Gov. McDonnell congratulates Majority Leader Eric Cantor

~Cantor is First Majority Leader from Virginia~

RICHMOND- Governor Bob McDonnell issued the following statement congratulating Congressman Eric Cantor (VA-7th) on being sworn in as the first Majority Leader from Virginia.

“Congratulations to my good friend, and long-time colleague, Majority Leader Cantor, on this historic day as he is sworn in as the first majority leader from the Commonwealth.

Having served with Eric for nearly a decade in the General Assembly, I can personally attest to his ability to lead and do what’s best for our country. Over the years, Eric has been a champion for the free market, keeping taxes and regulations low, and ensuring his constituents remain safe and secure.

I have no doubt that he will tackle the tough issues that face our country head on so that we all may leave our children and grandchildren with a better Virginia, and America, than we inherited. I speak for all of the citizens of the Commonwealth as I congratulate the Gentleman from Virginia, the new Majority Leader, Eric Cantor.”

Congratulations to Majority Leader Cantor and the Republican Congressional delegation ... Rep. Bob McDonnell, Rep. Morgan Griffith, Rep. Robert Hurt, Rep. Scott Rigell, Rep. Rob Wittman, Rep. Randy Forbes, and Rep. Frank Wolf.

A fiscally responsible budget

By Congressman Bob Goodlatte
R-VA 6th District

This week House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer announced that, in fact, the House Democrats will not produce a federal budget resolution for fiscal year 2011. This marks the first time since the passage of the Budget Act of 1974 that the House of Representatives has failed to pass an initial budget, setting the spending priorities for the following fiscal year. What does this mean for American taxpayers? Since it is the budget at the beginning of the year that sets the limits for federal spending, Americans can expect to see even more out-of-control spending coming from Washington.

As Congress continues to spend at a near-record pace, the federal government has amassed $935 billion in deficit spending (amount that government spending exceeds the revenues coming in) in the first months of the current fiscal year with the annual deficit approaching last year’s record $1.4 trillion. These figures are staggering but with no budget resolution to force Congress to make the tough but necessary choices the spending spree will continue.

In stark contrast to the Democrats’ out-of-control government spending, I am pleased to support a fiscally responsible budget resolution which reflects Washington’s need to make tough decisions about spending priorities, cut wasteful programs, and respect taxpayers’ wallets. This alternative budget resolution, which was offered by members of the Republican Study Committee (RSC), balances the federal budget and achieves a surplus by 2019. The RSC budget proposes $6.4 trillion less debt than President Obama’s budget.

This alternative budget targets wasteful spending by requiring each committee to find savings equal to one percent of total mandatory spending under its jurisdiction. Additionally, the RSC budget resolution repeals the failed Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) which was the program designed to bailout financial institutions. By repealing the program it would save American taxpayers $36 billion. The RSC budget repeals the expensive government takeover of our health care system which recently became law and replaces it with important measures to reduce health care costs like medical liability reform and the freedom to purchase healthcare across state lines. It includes additional measures aimed at cutting unnecessary spending such as ending the taxpayer funding of presidential campaigns, reforming food stamp spending and selling a small percentage of federal assets.

As elected officials and stewards of the taxpayer’s money, we have a responsibility to put together a sustainable budget and stick to it without increasing the tax burden. I have consistently supported measures to rein in the federal budget and curb spending by voting for the tightest budgets and spending bills possible. Again this year I am a strong supporter of the RSC budget resolution which will set us on the path to balancing our federal budget and restoring fiscal responsibility to Washington.

To contact me about this or any other matter, please visit my website at www.goodlatte.house.gov.

Congress needs a budget

By Rep. Bob Goodlatte (R-VA)

Traditionally, Congress is expected to agree on a budget for the upcoming fiscal year by April 15th. It is this budget process at the beginning of each year where the decision is made regarding total federal spending for the year. It is the budget that sets the stage for how fiscally responsible government spending will be. Since the passage of the Budget Act of 1974, the House of Representatives has never failed to pass an initial budget to set the spending priorities for the following fiscal year. However, we are now a month past the deadline and Speaker Pelosi and the Democratic Leadership are showing no signs of complying with the law and coming forward with a budget for fiscal year 2011.

Families and small businesses all across our nation understand what it means to make tough decisions each day about what they can and cannot afford. They understand the importance of creating and living by a budget. Unfortunately, instead of making the tough choices necessary to reduce spending, the Majority in Congress has decided to forgo a budget altogether. Just four years ago the same leaders who are now shirking their responsibility and choosing to move forward without a budget were very clear on how important the budget process is to the operation of the federal government. In 2006, Congressman Steny Hoyer, who is now the House Majority Leader, was quoted as saying enacting a budget was “the most basic responsibility of governing” and Congressman John Spratt, who is now the Chairman of the House Budget Committee, said “if you can’t budget, you can’t govern.”

Without the passage of a federal budget the reckless spending that has run rampant in Congress will only continue. We have already seen the passage, without my support, of the so-called “economic stimulus” legislation which was supposed to put Americans back to work. Not only did the stimulus legislation fail to create jobs but it is now estimated to be costing American taxpayers over $1 trillion including interest.

Not only should Congress produce a budget but, I am a strong supporter of several measures that promote the establishment of a balanced budget and the elimination of wasteful government programs, including a Constitutional amendment that I introduced which requires the federal government to balance its budget. Congress must steadfastly hold the line on government spending which is why I have consistently voted for the tightest budgets offered each year.

As elected officials and stewards of the taxpayer’s money, we have a responsibility to put together a sustainable budget and stick to it. The Congress must continue to work to rein in spending and put to practice a spending approach that many Americans already live by: if you don’t have it, don’t spend it.

To contact me about this or any other matter, please visit my website at www.goodlatte.house.gov.

House economic recovery working group launches YouCut

From Rep. Bob Goodlatte (R-VA)

It is no secret that the American people are facing a very tough economic climate. Families and small businesses are cutting back on expenses. As economic uncertainty continues, many across our nation are looking to the government for leadership during this difficult time.

In these challenging economic times it is even more important for government to control spending. The federal government must work to both eliminate every cent of waste and squeeze every cent of value out of each dollar our citizens entrust to it. With families and small businesses all across our nation making tough decisions each day about what they can and cannot afford Congress should not be allowed to ignore these tough decisions when creating spending policies for the federal government.

Today I joined with House Republican Whip Eric Cantor and other members of the Republican Economic Recovery Working Group in launching a one-of-its-kind initative, YouCut, a project designed to reverse the culture of spending in Washington to a culture of savings. Beginning today, people from Virginia’s 6th Congressional District and around the country can vote -- both online and on their cell phone -- on spending cuts they would like to see the House of Representatives enact.

House Republicans will then offer an up-or-down vote on the spending cut that receives the most public support. The people of my district will have direct input on what they feel is the best way for the government to save money, each and every week. I urge everyone to log on to the YouCut website and vote today!

TODAY: Bob Goodlatte's Job Fair in Harrisonburg

Jobs and the economy seem to be on the minds of everyone these days. Nowhere is that more evident than in the Shenandoah Valley where businesses have been hit hard the past several years with numerous layoffs and closings.

Today, just one week before seniors graduate from James Madison University, Congressman Bob Goodlatte (R-6th CD), who represents western Virginia from Winchester to Roanoke, will hold a Job Fair at the JMU Convocation Center in Harrisonburg. Representatives from local businesses, corporations, and federal agencies will be available to speak with those who attend.

The timing may be just right for a Job Fair.

While many graduates search online for jobs, it is more important than ever to use every available resource while looking for employment, according to Mike Helsen, vice president of student services at Baker College's Muskegon campus. He suggested, "Make direct contact with an employer, use family and friends and people you meet to develop leads."

Fox Business reported that 2010 college graduates will still face a highly competitive job market but with a slightly improved chance of employment and higher wages.

Looking to bring more jobs to Virginia, Congressman Goodlatte believes in helping small businesses expand so they can hire more workers. Eliminiation of the capital gains tax could encourage firms to hire and retain workers, and keeping taxes low could encourage families to invest and save. Unemployment benefits should not be taxed, in his opinion, because that money could be used to pay the rent and put food on the table.

In addition, Congressman Goodlatte would like to see federal spending reined in and the budget balanced, and he has introduced bipartisan legislation that would amend the United States Constitution, forcing Congress to cut spending and balance the budget.

Similar job fairs have been held in other parts of the Commonwealth by Congressman Eric Cantor (R-7th CD) and U.S. Senator Mark Warner (D).

Many local businesses will be represented next week including Massanutten, Wintergreen, and Bryce ski resorts, The Homestead Resort, James Madison University, Eastern Mennonite University, Rockingham Memorial Hospital, Wal-Mart Distribution Center, and RR Donnelly. All participating companies can be found at the website which will be updated as additional companies sign on.

The Job Fair is free and open to the public and will be held Friday, April 30, from 9:00 am until 4:00 pm, at the James Madison Convocation Center on University Boulevard in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Contact Congressman Goodlatte's Harrisonburg office for more details at (540) 432-2391.

Congressman Bob Goodlatte's April Job Fair

Jobs and the economy seem to be on the minds of everyone these days. Nowhere is that more evident than in the Shenandoah Valley where businesses have been hit hard the past several years with numerous layoffs and closings.

On April 30, just one week before seniors graduate from James Madison University, Congressman Bob Goodlatte (R-6th CD), who represents western Virginia from Winchester to Roanoke, will hold a Job Fair at the JMU Convocation Center in Harrisonburg. Representatives from local businesses, corporations, and federal agencies will be available to speak with those who attend.

The timing may be just right for a Job Fair.

While many graduates search online for jobs, it is more important than ever to use every available resource while looking for employment, according to Mike Helsen, vice president of student services at Baker College's Muskegon campus. He suggested, "Make direct contact with an employer, use family and friends and people you meet to develop leads."

Fox Business reported that 2010 college graduates will still face a highly competitive job market but with a slightly improved chance of employment and higher wages.

Looking to bring more jobs to Virginia, Congressman Goodlatte believes in helping small businesses expand so they can hire more workers. Eliminiation of the capital gains tax could encourage firms to hire and retain workers, and keeping taxes low could encourage families to invest and save. Unemployment benefits should not be taxed, in his opinion, because that money could be used to pay the rent and put food on the table.

In addition, Congressman Goodlatte would like to see federal spending reined in and the budget balanced, and he has introduced bipartisan legislation that would amend the United States Constitution, forcing Congress to cut spending and balance the budget.

Similar job fairs have been held in other parts of the Commonwealth by Congressman Eric Cantor (R-7th CD) and U.S. Senator Mark Warner (D).

Many local businesses will be represented next week including Massanutten, Wintergreen, and Bryce ski resorts, The Homestead Resort, James Madison University, Eastern Mennonite University, Rockingham Memorial Hospital, Wal-Mart Distribution Center, and RR Donnelly. All participating companies can be found at the website which will be updated as additional companies sign on.

The Job Fair is free and open to the public and will be held Friday, April 30, from 9:00 am until 4:00 pm, at the James Madison Convocation Center on University Boulevard in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Contact Congressman Goodlatte's Harrisonburg office for more details at (540) 432-2391.

Bob Goodlatte recognized as friend of taxpayers

Press Release: GOODLATTE AWARDED TAXPAYERS’ FRIEND AWARD FROM NATIONAL TAXPAYERS UNION

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Bob Goodlatte was awarded the Taxpayers’ Friend Award from the National Taxpayers Union (NTU), for his outstanding pro-taxpayer voting record last year. NTU, which has 362,000 members, is a nonpartisan citizen group.

“I am honored to receive the “Taxpayers’ Friend” award from the National Taxpayers Union, and to be part of the solution to fighting government waste,” stated Goodlatte. “Cutting wasteful government spending, voting for lower taxes, and fighting to reduce the bloated bureaucracy in Washington have been my top priorities since arriving in Congress.”

The award is given to Representatives and Senators who achieve an “A” grade in NTU’s annual Rating of Congress. The Rating, which is based on every roll call vote affecting fiscal policy, assigns a “Taxpayer Score” to each Member of Congress that indicates his or her support for reducing or controlling federal spending, taxes, debt, and regulation. For 2009, a total of 333 House and 227 Senate votes were selected.

“Given today’s economic climate, fiscal discipline is more important now than ever,” NTU President Duane Parde said. “Fortunately, taxpayers have a staunch ally in Rep. Bob Goodlatte, to whom National Taxpayers Union is proud to present a ‘Taxpayers’ Friend Award.’”

Mr. Parde continued, “Congressman Goodlatte’s pro-taxpayer score of 90 percent was one of the best in the entire Congress. By voting time and again to reduce federal spending, taxes, and debt, Bob has led by example in the fight to defend overburdened taxpayers across the country.”

In 2009, 55 lawmakers attained scores sufficient to win the “Taxpayers’ Friend Award” (earning at least 90 percent in the House or Senate). Congressman Goodlatte was the only Member from Virginia to earn an “A” rating.

Accessing energy and creating jobs for Virginians

By Congressman Bob Goodlatte

For many years the Commonwealth of Virginia has seriously been considering the potential positive impact that oil and gas exploration off Virginia’s coast would have on our state. Just two years ago, it seemed that Virginia would be able to take this first step toward energy independence, when Congress removed the hurdles that had previously blocked access to the energy resources located on the Outer Continental Shelf, also known as the OCS. However, since that point, Virginia has been confronted with a series of regulatory road blocks despite the strong support for a VA lease sale to begin OCS development by the Virginia Congressional Delegation, the Governor, the Virginia General Assembly, and the citizens of Virginia.

For this reason, I recently introduced legislation, with the support of a bipartisan group of Members of Congress from Virginia, that requires the Department of Interior, at the request of Virginia’s governor, to proceed with the Virginia lease sale no later than one year after passage of this legislation. My legislation, the ‘Virginia Access to Energy Act’ will remove any regulatory hurdles that may impede development and create a path for Virginia to become ‘the Energy Capital of the East Coast.’

In addition to setting Virginia on the path to energy independence, passage of my legislation and development of VA’s OCS will significantly boost the economy of the Commonwealth of Virginia. In fact, some estimates have shown that development of Virginia’s OCS will create over 2,500 full-time equivalent positions on an annual basis, induce capital investment of $7.8 billion, yield nearly $645 million in direct and indirect payroll, and result in over $270 million in state and local taxes.

While exploration activities alone will infuse the Virginia economy with a significant amount of new capital, this legislation will also authorize any qualified revenues generated by the lease sales to be shared between the federal government and the Commonwealth of Virginia for such things as federal deficit reduction, and various state projects including education, transportation, tax reductions, coastal and environmental restoration, energy infrastructure and projects, alternative energy development, and energy efficiency and conservation.

Virginians understand that a major component in lessening energy costs is to produce more energy. My legislation, the Virginia Access to Energy Act, is an important component to any long-term strategy to reduce our dangerous dependence on foreign oil. Most importantly the legislation ensures that Virginia has every tool available to access its energy supplies, while at the same time creating thousands of jobs for Virginians and infusing the Commonwealth with new capital growth.

To contact me about this or any other matter, please visit my website at www.goodlatte.house.gov.

Bob Goodlatte ... what does $1 trillion look like?

Congressman Bob Goodlatte talks with Christy Huffman at Shenandoah County GOP dinner.

Congressman Bob Goodlatte (R-6th CD, VA) addressed those who attended Friday night's Shenandoah County Republican dinner. The 9-term representative was part of the Republican fight to prevent ObamaCare from passing but Democrats pushed it through on a partisan vote.

Even now, he said, 62% of Americans want Congressional Republicans to continue fighting the health care reform bill with a rally cry of, "Repeal and Replace."

While talking recently with a group of high school students, the subject of the health care reform bill and its costs came up ... and those students realized they were the ones on whose shoulder the huge debt would fall ... and the shoulders of their children.

I'm a visual learner so I loved the example the Congressman gave to help students visualize what $1 trillion looks likes. After all, most people will never see anything near that amount of money.

Imagine, he told the students, that you had a 4-inch stack of $1,000 bills and that was $1 million. Four inches high ... how high would the stack be to have $1 trillion? After all, $1 trillion was what it cost for the stimulus package that was passed by Democrats in 2009, the bill that was supposed to save and/or create 2 1/2 million jobs but has instead lost 3 million jobs.

How high a stack would it be for $1 trillion? The stack would be 63 MILES high ... right up into outer space!

That is quite a visual.

Photo by SWAC Girl
Lynn Mitchell
26 March 2010

Shenandoah County GOP dinner ... more guests at the Yellow Barn

Jon Comer, Wade Zirkle, Suzanne Curran

Daryl and Tara Bowman

Christy Huffman and Suzanne Curran

Tara Bowman with her mom, Peggy Huffman.

Del. Todd Gilbert talks with constituents after dinner.

Congressman Bob Goodlatte talks with constituents after dinner.

Trixie Averill, running for 6th District Chairman, during dinner.

Trixie Averill and Todd Gilbert.

Photos by SWAC Girl
Lynn Mitchell
25 March 2010

Shenandoah County GOP Dinner ... Congressman Bob Goodlatte

Congressman Bob Goodlatte addressed the Shenandoah County Republicans and guests Friday night from the Yellow Barn in Mt. Jackson. Seated at the table were Lt. Gov. and Mrs. Bill Bolling.

The Congressman talked with constituents after dinner.





Bob Goodlatte and Christy Huffman. Christy interned in his Washington office while in college.

Photos by SWAC Girl
Lynn Mitchell
26 March 2010

Bob Goodlatte voted "no" on health care bill

Statement from the office of Congressman Bob Goodlatte (R-VA)....

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Bob Goodlatte tonight voted against H.R. 3590, the Senate-passed health care takeover. Congressman Bob Goodlatte issued the following statement in response to passage of this misguided bill:

“For nearly a year now the American people have rejected the Democrats’ health care proposals. They have sent letters and e-mails, made phone calls, attended town hall meetings and come to Washington to rally at the Capitol. Their message has been simple and consistent: We don’t want a government takeover of our health care system.

"With complete and total disregard for the will of the American people, House Democrats pushed through their health care legislation, which is defined by federal regulations, mandates, a myriad of new big government programs, and a significant increase in federal spending and debt at a cost to our country too high to bear. This legislation, which I voted against, gives Washington bureaucrats ultimate control over what is best for you and your family – deciding when and what treatment you can receive.

"I know Americans are frustrated by rising health care costs, and that is why we in Congress must work in a bipartisan way to cut health insurance costs and make health care better, more available, and more affordable for all Americans. Unfortunately, the only thing bipartisan about the health care bill that passed the House tonight is the strong bipartisan opposition to the bill. It raises taxes, raises health care costs, adds to our national debt, and hurts America’s seniors, families and small businesses.

"Specifically, the Democrats’ health care bill includes $569 billion in new taxes and over a trillion dollars in new government spending. This includes $52 billion in new taxes on employers, including small businesses, that cannot afford to provide health coverage or that don’t offer coverage. The effect of this type of tax, similar to a payroll tax increase, would ultimately fall squarely on workers in the form of lower wages or reduced employment. Additionally, the legislation includes $17 billion in new taxes on Americans who do not comply with the individual insurance mandate which is sure to further stifle economic growth.

"Additionally, the Democrats’ health care bill includes $523 billion in Medicare cuts, including $200 billion in cuts to the popular Medicare Advantage program which will hurt millions of seniors.

"It’s your job to make health care decisions for your family. The government’s job is to ensure you have access to affordable alternatives and then get out of the way. That is why I strongly support the Republican alternative that would empower patients with choices, make high quality coverage more affordable, and protect and preserve the doctor-patient relationship.

Unlike the Democrats’ plan, the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office has confirmed that the plan offered by House Republicans will lower premiums by up to 10 percent and reduce the deficit by $68 billion over 10 years, all without imposing tax increases on families and small businesses and while improving the quality of your health care. It allows for the purchase of health insurance across state lines, allows individuals and small businesses to join large pools to get more competitive rates, provides tort reform to cut down the high cost of defensive medicine, allows full tax deductibility of health insurance premiums, portability of health insurance and protection against pre-existing condition exclusions.

This legislation, that I support, focuses on strategies that help Americans obtain the best quality health care at the least cost, and ensures that the government fosters increased access to quality care based on individual choice, not by taking away choices from people on the grounds that government knows best.”

H.R. 3590, the Senate-passed health care legislation, passed the House of Representatives on Sunday, March 21, 2010, by a vote of 219-212.

The Wrong Prescription for Economic Growth

By Congressman Bob Goodlatte
R - 6th Congressional District

Nearly two months ago President Obama stood before the Members of the House of Representatives, the Senate, the Supreme Court Justices, his own Cabinet Members and millions of Americans who were watching on television to deliver his first State of the Union address. In that speech he declared that as economic uncertainty continues to plague our nation the government must focus on policies that promote economic growth and job creation. My how things have changed in just two short months.

Congress should be working to reduce the tax and regulatory burdens that hinder small businesses and ultimately overall economic growth and job creation. Instead, over the loud objections of a majority of Americans, the Democrats in Congress continue to advance their health care reform proposal which sets the tone for a Washington takeover of the health care system. This legislation which contains a multitude of new federal regulations, mandates, new big government programs, and a significant increase in federal spending and debt, will be extremely detrimental to American businesses and particularly our small businesses, which will make job losses even worse.

As I write this the legislation the Majority is pushing includes over $569 billion in tax increases and over $523 billion in Medicare cuts. This includes $52 billion in new taxes on employers, including small businesses, that cannot afford to provide health coverage or that don’t offer coverage. The effect of this type of tax, similar to a payroll tax increase, would ultimately fall squarely on workers in the form of lower wages or reduced employment. Additionally, the legislation includes $17 billion in new taxes on Americans who do not comply with the individual insurance mandate which is sure to further stifle economic growth.

In fact, 130 economists from all across the country sent President Obama a letter explaining how this legislation is a job-killer. In their letter, the economists stated that the insurance mandate and the tax increases, among other things, will “constrict economic growth and reduce employment” while “increasing spending on health care and increasing the cost of health coverage.”

It’s your job to make health care decisions for your family. The government’s job is to ensure you have access to affordable alternatives and then get out of the way. That is why I strongly support an alternative proposal which allows for the purchase of health insurance across state lines, allows individuals and small businesses to join large pools to get more competitive rates, provides tort reform to cut down the high cost of defensive medicine, allows full tax deductibility of health insurance premiums, portability of health insurance and protection against pre-existing condition exclusions. In addition, I support health insurance tax credits for individuals and families who don’t have access to employer-based health insurance, increasing the number of community health centers, and encouraging the use of health information technology to achieve greater efficiencies.

Congress should not be pushing a government takeover of health care that will inflict even more harm on our nation’s economy, making job losses even worse. Instead Congress must focus on strategies that help Americans obtain the best quality health care at the least cost, and ensure that the government fosters increased access to quality care based on individual choice, not by taking away choices from people on the grounds that government knows best.

Balancing the Federal Budget

By Congressman Bob Goodlatte
(R-VA) - 6th Congressional District

It is no secret that the American people are facing a very tough economic climate. Families and small businesses are cutting back on expenses. As economic uncertainty continues, many across our nation are looking to the government for leadership during this difficult time. In these challenging economic times it is even more important for government to control spending. The federal government must work to both eliminate every cent of waste and squeeze every cent of value out of each dollar our citizens entrust to it. When you are preparing a budget for your family, you know that you can’t spend more than you take in. It’s a simple concept but one that Congress has failed to adhere to for far too long. We must balance the budget and reduce the deficit and the debt – not by raising taxes, but by being good stewards of taxpayer money.

Because it has become clear that neither party can exercise the self control necessary to rein in excessive spending, I have introduced a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution, H.J. Res 1, to force Congress to do so. My legislation, which has the support of 175 bipartisan Members of the House, ensures that the federal government is held accountable and that the money our citizens work so hard to earn is not squandered on wasteful spending and programs.

My balanced budget amendment, which is identical to the legislation that passed the House in 1995 by a vote of 300-132 and fell just two votes short of passage in the Senate, forces Congress to enact fiscally responsible spending measures and reduce the deficit by requiring that total spending for any fiscal year not exceed total receipts. The legislation also includes a specific exception to the balanced budget provisions in times of war or other national emergencies.

This week I was pleased to join with Congressmen Mike Coffman, a Republican from Colorado and Jim Marshall, a Democrat from Georgia, in launching a new Congressional caucus aimed at adding support for a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution. The bipartisan caucus will be dedicated to achieving passage of H.J. Res. 1, and to educating Members of Congress on the necessity and importance of the proposed amendment to the Constitution.

As our nation faces many difficult decisions, Congress will face great pressure to spend beyond its means rather than making difficult decisions about spending priorities. My balanced budget amendment ensures that Congress and the President are held accountable to the American taxpayers. Unless Congress is forced to make the decisions necessary to create a balanced budget, it will always have the all-too-tempting option of shirking this responsibility. Americans are desperate for fiscal reform and the Balanced Budget Constitutional Amendment is a common sense approach to ensure that Congress is bound by the same fiscal principles that America’s families face each day.

To contact me about this or any or matter, please visit my website at www.goodlatte.house.gov.

Health care reform summit ... was anything accomplished?

The health care reform summit held Thursday in Washington made the news ... but many are asking if anything was accomplished.

From Virginia Rep. Bob Goodlatte (R-6th CD):

“Today President Barack Obama sat down with a bipartisan group of House and Senate Members to discuss health care reform. I am encouraged by this meeting and hope that this signals a true turning point in the health care discussion. The American people have repeatedly called on Washington to scrap these massive health care bills in favor of a more modest approach. I have held town hall meetings, telephone town hall meetings, and I’ve received thousands of letters, phone calls and e-mails from folks all across the Sixth Congressional District and the message is simple: Washington must push the reset button on health care reform.

While American families want health care reform that will expand access and choices and decrease costs, the proposals before Congress include tax increases, Medicare cuts, job-killing mandates, and higher premiums. This latest health care bill is nothing more than the same government-run insurance, mandates and taxes the American people have overwhelmingly rejected.

Instead we must focus on strategies that help Americans obtain the best quality health care at the least cost, and ensure that the government fosters increased access to quality care based on individual choice, not by taking away choices from people on the grounds that government knows best.

My constituents have told me they overwhelmingly support proposals which allows for the purchase of health insurance across state lines, allows individuals and small businesses to join large pools to get more competitive rates, provides tort reform to cut down the high cost of defensive medicine, allows full tax deductibility of health insurance premiums, provides portability of health insurance and protection against pre-existing condition exclusions. I agree and in addition, I support health insurance tax credits for individuals and families who don’t have access to employer-based health insurance, a prohibition on pre-existing condition clauses, increasing the number of community health centers, and encouraging the use of health information technology to achieve greater efficiencies.

Our nation’s health care system needs reform. Now is the time for action. It is my hope that this Health Care Reform Summit will launch a true bipartisan health care debate. I look forward to working with others in Congress to advance the principles that we can all agree on and enacting legislation that makes health care more affordable and more accessible for all Americans.”

War against al Qaeda requires vigilance, not complacency

By Rep. Bob Goodlatte
Virginia's 6th Congressional District

On Christmas Day, Umar Abdulmutallab boarded Northwest Flight 253 bound for Detroit and just before landing, attempted to blow up the plane and the 278 passengers aboard. Thanks only to the malfunction of an explosive device and the quick thinking of civilian passengers and crew who subdued him, did this latest act of terrorism not tragically result in a massive loss of life.
By all accounts, the fact that Abdulmutallab, a Nigerian with known ties to terrorism and of known risk to the United States, was able to board a plane with explosives is a gross failure of our homeland security operation and is both alarming and unacceptable.

The attempted bombing on Christmas Day should not be viewed as an isolated event. Rather, it is the latest in a series of recent terrorist events including the Ft. Hood attack perpetrated by a radicalized commissioned officer in the United States Army, killing 14 and wounding 43, and the detention of five Afghan-American and Pakistan-American college students in Pakistan. These alleged terrorists, whether affiliated with al Qaeda in Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan or Yemen, where Abdulmutallab was radicalized, have a united purpose – to kill Americans and bring fear and harm to our country.

The handling of these recent terrorist events by the Obama Administration demonstrates an alarming lack of understanding of the nature of the threat confronting our nation. President Obama and his advisors have gone to great lengths to distance themselves from the war on terror. They have even eliminated the use of that phrase as well as referred to terrorism as “man-caused disaster.” They have threatened CIA interrogators with prosecution, granted Khalid Sheik Mohammed, the mastermind behind the 9/11 terrorist attacks, a civilian trial in the city he terrorized and then apologized to the rest of the world on behalf of the United States for not adequately protecting the rights of terrorists. Against strong public opinion and sound advice they are proceeding with their plans to close the facility at Guantanamo and bring about 200 terrorists into our country.

Most recent is the Administration’s decision to indict Abdulmutallab on criminal charges rather than labeling him an enemy combatant, detaining him indefinitely, and interrogating him in an effort to obtain information that might prevent the next terror attempt, all of which the Supreme Court has ruled is perfectly legal. However, the Administration prefers to prosecute Abdulmutallab within the criminal justice system where the only leverage to get him to disclose information that could save lives is to plea bargain, offer him a lesser sentence or some other legal deal even though he attempted to kill hundreds of innocent Americans!

Rather than handling these events as simple law enforcement matters, the Administration should call them what they are – terrorism – and treat them as such by taking the actions necessary to ensure the safety of Americans and our homeland. We must not become complacent. We should remain ever vigilant in seeking out and stopping those engaged in a war of terror.

Wishing You a Happy Holiday Season

By Rep. Bob Goodlatte (R-VA)

This is a blessed season marked by the company of family and friends, a child-like anticipation of presents under the tree, and perhaps even the hope of a midnight snowfall. It is a season rooted in traditions and celebrations of all kinds.

The holidays can seem so hectic and can quickly pass us by as we rush from task to task attempting to pack in so much in a short amount of time. This year, more so than in years past, families are trying to plan their holiday festivities on much stricter budgets. In the hustle and bustle of completing holiday tasks and the added stress over tighter budgets the true meaning of Christmas can easily be overlooked or forgotten.

However, this time of year is not about what you can or cannot buy in the store, but about the love that you share with your family and friends. We should remember the holiday season represents a time of peace and goodwill to all. Our 30th President, Calvin Coolidge, said it well “Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas.” Now more than ever, we need to share this spirit of Christmas with our fellow citizens, our neighbors who are struggling during these tough economic times. And we must also try to find a way to capture this state of mind all year, long after the Christmas tree has come down, and continue to cherish peace and goodwill and be plenteous in our mercy toward others.

As we spend the next week sharing the Holiday Season with our families and friends, we should reflect on the great blessings that God has bestowed upon our nation, and give thanks to our Creator for the blessings of our loved ones. We should also pause to remember the sacrifices of all of those who make this nation a better place to live - especially those brave men and women who are on the front lines in faraway lands, defending our freedoms. This Christmas, as we celebrate the birth of the Prince of Peace, let's make a point of remembering those who dedicate their lives to keeping the peace for all of us.

I hope this season fills you with joy, and I hope you will stay in touch with me as we celebrate the holidays and head in to the New Year. You can always be in contact with me by visiting my website at www.goodlatte.house.gov.

From my family to yours, I wish you a blessed Holiday Season, a very Merry Christmas and a New Year filled with Peace and Goodwill.

Rep. Goodlatte (R-6th CD) townhall meetings

Today Congressman Bob Goodlatte announced that he will be holding town hall meetings across the 6th Congressional District of Virginia. Congressman Goodlatte will be seeking opinions and suggestions from constituents on health care reform and other key issues facing the 111th Congress.

These upcoming town hall meetings are in addition to the latest round of telephone town hall meetings that Congressman Goodlatte began on Tuesday, August 18th. The telephone town hall meetings allow thousands of 6th District constituents to speak directly with Congressman Goodlatte without having to leave their homes. For individuals interested in taking part in the telephone town hall meetings you can sign-up on Congressman Goodlatte’s website.

“I feel it is important to keep an open line of communication so I can best serve the interests of the 6th Congressional District,” said Congressman Goodlatte. “I look forward to hearing from the folks of the 6th District either through my telephone town hall meetings or in person at my upcoming town hall meetings which will be held throughout the 6th District.”

For constituents interested in attending one of Congressman Goodlatte’s town hall meetings, they will be held at the following times and locations:

Roanoke Valley
Thursday, September 3rd
7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Hidden Valley High School
5000 Titan Trail
Roanoke

Shenandoah Valley
Saturday, September 5th
10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Turner Ashby High School Auditorium
800 North Main Street
Bridgewater

Lynchburg/Central Virginia
Further details to be announced soon

Staunton's 4th of July parade ... Congressman Bob Goodlatte

Congressman Bob Goodlatte & Mary Ellen Goodlatte
Staunton 4th of July Parade
July 4, 2009

Goodlatte supports freezing government spending

Press release from Congressman Bob Goodlatte's office....

Washington, DC – Today Congressman Bob Goodlatte voted in support of the motion to recommit which would freeze federal government discretionary spending at its current level. During debate on a Continuing Resolution (CR) to fund the government through early next week when it is expected that Democrats in Congress will push through a $410 billion omnibus spending bill, Rep. Goodlatte voted in support of the Republican alternative which would fund the government at current levels for the rest of the fiscal year.

In these challenging economic times it is even more important for government to control spending. The federal government must work to both eliminate every cent of waste and squeeze every cent of value out of each dollar our citizens entrust to it. American families and small businesses across this country are making sacrifices and cutting expenses and it is time the federal government did the same.

“The government has been operating under last year’s funding levels for nearly six months now, since the beginning of the fiscal year on October 1, 2008,” said Rep. Goodlatte. “Freezing discretionary spending at these levels for the rest of the fiscal year is the most appropriate way to move forward and an important piece to putting Washington’s fiscal house in order.”

The bloated omnibus spending bill, which already passed the House without Congressman Goodlatte’s support, is expected to pass the Senate next week and will fund the government through September 30, 2009. This legislation represents the largest increase in nonemergency federal spending since the 1970s. It includes an 8.7% increase in federal government spending which translates into a $30 billion increase over last year’s spending level.

Goodlatte continued, “More pork barrel spending is not what we need to get our economy back on track. The American taxpayer should not be forced to shoulder the burden of more wasteful government spending. Instead Congress must be willing to make the necessary and hard choices to bring fiscal responsibility to Washington. That’s why I strongly support freezing federal government discretionary spending at their current levels. Upholding the principles of fiscal responsibility and ensuring that the hard-earned dollars of taxpayers are spent responsibly are the only ways to strengthen our workforce, grow our economy and keep America competitive.”

Cross-posted at SixtyFour81.com