Issue Position: Job Creation and the Economy

Issue Position

As a small business owner, I understand what American job creators need: less interference and lower taxes. Over regulation has forced the private sector to divert resources toward dealing with excessive government intrusion instead of investing in their business and hiring more employees. At the same time, excessive taxes have stripped down the resources businesses need to pay their current employees. This double-edged sword cuts at the very heart of American prosperity.
It is not the government's responsibility to create jobs. It is, however, the government's responsibility to create a suitable environment for the private sector to succeed. In today's America, this means that the federal government needs to loosen the shackles it has placed on businesses by lowering taxes and eliminating the regulatory barriers that are obstacles to entrepreneurs everywhere.
Tax reform can also play a significant role in fostering private sector growth. I am a strong advocate of a flat tax. When the government overtaxes our capital, they also drain our spirit. I want to protect the American spirit from a runaway bureaucracy and I believe that a flat tax is one of the best means of doing so.
America is on the verge of having a private sector energy revolution. We need to have an energy policy that makes sure an American energy boom leads to an energy revolution. This starts by ending the political games and building the Keystone XL Pipeline. Next it requires reforming the regulatory structure that allows for innovation while maintaining clear air and clear water.
The House has led the charge in creating an "all of the above" energy policy that includes development of natural gas, hydro electric, coal, solar, and wind resources. I support the development of domestic resources because it increases energy security and will lead to the creation of tens of thousands of jobs across the nation including good-paying jobs right here in West Michigan.

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