FLORIDA ELECTIONS 2014 PART 2- DISTRICTS 14- 27
FAMILY SECURITY MATTERS IS PRESENTING A COMPLETELY UNBIASED SERIES. THE FOLLOWING IS MY OWN LIST. I INCLUDE, WHERE AVAILABLE CANDIDATE’S RATING BY THE ARAB AMERICAN INSTITUTE…..MY CHOICES ARE UNDERLINE AND IN RED….
RSK
Filing Deadline (Federal Candidates): May 2, 2014 Please note that filing is still open for challengers.Primary August 26, 2014
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 (**).
District 14
Kathy Castor (D ) Incumbent
http://www.castorforcongress.com/
http://www.ontheissues.org/FL/Kathy_Castor.htm **
Rated -1 by AAI, indicating a mixed Arab/Palestine voting record. (May 2012)
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
http://castor.house.gov/issues/
HEALTHCARE
|
U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor serves on the powerful Energy and Commerce Committee, including the Health Subcommittee, and as a member helped craft the Affordable Care Act. Enrollment in the Health Care Marketplace opened Oct. 1, and Florida families and individuals will benefit from a broad range of new health insurance options and lower-than-expected rates. |
http://castor.house.gov/issues/issue/?IssueID=99507
IMMIGRATION
Rep. Castor has been a staunch advocate of immigration reform that provides a tough, but fair pathway to citizenship. This not only benefits immigrants, but all Americans because it upholds this country’s legacy as a nation of immigrants and brings significant economic benefits.
ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT
Opposes fracking, Keystone Pipeline and offshore drilling
John Coney (R)Challenger No campaign site
John Mark Grey (R) Challenger No campaign site
District 15
Dennis Ross (R ) Incumbent ***
http://www.ontheissues.org/FL/Dennis_Ross.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
http://dennisross.house.gov/issues/
Rated -8 by AAI, indicating a anti-Arab anti-Palestine voting record. (May 2012)
HEALTHCARE
http://dennisross.house.gov/issues/issue/?IssueID=17116
It has been four years since Obamacare became the law of the land, and despite his promises the president’s health care plan has not improved health care for all. Premiums for all Floridians could go up by 61 percent under Obamacare, yet we won’t see more choices in doctors, services, prescription drug coverage or anything else in return. What Obamacare has done is put us on a path of a single-payer, one-size fits all health care system. I have voted to repeal Obamacare and instead favor plans that offer Americans choices and that get the government out of the doctor-patient relationship.
Repealing and replacing Obamacare with more choice-based, patient-centered solutions
Protecting benefits under Medicare for those 55-years-old and older
Giving people the option to purchase insurance from anywhere in the United States, not just their home state.
Real tort reform and a “loser pays” tort system
Expanding the use and contribution limits on Health Savings Accounts
ENERGY
http://dennisross.house.gov/issues/issue/?IssueID=16918
I SUPPORT
- The Keystone XL Pipeline
- Expanding U.S. refining capacity
- Expanding the use of nuclear energy
- Drilling in ANWR
IMMIGRATION
http://dennisross.house.gov/issues/issue/?IssueID=31190
- Empower and fund our local Sheriffs to enforce immigration law
- Offer a time period for those illegally in the US to return to their homeland before a “no return” penalty begins
- Enforce and defend the border
- Require employers to use e-verify
- Prohibit sanctuary cities and day-labor sites
- Deny undocumented immigrants enrollment in state-licensed higher education institutions and financial aid (including in-state tuition)
- Ban the use of foreign identification documents to establish identity or to obtain state identification cards unless accompanied by a U.S. document that demonstrates legal presence in the United States
Alan Cohn (D ) Challenger
http://cohnforcongress2014.com/
http://cohnforcongress2014.com/platform/
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
IMMIGRATION
I believe in comprehensive immigration reform. Our local economy desperately depends on such reform and it’s the right thing to do. Every year, crops at citrus and strawberry farms throughout Hillsborough and Polk Counties rot because there aren’t enough workers to harvest. New immigrants, paying their fair share in taxes, are a resource, not a burden to our economy. Immigrants are 30-percent more likely than non-immigrants to start new businesses and create jobs by doing so. I believe in immigration reform that doesn’t make criminals out of landscaping companies, restaurants, and business owners that need immigrants for jobs that otherwise go unfilled. I believe in reform that gives immigrants the same opportunities to achieve the American Dream that our grandparents and great-grandparents had. According to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office, Comprehensive Immigration Reform will lead to increased productivity, and help decrease the national debt. The time has come for fixing a problem that’s hurting hard working business owners and hard working immigrants. I will be dedicated to solving this problem.
ENERGY
I believe in, and will fight for, an energy policy that actually creates jobs in the 15th Congressional District, will make the nation less dependent on foreign oil, and by the way, is good for the environment.
Solar energy and biomass are the only local energy resources for Florida. Investing in these resources provides enormous economic opportunities for entrepreneurs and local businesses to create job opportunities for residents of the 15th Congressional District.
- Solar power provides the biggest economic opportunities because it’s the fastest growing energy industry globally. Solar power grew at an annual growth rate of ~50% globally from 2000 – 2012. Therefore, it presents economic opportunities for investment in manufacturing as well as deployment in Florida.
- Solar power generates seven times the number of jobs that would be based on a conventional power plant.
- Florida was the global leader in manufacturing of solar panels in the 1970s and early 80s. Because of the new global demand and the resulting clean environment we can create opportunities for entrepreneurs in Florida to make the Sunshine State a global leader in solar panels again.
- Producing biofuels from our biomass resources provides economic opportunities for local businesses.
District 16
Vern Buchanan (R )Incumbent *
http://www.ontheissues.org/FL/Vern_Buchanan.htm **
Rated -3 by AAI, indicating a anti-Arab anti-Palestine voting record. (May 2012)
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
HEALTHCARE
Voted against Obamacare and for repeal
ENERGY
http://www.sunshinestatenews.com/blog/vern-buchanan-calls-obama-back-keystone-xl-pipeline
FEB. 23, 2014- U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Fla., urged President Barack Obama to back the construction of the Keystone XL Pipeline. Buchanan pointed to a State Department study which found it would not lead to an explosion in greenhouses gasses and would create 42,000 jobs.
“There is simply no excuse to delay this job-creating project any longer,” said Buchanan. “The pipeline offers us a prime opportunity to boost our nation’s energy security and strengthen the economy by creating tens of thousands of new American jobs. We owe it to the American people to quit the partisan rhetoric and break ground on this shovel-ready project immediately.”
IMMIGRATION
http://buchanan.house.gov/immigration
No Amnesty. We Cannot Reward Illegal Behavior
I oppose amnesty. Illegal immigration is a serious and costly problem. Florida taxpayers pay approximately $5.5 billion a year for education, medical treatment, and incarceration of illegal immigrants, costing every Florida household $1,117 per year. Providing amnesty to illegal immigrants is unfair to those who have respected the rule of law and entered our country legally, and encourages more illegal immigration.
Henry Lawrence (D ) Challenger
http://www.henrylawrenceforcongress.com/
HOT BUTTON ISSUE
http://www.henrylawrenceforcongress.com/issues
EDUCATION
Focusing on academic substance, relevance, and viability of implementation, rather than political positions
Lowering Dropout Rate
Providing multiple educational options that adapt to each student’s individual needs and motivation. Creating differentiated curriculum and evaluation techniques that more adequately address unique learning challenges and providing more opportunities for success.
School Choice
Support for Public Charter Schools allowing the ability to focus on individual student’s learning styles and areas of interest, to increase participation and reduce disengagement, while allowing teachers greater flexibility in instructional method, delivery, and evaluation, producing higher graduation rates.
Alternative Academic Programs
Just as people are unique, so are their interests and abilities and plans for the fulfillment of their own American Dream. We must honor and value each student’s contribution and provide them with appropriate educational options. No “one size fits all”, in providing preparation for a young person’s future. There must be additional options made available for talented students who seek a different path.
Mitch Mallett (D ) Challenger
https://www.facebook.com/mitch.mallett
Joe Venuti (IND ) Challenger
http://www.joevenutiforcongress.com/
HOT BUTTON ISSUE
HEALTHCARE
I would like to see Obamacare modified to include a single-payer plan added as one of the many choices insurance seekers now have. The most simple option would be for enrollees to join the Medicare system by paying premiums based on their incomes. Low income people already have the ability to join as Medicaid participants, and for those states who are cooperating with the intentions of Obamacare, Medicaid has been expanded to include people with just slightly higher incomes. The states which have refused this expansion are merely taking another shot at the President in their quest to make Obamacare a failure.
District 17
Tom Rooney(R ) Incumbent *
http://www.ontheissues.org/fl/tom_rooney.htm **
Rated -4 by AAI, indicating a anti-Arab anti-Palestine voting record. (May 2012)
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
HEALTHCARE
http://rooney.house.gov/health-care/
Supporters of the President’s law claimed that it would bring down costs and that patients could keep the plans they liked. The reverse has proven to be true. As a direct result of the new law, health insurance premiums are increasing at an even faster rate than they would have without the law. Millions of American families – particularly those who work for small businesses – will lose access to the health insurance plans they have now, due to new mandates.
Congressman Rooney supports efforts to repeal the law and replace it with legislation that would bring down costs and expand health care coverage, like instituting medical liability reform. He also supports allowing small businesses and families to pool their members across state lines and negotiate for the coverage they need at prices they can afford – just like larger businesses can already do.
ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT
http://rooney.house.gov/energy-and-environment/
Congressman Rooney’s jobs bill expands American energy production, which would create jobs right away while reducing prices for families and businesses. He recognizes that America has tremendous energy resources, and if we utilize them, we’ll see new jobs immediately in the energy sector. Producing American energy would drive down energy costs, helping both families and small businesses make ends meet. Specifically, his plan would open ANWR, the Outer Continental Shelf, and oil shale for production. It repeals a ban on allowing federal agencies to purchase “coal to liquid” fuels and expedites the permitting of new and expanded nuclear power facilities.
Congressman Rooney strongly opposed the President’s political decision to block the Keystone XL Pipeline, which would have allowed America to import more oil from Canada while creating thousands of good jobs here at home. In a letter to the President, Rooney urged him to consider the national security consequences and reconsider his decision. Rooney recognizes that purchasing oil from an ally, Canada, is far preferable to purchasing it from countries that wish us harm, like Venezuela. By passing on this energy source, the President may give China a significant energy advantage by allowing them to utilize the resources instead.
John Sawyer (R )Challenger
Will Bronson (D) Challenger
http://www.bronson-for-congress.com/
http://www.bronson-for-congress.com/on-the-issues/
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
ENVIRONMENT AND ENERGY
We must insist on energy alternatives that protect our water and air and combat global warming. We must also insist on healthy foods untainted by GMOs (genetically modified organisms) and support organic farmers. Buy organic. Watch the documentary Forks Over Knives and visit their web site. Think globally and eat locally. Support your local food coops and farm stands. Plant victory gardens. The environment inside our bodies is as important as the environment outside it. Avoid sugar and soft drinks, eat vegetables and fruit and healthy grains.
IMMIGRATION
11 million undocumented workers contribute over $550 billion in economic activity to our economy (Perryman Group, 2008. see also Immigration Policy Center, 2011).For making this contribution without proper documentation the Senate immigration framework includes a 13 year probationary period and fines which take a harsh percentage away from the income of undocumented households.
The characterization of this punishment as clemency is a lie that distracts from Congress’ failure to enact laws that curb the use of undocumented labor by American corporations. Congress created and preserves laws that allow unchecked hiring, few enforcement requirements on corporation, even less funding for employer investigation, and fines in 2003 which only cost businesses that benefited from this economic activity $212,000.
Immigrant communities and their allies know that Congress is responsible for incentivising the hiring of undocumented workers and will no longer allow our undocumented mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, and neighbors to take the blame. The disproportionate enforcement and punishment of migrants as compared to the corporations that profit is clearly bigoted.
District 18
Patrick Murphy (D ) Incumbent
http://patrickmurphy.house.gov/
http://www.ontheissues.org/FL/Patrick_Murphy.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
http://patrickmurphy.house.gov/issues/issue/?IssueID=101850
ISRAEL
Ensuring the security of our ally.Israel is the United States’ greatest ally in the Middle East and vitally important to the safety and stability of the region. The bond between America and Israel has remained steadfast because of our shared values of democracy, freedom, and respect for the rule of law, and it is a bond that Congressman Murphy will continue to defend in Congress.
HEALTHCARE
The Affordable Care Act achieved some important and tangible goals. Congressman Murphy supports many of these advances such as: the elimination of lifetime limits, the closing of the prescription donut hole, and more young adults will receive coverage through their parent’s plans.
The repeal of health care reform would be an extraordinary step backwards for patients and particularly the families and seniors of 18th district. Additionally, the Congressional Budget Office estimates that repealing the law would add another $210 billion dollars to the deficit.
ENERGY
Rep. Murphy is one of 19 Democrats who voted for the Keystone Pipeline …also voted for the failed Holt amendment which would require that the oil be used in the United States.
Nick Wukoson (R) Challenger
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT
By limiting our demands on foreign oil and the refining of such oil, we will both lesson the demands to protect those foreign pipelines and put our tax dollars into the pockets of dictators who only want harm to our country and our people. Think about it. We send troops and lose lives of many great men and women of our military all in the name of protecting foreign oil pipelines. You can take many different “military actions” in the middle east and break them down to simply protecting these oil pipelines in hopes of keeping prices at our pumps somewhat modest compared to what it would be if we didn’t.So why do we not tap into our own resources here, which happen to be some of the richest resources in the world? Environmental limitations, fines and penalties have done some good for our environment, something I strongly support, but there is a fine line there that they have crossed. And it has forced us to depend on foreign oil and in turn military actions on foreign land. How we fix this is by coming together with the heavy hitters in the environmental world and strike up a deal that will both better protect and fund areas of our environment and allow us to utilize more of our own resources here at home. It is the only logical step remaining as we can not face more wars overseas and higher prices at the pumps.
Let’s be honest with each other. We can all do better to protect our environment. From cleaning up our streets from trash to protecting mother nature as a whole. I want nothing more than to do more for our environment and to leave a better one for my children and future generations. And yes, man has caused the course of our environment to change but to what degree is debated. There are many passionate opinions on this subject and much of it has been the product of fabricated statistics and movies made to scare you into supporting their causes. Special interest groups again doing what they do best.We need to do more for our environment but we also need to do more in regards to utilizing our own resources here at home. And as I mentioned in my views on energy and oil above, we need to make it a priority to come together with all the major environmental groups and discuss how we can do everything better. This would be a major effort of mine.
IMMIGRATION
We must secure our borders first so we can then control and manage the millions of immigrants who are here illegally. But we also must make it a priority to improve and dramatically shorten the legal process for immigrants to come into our great nation. Because when you learn of our current process and costs, you can not blame those who decide to jump the fence and come here illegally.
There are so many great people here who just want a better life for them and their family. My heart goes out to them. And this is why, once the borders are secured and the process is fixed, we can then manage the current population of illegal immigrants by kicking out those who have and commit crimes and working with the remaining on obtaining lawful residence here in the U.S., as tax paying Americans.
HEALTHCARE
There is no question in that we need more affordable and accessible healthcare options for us and our families. But the single payer system, that Obamacare is designed to send us into, is not the answer. We need something simple, understood by all and not packed with tax increases and mandates.
My view on repairing healthcare is to encourage competition among private carriers, that will force them to write more and offer better plans to compete, and to offer a stronger state run plan compared to what we have today.
Look at it this way. Someone in that gray area with pre-existing conditions but with an income that can afford insurance is often not accepted by a private insurer. So why do we not allow the states to write them on their plans who can charge them a normal rate for that plan? And combined with an increase of competition among private carriers, we will see more covered and at lower rates. Isn’t that what this was all about anyways? Affordable and accessible?
Brian Lara (R) Challenger
http://www.sendlaratocongress.com/
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
HEALTHCARE
Our Freedom to Choose our physicians and health coverage must be
reinstated. Obamacare contains provisions that President Obama
campaigned against. Individuals know their needs better than anyone in
Washington DC. Provisions that force citizens into plans they do not
need or desire should be repealed.
JOBS AND IMMIGRATION
Jobs are hard to find. Over 24 million American Citizens and legal
residents are unemployed or out of the labor force. Labor
participation by African American men is at the lowest level ever
recorded. Now is NOT the time the add millions of foreign workers (
double the number of H-1B visas as well as illegal immigrants ). The
Senates Amnesty bill should be stopped or delayed until American
Citizens are back at work.
Alan Schlesinger (R) Challenger
http://www.schlesingerforcongress.com/
Calvin Turnquest (R) Challenger
https://twitter.com/CalvinTurnquest
Carl Domino (R) –Challenger
http://www.dominoforcongress.com/
Beverly Hires (R) Challenger
https://twitter.com/BeverlyHires
Ilya Katz (R ) Challenger
http://www.katz4uscongress.com/
District 19
Special election due to the resignation of Trey Radel (R ) who did not complete his first term.
Special primary April 22, 2014- General Election June 2014
Lizbeth Benacquisto (R) Challenger
http://lizbethforcongress.com/
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
ECONOMY AND BUDGET
- Federal spending in 2013 reached $3.5 trillion. This out-of-control spending drains resources that could otherwise contribute to economic growth. It’s not just about spending exceeding revenue – it’s also about the unsustainable trajectory of spending.
- It has brought us a debt that is over $17.2 trillion. Democrats and Republicans alike have caused this spending crisis. It will be a shackle around the legs of generations to come and it threatens the nation’s ability to prosper.
- Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security are growing at exponential rates – We will honor our promises only if we can start finding solutions.
- Obama and Democrats have stolen from Medicare to pay for their disastrous Obamacare program. Medicare Advantage has already seen cuts and Obama released a plan for more cuts to this program just last week.
We must get our fiscal house in order to ensure a prosperous future for all Americans.
We can do this if we make tough decisions and:
- Reject stimulus and TARP related programs that only add to government spending
- Reform Medicare Medicaid and Social Security – keep our promises by ensuring the long-term fiscal health of these.
- Reform federal budget process – we must balance the budget, end earmarks and corporate giveaways, and instill transparency in the appropriations process
- Like we have in Florida, I want a Balanced Budget Amendment in our Constitution.
Curt Clawson (R) – Challenger
The Clawson Growth Plan
In business, Curt Clawson always started with a plan. In congress, he’ll start with The Clawson Growth Plan: reducing spending, reforming the tax code, reining-in Obama’s bureaucracy, and repealing Obamacare.
Michael Dreikorn (R) – Challenger
https://twitter.com/DrDreikorn
Paige Kreegel, M.D. (R) – Challenger
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
HEALTHCARE
The Affordable Care Act (ObamaCare) has had quite the effect on this country – it has raised taxes, it has cost many Americans their preferred health plans, and it has put government firmly between the doctor and the patient. Now, according to the Congressional Budget Office, it will result in 2.5 million Americans losing their full-time jobs in the coming year. As a physician, I have heard an alarming number of complaints from patients about the negative effect that ObamaCare is having on the quality and cost of their healthcare. It must be stopped.
I will do everything I can to repeal ObamaCare. That being said, the political reality in Congress rarely allows for such perfect solutions. ObamaCare needs to be repealed, defunded, or at the very least dismantled piecemeal. The latter is the least ideal, however, it is still a plan of action that Republicans must be prepared for if the senate remains in the hands of Democrats.
In fighting ObamaCare, we must undo the deep cuts that were made to Medicare, especially to the Medicare Advantage program. Furthermore, we must replace the individual mandate tax penalties with incentives. And lastly, we must do away with the dozens of federal oversight committees called for in the ACA, and allow the states to regulate their own healthcare.
Less government is the only answer.
IMMIGRATION
Immigration reform must first start with securing our many borders, upholding current immigration law, and by rewarding those who gain entry through approved channels. To do this properly, Congress must craft a comprehensive plan that allocates the resources necessary to secure our borders from illegal traffic.
I support the increased use of border patrolmen, utilizing electronic video surveillance, and adding physical barriers as means to accomplish this goal. I do not support any amnesty programs for those who are already in this country illegally.
We should streamline both the entry process for those who wish to bring their energy and skills to our shores, as well as streamline the exit process for those who have abused our hospitality. We also need a strong guest-worker program for agriculture, overseen by the Dept. of Agriculture. Properly administered, this will decrease the problem of illegal immigration.
I cannot in good faith stand idly by while illegal immigrants take jobs out of the hands of our young men and women. Until the federal government acts to secure the borders and enact real immigration reform, I fully support the rights of states – including Florida – to take action to protect their borders and enforce the laws of the land.
April Freeman (D) – Challenger
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
HEALTHCARE
- I support access to affordable healthcare for all American citizens because I believe healthcare should be a right and not a privilege.
- Funding for Social Security, Medicare & Medicaid should never be at risk. Our seniors are our most precious resource and they will always receive my active support and protection.
ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT
Southwest Florida is uniquely dependent on the health of its natural ecosystem. I will always work to ensure that our ecosystem is clean and healthy, and for that reason I oppose oil drilling and fracking in Southwest Florida along with any gulf drilling off our shores.
SECOND AMENDMENT
I fully support our Second Amendment rights, equally I support our rights as they pertain to all of the Amendments. I also believe that most gun owners are careful, decent, law-abiding people. Agreeing with the majority of the citizens in this country who believe that all gun purchasers should be subject to background checks, including those at gun shows. But unlike most of you, I have looked down the barrel of a gun wielded by a mentally unstable person who was threatening to shoot me. I would not wish that experience on any other person and I will always work to ensure that no one else has to face it. For that reason, I support a strong, robust and effective mental health system that denies dangerous and unstable people gun ownership.
Ray Netherwood (Libertarian) –Challenger
District 20
Alcee Hastings (D ) Incumbent
http://alceehastings.house.gov/
http://www.ontheissues.org/FL/Alcee_Hastings.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
HEALTHCARE
Voted for and strong supporter of the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare)
I have long advocated for ensuring that all Americans have access to health care. That is why I have strongly supported the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The ACA set forth measures that will provide access to affordable, quality health care for millions of Americans, and protect consumers from abusive insurance company practices.
ISRAEL
For more than half a century, the United States and Israel have shared the common bonds of democracy, economic vitality, and cultural affinity. These ties remain as strong today as when President Harry Truman first recognized the creation of a Jewish State in 1948. From religious kinships to shared interests, and from military strengths to commercial relations, the enduring friendship between the United States is durable, stable, and unbreakable.
Israel continues to face serious regional threats, concerns which are also shared by the United States. From Iran and Syria to the resurgence of al-Qaida and the militant strength of Hamas and Hezbollah, these actors have dangerous consequences for the stability of the region and the security of the entire world. The United States must stand with Israel in the struggle against terrorists who would murder innocent families, blow up buses in the street, and launch explosive-laden rockets at cities and towns.
One of the biggest threats facing Israel today is Iran. Simply put, the authoritarian regime’s pursuit of nuclear weapons and support for terrorism poses grave consequences not only for Israel but also for the entire global community. The anti-Semitic, anti-Israel and anti-West actions and statements of Iran’s leaders should be taken seriously, and the international community has a responsibility to act. I have supported the numerous sanctions efforts in Congress, and will continue to do so as long as Iran insists on pursuing its dangerous course of action.
IMMIGRATION
Our current immigration system is archaic and has been governed by the same basic provisions since 1952, with some policy adjustments along the way. The challenges that we face can only be solved through reasonable and comprehensive reform. Congress can only fix our broken immigration system by providing a path to legalization and aggressively enforcing existing laws that would help, not hurt, the situation.
Any proposal to make an illegal entry into the United States a federal felony, while seemingly reasonable, is not a viable solution. Indeed, those who enter this country illegally are, by definition, breaking the law. However putting an estimated 11 million people into the federal justice system would clog the courts and is just not realistic.
Legal immigration is one of the sources of America’s greatness, as our country has prided itself on the strength of its diversity. Therefore, those who enter our borders legally should be afforded equal opportunity to excel and prosper. New Americans are assets to our economy and are often successful entrepreneurs who pay taxes and hire employees.
ENERGY
Opposed to construction of Keystone XL Pipeline without limiting amendments.
Dr.Jean Enright (D) – Challenger
http://www.drjeanlenright4congress.com/
Jay Bonner (R) Challengeer
Gary Stein (R) Challenger
District 21
Ted Deutch (D) Incumbent
http://www.tedforcongress.com/
http://www.ontheissues.org/FL/Ted_Deutch.htm **
Rated -1 by AAI, indicating a mixed Arab/Palestine voting record. (May 2012)
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT
Fighting Global Climate Change Protecting our environment and passing laws that promote clean energy, combat global climate change, and lower consumers’ energy costs will continue to be top priorities of mine in the 113th Congress. South Florida is home to some of America’s most beautiful environmental treasures. Opposes construction of Keystone XL Pipeline without limiting amendments.
HEALTHCARE
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act passed by Congress and signed into law by President Obama is on track to make coverage available to 32 million Americans while reducing our deficit by $143 billion dollars over the next decade. When the implementation of this legislation is complete, no American will have to worry about losing health insurance when they lose their job or move across state lines, nor will insurance companies be allowed to deny coverage based on preexisting conditions.
With some of the most important aspects of health care reform taking effect in 2011, I am committed to defending this landmark law from Republican attacks.
ISRAEL
As a lifelong activist in the pro-Israel community, protecting Israel’s security amidst regional hostility and terrorist threats is my unwavering commitment. During the 112th Congress, I was pleased to join a bipartisan delegation of my colleagues for a trip to Israel where we met with top officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This trip only reaffirmed my longstanding belief that America’s unshakeable bond with Israel must extend far beyond mutual military interests. America benefits from Israel’s innovative economy, vibrant cultural and artistic contributions, and deep commitment to democracy and human rights. Congress must stand with Israel in the face of terrorist attacks, extremist propaganda, hostile neighbors in the Middle East, and a radical Iranian regime whose leader talks of a world without Israel.
FOREIGN POLICY AND TERRORISM
As a Member of Congress, I closely monitor U.S. efforts to destroy the worldwide network of al Qaeda and ensure we do not take our eye off the ball in Afghanistan.
We also need a smart anti-terrorism policy where we continue to encourage communication between the C.I.A., F.B.I. and local law enforcement to foil domestic plots like the one unraveled this fall to assassinate the Ambassador of Saudi Arabia right here on U.S. soil and bomb embassies in Washington D.C.. We also need to continue to support countries that aid our counterterrorism efforts in the region. President Obama must insist on full cooperation in counterterrorism efforts from Pakistan. This is a job we cannot do alone. I continue to support the Obama Administration’s efforts to strengthen our international alliances in order to encourage other nations to share counter-terrorism intelligence and cooperation.
IRAN
As a Member of the Florida Senate, I led the effort and passed legislation that allowed Florida to do its part to help weaken Iran’s ability to proceed with its nuclear program. During my first year in the Florida Senate, I sponsored legislation to divest Florida’s pension funds from companies engaging in business with Iran and Sudan. With the unanimous support from the Legislature, Florida became the first state in the country to divest, making it clear that our state workers would not aid in Iran’s quest for nuclear weapons. I was proud to testify before Congress in support of the Iran Sanctions Enabling Act, legislation that would encourage all states to divest from Iran. In Florida, I also led efforts in the State trying to leverage public opinion to persuade a Swiss company, Vitol, to stop selling refined petroleum to Iran.
Emmanuel Morel (D ) Challenger
http://www.morelforcongress.com/
Henry Colon (R) Challenger…no website
District 22
Lois Frankel (D) Incumbent
http://www.loisfrankelforcongress.com/
http://www.ontheissues.org/FL/Lois_Frankel.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
ENERGY
Opposes construction of Keystone XL Pipeline without limiting amendments, but Rep. Frankel voted for H Amdt 75 – Requires All Oil and Refined Fuels Transported Through the Keystone XL Pipeline to be Used Only in The United States – Key Vote
HEALTHCARE
Strong support for Affordable Care Act (Obamacare)
The current law has deeply needed provisions, including covering those with pre-existing conditions and providing coverage to young people and reducing cost. No one can lose their coverage because of an illness and insurance companies can no longer place restrictive annual limits or a lifetime limit on coverage.
The new law helps seniors by reducing prescription drug costs, closing the Medicare Part D ‘donut hole’ coverage gap, providing free annual wellness visits and key preventive services, and ensuring they have the ability to access home- and community-based care through Medicaid with the Community First Choice Option.
The current law promotes women’s preventive health care. Such services as mammograms, screenings for cervical cancer, prenatal care are covered with no cost sharing for new health plans.
Lois will work to keep these important provisions in law and improve current reform.
ISRAEL
Israel is the United State’s closest and most important ally in the Middle East. The bond between our two countries is rooted, not only in our shared national interest, but also in our shared values of democracy, rule of law and basic human rights.
Established as the homeland of the Jewish people in May 1948, just one day before Lois’s own birth, Lois’s visits to Israel have been personal and moving. She has had an opportunity to see firsthand Israel’s remarkable leadership in agriculture, medicine and technology, as well as its precariousness relationships in the region.
As a member of the United States Congress, Lois will work in a bi-partisan manner to fight any and all attempts to delegitimize Israel in the international arena and to ensure the safety and security of the Jewish state of Israel.
WOMEN AND FAMILIES
Lois has never wavered in her belief that a woman must have the right to make choices about her body without the involvement of government officials. She is a life-long supporter of women’s reproductive rights. Lois is a committed supporter of Roe v. Wade and believes that access to effective birth control and emergency contraception should be guaranteed for all women.
This Congress is ready to turn back the clock on women and families. They have attacked women’s reproductive rights and health care and are not stopping there. Lois will stand strong against anyone who attacks these basic rights and essencial programs. That’s why Lois is endorsed by Emily’s List, the National Organization for Women, the Women’s Campaign Fund, as well as other organizations dedicated to women’s rights.
As a working mother, Lois knows the demands that a career can have on parents and families. She supports creating legislation that helps employers and employees strike the proper work/life balance.
“IT’S TIME TO PASS ENDA (EMPLOYEE NON DISCRIMINATION ACT)”
Sign our petition today demanding that John Boehner and the Tea Party end their callous discrimination and let us vote on ENDA. Tell them to stop standing in the way of freedom!
Andrea Leigh McGee (R)Challenger
http://www.andrealeighmcgee.com/
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
HEALTHCARE
I am not a fan of The Affordable Care Act, our newest income tax. I have been to a DMV and a passport office and know what it is like when the government tries to run a service for the people. I think certain aspects are nice, i.e. forcing insurance companies to take on pre-existing conditions, but this act is over reaching and full of extras that are not right and have nothing to do with health insurance. The current government shutdown is extreme, but the way the healthcare bill was forced was wrong as well. The ACA is not financially sustainable and both sides need to work together to come up with a better plan that will work.
JOBS AND ECONOMY
We need to lower taxes and lessen the over-regulations that impede the ability of businesses to create jobs and compete on the global level.
I believe in the principle that lower taxes lead to higher revenues. We need to promote domestic invention and manufacturing. Implementing policies that favor “Made in America” instead of ones that tie us up in red tape.
We need our leaders to pass sensible budgets and work on lowering our debt. We need to get back to the ideals of our ancestors and regain the pride of standing on our own without turning to government handouts. The current system of entitlements is too much of a crutch that keeps us from being strong and walking on our own.
Jeremy Rodgers (R) – Challenger
Jeremy Rodgers is a commissioned officer in the US Navy. LTJG Rodgers serves his country as an Information Warfare Officer. He is currently an officer in the reserve component attached to a Reserve Navy Information Operations Command. Rodgers’ service in the military has required him to take an oath to support and defend the Constitution, an oath he takes very seriously. As many have noticed, our country has taken a marked shift away from the constitutional framework our founders had provided us. This shift is due in large part to a lack of leadership and accountability in our legislative body up in Washington. Jeremy Rodgers’ integrity and leadership can help restore the country to its constitutional, small government base.
David Wagie (R) – Challenger
http://davidwagie.nationbuilder.com/
District 23
Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D) Incumbent
http://www.debbiewassermanschultz.com/
https://wassermanschultz.house.gov/
http://www.ontheissues.org/FL/Debbie_Wasserman_Schultz.htm **
Rated 0 by AAI, indicating a mixed Arab/Palestine voting record. (May 2012)
One of President Obama’s strongest supporters in Congress.Her committee assignments include the House Committee on Appropriations, in charge of setting specific expenditures of the federal government. In this committee she serves as the Ranking Member on the Appropriations Subcommittee on the Legislative Branch, and on the Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations.
Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz serves as a member of the Democratic House Leadership. She also serves as a Chief Deputy Whip where she works to help advance legislation important to the Democratic caucus.
An active and outspoken leader within the Democratic Party’s political structure as well, Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz was asked in 2011 by President Obama to serve as Chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) and was subsequently elected by its Members to serve for two consecutive terms, through 2016.
Voted against Keystone XL Pipeline without limiting amendments.
Juan Garcia (R) Challenger **
http://juangarciaforcongress.com/
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
HEALTHCARE
While the idea sounds like a promising proposition, it is important to understand that everything has a price, including the promise of “affordable” healthcare. Remember, affordable does not mean ‘free.’ A government takeover of the health care and the health insurance industry is not the answer to the problem that millions of uninsured Americans face.Legislators should focus on deregulating aspects of healthcare that hamper medical providers ability to properly diagnose and treat their patients, allowing insurance companies to sell insurance polices across state lines, meaningful tort reform and allow industries to pool together to get more competitive insurance rates.
IMMIGRATION
Because of the national security threat our nation faces due to a porous border, immigration reform needs start by securing the border and overhauling are broken visa system. America is a country with a rich history of opening its doors to people from all over the world and all walks of life and we must continue that tradition. But we cannot be the only country in the world that does not enforce its immigration laws.
Once we take serious and meaningful steps toward security and efficiency then we will have to deal with the question of what to do with 11-15 million illegal immigrants that are living in America. We must find a humane, but fair way to deal with these folks with solutions such as paying a hefty fine, waiting 15-20 years to apply for residency and other measures offered in the latest proposals for immigration reform.
ISRAEL
We unequivocally stand with Israel. Our strongest ally in the region is a sovereign nation and must be allowed to manage their internal affairs and defense.
Jerusalem is the historical and biblical capital of Israel. The United States should recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and fulfill the promise of moving the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem.
Because Israel would know how to best defend herself against foreign aggression, we must not dictate but instead trust in Israel’s government and military to manage and resolve all threats to its sovereignty.
Joe Kaufman (R)Challenger **
http://www.kaufmanforcongress.com/issues.html
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
ENERGY, ECONOMY AND REGULATIONS
The advantages that have made the United States the greatest economy in the world still exist and are more promising than ever. We have access to great sums of capital, abundant resources, a common language, an extensive and sophisticated transportation system, and a stable government. However, we have not been capitalizing on our advantages, and this has hurt our economy. Jobs are scarce and wages are stagnant. We must institute pro-growth economic policies.
First, we must drill, frack and reduce regulations on the coal industry. Newly discovered fields of natural gas, oil, and shale have opened up record amounts of energy for America. With the cooperation of Congress, the United States will be energy self-sufficient and will once again be the largest exporter of energy worldwide. Our energy costs will become so low that we will be able to once again become the leader in manufacturing.
Reduce regulations that are suffocating economic growth
Overregulation has increased prices, which is an enormous burden on the middle class. It is killing our ability to compete and driving jobs and capital out of our country. We must review the thousands of regulations currently in place and evaluate their necessity versus their detrimental impact. We can have clean air and water without creating a lower standard of living. When you stifle economic growth, you stifle job growth and wage increases.
IMMIGRATION
We must seal our borders. We are the only country in the world that allows people to enter illegally. The biggest risk is to the security of our nation. The State Department has previously recognized that a number of terror cells within the U.S. have been created due to terrorists entering our country through the Mexican border. Between terrorists and drug dealers, the American residents at the border are at great risk and peril. It is the obligation of the U.S. Government to put their safety first. Immigration laws were established for two reasons: to protect her people and to protect U.S. jobs. They are no less important today than at any time before. We have had effective immigration laws in place for decades; we just need to enforce them.
Today we have the technology to establish an e-verify system that will make enforcement an easy task. Where most controversy lies is with amnesty. Americans are a compassionate people that want to welcome the poor, weary and oppressed, as we always have. However, a fundamental cornerstone of America is that we are a nation of laws. We must reject any notion of rewarding law breaking. That is why I do not support amnesty. I will however work with both parties to establish an expanded guest worker program to protect our farmers and allow foreign laborers to work and reside in the U.S.
FOREIGN POLICY
The Muslim Brotherhood is nothing more than a terrorist organization, and the U.S. should never be on the side of terrorists. After the Egyptian military threw out Muhammad Morsi, the Obama administration should have immediately thrown its support to the new Egyptian Government, instead of making demands of it to end its war against the Brotherhood and call for new elections that would result in another Islamist-led regime.
With regard to Syria, the war is terrorist vs. terrorist. On one side, you have Assad, Hezbollah and Iran. On the other, you have al-Qaeda, Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood
With regard to Iran, Iran cannot under any circumstance be able to obtain a nuclear weapon. Sanctions will not stop Iran from going nuclear. Sanctions only work to economically punish the populace of nations. The sole thing that will stop Iran from going nuclear is the threat of overwhelming force. When pro-USA Iranians took to the streets to protest Ahmadinejad and the Mullahs, President Obama chose to ignore their pleas in an effort to placate the Iranian regime. If Obama did for the protesters what he did for the Islamist-led Arab Spring, we would not be discussing a nuclear Iran today. We should not hold negotiations with the terrorist Iranian regime, especially while its leader, Ayatollah Ali Khameini, has been actively calling the U.S. “evil” and Israel an “illegitimate” and “bastard” nation and openly threatens Israel’s annihilation.
With regard to Israel, the peace talks sought by President Obama and Secretary of State John Kerry are nothing more than a PR ploy at the expense of Israel’s security and a way to force the American taxpayer to pay millions of dollars for unnecessary flights back and forth to the Middle East. We must strive towards peace. Peace is the ideal. However, history has shown us that Israel’s enemies will never accept peace with the Jewish state. Discussing peace before the eradication of the terrorist enemy takes place is both foolish and destructive. America needs to stand by Israel for many reasons, including the fact that Israel is the front lines in our war on terror.
District 24
Frederica Wilson (D) Incumbent
http://www.ontheissues.org/FL/Frederica_Wilson.htm **
Rated +2 by AAI, indicating pro-Arab pro-Palestine voting record. (May 2012)
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
ENERGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT
Florida is blessed with more treasured beaches than any other state in the Union and has the third-highest number of endangered species in the nation. We must prioritize their protection.
I am also convinced that climate change poses a serious threat to our state and our nation. As President Obama said in his Second Inaugural Address, we can no longer ignore devastating fires, crippling drought, dangerous storms, and rising sea levels. I am committed to smart energy policies that fight climate change by cutting carbon emissions and boosting renewable fuel production. As the solar industry has demonstrated, by investing in new clean technologies, we can not only protect our planet but also create new high-wage jobs.
Opposes construction of the Keystone XL Pipeline without limiting amendments.
FOREIGN AFFAIRS
Ending the Wars in Iraq and Afghanistan: Recent estimates suggest that the past decades wars have cost American taxpayers upwards of $4 trillion. This is to say nothing of the thousands of precious lives lost. At a time of widespread budget cuts to education and other vital services, we simply cannot continue these wars. I am advocating in Congress for a prompt end to our wars abroad.
Standing with Israel: Our bond with Israel is unbreakable. In Congress, I have fought to affirm this truth by sponsoring legislation to ensure robust assistance to Israel and apply strong and steady pressure on Iran, Hezbollah, and Hamas. Peace in the Middle East depends on reason, understanding, and acceptance that all parties have the basic right to exist. I call on Hamas to recognize Israel’s right to exist as an essential step to ending a conflict that has lasted too long and taken far too many lives.
Strengthening Caribbean-American Relations: I am proud of my Caribbean-American heritage, and I am committed to fighting for human rights and economic progress in the region. In Congress, I am advocating to ensure that Cuba protects the human rights of all of its citizens, including the freedom of the press, freedom to assemble, and the right to vote in fair elections. I have pushed for proactive development and recovery assistance for the people of Haiti, championing causing including Temporary Protected Status for Haitians currently in the United States and stronger protections for Haitian women from gender-based violence.
IMMIGRATION
It’s time to bring America’s hardworking immigrants out of the shadows. President Obama acted showed true leadership by implementing Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)policy, protection a million young immigrants from deportation. The next step should be passage of the Development, Relief and Education of Alien Minors (DREAM) Act, which I cosponsored in Congress to provide safety to countless new Americans and add upwards of $329 billion to the US economy. This year, I’m calling on Congress to do what America has demanded and pass a comprehensive immigration reform plan that creates a path for undocumented Americans to obtain citizenship.
Michael Etienne (D) Challenger
https://www.facebook.com/michael.a.etienne.1
District 25
Mario Diaz-Balart (R) Incumbent
http://mariodiazbalart.house.gov/
http://www.mariodiazbalart.org/
http://www.ontheissues.org/FL/Mario_Diaz-Balart.htm **
Rated -3 by AAI, indicating a anti-Arab anti-Palestine voting record. (May 2012)
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
HEALTHCARE
Feb 4, 2014 Press Release
WASHINGTON — Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL) offered the following statement after the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) released a report earlier today that found Obamacare will reduce the labor force participation by 2.5 million workers.
“This morning’s CBO report comes as no surprise. We have long known that Obamacare will drastically decrease the labor force, and this new report not only confirms that, but also multiplies CBO’s previous estimate. It’s not rocket science that the President’s healthcare law is harmful to the economy, workforce, and our nation’s crippling debt.”
ENERGY
Jan 18, 2012
Press Release
Washington, D.C.– Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL) released the following statement in response to President Obama’s decision to officially reject the Keystone XL pipeline. Diaz-Balart comments:
“Today President Obama not only placed his job first, but denied jobs to tens of thousands of Americans. By rejecting the Keystone pipeline project, the administration’s true priorities are revealed and job creation fails to make the list. Regardless of a new year, we get the same dismal economic policies coming from the White House. If President Obama cared half as much about creating jobs for the American people as he does for his own, unemployment would not be above 8.5% for over 35 months.
“While the White House gives his supporters taxpayer-guaranteed loans for their ‘green’ energy firms, he denies a privately owned company the right to create jobs and secure natural resources for the American people at a cheaper price. It is mind-boggling that the President’s political decision to reject the project comes even after his own Jobs Council endorsed the project. I urge the President to reconsider his rejection on jobs before the jobs go overseas.”
FOREIGN POLICY
Feb 26, 2014 Press Release
WASHINGTON — Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL) has signed on as an original cosponsor of House Resolution 488, a resolution introduced by Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL) in support of the Venezuelan people:
“For over two weeks, the people of Venezuela have been peacefully protesting corruption, soaring crime rates, food shortages, unemployment, and the alarming attack on democracy and human rights, yet all they have received in return are serious acts of violence and aggression by Maduro’s totalitarian government. Their basic rights and freedoms are under extreme assault, and this resolution affirms Congress’ commitment to the Venezuelan people who simply want to live free from oppression, violence, and political intimidation. The Venezuelan people must know that we stand firmly with them in their battle for democracy. The best friend of tyranny is silence, and the United States Congress will not remain silent.”
NO CHALLENGERS HAVE FILED
District 26
Joe Garcia (D ) Incumbent
http://www.ontheissues.org/FL/Joe_Garcia.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
HEALTHCARE
Health Care
A strong, affordable healthcare system is crucial for the well-being of the American people. While working to get the nation’s fiscal house in order, Congressman Garcia is committed to protecting Medicare and Medicaid for future generations of Floridians. These landmark laws have helped that many of those most vulnerable in our communities—including seniors and lower-income Americans—receive the health care they need.Congressman Garcia is also committed to ensuring that as the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act it is implemented in a smart and effective way. This law will provide health insurance to over 30 million Americans and ends the practice of denying coverage to those with pre-existing conditions, increasing rebates on prescription medicine, and enables children and young adults to stay on their parent’s healthcare until age 26.
NOTE: REP. GARCIA IS TARGETED BY A HISPANIC GROUP OPPOSED TO AFFORDABLE CARE ACT (OBAMACARE)
Hispanic group offers anti-ACA ad
Jan 14, 2014
A conservative Hispanic advocacy group will launch a new round of ads Wednesday targeting a vulnerable House Democrat over Obamacare — an effort that highlights the problems that it says Latinos have faced with the health care law. The ad from the LIBRE Initiative goes after Rep. Joe Garcia (D-Fla.) and stars a Latina doctor in southern Florida who cites a handful of concerns she has about the Affordable Care Act — such as higher premiums and canceled insurance policies.
IMMIGRATION
As a member of the Judiciary Committee, Congressman Garcia is committed to working with his colleagues on a bipartisan basis to pass comprehensive immigration reform that reaffirms our values, advances our ideals, and honors our history as a nation of immigrants.
“There is no doubt that our immigration system is broken. In order to move our country forward, we must provide a pathway to citizenship for approximately 11 million undocumented immigrants that are American in every way except on paper.”
It is for this reason that Congressman Garcia introduced H.R. 15, the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act, which secures our borders, builds our economy, and provides a way forward for the millions of undocumented individuals living in the United States. This bill is supported by over 190 bipartisan Members of Congress.
Congressman Garcia also introduced the Venezuela Liberty Act (VZLA) which directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to adjust permanent resident status to any Venezuelan who has been in the country for a continuous period of time starting after February 2, 1990 – the time when many fled as a result of the Chavez regime in Venezuela in search of freedom and opportunities in the United States.
ENERGY
Congressman Garcia will always to fight to protect Florida’s natural treasures and resources, including the Everglades, the Keys, and Florida Bay. There is no choice to be made between our environment and our economy—the future economic prosperity of South Florida depends on preserving and protecting our environment. Congressman Garcia will work tirelessly to protect Florida’s coastlines from the threat of offshore oil drilling, which put at economic risk the coastal communities that depend on fishing and tourism.
Opposed to construction of Keystone XL Pipeline without limiting amendments.
Carlos Curbelo (R) Challenger
In 2002, just months out of college, Carlos founded Capitol Gains, a public and media relations firm that has done work for South Florida companies as well as state, national, and international political campaigns. In 2009, he was named State Director for US Senator George LeMieux and was responsible for overseeing staff in seven offices throughout the state and advising the Senator on Latin-American policy and Hispanic issues. In 2010, he was appointed by Florida’s Governor to the Miami-Dade Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), a federally mandated board tasked with prioritizing local transportation and infrastructure projects. Carlos is also the co-founder of Centre Court Charities, a non-profit organization that runs basketball leagues for high school students during the summer months.
In November of 2010, Carlos was elected, with the support of over 27,000 voters, to serve on the Miami Dade County School Board. Miami Dade County Public Schools is the fourth largest school district in the country. Shortly after being elected, he was the only School Board Member in the state asked to serve on the Governor’s Education Transition Team where he was a champion for reform and for equity in funding. On the School Board, Carlos has been a strong advocate for fiscal responsibility, parental involvement, and transparency in the district’s operations.
Ed MacDougall (R) Challenger
http://macdougallforcongress.com/
Joe Martinez (R ) Challenger
http://joemartinezforcongress.com/
DECORATED LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER Commissioner Martinez began his public service career in 1984 as an officer with the Miami-Dade Police Department. He worked his way up through the ranks,serving as a detective with the General Investigations Unit from 1988 to 1992,and subsequently was promoted to Police Sergeant, Police Master Sergeant and Police Lieutenant.
Commissioner Martinez’ 17-year career with the Miami-Dade Police Department was exemplary. He received more than 70 awards and commendations; including two prestigious Gold Medals of Valor, the Silver Medal of Valor, the Exceptional Service Award, and the Lifesaving Award. The Department also honored him with the Officer of the Year Award in 1992 and he was twice recognized as “Officer of the Year” by the Hispanic Police Officers Association. Additionally, the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners honored Martinez by proclaiming July 27, 1993, “Detective Jose Martinez Day” for his bravery during an incident where he put himself in the line of fire to shield a fellow police officer during a narcotics sting operation.
Lorenzo Palomares-Starbuck (R )Challenger
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
HEALTHCARE
Obama healthcare plan is not the answer to America’s health care needs. Over 1,700 pages of legislation and the single largest tax increase in America is not the answer to care for our elderly and the sick.
I will support the consumer’s choice as the most powerful factor in healthcare reform. The need to maintain coverage should not dictate where families have to live and work. Putting the patient at the center of policy decisions will increase choice and reduce costs while ensuring that services provide what Americans actually want and need.
ENERGY
I support Gov. Romney’s call for energy independence by 2020. I envision “aggressively” opening new offshore areas for drilling, beginning with waters off the coasts of Virginia and the Carolinas; streamlining the regulatory approval process and revitalizing nuclear power. The lease payments, royalties and taxes paid to the American people in return for the development of the nation’s resources can yield literally trillions of dollars in new government revenue. We must not give our dollars to enemies of our democracy to satisfy our thrust for oil.
I will support newer energy sources including biofuels and solar, but also turn back to hydropower, clean coal and nuclear energy.
IMMIGRATION
We’re a nation of laws, and we must enforce our laws,” We’re also a nation of immigrants, and we must uphold that tradition, which has strengthened our country in so many ways. My immigration plan is simple parole these illegal aliens and put them to work and pay taxes NOW.
After five years these parolees may apply for adjustment under one of the adjustment protocols of Title 8 of the U.S. Code.
Joe Peixoto (R ) Challenger
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
HEALTHCARE
Healthcare is better managed by healthcare professionals
guided by some regulation and a free market practice, not by a government
bureaucrat.
There are many ways the government may help to improve and expand
coverage and quality healthcare to the American people. Some of the ways/ proposals to improve quality, reduce costs, and expand coverage could be;
Rigorously combat Fraud and Abuse
Provide tax breaks/credits to incentivize coverage for the
uninsured
Allow insurance policies to be sold across state lines, thus
increasing competition
TORT REFORM would help lower costs by limiting the
liabilities and lowering premiums for the healthcare providers and would also
reduce fraud and abuses.
IMMIGRATION
Our nation has a strong root in immigration, but we are talking about immigrants who came to work, fight and move forward with their own sweat. Every immigrant who proves to have a job, pay taxes, obey our laws, not have a criminal record either here or in their country of origin, speak our language (at least the basics), should be given a chance to have their case analyzed by immigration authorities, of course upon payment of a reasonable fee for service of process. . Amnesty would not be the solution, many criminals and terrorists could take advantage of that process. Each case must be treated separately.
FOREIGN POLICY
As we are the largest Democratic Nation in the world we have to maintain our assistance to our allies and also to other nations that need our support, but as a Congressman I will not support any military sanction against anyone until all the dialog options are extinct. Our Congress has seen in recent months when it needs to end a dictatorship we not need to send thousands of troops and bring many of them back in body bags. We must keep our help and support for Israel, know that they have the capacity to solve most problems that might exist in that region. In case of any economic sanction against any Nation, we must seek the greatest possible number of allies, then the Congress approves. The example is the famous EMBARGO against Cuba that exists for more than 50 years and never worked and will not work because the world sells everything for the Castro tyranny. As a congressman I will work to ensure that such an embargo is over and I’m sure that soon that wonderful island will be free.
District 27
Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R) Incumbent ****
http://ros-lehtinen.house.gov/
RATED -3 BY AAI
http://www.ontheissues.org/FL/Ileana_Ros-Lehtinen.htm **
HOT BUTTON ISSUES
ENERGY
In the fight against higher gas and energy prices, I have voted to prevent a backdoor, cap-and-trade-style national energy tax; voted for the Jobs and Energy Permitting Act that would increase the production of American-made energy; voted to develop enforceable electricity production standards; voted to give the US access to the second largest oil reserves in the world in the Keystone XL pipeline project; and voted to development vast American oil shale resources.
FOREIGN POLICY
Ros-Lehtinen Bill Seeking to Strengthen the Strategic Partnership Between the United States and Israel Will Be Debated on the House Floor Tuesday
Mar 3, 2014
Ros-Lehtinen Bill Seeking to Strengthen the Strategic Partnership Between the United States and Israel Will Be Debated on the House Floor Tuesday
“As the Iranian regime continues to advance its nuclear ambitions under this bad deal, it’s important for Congress to pass this important legislation to reaffirm our support and commitment to our close friend and ally.”
(WASHINGTON) – U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee, made the following statement regarding H.R. 938 – The United States-Israel Strategic Partnership Act of 2013 that was introduced by her last year, which will be debated on the Floor of the House of Representatives on Tuesday (March 4). Statement by Ros-Lehtinen:
“The democratic, Jewish State of Israel faces more existential threats than ever before. This important and timely bipartisan bill, which has the overwhelming support of over 350 co-sponsors, designates Israel as a major strategic partner of the United States and expands U.S.-Israel cooperation in a variety of areas, including defense, intelligence, homeland security, energy, science and trade.
“As the Iranian regime continues to advance its nuclear ambitions under this bad deal, it’s important for Congress to pass this legislation to reaffirm our support and commitment to our close friend and ally. This bill will send an unequivocal message to the world that we stand with Israel, and it will further strengthen our unshakable bond and friendship.”
Elsa Gonzalez (Independent) Potential challenger
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