Issue Position: Local Economy and Business

Issue Position

Several years after our country was thrust into the worst economic crisis in generation, the outlook in Washington State and many areas throughout the United States is gradually improving. Congress responded to the crisis with multiple initiatives to prevent a much deeper economic disaster, but we are not out of the woods yet. There is still much work to do to create good jobs, lower the employment rate, and create the conditions that encourage Washington State businesses to grow.

Government cannot create the spark of ingenuity for a new product nor the drive to turn a good idea into a flourishing business venture. However, it is critical that government create an environment that encourages new enterprises to be launched and the conditions for businesses of all sizes to succeed.

It is essential that government work to support the education of a world-class workforce for the challenges of today and opportunities of tomorrow, reward innovation, get our deficit under control, and improve our aging infrastructure to meet the needs of the modern economy. We must set the stage for successful entrepreneurship and growth today and in the future.

Congress also has a responsibility to address our fiscal issues in a balanced and effective way that strengthens the fundamentals of our economy. We need to take steps to address our long-term budget challenges while making the smart investments in the future that workers and industry need.

There is a tremendous amount of work to be done to implement sound, forward-thinking policies focused on job creation, growing the economy, supporting businesses, and strengthening the middle class. Policy and business leaders must work together to advance the competitiveness of U.S. products, spur innovation, and provide global leadership now and into the future.

I am committed to working with my colleagues to advance a common-sense, pro-growth policy agenda to move our country in the right direction.

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