Issues
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Earmarks As you know, there has been considerable debate about transparency in how federal dollars particularly for earmark or special projects are spent. As a fiscal conservative, I have always worked hard to make sure your tax dollars are spent wisely and, in order to do this, we must cut waste, fraud and inefficiency from the system. I support earmark funding reform including legislation that would establish a joint select committee on earmark reform as well as an earmark moratorium. It is my belief, however, that there are many valuable projects and programs that need federal dollars in order to grow and thrive. Further, as a public servant, I feel it is my job to promote these projects if I find they would likely enrich the lives and opportunities of those who reside in my district. I must reiterate that my desire to do this is driven solely by what is best for my constituents and not by a hidden agenda for personal gain. Moreover, I fully support the notion that the actions of the federal government should be as open and transparent as possible, and that taxpayer dollars should never be used for dishonest or dubious purposes. Unethical and fraudulent behavior should never be tolerated. To those of us in Congress, it is our duty to adhere to the standards of ethical propriety and to punish those who abuse the rules and laws that govern these standards. Moreover, I feel it is important to make the actions of our politicians and our government as open and honest as possible, and I will continue to support efforts that would achieve these goals. |