Ways and Means Republicans Seek Documents from UnitedHealth Group as Part of Congressional Oversight Investigation

Washington D.C- Ways and Means Republicans today sent a letter to UnitedHealth Group (United) inquiring as to its financial relationship with AARP in regard to the marketing of Medicare Medigap and Medicare Advantage policies. United-AARP insurance plans cover more Medicare beneficiaries than any other insurer, and in 2008 AARP received $652,701,000 from insurance companies with 63 percent ($411,201,630) coming from United. The letter was signed by Ways and Means Ranking Member Dave Camp (R-MI), Health Subcommittee Ranking Member Wally Herger (R-CA), and Reps. Ginny Brown-Waite (R-FL) and Dave Reichert (R-WA).

In the letter, the Members requested details of the United-AARP financial relationship in the interest of taxpayers who fund the Medicare program and the millions of seniors who rely on Medicare Advantage and Medigap policies. While AARP has previously denied informal requests for documents on this topic, the Republicans noted that United has a long history of turning over contractual and proprietary information similar to what has been requested in order for Congress to fulfill oversight duties.

CAMP: “I urge United to comply with our Congressional investigation so we may conduct the necessary oversight to ensure taxpayers and seniors are being served well. There are hundreds of millions of dollars at stake and the well being of not only the Medicare program but the nation’s seniors who rely on it for medical care.”

HERGER: “The special-interest deals that helped grease the passage of the recent health care legislation served as a reminder that we need far more transparency in Washington. Our goal here is simple - to take an honest look at the relationship between AARP and the health insurance industry and ensure that AARP is acting as an appropriate advocate for seniors.”

BROWN-WAITE: “It is very apparent to me that AARP is more concerned about their bottom line than the well being of their membership. I represent more Medicare recipients than any Member of Congress—these questions need to be asked and it’s my responsibility to ask them.”

REICHERT: “Seniors deserve a straight answer from United and AARP on their financial relationship. Is there a financial benefit to AARP as the government takes over health care in America? They owe an answer to seniors: those losing their benefits and those paying more in additional fees and taxes. There’s a lot at stake for America’s seniors and their future health care benefits. I urge United and AARP to be transparent and honest in this inquiry.” ###

Press Releases Monday, April 19, 2010 Jim Billimoria or Sage Eastman (202) 226-4774

Sen. Inhofe Confident Cap-and-Trade National Energy Tax Won't Pass

Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), top Republican on the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee is confident that the new effort to pass a national cap-and-trade energy tax will not pass the Senate this year.

"I know we can beat it," Inhofe told Fox News' Stuart Varney. "This is another cap-and-trade. We went through the McCain-Lieberman bill of '03, the McCain-Lieberman of '05, the Warner-Lieberman of '08, the Waxman bill... I can assure you, I don't think they have more than 25 votes on the Democrats' side, and if you throw Lindsey Graham in there that would be 26 votes."

As reported on HUMAN EVENTS Sens. John Kerry (D-Mass.) Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.) and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) have been working in secret for months to construct another run at the national energy tax.

Lieberman sparked uproar when he said recently that Reid would manage bill without a formal introduction to sidestep the committee process.

"That doesn't sound like the regular order to me," Agriculture Committee Chair Blanche Lincoln (D-Ark.) quipped. "We'll certainly weigh in. And I think where there's an opportunity, whether it's to have hearings or to have a say, we'll do it."

"I'd be surprised if it bypassed Finance," Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee chaired by Sen. Max Baucus (D-Mont.).

Democrats who've been basing their careers on the "green" anthropogenic global warming scam are not going to let this major piece of legislation move quietly -- without grabbing some of the glory in their own committees of jurisdiction.

The date for the unveiling of the new cap and trade national energy tax is April 26. Congressional Quarterly reports "Aides said the date for the bill's release should be solid, because celebrities are expected to attend the event." Ahem.

Inhofe also remarked on plans for Obamacare in a Senate run by Republicans.

"I know the Tea Party people because I've talked to several of their large groups," Inhofe said. "They don't want to pass the largest tax increase in the history of America, they've already had to swallow this government run health care which we'll become a majority and we'll reverse that and turn that thing around. ###

U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works :: Minority Page By Connie Hair Posted: 04/19/2010 ET Posted by Matt Dempsey Matt_Dempsey@epw.senate.gov

Former President Clinton - “I Worry About More Careless Language…Against The Republican Governor In New Jersey, Governor Christie.” VIDEO

ABC 'This Week' Transcript: Former President Bill Clinton.

Clinton: And the only point I tried to make was that we ought to have a lot of political dissent -- a lot of political argument. Nobody is right all the time. But we also have to take responsibility for the possible consequences of what we say. And we shouldn't demonize the government or its public employees or its elected officials. We can disagree with them. We can harshly criticize them.

But when we turn them into an object of demonization, you know, you -- you increase the number of threats.

But I worry about these threats against the president and the Congress. And I worry about more careless language even against -- some of which we've seen against the Republican governor in New Jersey, Governor Christie. ###

View entire text transcript of "This Week" with Former President Bill Clinton

For Immediate Release: Date: Monday, April 19, 2010. Contact: Michael Drewniak 609-777-2600

FTC On Dodd Bill: “Fewer ‘Cops On The Beat’”

“The Federal Trade Commission (‘FTC’ Or ‘Commission’) Writes To Express Its Strong And Unanimous Concerns With Certain Provisions In The ‘Restoring American Financial Stability Act Of 2010,’ which was recently reported by the Senate Banking Committee (‘Senate bill’).” (Federal Trade Commission, Letter To Sen. Hutchison, 4/16/10)

FTC: “We Fear That The Overall Result Could Be Less Protection For Consumers, And Fewer ‘Cops On The Beat.’” “As this complex measure is currently drafted, however, it could inadvertently restrict the ability of the FTC – an independent, bipartisan agency – to work with a new Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (‘Bureau’) to stop unfair and deceptive practices that prey on consumers of financial products and services. Moreover, as drafted, the Senate bill could even inhibit the FTC’s authority with respect to nonfinancial products and services. In light of this, we fear that the overall result could be less protection for consumers, and fewer ‘cops on the beat.’” (Federal Trade Commission, Letter To Sen. Hutchison, 4/16/10) ###

SENATE REPUBLICAN COMMUNICATIONS CENTER

Tea Party Express Endorses Sharron Angle For U.S. Senate Nevada VIDEO

The Tea Party Express (website: www.TeaPartyExpress.org) is proud to announce its endorsement of former State Assemblywoman Sharron Angle in her campaign for U.S. Senate in the seat currently held by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid.

Angle, a four-term Assemblywoman, is the author of Nevada's Property Tax Reform Initiative, and lost a nail-biter race for Congress in 2006 (losing by less than 1/2%). She has attended 16 tea parties, and raised $1 million in her race for Senate.

"Sharron Angle is a hero for conservatives and the tea party movement. There is no candidate who can match her record of principled conservatism. At a time when politicians of both parties have betrayed the people's trust, Sharron Angle is a rare gem," said Bryan Shroyer, Political Director for the Tea Party Express.

"Her impeccable record in office is consistent with the values of the tea party movement, and her conservative activism since leaving office has earned her the respect and admiration of Nevada Republicans. There is no better candidate for Senate than Angle," said Shroyer.

"Most importantly, Sharron Angle is the strongest candidate to defeat Harry Reid. She offers the clearest contrast to Reid's tax-spend-bailout policies. She does not succumb to the whims of the political establishment or lobbyist, and she is not a creature of the back rooom deal, unlike Harry Reid," Shroyer concluded.

More information on Sharron Angle's campaign can be found online at: http://www.SharronAngle.com/

Governor Mitt Romney Endorses Marco Rubio For U.S. Senate

Miami, FL – Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney today announced his endorsement of Marco Rubio for U.S. Senate.

“From his humble beginnings as the son of working-class Cuban exiles, Marco Rubio’s meteoric rise – first to Florida Speaker of the House, and now to a candidate for the U.S. Senate – is the embodiment of the American Dream. While I respect Governor Crist, Marco Rubio’s proven record of conservative, principled, and idea-driven leadership is what Florida needs now. Marco Rubio will be a reliable spokesman against the Washington culture of higher spending, higher taxes and higher debt. I am delighted to endorse his campaign and look forward to the contributions he will make in the U.S. Senate,” said Governor Romney.

Romney’s Free and Strong America PAC also announced that it is making a maximum $5,000 primary election contribution to Rubio’s campaign.

Welcoming Romney’s support, Rubio said, “Throughout his career, Governor Romney has taken on monumental challenges and delivered results that have saved companies, created jobs, inspired pride in the U.S. Olympic movement, and brought conservative reform to Massachusetts. At this time of grave economic and national security threats, Governor Romney’s is an important voice speaking with clarity about the dangers of the Obama agenda, while leading the conversation about what it will take to ensure America remains strong, secure and prosperous. I am honored to have Governor Romney’s support as we continue rallying Floridians behind our limited government movement.”

MEDIA ADVISORY: On Monday, Governor Mitt Romney To Campaign With Marco Rubio In Tampa

Miami, FL – This Monday, April 19, former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney will visit Tampa to campaign with U.S. Senate candidate Marco Rubio. The following event is free and open to the public, and is open to the media:

Monday, April 19, 2010

11:30 a.m. EDT Governor Romney to campaign with Marco Rubio. Dr. Blaise F. Alfano Conference and Banquet Center 11606 McKinley Drive Tampa, FL 33612

Note: A mult box and riser will be available.

House Whip Eric Cantor Republican Weekly Address 04/17/10 VIDEO PODCAST TEXT TRANSCRIPT

House Whip Eric Cantor Republican Weekly Address 04/17/10 VIDEO PODCAST TEXT TRANSCRIPT

Download MP3 for PODCAST “Hello. I’m House Republican Whip Eric Cantor and I have the great privilege of representing the hardworking people of Virginia’s 7th District.

“This week, Americans from coast to coast sent their tax payments to Washington. Your government continues to spend more and more, and that means your taxes are more and more. This has to stop – and you can help stop it.

“The challenges and situations faced by families, small business people, and young workers have no doubt made this tax day particularly painful. But as painful as it was, the truth is that the actions taken by Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Majority Leader Harry Reid and the Obama Administration are going to make the ‘tax days’ of the future much much worse.

“President Obama has signed 25 tax increases passed by the Democratically controlled Congress into law that will cost families and small business people more than $670 billion over the next 10 years. Many of these break the President’s campaign promise not to raise taxes on families making less than $250,000 a year. In the House, Speaker Pelosi and her majority have passed legislation that would result in more than a trillion – that’s with a T – dollars in net tax increases.

“But tax increases are the symptom. Runaway spending is Washington’s disease.

“The Democrats control every lever of power in Washington and they’ve never met a tax they didn’t like or found a dollar they couldn’t spend. Their economic plan? You pay, they spend, your children owe. You deserve better.

“Speaking of your children, the deficits left in the wake of President Obama's agenda now stand at $1.5 trillion and will add $11 trillion to our national debt over the next 10 years. One non-partisan study reveals that to keep up with this spending, the government would have to find about half a trillion dollars each year in new revenue. That means that the tax rates on families earning slightly more than $200,000 would skyrocket to well over 70 percent.

“That’s right, 70 PERCENT!

“Democrats have already made clear that more tax increases on income, capital gains and dividends are on the way. Some, including the President himself, refer to this as letting the “Bush tax cuts” expire. But no matter how he spins it, it means you’ll be paying more and more. At the end of this year, Americans will face the ‘Obama tax increase,’ and it will be the largest in history. As if that wasn’t enough, others, including Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Obama Economic Advisor Paul Volcker support a European-style value-added tax (VAT).

“Higher taxes, reckless deficits, unsustainable debt and a bleak future for our kids and grandkids. We must not leave our children a country more in debt and worse off than we found it. It is our moral obligation to act now to put a stop to this.

“America is at a critical point of decision making. We are a nation at a crossroads. It is up to each of us to determine what kind of country we want to be.

“Down one path is the Democrats’ a trillion dollar health care overhaul, a stimulus law that failed to meet expectations for job creation, the taxpayer funded bailouts of private companies, and a cap-and-trade policy that will impose a massive energy tax upon all Americans. All are costly policies that seize more control over the economy and of our lives. The goal? To remake America in the image of Europe.

“But take hope. Down the other path is responsible, adult leadership, focused firmly on job creation and economic opportunity. We believe in a Congress that will once again listen to the people and return America to the country they know and love. We believe in a limited but effective government that provides a safety net for those who need it most, but sets no limits on opportunity or achievement. We believe that it’s not enough just to talk about ending government waste. You have to take action so that we can begin to erase our deficits and free our children from our debt. And rather than putting the squeeze on our nation’s job creators and entrepreneurs, we believe in a pro-growth strategy to create jobs and empower the American entrepreneur and small business people to thrive.

“This is our choice.

“I’m Eric Cantor, and on behalf of my Republican colleagues, please know that we hear your concerns and we’ll work hard to get Washington working for you once again. Thank you.”

Boehner Statement on SEC Charges Against Goldman Sachs, President Obama’s Top Wall Street Ally

GOP Leader: “Despite President Obama’s rhetoric, his permanent bailout bill gives Goldman Sachs and other big Wall Street banks a permanent, taxpayer-funded safety net by designating them ‘too big to fail.’

House Republican Leader John Boehner (R-OH) issued the following statement after the U.S. Securities & Exchanges Commission (SEC) announced it was charging Wall Street giant Goldman Sachs – which has been supportive of President Obama’s bill to create a permanent bailout fund – with defrauding investors:

“These are very serious charges against a key supporter of President Obama’s bill to create a permanent Wall Street bailout fund. Despite President Obama’s rhetoric, his permanent bailout bill gives Goldman Sachs and other big Wall Street banks a permanent, taxpayer-funded safety net by designating them ‘too big to fail.’ Just whose side is President Obama on?

“Instead of permanent bailouts for President Obama’s Wall Street allies, Republicans believe the best way to protect taxpayers is by reforming Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the government-sponsored companies that sparked the meltdown by giving high-risk loans to people who couldn’t afford it.”

NOTE: Goldman Sachs was President Obama’s top Wall Street contributor during the 2008 election cycle, donating nearly $1 million to his campaign.

Washington, Apr 16

GOP Doctors Caucus Launches Official Website

GOP Doctors Caucus Co-Chairs Congressman Phil Gingrey (GA-11) and Congressman Tim Murphy (PA-18) today announced the launch of the group’s official website to promote solutions that lower costs and improve access to quality healthcare in the United States.

“As physicians, the 14 Members of the GOP Doctors caucus know firsthand what needs to be done to save our nations’ health care system, which starts by repealing and replacing Obamacare,” said Congressman Gingrey. “Our new website offers the opportunity for concerned citizens across the country to learn what the doctors in Congress are doing to protect their rights as patients. We hope it serves as a one-stop-shop for Republican ideas on healthcare reform in Congress, and we will continue to work to advance health care solutions that are in the best interests of patients and doctors across the country.”

“Members of the Doctors Caucus offer a unique perspective having diagnosed and treated patients,” said Congressman Murphy. “We know what works and what does not work in our country’s healthcare system. With more than 300 years of combined experience, Caucus members offer reforms based on personal experiences at private practices, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. Such reforms include: how to eliminate the $800 billion to $1 trillion wasted each year in the healthcare system, the use of information technology to improve patient safety, and ways to eliminate healthcare acquired infections. The new website provides a central resource for the public and other members of Congress to learn about these and other ideas, as the Caucus continues to push for meaningful reforms.”

The site can be accessed at: doctorscaucus.gingrey.house.gov/ or doctorscaucus.murphy.house.gov/.

With a total of 14 members, the GOP Doctors Caucus works to develop patient-centered, patient-driven healthcare reforms focused on quality, access, affordability, portability and choice in healthcare. Each caucus member has worked as a medical professional before coming to Congress, and utilizes their experience to help reform and strengthen the health care system in the United States.

The GOP Doctors Caucus includes the following Representatives: John Boozman, Charles Boustany, Michael Burgess, Paul Broun, Bill Cassidy, John Fleming, Phil Gingrey, Parker Griffith, John Linder, Tim Murphy, Ron Paul, Tom Price, Phil Roe, and Mike Simpson.

Contact: Meredith Griffanti 202.225.2931

Day of Prayer Not Unconstitutional

Washington, Apr 16 - Republican Study Committee Chairman Tom Price (R-GA) issued the following statement in response to a federal judge’s decision finding the National Day of Prayer unconstitutional.

“This decision is outrageous and unbelievable. What a great demonstration of how badly we need federal judges who respect the meaning of the Constitution,” said Chairman Price. “The National Day of Prayer does not establish religion or force anyone to engage in prayer. It is simply a reminder of the importance that prayer has played in the lives of Americans and in the foundation of our principles. Americans have observed days of prayer going back to the time of the Founders, and service was routinely held in the Capitol. The National Day of Prayer is fully in keeping with the Constitution’s protection of religious freedom. I call on President Obama and the Department of Justice to actively, visibly, and aggressively appeal this ruling.” ###

Congressman Tom Price is Chairman of the Republican Study Committee (RSC).

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 4.16.2010

Mike Pence Denounces Judge’s “National Day of Prayer” Ruling

U.S. Congressman Mike Pence, Chairman of the House Republican Conference, issued the following statement today following a federal judge’s ruling in Wisconsin that the National Day of Prayer is unconstitutional:

It’s a sad day when a lone federal judge issues oppressive restrictions on free speech and acts to banish this important day from our national calendar. This ruling ignores established legal precedent and underscores just how important it is that the next nominee to the U.S. Supreme Court has a commitment to a strict interpretation of the Constitution.

The National Day of Prayer is an annual recognition of the fact that prayer played a vital role in our nation’s founding and that the American people should continue to pray for our nation, its leaders and its people. It is an example of our Constitution’s protection of religious expression, and I call on the Department of Justice to immediately appeal this flawed ruling.

Background:

Congressman Pence joined 30 of his House colleagues, including Rep. Randy Forbes, Chairman of the Congressional Prayer Caucus, on an amicus brief that sought to dismiss the lawsuit. ###

Contact Matt Lloyd or Mary Vought at (202) 226-9000 or matt.lloyd@mail.house.gov

NRSC Launches New Web Video: 'Happy Tax Day' VIDEO

As Americans mark Tax Day, the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) launched a new Web ad highlighting the wasteful spending projects that will lead to even higher taxes thanks to the Democrats’ out-of-control spending agenda in Washington.

At a time when Americans are struggling to make ends meet and suffering from record unemployment, the new NRSC Web ad notes that Democrats continue to fund their unpopular and deeply flawed tax-and-spend agenda at the expense of hard-working taxpayers.

VIDEO CREDIT:TheNRSC

TEXT CREDIT: National Republican Senatorial Committee

Tim Griffin "Our Duty' Radio Ad VIDEO

GriffinCongress, April 15, 2010 Listen to "Our Duty," the new radio advertisement from the Tim Griffin For Congress campaign.

Tim Griffin Announces First Quarter Fundraising Total

$183,765 raised, $404,363 cash on hand. LITTLE ROCK - Second District Congressional candidate, U.S. Army Reservist and former U.S. Attorney Tim Griffin today announced his campaign raised $183,765.41 for the first quarter of 2010.

Griffin’s first quarter fundraising pushes the total raised since the start of his campaign to $575,527.99.

“Our fundraising success is thanks to hundreds of Arkansans who want their elected officials - and the Congress - to work for them, not against them,” Griffin said. “I am humbled by the generosity of Arkansans who support our campaign to elect a common sense conservative in the Second District and a new conservative majority to replace Nancy Pelosi as speaker.

“Our campaign is growing daily, and we continue to build momentum,” Griffin added. “I will continue to discuss the issues important to the people of Central Arkansas: private sector job creation, controlling runaway spending and the debt, and making government a smaller part of our lives."

To date, Griffin’s campaign has received 1,340 contributions. Of that total, 953 (71.1%) have come from individuals in Arkansas.

He enters the run up to the May 18 Republican Primary with $404,363.31 cash on hand.

About Tim Griffin: Tim Griffin is the principal in the Griffin Law Firm, PLLC and in Griffin Public Affairs, LLC, both based in Little Rock. He is a graduate of Hendrix College in Conway and Tulane Law School in New Orleans and attended graduate school at Oxford University. He has served in the U.S. Army Reserve for 13 years, was deployed to Iraq and holds the rank of Major. He also served as U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas; and Special Assistant to President George W. Bush in the White House. He is a 5th generation Arkansan and lives in Little Rock with his wife Elizabeth and their two children.

For more information, visit www.TimGriffinforCongress.com, stop by our Little Rock campaign headquarters at 300 River Market Avenue, Suite 5, or call (501) 353-0899. Griffin supporters can also follow the campaign on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/GriffinCongress and on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/TimGriffinforCongress. ###

April 15th, 2010 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Kenneth Ryan James, (501) 766-2079 press@timgriffinforcongress.com>

Conservative Rick Scott Wants to Take Florida in a New Direction VIDEO

“Together We Can Turn Florida Around”

NAPLES, FLORIDA --- Political outsider and conservative businessman Rick Scott
shook up the Florida political establishment today when he declared his candidacy for
governor. In the face of record-high unemployment, 40% of all Florida mortgages being
underwater, and the first population decrease in decades, Scott vowed to use his proven skills as a successful businessman to lead the state in a new, conservative direction and into a prosperous future.

“The professional politicians have failed us at every level. Forty percent of Florida
homeowners are underwater on their mortgages, unemployment is at record highs
and our state budget is a mess. Worse, there is no plan being offered to bring
about economic growth,” said Scott. “It’s time to fight back and hold our
government accountable. Together, we can turn Florida around!”

“I am running to give Floridians a clear choice between a set of Tallahassee
insiders who are professional politicians, or a successful businessman with a track
record of creating jobs, balancing budgets, and getting results. We can no longer
afford to elect career politicians who sit on their hands while our economy crashes
around them,” Scott added.

In early 2009, Scott launched Conservatives for Patients’ Rights, a national campaign, which successfully defeated the government-run public option health care plan proposed by President Obama and liberal Democrats in Washington. The self made entrepreneur brings years of business experience and a strong record of success to the race.

In 2001, he launched Solantic urgent care, which now has 31 locations throughout Florida and has helped 1.5 million patients, while saving them money and delivering better care. Scott also co-founded Columbia Hospital Corporation in 1987 with just two hospitals, and over the following decade the company became the largest hospital company in America and the 12th largest employer in the world.

“Florida needs a conservative who is not afraid to upset the apple cart, an outsider
who is not part of the political establishment, and a businessman who knows how
to create jobs, cut costs, balance budgets, and bring new ideas to old problems.

When I am Governor, our government will live within its means. We will balance
our budgets without Obama’s stimulus funds. We will create jobs the American
way - in the private sector. We will renew Florida’s entrepreneurial spirit and
make our state, once again, the place where everyone wants to be.”

“My first initiative to reign in government and grow the economy will be to
implement what I call Accountability Budgeting. I’ll require each state department
and agency to set annual goals for every dollar they spend. And I’ll measure their
performance against those goals and hold them accountable for their outcomes.
Forcing the bureaucrats to justify the way they spend our tax dollars and holding
them accountable will help eliminate waste, increase efficiencies and eliminate
ineffective programs.”

As Governor, Rick Scott will focus on common sense economics, but as an across-theboard conservative, he will protect our values as well as our tax dollars. Scott resides in Naples, Florida with his wife of 37 years. He has two grown daughters.

“Florida’s future is worth the fight. Our opportunities are too great, our future
too bright for the old ways of government and the failed policies of the past. That’s
why I invite you to join me in a completely different kind of campaign. Together
we can shake up Tallahassee and get Florida growing again. Let’s get to work.” -30-

TEXT CREDIT: Rick Scott, Republican, for Governor

VIDEO CREDIT: ScottForFlorida

Marco Rubio kicked off his “Take A Stand” bus tour

This morning, Marco Rubio kicked off his “Take A Stand” bus tour that will promote his message of sending someone to Washington whom we can trust to take a stand against the Obama-Reid-Pelosi agenda and offer conservative alternatives. For more information about where you can meet-up with Marco during the tour, please visit the tour schedule.

William (B.J.) Lawson Help Stop the Food Safety Modernization Act

Uploaded on February 18, 2010 by Lawson for Congress © All rights reserved.

While we've been campaigning, Washington has still been working -- but not for us. Last year, a dangerous piece of legislation was passed by our House of Representatives -- the Food Safety Enhancement Act of 2009. Despite the reassuring title, this Orwellian legislation will weaken local food producers and suppliers and make us even more dependent on an increasingly brittle and centralized food system. Our 24 year incumbent David Price voted for his lobbyist masters, and against the interests of his constituents, by helping to pass this legislation.

Our last chance to fight this assault on our freedom to feed ourselves and increase our local food security is to head off the Senate's dangerous companion legislation, The Food Safety Modernization Act (S. 510).

Please visit the Carolina Farm Stewardship Association's Web site today for more information on this bill, and contact information for Senators Burr and Hagan.

Regardless of where you live, please call or write your Senators today. Let them know in no uncertain terms that this legislation must not be passed.

The CFSA does an excellent job at relating the problems with this legislation -- it was written to serve the interests of industrial agriculture, and creates onerous regulatory burdens that will put smaller local/regional producers out of business and prevent new producers from contributing to our local foodsheds.

While the CFSA asks for this legislation to be amended, I believe it must simply be stopped. We must defeat S. 510, and prevent this misguided effort to further consolidate control in the hands of the largest producers.

As your Congressman, I will work to enact agricultural reforms to empower local producers and local foodsheds by restoring a free market economy for our food.

That means ending all agricultural subsidies, ending all taxation on the production of food, and permanently eliminating the estate tax/death tax -- all of which work against the interests of our local farmers and food producers.

A free market for the production of good nutrition will empower us to do a much better job of feeding ourselves, and make a meaningful impact on our health care crisis. As Moses would have said, "Let my people grow!"

TEXT CREDIT: Lawson for Congress

George LeMieux Efforts to stop NASA from Canceling Constellation

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator George LeMieux (R-FL) has launched an effort to prohibit NASA from terminating the Constellation Program, which is the follow on space program replacing the space shuttle. The amendment to the FAA Reauthorization bill introduced by LeMieux reiterates federal law prohibiting NASA from using funds in FY2010 to cancel Constellation contracts. Joining LeMieux in the effort are senators Roger Wicker (R-MS), Richard Shelby (R-AL), Jeff Sessions (R-AL), Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Thad Cochran (R-MS) and Bob Bennett (R-UT).

"NASA is ignoring the will of Congress by taking steps to terminate the Constellation program. This effort sends the clear message that there are no loopholes, exclusions, or other routes the agency can use to kill the program," said LeMieux. "The ultimate determination on the future of the space program rests with Congress, not a budget proposal submitted by the administration."

"The president's proposal to cut funding for the Constellation program would reverse nearly 50 years of U.S. space policy and would effectively end the United State's leadership role in space. His plan cannot be justified as a cost-saving measure, as some have suggested, because it simply transfers spending to other programs rather than cut spending overall," said Senator Sessions (R-AL). "A policy change of this magnitude-determining the future of U.S. manned space flight-should rest with Congress, and not be decided based solely on a budget proposal. This important amendment would block the president's effort to kill Constellation, and would clarify that NASA cannot end the program without Congress, which is accountable to the voters, affirmatively making that decision."

"It is disappointing that Congress must remind NASA to follow the requirements that I included in last year's consolidated appropriations bill, which was passed by Congress and signed into law by President Obama," said Senator Shelby (R-AL). "Changes cannot be made to the Constellation program without enacting a new law. I expect NASA to execute the plan accordingly."

Without Constellation, the United States will be reliant on Russia for any manned space missions. The amendment would also waive Anti-deficiency Act provisions cited by the Administrator as justification for setting aside funding and stalling additional work on Constellation. It also requires a study to review the contracts and prohibits any efforts to cancel contracts necessary for the support of the remaining shuttle flights. ###

Related Files:

• Nasa Amendment - NASA Amendment.pdf (479.5 KBs)

Senator Jon Kyl Republican Weekly Address 04/10/10 VIDEO TEXT TRANSCRIPT

Weekly remarks by Sen. Jon Kyl, as provided by the Republican National Committee

Hello. I’m Senate Republican Whip Jon Kyl of Arizona.

The effects of the ongoing economic slump have been severe and have touched all Americans. Too many people have lost jobs; others are working reduced hours or for lower pay. The latest report shows that unemployment has stubbornly stayed at just below 10 percent. Nearly four million workers have lost their jobs since President Obama took office.

The American people have been telling Washington that promoting job growth must be the first priority. But, for more than a year, Congress and the President have focused instead on a controversial health spending bill which a majority of Americans said they didn’t want.

Recognizing that their $1.2 trillion stimulus has failed and in a frantic, election-year push, Democrats in Congress are labeling every bill they bring up as a ‘jobs’ bill. Most are....
... just more government spending, leading to higher deficits and more debt—and very few jobs.

Republicans have a better plan. We believe the best course is to encourage job creation by private companies. And the way to do that is to limit intrusion by Washington and to keep taxes at a manageable level. The federal government has been growing at an astonishing rate. Just last year, the government borrowed $1.4 trillion! The American economy cannot grow and create good jobs if Washington spending takes more and more resources out of the private economy.

Second, we must not raise taxes. Under current law, unless Congress acts, taxes will rise dramatically on December 31st. Taxes will increase on families with children, on married couples, on income, on capital gains and dividends, and even after death.

It comes to a total of $2 trillion in new taxes over the next 10 years. And that doesn’t include the more than $500 billion in new taxes in the health spending law.

Since most small businesses pay taxes as individuals, the increase in marginal income tax rates will hit job creators hard. Businesses are reluctant to hire because they are unsure about their future tax costs.

Unfortunately, Democrats in Congress have yet to say whether they will prevent this massive tax hike. And, they’ve even proposed new taxes like the cap-and-trade bill.

Republicans believe we need to act now, in a bipartisan way, to head off these tax increases. That would show job creators and families that it’s safe to invest and save.

So, these are two Republican ideas: First, reining in Washington spending. Second, keeping taxes at a manageable level. If we do these two things, private businesses and American families will be able to save, invest, and plan for the future. Together, we can help put Americans back to work. ####

Charles Kong Djou and his values

Charles represents the area from Waikiki to Hawaii Kai on the Honolulu City Council. Before entering the City Council, Charles served in the Hawaii State House where he was the Minority Floor Leader. Charles has spent most of his life in Hawaii. Charles graduated from Punahou School and earned both a B.A. in Political Science and a B.S. in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania, Wharton School of Finance and Commerce, graduating magna cum laude with distinction. Charles earned his law degree from the University of Southern California law school.

Charles Kong Djou family at home

Outside of the City Council, Charles serves as an officer in the U.S. Army Reserve. Charles also practices as an attorney specializing in business law and teaches at the University of Hawaii's William S. Richardson School of Law. Charles is an active member of the community. He has served on the Board of Directors of the American Lung Association and is a former member of the Neighborhood Board.

Charles is a member of the Young Business Roundtable, the Rotary Club, and the Hawaii Telecommunications Association. Charles is also a member of the Hawaii Republican Party, where he previously served as Vice Chair. Charles is married to Stacey Kawasaki Djou and together they have three children. Charles' surname "Djou" is a misspelled French translation of his Chinese surname "Zhou."

Charles' Family
Charles is married to Stacey Kawasaki Djou. Born and raised in Hawaii, Stacey graduated from Kalani High School and the University of Hawaii at Manoa. An attorney, Stacey earned her law degree from the University of Hawaii, William S. Richardson School of Law. Together they raise their three children in Hawaii Kai.

Charles' Name
People often ask from where Charles' last name, Djou, comes. Charles' father was born in Shanghai, China, and raised in Hong Kong. His mother was raised in Bangkok, Thailand. Charles was raised here in Hawaii. Yet, he has this odd, French-sounding, last name.

It started in the 1920's. Charles' grandfather worked for a French engineering firm in Shanghai. His grandfather's French boss, who spoke only French and Chinese, gave him the French name "Dijou" which roughly sounds like Charles' family's Chinese name, "Zhou." In 1948, during the communist revolution in China, Charles' grandfather fled to Hong Kong, which was then a British colony. Upon his arrival, the British asked Charles' grandfather to fill out immigration papers. Rather than write down his Chinese character, Charles' grandfather wrote down "Djou" - not knowing that this was actually French or that it was misspelled. Charles' father took this name to the United States, Charles was born with it and voil�, you have a local Chinese guy with a French sounding last name.

Resume: PUBLIC SERVICE City Councilman, 2003-Present State Representative, 2000-2002
House Minority Floor Leader, 2001-2002 Assistant House Minority Whip, 2000-2001
Small Business Hawaii "Legislator of the Year," 2001 and 2003 Hawaii Republican Party, Vice Chairman, 1998-1999.

MILITARY SERVICE: US Army Reserve, 9th Regional Readiness Command

COMMUNITY SERVICE: American Lung Association of Hawaii Young Business Roundtable
Hawaii Telecommunications Association Chinese Jaycees, 1997-2001

PROFESSION: Attorney, specializing in business law Adjunct Professor, Univ. of Hawaii Law School

EDUCATION: USC Law School, JD Univ. of Pennsylvania, Wharton School of Finance and Commerce, BS & BA Punahou School

PHOTO and TEXT CREDIT: Djou for Hawaii

VIDEO CREDIT: Djou4Hawaii