Issues

Why Am I Running?

As a lifelong resident of our area, I believe that at this point in time there is nothing I can do to more greatly benefit the region than seeking to represent our people at the state level.

Our government has become too big and good at collecting taxes and telling us what to do with our money and not so good at asking how we would like our money spent.

The response from the people I continue to meet across the area has been overwhelmingly positive and I am convinced that we can do better!

My small business background and volunteer experience uniquely qualifies me to represent our district. We must develop a strategy to attract the resources needed to strengthen our communities.

I Am Listening

It seems to me that a good deal of our government has lost its focus. Many of our elected officials display a level of arrogance that is unfounded. The position of representative implies that the voice of the people in our district will be represented. That begins with the most basic function of listening and hearing the message. We need a representative who can deliver that message to Harrisburg and bring back the resources to accomplish our goals.

Taxes

I vigorously oppose increasing taxes.

Pennsylvania’s budget includes over $1 billion in debt service, which puts to much pressure on our ability to pay current expenses. We must stop taking on more debt.

I believe we must:

  1. First, analyze our current spending, re-think and eliminate unnecessary expenditures.
  2. Second, cut back on earmarks that act as re-election checks for incumbents. Too often these earmarks benefit only a few people.
  3. Third, stop unfunded mandates. Taking on additional debt or programs limits our ability to afford necessary programs in the future.
  4. Forth, reduce the size of our legislature, streamlining agencies for greater efficiency.
  5. Fifth, change the structure of our future pension obligation to reflect a system that is paid for instead of adding to our debt.

Sportsmen’s Rights

I believe that responsible citizens have the right to keep and bear arms as a basic right. I strongly support the heritage of our sportsmen and women. Our hunting and fishing opportunities should be protected and improved through responsible management of our natural resources, so that our children and grandchildren have the same chance to hunt and fish that our grandparents had.

Edited on June 13, 2011