Issues

: Jobs

The single strongest tool in keeping and attracting new jobs is a low tax rate when and wherever possible. Although it may sound like an oversimplification, this one factor has many ramifications. A reasonable tax rate attracts private industry which, in turn, generates jobs for our residents. The tax rate in North Carolina is in competition with those of surrounding states. SC, TN, VA & GA all offer more attractive tax environments than that of North Carlolina's 6.9% corporate income tax rate. I also believe improved water and sewer infrastructure is an important component of growing a strong business sector.
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: Energy

High on everyone's priority list is the matter of "energy." I'm of the persuasion that energy companies need to be freed up to develop all sources of energy - renewable and nonrenewable. The dynamics of supply and demand would be changed if we allowed this to take place.
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: Domestic Violence

My effort in the next session will also focus on the growing problem of gang activity - a threat that now haunts many of our communities across the state. My posiiton on the Domestic Violence Committee will allow me to develop and support legislation that promotes the safety our residents expect.
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: Transportation

Regarding transportation - for too many years, we have lagged behind in planning and appropriating for long-term transportation needs - including the use of rail where practical. Within the Department of Transportation, better maintenance of our existing roads and the directing of funds to areas of priority need must be addressed.
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: Economic Development

I believe that business growth must flow in tandem with growth in infrastructure. Therefore, I strongly support the utilization of all sources for the improvement of our roadways, water and sewer systems. I will work with our district on obtaining grants that may be available in Raleigh.
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: Education

Answers to today's troubled youth are complex and will not be corrected by money alone. But, inequities and shortfalls within our educational system do enable the problem. No institution has been burdened by mandates more heavily than that of education. Each year this backbone of society is required to do more with less. Costly educational mandates, if dictated without supplemental funding, could potentially siphon dollars from our mainstream classroom. I am of the conviction that our budget process in Raleigh should allow education to be a priority when addressing budget needs within the state. As our world becomes more global, it is paramouont that our children obtain an education that keeps our country competitive with countries around the world.
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: Role of Government

The original purpose of the federal government was to provide oversight in national security and in matters where each state held a mutual intent. We have migrated from the concept of our forefathers to a present view that positions our federal and state government as an agent of nearly every human need. Reducing the size of our national debt means reducing the amount of government services. This requires a mindset change. Smaller government allows greater latitude for personal need and economic hardship. Proponents of this approach are not insensitive to the needs of people, but view personal community and free enterprise, rather than government, as the primary means of recovery. Freedoms gained through the sacrifice of our parents will be denied our children if this change does not occur.
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: Immigration

Illegal immigration is the responsibility of our federal government. For too long, our federal system has allowed existing laws that protect us on this issue to be broken. Uncontrolled immigration threatens our national security and heavily impacts our schools, jails and health-care system. I recognize that many illegals are hard-working individuals making important contributions to industry. With that said, I do not support their permanently residing in our country as illegals, a practice now accepted as normative. I believe greater authority should be given county and local law enforcement agencies across the nation to identify, scrutinize the status and, when appropriate, deport illegal citizens.
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