed the rules. If they have committed other illegal acts other than being in the country without documentation, they should not be allowed to get in the line at all.
District 12:
Kay Granger (R ) Incumbent
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Kay_Granger.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
http://www.kaygranger.com/news-events/issues/
IMMIGRATION
I understand the importance of securing our border and believe it is our responsibility to ensure the Department of Homeland Security has the resources it needs to protect our border. Border security is not only critical for homeland security, but it’s also necessary for continued economic growth. It is important to make sure our border policies enable the legal transportation of goods as it is that they stop the illegal transportation of products and people. I believe the outcome of the immigration reform debate will have a tremendous impact on the district, Texas and our entire country.
ENERGY
Our nation currently depends on foreign countries to supply over half of the oil we consume, which allows our economic competitors to dictate the price of energy in our country and weakens our national and economic security. To achieve energy independence, we must work to develop viable forms of renewable energy while also expanding conventional energy sources here at home. By developing a diverse domestic energy portfolio in this way, we can create jobs, grow our economy, and decrease our reliance on foreign oil.
Keystone XL Pipeline
I am a strong supporter of the Keystone XL pipeline which gives us the ability to transport 830,000 barrels of oil per day from Canada through Texas to the Gulf Coast. This project would create over 42,000 manufacturing and construction jobs along the pipeline corridor. Building the pipeline would help decrease our reliance on Middle East oil and create thousands of new American jobs.
HEALTHCARE
I was deeply disappointed that President Obama’s Affordable Care Act failed to do enough to address the rising cost of health care in America. The way to improve access and the affordability of health care is not through burdensome mandates on states, employers, and individuals.
I have been a strong and consistent supporter of community health centers. Studies show these centers – which treat the insured and uninsured as well as Medicare and Medicaid patients – are a shining example of cost-effective health care.
Mark Greene (D ) Challenger http://markgreeneforcongress.org/
http://markgreeneforcongress.org/issues/
District 13:
Mac Thornberry (R ) Incumbent
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Mac_Thornberry.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
REGULATORY OVERLOAD
http://www.macthornberry.com/regulatory-overload/
Today there are more federal regulations on the books than any other time in our nation’s history. This blizzard of regulations, in many cases, is the Administration’s way of bypassing Congress and imposing its will through the back door. Mac is a strong advocate for simplifying, streamlining, and opening up the regulatory process to prevent or reduce overreach by the federal government.
Whether it is Obamacare, the EPA’s Farm Dust rule, Dodd-Frank financial regulations, or Endangered Species listings, these rules are driving up costs for consumers and businesses, while also driving down economic growth and our country’s competitiveness.
Mac has actively fought a long list of overly-intrusive regulations. He has co-sponsored a number of regulatory reform bills, and he has voted for those and other measures aimed at reining in regulation and forcing agencies to consider the cost on our businesses.
HEALTHCARE
http://www.macthornberry.com/obamacare-and-health-care-reform/
Mac believes Congress should fully repeal and defund Obamacare because it is already driving up premiums, forcing employers to stop offering health care, and causing Americans to lose the care they already have. He voted against the original bill when it was forced through the House and has voted to support all efforts to repeal, dismantle, and defund any and all parts of the law.
Replacing Obamacare with commonsense reforms that make health care more affordable and accessible to all Americans is something Mac advocates. He also supports efforts to ensure that health care decisions are made by the doctor and patient, not by a bureaucrat in Washington.
Mike Minter (D ) Challenger
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mike-Minter/397454177053276
District 14:
Randy Weber (R ) Incumbent
http://www.randyweber.org/issues/ **
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Randy_Weber.htm
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
ECONOMY AND REGULATIONS
Rolling Back Regulation Federal regulation is killing the economic engine that keeps our great nation running. Misguided bureaucrats are creating new regulations that will kill small business and stifle job creation. We must stop new regulations and begin a systematic review of existing regulations. – See more at: http://www.randyweber.org/issues/#sthash.g065tSUy.dpuf
HEALTHCARE
Repealing Obamacare Obamacare is bad law, passed through a flawed process, and it will have a lasting negative impact on our nation. We must repeal it immediately and replace it with sensible, patient-centered health-care reforms. – See more at: http://www.randyweber.org/issues/#sthash.g065tSUy.dpuf
Don Brown (D ) Challenger
District 15:
Ruben Hinohosa (D) Incumbent
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Ruben_Hinojosa.htm **
http://www.rubenhinojosa.com/issues.php
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
IMMIGRATION
http://hinojosa.house.gov/issue/immigration
- Family Reunification – The current statutory ceilings for family and employment-based immigrant visas are no longer adequate and have resulted in unacceptable immigration backlogs. The fact that the sibling of a United States citizen born in the Philippines must wait twenty-two years to adjust status is just one example of our unfair immigration policy.
- Earned Access to Legal Residency – An earned legalization program would adjust the status of the many hard-working, law-abiding, and tax-paying immigrants, as well as students educated here, who have resided in the United States for many years.
- Border Safety and Protection – Our immigration system must provide safety, security and stability at our borders. Border patrol agents must have the necessary resources to enforce the law and ensure safety and due process protections at our borders.
- Enhanced Temporary Worker Program – An enhanced temporary worker program should provide an appropriate mechanism for workers who wish to move between their home country and the U.S. to benefit from new economic opportunities and serve as a way for recent arrivals to the U.S. to earn permanent status
- Civil Liberties – The civil liberties and constitutional rights of immigrants and visitors must be respected.
HEALTHCARE
http://hinojosa.house.gov/issue/health-care
He supported the Affordable Health Care Act that builds on what works in today’s health care system and fixes the parts that are broken. It protects current coverage – allowing individuals to keep the insurance they have if they like it – and preserves choice of doctors, hospitals, and health plans.
As a result, two dozen community health centers in the 15th District are now receiving millions of dollars in new funding that will allow them to treat thousands of new patients.
Over a quarter of a million South Texans are now seeing improvements in their current health care coverage. Close to 30,000 South Texans with pre-existing conditions are able to obtain health coverage. Nearly 11,000 small businesses in South Texas are receiving tax credits to help make health insurance more affordable for their employees. Close to 200,000 South Texas families are now receiving tax credits to help make health insurance more affordable to them.
ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT
http://hinojosa.house.gov/issue/environment-energy
Congressman Hinojosa opposes efforts to weaken the progress we have made under the Clean Air and Clean Water Acts. Recently, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been pursuing regulatory changes to the New Source Review (NSR) program of the Clean Air Act that could result in more emissions from new and existing pollution sources. Additionally, the Administration’s restructuring of the Superfund program undermines the principle that the polluter should pay for cleanup. Regulatory changes have also been proposed to weaken the Clean Water Act. Yet more than 40 percent of our nation’s lakes, river, and streams are unfit for swimming.
Our country needs to find new sources of energy and to invest in renewable energy projects. We cannot replace the over ten million barrels of oil we import every day only by increasing drilling in this country or in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico, although Congressman Hinojosa continues to support increased domestic production.
Rep. Hinojosa voted for the KeystoneXL Pipeline without limiting amendments.
Eddie Zamora (R ) Challengerhttp://www.eddiezamoraforcongress.com/
http://www.eddiezamoraforcongress.com/issues.html
District 16:
Beto O’Rourke (D) Incumbent
https://www.betoforcongress.com/
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Beto_O%60Rourke.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
http://orourke.house.gov/issues
ENVIRONMENT
Opposes domestic drilling in the Arctic. Major concern Climate Change.
http://www.scribd.com/doc/189321789/Letter-to-Secretary-Jewell-Re-Arctic-Drilling
HEALTHCARE
Supports Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) and opposed repeal.
District 17:
Bill Flores (R ) Incumbent
http://www.billfloresforcongress.com/
http://flores.house.gov/#dialog
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Bill_Flores.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
IRS ABUSE
The IRS has been inappropriately targeting conservatives groups. We must get to the bottom of this scandal to reassure the American public that the IRS and other federal agencies will not scrutinize individuals and groups for political or ideological reasons.
HEALTHCARE
http://flores.house.gov/health-care/
The House budget plan will give our children and grandchildren a debt-free nation so they have the same opportunities to achieve the American Dream that our generation had. Over the next decade alone, our plan will cut $6.2 trillion in overall government spending and $4.4 trillion in deficit spending compared to the President’s budget. It will bring government down to below 20 percent of GDP by 2015 and put us on a path to begin to pay off our national debt. In addition, our plan will repeal and defund Obamacare, which would do away with $800 billion in tax increases and will prevent the $1.5 trillion tax increase the President called for in his budget plan.
IMMIGRATION
http://flores.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=91
The inability of the federal government to succeed in real immigration reform has come at a high cost to our security, our economy and the livelihoods of American citizens. I strongly oppose illegal immigration and do not believe we should give amnesty or any other reward to those who have broken our nation’s immigration laws because doing so simply encourages continued lawbreaking and greater illegal immigration in the future.
ENERGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT
http://flores.house.gov/index.cfm?sectionid=12
It is not too late to change our path, which is why I introduced two bills to increase domestic energy production in order to protect and create American jobs and increase energy security. H.R. 993, the Lease Extension and Secure Energy (LEASE) Act, would extend oil and gas exploration leases in the Gulf of Mexico that were impacted by the U.S. Department of Interior’s drilling moratorium for an additional 12 months. H.R. 1115, the Expedited Offshore Permitting Act, would establish more stringent deadlines and other requirements for the issuance of drilling permits in the Gulf. It is time we put the American workers and companies back to work in the Gulf of Mexico and restore stability and certainty by unlocking access and tapping into the vast amounts of taxpayer-owned resources that currently sit idle.
Nick Haynes (D ) Challenger https://www.facebook.com/nickhaynesforcongress
District 18:
Sheila Jackson Lee (D ) Incumbent
http://www.sheilajacksonlee18.com/
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Sheila_Jackson_Lee.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
ENERGY
http://jacksonlee.house.gov/issues/energy
For the past 12 years, Congresswoman Jackson Lee has served as Chair of the Energy Braintrust of the Congressional Black Caucus. Congresswoman Jackson Lee has consistently called for the development of pragmatic, environmentally conscious, and economically efficient strategies for addressing and resolving our national energy crisis. We have many more miles to go before we achieve energy independence. Congresswoman Jackson Lee is willing, able, and eager to continue working with Houston’s and our nation’s energy industry to ensure that we are moving expeditiously on the path to crafting an environmentally sound and economically viable energy policy. Furthermore, she believes that it is imperative that we involve small, minority and women owned, and independent energy companies in this process, because they represent some of the hard working Americans and Houstonians who are on the forefront of energy efficient strategies to achieving energy independence.
IMMIGRATION
http://jacksonlee.house.gov/issues/immigration
While a strong supporter of securing our borders, she considers essential the need for bringing close to 12 million illegal immigrants out of the shadows of society through earned access to legalization. She also believes that unity of families is an essential American value and should be one of the fundamentals of immigration reform, along with increasing the diversity of immigration from parts of the world that have been historically underrepresented such as the Caribbean, Africa or treated unequally such as Haiti. Congresswoman Jackson Lee has introduced a comprehensive Immigration reform bill, “The Save America Comprehensive Reform Act,” H.R. 750, which incorporates these principles.
Sean Seibert (R ) Challenger http://seanseibert.com/
District 19:
Randy Neugebauer (R ) Incumbent
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Randy_Neugebauer.htm **
http://www.randyforcongress.com/issues/
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
HEALTHCARE
• Stop Obamacare
Congressman Neugebauer’s first priority is to stop Obamacare. Obamacare is a disaster. People are losing their coverage and their doctors; and families are paying more for health care, not less. Obamacare is also a job-killer. Obamacare has stopped small and large businesses from hiring, and many are laying employees off or moving them to part-time. Congressman Neugebauer will continue the fight to stop the implementation of Obamacare and repeal it in Congress.
IMMIGRATION
http://randy.house.gov/issue/immigration
Our immigration policy must not penalize immigrants who have followed the rules by allowing others to “cut in line.”
I understand that some industries, including agriculture, rely on migrant workers. I believe a temporary guest worker program must include a viable worker identification system that allows employers to easily verify a worker’s immigration status. Guest worker programs should only be used when Americans cannot be found to fill a job and must be efficient for employers and workers in order to increase compliance.
ENERGY
http://randy.house.gov/issue/energy
It is important that we pursue new opportunities in places like Alaska, the Outer Continental Shelf, and on public and private lands across the country. With the new technologies that have been developed over the last few years, America has a chance to be energy self-sufficient if we decide to let industries continue to innovate and produce. If done correctly, we can pursue these objectives while also protecting the environment.
The Keystone XL Pipeline is a great example. If approved, the pipeline will allow the U.S. to import 4 million barrels of oil from Canada per day by 2020 – twice what is currently imported from the Persian Gulf. It would create thousands of jobs and can be done in an environmentally friendly way. In fact, three reports from the Administration have shown that the environmental risks associated with the Keystone XL Pipeline are acceptable.
FEB.5,2014 WASHINGTON, DC—Congressman Randy Neugebauer (R-TX) questioned a panel of Texan energy, environmental, and farming experts today at a Science, Space, and Technology Committee hearing on EPA overregulation of Texas. You can view the exchange here.
“Under the current Administration, the EPA is overstepping its authority and using a “one-size-fits-all” approach to environmental regulation. And Texas seems to be the EPA’s favorite target. “
Neal Marchbanks (D ) Challenger http://marchbanksforcongress.com/
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
IMMIGRATION
Undocumented Citizens Are Humans with Rights
Immigration is a vast and complex topic. First, I firmly believe that we need to create a path to citizenship for persons who have are already living within our borders. Second, I am strongly opposed to legislation that allows federal and local officers to racially profile people in order to “check” their immigration status. Third, it is imperative that we impose and enforce fines against United States employers who hire undocumented citizens.
We are a country that prides ourselves on life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness and by allowing employers to hire undocumented citizens for little to no pay we are placing a wedge between humans and their inalienable rights.
Finally, as I have said several times, I plan to reach across the aisle. I hope that immigration can be an issue in which I can compromise with republicans. While many of my stances on immigration may stand in opposition to most republicans, I hope to barter with increased physical border security. It is important that while we give a legal path to citizenship that we also ensure less people travel here illegally in hopes of being hired by employers hiring undocumented citizens. Overall, the system under which undocumented citizens are given legal status is frightfully complicated.
In essence, the current system is based on “family reunification,” a system which must be curtailed. We need to increase the quota for people desiring immigration who are not related to citizens or legal residents of the United States. As your representative, I will make progress for undocumented citizens and immigration as a whole.
VOTER I-D LAWS
Voter ID Laws Are Voter Suppression
The right to vote, as protected by the 15th and 19th Amendment to the US Constitution, has recently come under fire from the Republican controlled legislature of Texas. In 2011, the Texas legislature passed a bill requiring all voters to provide an ID when voting at the polls effectively disenfranchising a multitude of poor, female, and minority voters.
A recent study by the University of Massachusetts Boston confirms the fears of many by concluding voter ID laws mean to suppress minority voting. Professors Keith Bentele and Erin O’Brien find that voter ID laws have “an uncomfortable relationship to the political activism of blacks and the poor” by “collectively reducing electoral access among the socially marginalized.”
With only 18 cases of voter fraud in Texas since 2002, the voter ID law represents a massive failure of governance on the part of Texas Republicans under the guise of creating fair elections.
Personally, I believe a role of the government is to provide equal opportunities among all people groups to voice their opinion as to should represent them regardless of their race, gender, or social status. I want to fight against voter suppression because I believe voting is a fundamental right and a key component to a functioning democracy.
District 20:
Joaquin Castro (D ) Incumbent
http://www.castroforcongress.com/
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Joaquin_Castro.htm**
HOT BUTTON ISSUE
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Joaquin_Castro.htm
HEALTHCARE
Opposes repeal of Obamacare
No issue stance yet recorded by OnTheIssues.org.
District 21:
Lamar Smith (R ) Incumbent
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Lamar_Smith.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
IMMIGRATION
January 29, 2014
“The President’s immigration policies are anti-American since they help non-citizens and hurt U.S. citizens. The President wants to give work permits to millions of illegal immigrants who then will compete with Americans for scarce jobs. Ten million Americans are unemployed and millions more have given up looking for work – we should put them first.”
ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT
Like many Americans, I am concerned about the environment. The Earth has undergone tremendous change in the past and is experiencing similar change now. Climate change has the potential to impact agriculture, ecosystems, sea levels, weather patterns, and human health.
EPA
Smith to Introduce Bill to Bar EPA from Basing Regulations on Secret Science
“The EPA, like every other governmental institution, answers to the American people. We need to know whether the agency is telling the truth to the American people. The EPA must either make the data public, or commit to no longer using secret science to support its regulations. I will introduce legislation in the next few weeks that will stop the EPA from basing regulations on undisclosed and unverified information.”
Congressman Smith: EPA Should Respect States Rights February 05, 2014
‘We should listen to voices from the states.’
House Science, Space, and Technology Committee Chairman Lamar Smith today (2/5/14) led a hearing on the impacts of regulations, policies and practices drawn up by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and their effects on state sovereignty. The hearing focused on Texas as a case study.
HEALTHCARE
Chairman Smith Questions President about Healthcare.gov Security
Science, Space and Technology Committee Chairman Lamar Smith sent a letter to President Obama requesting information about what his administration is doing to address the security risks and privacy concerns surrounding the Obamacare website, Healthcare.gov.
Voted to defund Obamacare
District 22:
Pete Olson (R ) Incumbent
http://www.olsonforcongress.com/
Following graduation from law school, Pete moved to Pensacola, FL to report for Aviation Officer Candidate School and began a highly decorated, nine-year career as a Naval Aviator.He has flown missions over the Persian Gulf to enforce the international sanctions levied upon Iraq after the first Gulf War, the Indian Ocean, the South China Sea, the Sea of Okhotsk, and across much of the Pacific. In 1994, Pete’s combat aircrew was named Pacific Fleet’s best in anti-submarine warfare.
His military awards include: Joint Service Commendation Medal,Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal,Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal ,Southwest Asia Service Medal,Joint Chiefs of Staff Badge
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Pete_Olson.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
http://www.olsonforcongress.com/issues
ENERGY
Leading an American Energy Revolution
If we don’t control the vast majority of our own energy supply, we don’t control our own future. Whether it is economic security or national security, creating reliable and dedicated sources of AMERICAN energy is truly a critical national priority.
Contrary to what many on the extreme left may say, America does indeed have vast sources of energy right here, under our own soil, that can help deliver affordable, clean, and stable energy for our families, businesses, and future generations – we just need the will and leadership to get this done.
URGES QUICK ACTION ON KEYSTONE PIPELINE FEB. 14,2014
http://olson.house.gov/latest-news/olson-urges-quick-action-on-keystone-xl1/
IMMIGRATION
Stopping Illegal Immigration
If you don’t know who is coming into your country, how can you know they don’t intend to do you harm?I believe in strengthening our borders with fences, increased surveillance, increased man power, detention facilities, and an increased commitment to FULLY enforce our laws – no excuses, no delays, and no second chances for those who break our laws. Amnesty is not an option.
Frank “Chip” Briscoe Jr. (D) Challenger
http://briscoeforcongress.com/
District 23:
Pete Gallego (D) Incumbent
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Pete_Gallego.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
HEALTHCARE
Opposes repeal or defunding of Obamacare
IMMIGRATION
Earned path to legalization, plus DREAM Act. (Nov 2012)
Opposes exiting US to apply for citizenship. (Sep 2012)
ENVIRONMENT
No issue stance yet recorded by OnTheIssues.org.
Two Republican challengers Will Hurd (R ) http://www.hurdforcongress.com/ and
Francisco “Quico” Canseco (R) Will face a runoff on May 27,2014
District 24:
Kenny Marchant (R ) Incumbent
Marchant 3rd Most Conservative Member of House
February 7, 2014
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Kenny_Marchant.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
HEALTHCARE
http://marchant.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=334333
“It seems like each day a new study or report is released that warns of the dangerous implications that come from Obamacare’s implementation. This law is hurting American job prospects, raising insurance premiums, increasing deficits and will reduce the quality of American healthcare. Therefore it is not surprising that several Senate Democrats have recently expressed their frustrations with this legislative ‘train wreck.’ Recently, even some Members of Congress have even considered measures to exempt themselves and their staffs.
“This approach is wrong, as all Americans should be exempt from this disastrous health care law. Today, in a bipartisan vote, the House passed legislation that does just that. This law must be repealed now so that we can get to work on reforms that lower costs, improve the quality of healthcare and protect jobs.”
IMMIGRATION
http://marchant.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=318475
Americans are a compassionate people but also live by the rule of law. If we provide a free-pass to those who break the law, it only encourages others to do the same. We cannot afford millions of more undocumented aliens coming into the U.S. and taking advantage of services at taxpayers’ expense.
The border must be secured now. We cannot rely on the promises of some in Washington to do it after they have accomplished other parts of their misguided immigration agenda. Ending illegal immigration is imperative for job growth and national security. I will not support any legislation that proposes outright amnesty.”
ENERGY
Voted for the Keystone Pipeline
HR 4348 – Extension of Surface Transportation Funding and Approval of the Keystone XL Pipeline – Key Vote
Patrick McGehearty (D) Challenger http://patrickforcongress.org/
District 25:
Roger Williams (R )Incumbent
http://rogerforcongress.com/issues
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Roger_Williams.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
FOREIGN AFFAIRS
http://williams.house.gov/issues/foreign-affairs
- Preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon;
- Standing firm with our ally Israel;
- Continuing to pursue and punish terrorists around the world.
ENERGY
http://rogerforcongress.com/issues/american-energy-independence-is-a-critical-national-priority
We are all seeing the growing instability of the Middle East. We cannot continue to send billions of dollars overseas to unstable foreign nations who are threatened by Islamic radicals. Before it is too late, our nation must embark on a “Manhattan Project” to explore, produce, and technologically advance our own American energy supplies. This is simply a matter of national security and the continued survival of our nation.
HEALTHCARE
http://rogerforcongress.com/issues/repealing-obamacare-and-empowering-patients
Repealing Obamacare and Empowering Patients Unlike President Obama, I’ve actually had to negotiate and pay the health insurance clients for the employees at my business. I know that adding more mandates on insures will make health insurance more expensive, not less. And I know that creating more government involvement in health care will make it less effective, not more. As your Congressman, I will fight to repeal Obamacare and replace it with free market alternatives like allowing health plans to compete across state lines and encouraging more health savings accounts. And until Obamacare is repealed, I will fight to defund it. –
IMMIGRATION
http://rogerforcongress.com/issues/stopping-illegal-immigration
Stopping Illegal Immigration Texas is on the front lines in this battle. Our ranchers on the border know the danger of illegal immigrants, drug smugglers, and human traffickers coming onto their land. Our hospitals, schools, and local governments know the cost of paying for the education and health care of illegal immigrants. Securing the border must be a key priority for our nation – truly this is a Constitutional responsibility in which our government has been an abject failure. While we openly welcome people who follow our laws and are legal immigrants we need to ensure these individuals assimilate to America by learning our language, our rich heritage, and respecting our foundational beliefs. To that end, I will support making English the official language of the United States. – See more at: http://rogerforcongress.com/issues/stopping-illegal-immigration#sthash.r1pL3oUa.dpuf
Marco Montoya (D) Challenger
https://twitter.com/MontoyaTX25
District 26:
Michael Burgess M.D.(R ) Incumbent
http://www.burgessforcongress.com/
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Michael_Burgess.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
HEALTHCARE
http://burgess.house.gov/issues/issue/?IssueID=242
In 2010, President Obama signed the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act into law. This massive government overhaul of our health care system creates more taxes, will increase costs, provides less access, and massively expands government bureaucracy.
I wholeheartedly support repealing the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and replacing it with legislation that is aimed at reducing health care costs, improving choices, reforming liability laws to put the needs of patients first, and ensuring there are enough doctors to care for America’s patients. I believe we can accomplish these goals by empowering patients and doctors, instead of turning more control over to the federal government, and I will continue to push for the right kind of reforms. –
ENERGY
http://burgess.house.gov/issues/issue/?IssueID=636
The United States has vast supplies of domestic energy that should be explored. Today, the US imports nearly 60% of its oil, and most comes from the Middle East and politically unstable nations. I believe that energy exploration in Alaska’s Arctic National Wildlife Reserve (ANWR) and the Outer Continental Shelf is an important component of comprehensive energy legislation. At the same time, it is important that we find the right balance between exploration and protecting our wilderness and wildlife. –
IMMIGRATION
http://burgess.house.gov/issues/issue/?IssueID=624
I strongly oppose any proposal to grant amnesty to illegal aliens. Today, there are nearly 8-10 million illegal aliens in the United States. At this critical juncture, we need to improve enforcement of our immigration laws and support provisions that make the legal immigration process viable.
I am committed to reducing illegal immigration into our country, and promoting legal immigration. I support more limited and verifiable forms of immigration. Throughout our history, immigrants have made important scientific, cultural and political contributions to the United States. I believe immigration policy must ensure that the contributions of law-abiding individuals are not eclipsed by the negative impact that illegal immigration may have on our country.
– See more at: http://burgess.house.gov/issues/issue/?IssueID=624#sthash.DfkJFq0B.dpuf
Matt Wiegmann ( D ) Challenger no campaign website
District 27:
Blake Farenthold (R ) Incumbent
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Blake_Farenthold.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
HEALTHCARE
http://farentholdforms.house.gov/issues/issue/?IssueID=100098
As parts of Obamacare begin to show up in people’s everyday lives, the public is seeing just how terrible the law actually is. People who initially supported it are changing their minds as they see higher costs and lower quality of care. I have voted more than 40 times to repeal or defund all or part of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, and replace it with reasonable, common-sense reforms.
Defund, repeal, & replace federal care with free market. (Jul 2010)
Repeal the Job-Killing Health Care Law. (Jan 2011)
IMMIGRATION
http://farentholdforms.house.gov/issues/issue/?IssueID=58103
Immigration reform must provide for America’s needs by ensuring we have an adequate workforce to fill the jobs we have. That means increasing the cap on high skilled worker visas, and visas for workers in high-demand fields like agriculture, construction, and even the medical field.
I also feel very strongly that we need to enforce current immigration laws. Until solutions are reached and reforms are passed, we have no choice but to enforce what’s on the books. I have supported several pieces of legislation to do so.
Reforms must also not reward unlawful behavior. I do not support amnesty. What I do support is an earned pathway to legal status, so long as certain requirements, like passing a criminal background check, are met.
I also support a robust e-verify that allows employers to check if potential employees are legally permitted to work in the U.S.- and reduces undocumented workers reliance on in some cases unscrupulous employers.
ENERGY
http://farentholdforms.house.gov/issues/issue/?IssueID=58667
Domestic oil and gas companies have the power to create widespread economic prosperity if we lift some of the regulations that prevent them from doing so.
Regulations associated with drilling on federal lands (both onshore and off) are making it all but impossible access these resources (and for the federal government to collect royalty payments). Delays associated with permitting liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facilities are putting at risk our ability to profitably produce natural gas. Though some critics argue against exporting natural gas, I believe we must strike while the iron is hot, profiting from our gas resources as we work towards breakthroughs in alternative energy sources that will make them economically attractive without massive taxpayer subsidies.
Wesley Reed (D ) Challengerhttp://wesleyforcongress.com/
Over the course of this campaign season, this website will update with specific information regarding a variety of topics and issues that are important to the people of the 27th Congressional District of Texas. I understand the importance of being able to go into a negotiation from a position of strength including the ability to stand up to my own Party as much as being able to compromise in the name of moving forward with members from any faction in Congress. We need to tone down the rhetoric in Washington. There are legitimate differences of opinion to be debated and thought about.
“I’m a Democrat through and through. I believe in moving the country forward at all times including helping business employers and employees, those who want to further their education and those who want to join the workforce right away, those who want to be left alone to enjoy their lives free from government interference and those who seek the protection of government. I believe in a fair balance of regulations for a variety of industries and the needs of those industries to have a certain freedom to stretch and breath and grow. But most importantly I believe that a Congressman should not be constrained to act on behalf of the views of any one group or type of group of people. A Congressman should be the voice of all people.”
District 28:
Henry Cuellar (D) Incumbent
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Henry_Cuellar.htm **
ISSUES
HEALTHCARE
http://cuellar.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=352625
Rep. Henry Cuellar, a Democrat, represents a Rio Grande district a third of whose citizens have no insurance. He said the Republican-led onslaught has cemented in his state — and Democrats haven’t been able to overcome that. He wishes Washington had gotten its own message across, louder, clearer and earlier.
“Quite honestly, I wish the president would have done a much better job — back from the beginning, we’re talking 2010,” Cuellar said. “Republicans just did a much, much better job at [messaging] against the health care law.”
IMMIGRATION
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Henry_Cuellar_Immigration.htm
Cuellar co-sponsored for comprehensive immigration reform without amnesty with Arizona Senator John McCain
The simple fact is that America’s immigration system is broken. Recent vigilante activities along the southwestern border have shown that the current situation is not sustainable. Americans are frustrated with our lack of border security and our inability to control illegal immigration.
Make no mistake, this is not an amnesty bill. We are not here to reward law-breakers, and any accusations to the contrary are patently untrue. This bill recognizes the problems inherent in the current system and provides a logical and effective means to address these problems. It would be impossible to identify and round up all 10 to 11 million of the current undocumented, and if we did, it would ground our Nation’s economy to a halt. These millions of people are working. Aliens will not come forward to simply “report and deport.” We have a national interest in identifying these individuals, incentivizing them to come forward out of the shadows, go through security background checks, pay back taxes, pay penalties for breaking the law, learn to speak English, and regularize their status. Anyone who thinks this goal can be achieved without providing an eventual path to a permanent legal status is not serious about solving this problem.
ENERGY
http://cuellar.house.gov/issues/issue/?IssueID=3998
Securing Our Energy Future
Now more than ever, the United States has to secure its energy independence for the future and reduce its dependence on foreign sources of oil. When we outsource our energy needs, we export American dollars overseas. That’s why, I strongly support domestic energy and oil production as a way to shore up our nation’s energy and economic independence.
By balancing our energy needs, our domestic resources and our environment, we can strike a balance in the United States to meet our needs with the resources we have here at home.
Rep. Cuellar voted in favor of the Keystone XL Pipeline with no limiting amendments.
District 29:
Gene Green (D) Incumbent
http://www.genegreencampaign.com/
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Gene_Green.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
ENERGY
http://green.house.gov/issue/energy
Natural Gas/Shale Production
Until relatively recently, natural gas-rich shale formations throughout the United States were not considered to have significant resource value because no technologies existed to economically recover the gas. The development and deployment of advanced drilling and reservoir stimulation methods have dramatically increased the gas production from these unconventional gas shale plays. As a result, we find ourselves with resource potential that we never thought possible.
With such a large domestic supply, the U.S. has a true opportunity to lessen our dependence on foreign sources of energy, reduce feedstock costs for our manufacturing sector—reshoring companies that left in the last decade, create jobs in our district, and help maintain Houston as the energy capital of the world. As a Co-Chair of the Congressional Natural Gas Caucus, I look forward to continuing to work on this issue.
Hydraulic Fracturing
Hydraulic fracturing is a technique that has been used since the 1940s to stimulate oil production from wells in declining oil reservoirs. In 2010, Congress directed the EPA to conduct another study of the environmental management of hydraulic fracturing. Until the study is complete and I can review the data, I currently support maintaining the exemption of hydraulic fracturing from the provisions of the Safe Drinking Water Act, especially in light of no federal studies indicating that the practice has contaminated drinking water supplies. Hydraulic fracturing plays a major role in the development of virtually all unconventional oil and natural gas resources and thus should not be limited in the absence of any evidence that fracturing has damaged the environment.
Keystone Pipeline
Lastly, while there are concerns about possible emissions resulting from processing the oil sands, it is important to note that there are already fifteen refineries within Keystone XL’s proposed delivery area in Texas that currently process heavy crude oil that is similar in composition to the oil that the Keystone XL pipeline would carry.
For these reasons, I support the Keystone XL Pipeline. This project will create domestic jobs, raise local revenue, improve America’s energy independence from hostile foreign nations, and ensure a more consistent and reliable energy supply to our country.
I’ve been a strong supporter of the Keystone Pipeline since TransCanada first applied for a Presidential Permit for the pipeline five years ago. For more information on the status of the Keystone Pipeline, please visit: www.keystonepipeline.state.gov/clientsite/keystone.nsf.
HEALTHCARE
http://green.house.gov/issue/affordable-care-act
Health Reform Legislation
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Affordable Care Act) was signed into law in March 2010 to give Americans more security by holding insurance companies access affordable health insurance and quality medical care.
This was a huge victory for Americans nationwide and especially in Texas, which has one of the highest rates of uninsured individuals in the nation. Since 2010, the health care law has already made a difference in the lives of millions of Texans through ending discrimination for pre-existing conditions, allowing young adults to stay on their parent’s health insurance plan, scrutinizing unreasonable premium increases, removing lifetime limits on health benefits, covering preventive services with no deductible or co-pay, and more.
IMMIGRATION
http://green.house.gov/issue/immigration
Our district is home to one of the largest immigrant populations in the United States. The Northside and Eastside have been the traditional port of entry for immigrants coming to Houston and the greater Gulf Region for nearly a century. Unfortunately, our national immigration policy has been broken for too long and has inflicted an incalculable toll on our communities – from holding back economic development to unfairly denying young people an opportunity to pursue their dreams.
Immigration Reform
For these reasons, I have been a strong supporter of comprehensive immigration reform in Congress that would enable undocumented immigrants with no previous criminal record to apply for residency and earn U.S. citizenship. This is crucial to bringing our undocumented population out of the shadows and enabling them to be productive members of our society.
Thousands of the families in the 29th Congressional District have relatives who are undocumented but have children who were born here and are U.S. citizens. I have co-sponsored several such bills that would provide relief to members of our community, including the DREAM Act and the Comprehensive Immigration Reform (CIR) ASAP Act of 2009. I have also held an annual Citizenship Day for almost twenty years to give eligible legal residents the opportunity to fill out an application for U.S. citizenship with the help of local volunteers.
District 30:
Eddie Bernice Johnson (D ) Incumbent
http://ebjohnson.house.gov/press-releases/
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Eddie_Bernice_Johnson.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
ENERGY
http://ebjohnson.house.gov/energy/
On the Record Against Global Warming
Congresswoman Johnson’s involvement on the House Science Committee has provided her with access to the advice of the world’s premier climate scientists. Scientists from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, an international consortium of scientists charged with providing facts on the status of global warming, have testified multiple times before the House Science Committee. During the 110th Congress, Congresswoman Johnson spearheaded a letter to the President, urging him to act immediately to reduce the impacts of climate change. Sixteen other members of the House of Representatives joined her in signing the letter.
Government Transparency and Climate Change
During the 110th Congress, the House Science Committee passed H.R. 2337, the Energy Policy Reform and Revitalization Act. Congresswoman Johnson introduced an amendment that would direct the Interagency Council on Climate Change to share with the public which ecosystems, water supplies and infrastructure are particularly vulnerable to climate change. The Congresswoman believes that the federal government must remain transparent, by communicating scientific information about climate change openly with the public.
Climate Change:
Congresswoman Johnson is a cosponsor of the Climate Stewardship Act, which would limit the greenhouse gas emissions of major polluters in the electricity, industrial, commercial, and transportation supply sectors. The bill would create a market to trade greenhouse gas emissions credits in units of carbon dioxide equivalence. The legislation addresses all greenhouse gasses, not just carbon dioxide.
HEALTHCARE
http://www.ebj2012.com/2012-issues.htm
Throughout her tenure in Congress, Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson has been a strong proponent of improving our nation’s health care system and increasing health insurance coverage to include every American. On March 21, 2011, Congresswoman Johnson proudly cast her vote in favor of the Affordable Care Act, President Obama’s historic health care reform measure, providing high quality, affordable health care for 6 million uninsured Texans.
District 31:
John Carter (R ) Incumbent
http://www.johncarterforcongress.com/
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/John_Carter.htm
http://carter.house.gov/#dialog
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/John_Carter.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
http://johncarterforcongress.com/issues/
SUPPORTING OUR TROOPS AND TERRORISM
Supporting Our Troops and Fighting Terrorism
When radical Islamic terror struck in the heart of our congressional district at Fort Hood in November 2009, I spoke out loudly and clearly on the terror links that led to the death of 13 adults and one unborn child.The Department of Defense has amazingly refused to even use the words “radical Islam” in any of its descriptions of the attack, or in any recommended security improvements to prevent future attacks.
HEALTHCARE
My number one goal for healthcare reform is to repeal this law. If President Obama vetoes our repeal, my next target will be to block all funding and regulations used to enact the law. I will simultaneously continue my efforts as House Republican Conference Secretary to support our 21 state attorney generals who have an excellent chance of having this scheme ruled unconstitutional.
Once this terrible law is overturned, I will work to enact fiscally and constitutionally responsible healthcare solutions, such as creating high-risk pools to guarantee access to affordable health insurance regardless of pre-existing health conditions; allowing small businesses to pool together to purchase health care at the same rates as major corporations; and reining in junk lawsuits that are driving up health premiums.
ENERGY
Over and over, these big-government extremists have blocked access to our best domestic oil and natural gas reserves in Alaska, our western states, and offshore. They blocked construction of any new nuclear power plants for decades. These actions are directly responsible for increased air pollution, dependence on foreign oil, the U.S. trade deficit, and the sky-rocketing energy prices that played a major role in sending us into the “Great Recession” and costing millions of American jobs.
I support opening up ANWR and the Outer Continental Shelf to energy exploration and production, while simultaneously implementing the new House Republican plan to prevent future oil spills and provide greater safety against offshore oil accidents. I support a dramatic expansion in nuclear, hydro, wind, and solar power, and in new technologies that conserve and reduce energy consumption through efficiency.
It is only through turning our free-market energies loose by breaking the shackles placed on them by Washington that we can reach the goal of U.S. energy independence within a decade that is the wish of all Americans.
Louie Minor (D) Challenger https://www.facebook.com/Minor2014
District 32:
Pete Sessions (R ) Incumbent Defeated Republican Challenger
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Pete_Sessions.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
HEALTHCARE
https://www.petesessions.com/issues-obamacare.htm
I continue to believe that ObamaCare must be stopped and have voted more than 30 times in the House to repeal, defund, and dismantle it. Most recently, I voted to defund ObamaCare in the House’s continuing resolution on September 20, 2013. I will continue to stand up for my constituents and to fully repeal ObamaCare and replace it with responsible reforms that actually lower costs and provide superior health care.
ENERGY AND REGULATIONS
https://www.petesessions.com/issues-energy.htm
Approve the Keystone XL Pipeline
The Keystone XL pipeline, which has been blocked by the Administration since September 19, 2008, is a $7 billion private-sector infrastructure project that would create tens of thousands of direct and indirect jobs. The pipeline would move up to 830,000 barrels of oil per day from Canada to U.S. refineries and markets. Experts agree that North American can be energy independent by 2020, if not sooner, yet the Obama Administration’s policies continue delay this positive change. I have repeatedly joined my Republican colleagues in calling on the President to finally approve the Keystone XL and I will continue to call for the pipeline to be built to create more American jobs and lower American energy prices.
Rein in the EPA
The Obama Administration’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has constantly overreached into our economy in unprecedented and unconstitutional ways. The EPA’s onslaught of expensive new rules and regulations drive up energy costs and destroy jobs. Instead of burdening our economy, the EPA should encourage domestic energy production and work with private-sector companies to promote safe and effective means for securing our nation’s vast energy resources. I am committed to fighting against the EPA’s destructive policies that harm Texans and all Americans.
IMMIGRATION
http://carter.house.gov/border-security-and-immigration/
While I agree that the entire immigration system in our country should be overhauled in the near future, successful immigration policy begins by securing our nation’s border. I have visited the border several times in the past years, and I can assure you that we have a serious crisis on the Texas border. Many estimate that up to one thousand illegal immigrants are crossing the U.S./Mexico border every night. Stopping this tidal wave of illegal immigrants must be our first priority. While many come to America for opportunity and a better quality of life, others take advantage of our open borders to peddle drugs, weapons and people. We must know who is entering and exiting our country.
Once we gain control of the border, I believe we must implement an accountable and effective temporary worker program to allow employers to hire workers to meet demand and grow our economy. Many immigrants perform a role in our economy and, likewise, many businesses count on their participation. This system should have a high threshold of accountability and require that immigrants be employed if they wish to remain in the United States. Previous criminal convictions, or convictions while working in the U.S., should stop them from participating in the system.
Frank Perez (D )Challenger
http://frankperezforcongress.com/
District 33:
Marc Veasey (D ) Incumbent
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Marc_Veasey.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
ENERGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT
http://veasey.house.gov/issues/energy-and-environment
It is important to invest in and utilize renewable sources such as solar energy, wind, and hydropower to fill our country’s energy needs. While our ability to harness these resources has advanced greatly in the past decade, renewable energy sources still only make up a small percentage of America’s overall energy supply. Our national goal should be to expand the use of these resources so we can one day have a carbon-neutral energy supply. We must also face the reality that America is still in need of fossil fuels today.
FRACKING
What to Watch For in House Fracking Vote: Energy Edge
What may come as a surprise is how a handful of pro-energy Democrats, especially those from Texas like Reps. Gene Green and Marc Veasey, vote. They’re among a small group of Democrats who may vote against the bill despite being ardent supporters
HEALTHCARE
http://veasey.house.gov/issues/health-care
I am committed to ensuring the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is fully carried out and that constituents in the 33rd District receive needed care and services to lead productive and healthy lives. As part of the Congressional Black Caucus, I sit on the Health Care Taskforce that is focused on this important issue.
The Affordable Care Act will be fully implemented by 2014 and will make every family eligible for health coverage. Among the benefits, the Act allows young people to stay on their parents’ insurance until the age of 26. Hundreds of thousands of young Texans are now covered as a result of the new law. The Affordable Care Act also makes Medicare prescription drug coverage more affordable. Since the law was enacted, Texans have saved over $2 million on prescription drugs. The law protects those with pre-existing conditions, covers preventive services with no deductible or co-pay, and provides many other critical protections and services.
IMMIGRATION
http://veasey.house.gov/issues/immigration
As a minority, I personally understand and identify with the struggle for justice and equality. I recognize the importance of having a fair, effective and common-sense immigration system in our country. That is why I am a member of the Congressional Black Caucus’ Immigration Reform Task Force, and am working on this issue with the Congressional Hispanic Caucus and my Republican colleagues. With over 11 million undocumented immigrants in our country, reform will strengthen our country and boost our economy.
I am an original co-sponsor of the Reuniting Families Act of 2013, which would allocate visas more efficiently and alleviate application waiting times. More importantly, this bill promotes the reunification of immigrant families that have been separated for far too long.
In order for our economy to prosper, we must allow talented individuals to contribute to the only country they have ever known. As an original cosponsor of the “Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act of 2013,” also known as the DREAM Act, I am committed to providing immigration relief to undocumented youth if they serve in the military or pursue a higher education. This legislation provides a pathway to citizenship to children brought to the United States through no fault of their own.
I believe that same-sex couples should be included in the immigration conversation and that protections should be extended to the LGBT community. U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents should be able to sponsor their “permanent partners” for residency in the United States. This is why I support H.R. 519, also known as the “Uniting American Families Act.”
District 34:
Filemon Vela (D) Incumbent
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Filemon_Vela.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
ENERGY
http://vela.house.gov/index.php/2013-07-18-16-30-35/energy
I support the development of both traditional and renewable energy resources in Texas. Over the last five years, the Texas oil and natural gas industry has made a dramatic turnaround. Texas’ daily oil production has doubled in the last three years thanks to new drilling techniques, which allow producers to unlock oil and gas trapped in shale rock formations such as the Eagle Ford Shale. Importantly, while Texas leads the country in the production of oil and gas, it also leads the country in the production of wind energy. Texas has installed more than 12,000 megawatts of wind turbines, which is more than double the production capacity of the next highest state.
Voted for the Keystone XL Pipeline without limiting amendments.
HOMELAND SECURITY
http://vela.house.gov/index.php/2013-07-18-16-30-35/homeland-security
I serve as a member of the Committee on Homeland Security, which is responsible for oversight of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, including Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
I also sit on the Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Infrastructure Protection and Security Technologies. One of the primary responsibilities of this subcommittee is to address the growing threat of cyber warfare and to investigate ways to prevent cyber attacks on American institutions.
Serving on the Committee on Homeland Security allows me to bring my perspective as someone who lives on the U.S. – Mexico border to discussions of border security and immigration to ensure that South Texas has a voice in federal legislation and policies.
As co-chair of the Congressional Border Caucus, I am working to ensure that efforts to increase security on our borders take a balanced approach that includes investing in international ports of entry.
Larry Smith (R ) Challenger
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Larry-Smith-For-Congress/168428143352003
District 35:
Llloyd Doggett (D ) Incumbent
http://www.votedoggett.com/
http://www.ontheissues.org/TX/Lloyd_Doggett.htm **
http://www.votedoggett.com/issues/
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
HEALTHCARE
With the goal that every family have access to a family doctor, I am working now to improve on the foundation we have built. The new law will help ensure Big Insurance companies treat families fairly. It’s not right that high medical bills are the number one cause of bankruptcy in the U.S. and I am working to ensure that affordable health care will be there for American families that need it the most. I also worked to improve Medicare drug benefits by gradually closing the so-called donut-hole coverage gap making drugs more affordable for our seniors and others who rely on Medicare.
Comprehensive Immigration Reform Long Over-Due
Passing comprehensiveimmigration reform should have been accomplished years ago, but remains stalled with the Republican majority in Congress. In addition to blocking progress on the DREAM Act, Republicans have introduced a string of anti-immigrant bills. As a four-time sponsor of the DREAM Act, I believe exemplary young people willing to work hard deserve a chance to succeed in college.
ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT
http://doggett.house.gov/index.php/issues#clean_air_energy
Big Polluters and their friends continue to stand in the way of safe limits on pollutants such as mercury, arsenic, and particulate matter. Seniors, children, and those with respiratory illnesses such as asthmas are particularly at risk from the polluters’ irresponsible efforts. I will continue my efforts to ensure that the Environmental Protection Agency is allowed to do its job to protect public health by updating and improving Clean Air Act standards. By clicking here you can view a speech I delivered on the House floor in opposition to a bill that would have undermined cornerstone environmental protections.
Susan Narvaiz (R ) Challengerhttp://susanforcongress.com/
District 36:
***Steve Stockman(R )- Lost this seat in a bid for Senate as Challenger To SenatoCornyn which he lost in the primary March 4, 2014. There will be a runoff on May 27 between:
Brian Babin (R) – Challenger http://babinforcongress.com/
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
HEALTHCARE I will work tirelessly to repeal it and replace it with policies that work. It’s destroying jobs, the economy, and causing millions to lose their promised healthcare policies. Government can never replace the doctor-patient relationship. We should replace it with federal tax credits and free market solutions.
TAXES I oppose ANY tax increase and will work toward a simplified tax code. Spending must be reduced with real cuts that lead to a balanced budget and end constant debt-ceiling increases.
JOB CREATION AND REGULATIONS I believe jobs are created by a thriving free enterprise system, not by the government. Indeed, our government has done much to stymie entrepreneurship. We must implement pro-growth policies to provide incentives for the creation and growth of businesses. This will create jobs and help regenerate our economy.
Regulation: Burdensome regulations must be reduced and reined in. Bureaucratic agencies are killing the economy and have usurped the powers of the Congress and states.
SECOND AMENDMENT I am a rock solid defender of the 2nd Amendment, a 30 year member of the NRA, and was endorsed by the NRA in my 1996 congressional race.
IMMIGRATION We must secure the borders and oppose amnesty programs. Immigration reform must be an orderly, controlled policy that benefits U.S. citizens and our country and does not reward illegal entry.
DEFENSE As a veteran myself and father of a decorated Navy SEAL, I believe our military must be prepared and second to none in a very dangerous world. We must eliminate waste and mismanagement in the military to permit our Armed Forces to defend and protect our national security to the utmost.
PRO-LIFE I am a steadfast defender of the sanctity of life and the unborn.
AND
Ben Streusand (R)- Challenger- Tea Party Conservative
Michael Cole (D ) Challenger http://www.michaelcole.us/
http://www.michaelcole.us/issues
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