Issue Position: Federal Employees

Issue Position

I am proud to represent the tens of thousands of federal employees and retirees who live in Virginia's First District. These hardworking patriots serve our nation on a daily basis, whether it be keeping our skies safe for travelers with the FAA or supporting our troops on the front lines of the war on terror with the CIA. The federal workforce is full of dedicated and committed citizens who exemplify patriotism in everything they do. I believe it is important to support legislative measures that adequately address the specific needs of our hard-working federal employees and retirees. I do not believe that current retirees should see any changes to the retirement benefits that they have earned.

Federal government employees are increasingly being singled out during deficit reduction efforts, despite the fact that they have been under a pay freeze since January 1, 2011. Congress charges these individuals with important duties and expects these duties to be performed with the highest caliber of expertise -- but rather than being recognized for their service, these public servants see their salary and benefits continually used as a pawn in the game of politics. I have opposed these efforts because I believe that as we continue to ask our federal civilian workforce to do more with less, we should be standing with them during these challenging times.

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