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Madeleine Dean's Issue Positions (Political Courage Test)

Office:

On The Ballot: Running, Democratic for U.S. House (PA) - District 4

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Issue Positions

For Presidential and Congressional candidates who refuse to provide voters with their positions, Vote Smart has researched their public records to determine their likely responses. These issue positions are from 2024.

  • "The 5-4 decision to overturn Roe proves THEY LIED. We MUST end the filibuster to protect abortion access. And clearly we need to pass a code of ethics for Supreme Court Justices. Everything must be on the table because our rights are on the line." (x.com)
  • "Madeleine has led many initiatives in support of women’s health including maternal healthcare for pregnant women recovering from substance abuse, decreasing stigma of chronic illness, and continuing to protect against any and all attacks to Roe v. Wade." (mad4pa.com)
  • "Madeleine stands unequivocally with women in their right to control their own bodies." (mad4pa.com)
  • Voted in favor of HR 8296 "Women’s Health Protection Act of 2022 (votesmart.org)
  • "Madeleine will not abandon Montgomery and Berks Counties’ seniors. She will continue to make sure that those who have dutifully paid into our security net have access to Social Security and Medicare in their retirement. She will work to protect and expand Social Security and Medicare and defend against attacks to these programs in the name of more tax cuts for the wealthy." (mad4pa.com)
  • "83 years ago today, the first #SocialSecurity check went out. Instead of protecting it, House Republicans are debating whether or not it should be on the chopping block. Not on our watch — @HouseDemocrats will always fight to protect the benefits that Americans have earned." (x.com)
  • "Madeleine wants to continue working in Congress to support universal healthcare that is economically balanced to fulfill the promise that our government made in 2010." (mad4pa.com)
  • "The first #SocialSecurity check went out 82 years ago today. Now, I’m fighting alongside @RepJohnLarson to expand and enhance benefits for the first time in 50 years. Congress must ensure that this program continues to serve our nation's most vulnerable. #Secure2100" (x.com)
  • "There is no need to mislead the public. The Build Back Better bill is a decade’s long investment in the future of our country — $3.5 trillion over the next *ten* years. Paid for by raising taxes on the ultra wealthy and corporations." (x.com)
  • ".@HouseDemocrats and the American Rescue Plan secured this tax cut and families are seeing the difference." (x.com)
  • "The wealthy must pay their fair share. And with funding from the Inflation Reduction Act, the IRS recouped $122 million *in a single month* from wealthy tax evaders. And the added funding pays for itself. This is the government working for everyday Americans." (x.com)
  • "When adequately funded, the IRS recouped $122 million — in a single month — from millionaires trying to evade taxes. So yes, helping millionaires cheat on taxes again would lose us money. Easy math if you ask me — but I taught writing, so feel free to double check with @USCBO." (x.com)
  • "What do Pennsylvanians support? 74%➡️the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill. 70%➡️the $3.5 Trillion Build Back Better Plan. 78%➡️raising taxes on the wealthy and corporations. Our commonwealth is ready for the Build Back Better Plan and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill." (x.com)
  • "The wealthy must pay their fair share. And with funding from the Inflation Reduction Act, the IRS recouped $122 million *in a single month* from wealthy tax evaders. And the added funding pays for itself. This is the government working for everyday Americans." (x.com)
  • "There is no need to mislead the public. The Build Back Better bill is a decade’s long investment in the future of our country — $3.5 trillion over the next *ten* years. Paid for by raising taxes on the ultra wealthy and corporations." (x.com)
  • "We get a lot questions about how @HouseDemocrats intend to pay for the #BuildBackBetter agenda. Here’s how — by taxing wealthy Americans and corporations. And guess what — it’s popular with Pennsylvanians." (x.com)
  • "Mitch McConnell argues that #HR1 is a "power grab." But that's what elections are: power grabs by the people - and they're the only kind of power grab that a democracy should tolerate. It's time to end dark money and expand voting access." (x.com)
  • "Citizens United opened the floodgate of corporate spending in politics causing a wave of dark money to wash over our elections and drown out the voices of many ordinary Americans." (x.com)
  • Rated 94% by Common Cause (None)
  • Voted in favor of H.R. 1 "For the People Act of 2021" (votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor of H.R. 1280 "George Floyd Justice in Policing Act of 2021" (votesmart.org)
  • "I am praying for justice for George Floyd, his family, and loved ones. This nation needs healing — accountability is a vital part of that process." (x.com)
  • "This is why Madeleine supports the Justice in Policing Act of 2020, which mandates reporting of police use of force, prohibits racial and religious profiling, bans chokeholds, and mandates use of police body cameras, and the Eric Garner Excessive Use of Force Prevention Act, which makes the use of the police chokehold a civil rights violence and prohibits police tactic that could result in loss of of breath." (mad4pa.com)
  • "We are currently in a civil rights crisis that requires change. The nation has witnessed horrific and unjust deaths of Black people, including George Floyd, as a result of police brutality. We need police reform that ensures that police violence against Black Americans does not continue to occur." (mad4pa.com)
  • Voted in favor of "H.R. 7900 - "National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023" (votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor of "H.R. 2 "Moving Forward Act" (votesmart.org)
  • "Due to the #COVID19 outbreak and its economic impact Americans are struggling to stay afloat. The stimulus package must work #ForThePeople, no exceptions. American workers and businesses need relief now — not corporate bailouts or a secret slush fund, @senatemajldr." (x.com)
  • "Since Trump tweeted no deal, only to return demanding a stand-alone bill for more stimulus checks, here is my legislation on direct payments. Mr. President, less tweets, more action." (x.com)
  • Voted in favor of H.R. 3684 "Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act" (votesmart.org)
  • "This #FairHousingMonth marks 54 years since the #FairHousingAct became law, yet we haven't fully realized the dream of fair housing. That's why @FSCDems and @HouseDemocrats are fighting to keep investments in fair and affordable housing for everyone." (x.com)
  • "Absolutely delighted to join community leaders at the North Hills Manor Ribbon cutting. We’ve been working on this since my days as a State Rep. These affordable housing units will make a difference for so many families. Proud of the dedicated leaders that made this a reality!" (x.com)
  • "Investing in communities and building more affordable housing is a must to help us all flourish." (x.com)
  • Voted in favor of "HR 7301 "Emergency Housing Protections and Relief Act of 2020" (votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor of H.R. 5376 "Build Back Better Act (Inflation Reduction Act of 2022)" (votesmart.org)
  • "From inflation to rising costs, the last few years have been immensely challenging for families. Yet, I'm encouraged by our progress — unemployment has been below 4% for 24 months and inflation is down 60% from last summer. @POTUS will continue to deliver needed relief." (x.com)
  • "What are Democrats doing to lower costs for Pennsylvania families? Here's a snapshot of how the Inflation Reduction Act will help our communities, as we continue to feel the pressures of inflation." (x.com)
  • Voted in favor of H.R. 7688 "Consumer Fuel Price Gouging Prevention Act" (votesmart.org)
  • "Madeleine has introduced legislation to pay off $10,000 in education debt for borrowers during the COVID-10 pandemic, providing a lifeline for young people during an economic crisis. Madeleine has also introduced H.R. 4545, the Private Loan Disability Discharge Act, which would fill a gap in current law by allowing private student loan borrowers who become permanently disabled and will never work again to be relieved of their student loan debt." (mad4pa.com)
  • Voted in favor of H.R. 2547 "Comprehensive Debt Collection Improvement Act" (votesmart.org)
  • "Higher education should mean life-changing opportunities — not a lifetime of debt. Encouraged by @POTUS' commitment to student loan relief, including his SAVE Plan which lowers monthly payments. In PA-04, 9,800 people have enrolled so far — let's keep up the momentum!" (x.com)
  • "And for students that choose to further their education — they should not be burdened by life-long debt." (mad4pa.com)
  • "The Shelby v. Holder Supreme Court decision opened the floodgates for voting restrictions and anti-democratic policies. All Americans - no matter race or class - deserve the right to vote. I’m determined to fight against all disenfranchisement." (x.com)
  • Voted in favor of "H.R. 4 "John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2021" (votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor of H.R. 9 "Climate Action Now Act" (votesmart.org)
  • "Fun Fact: Norristown has the ability to be a leader in clean energy with a dam, producing up to 10.1M kilowatts of energy a year and countless green jobs. 💚💚💚" (x.com)
  • "The United States must be a global leader in environmental preservation. Ensuring a better future means making sure we have a planet to pass on to future generations. This starts with our country rejoining the Paris Environmental Agreement, seeking out 100% renewable clean energy sources, and addressing environmental injustice in predominantly low-income, minority communities. With governmental commitment, the rapidly growing green energy industry has the ability to stimulate our economy, create jobs, and help our environment." (mad4pa.com)
  • Voted in favor of H.R. 4447 "Expanding Access to Sustainable Energy Act of 2019" (votesmart.org)
  • Voted against H.R. 1 "Lower Energy Costs Act" (votesmart.org)
  • "In Pennsylvania, we've *been* ready for...➡️Clean Energy ➡️Investments in Environmental Justice ➡️Good-paying Union Jobs ➡️Resilient Transportation Infrastructure" (x.com)
  • "Yesterday we passed @RepCunningham, @USRepKCastor and, @RepRooney’s bills to #ProtectOurCoast from offshore drilling. Coastal communities rely on clean water & healthy beaches for tourism and fishing. @HouseDemocrats are committed to a more sustainable future for generations." (x.com)
  • Voted against H.R. 21 "Strategic Production Response Act" (votesmart.org)
  • "Lawmakers afraid of the NRA have failed our nation and the people they serve. It is past time to confront gun violence as a public health crisis. As a PA State Legislator, Madeleine co-founded the gun safety group PA SAFE Caucus authoring legislation for universal background checks, extreme risk protection orders, and a ban on "bump stocks."" (mad4pa.com)
  • "She has continued this work fighting the gun violence epidemic in Congress, where the very first bill she introduced addresses the new danger of plastic guns which go undetected to metal detectors. As a member of the House Judiciary Committee, Madeleine has been on the front lines of the fight to protect our children from gun violence. She fought in Committee and on the House Floor to pass H.R. 8, which requires a background check for every firearm sale, and H.R 112, which enhances background check requirements for firearm transfers between different parties." (mad4pa.com)
  • Rated 0% by National Rifle Association (NRA) (None)
  • Voted in favor of H.R. 1808 "Assault Weapons Ban of 2022" (votesmart.org)
  • "The #AffordableCareAct has been a lifeline for more than 8.5 million Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic. We must build upon the progress of the #ACA, so that every single person can access affordable and quality health care." (x.com)
  • "Madeleine believes healthcare is a right. Every person deserves to be able to have access to affordable, quality, and comprehensive healthcare. The Affordable Care Act started this process. Madeleine wants to continue working in Congress to support universal healthcare that is economically balanced to fulfill the promise that our government made in 2010." (mad4pa.com)
  • "On the 13th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act, I'm mindful of the more than 1.2 million Pennsylvanians that now have health care coverage. The ACA remains an historic step in our fight for universal health care — and we must build upon it." (x.com)
  • "This is shameful. During the President’s time in office, he and GOP lawmakers have attempted to repeal, underfund, and undermine the ACA multiple times. We should be working to expand our healthcare system #ForThePeople #Obamacare" (x.com)
  • "The Build Back Better Act will provide quality Pre-K, two years of free community college or technical trade school, paid family leave, and expanded Medicare." (x.com)
  • "It's time for paid family and medical leave for everyone in America. No one should have to choose between putting food on the table and tending to loved ones in need." (x.com)
  • "That’s why, we must ensure access to equal opportunity, quality healthcare, affordable childcare, and initiatives to address sexism in the public sphere." (mad4pa.com)
  • Voted in favor of H.R. 6201 "Families First Coronavirus Response Act" (votesmart.org)
  • "Tonight, the House will passing legislation to help lower the cost of prescription drugs. It will: ✅ Remove barriers to allow more generic medication to enter the market. ✅ Accountability in drug pricing process. ✅ Create negotiation mechanism to help keep all prices low." (x.com)
  • "She has supported legislation in the House that eliminates barriers to healthcare, protects patients with pre-existing conditions, and lowers the cost of prescription drugs." (mad4pa.com)
  • "The #InflationReductionAct will hold wealthy tax cheats accountable and ensure corporations pay their fair share. Those funds will reduce the deficit AND save money on: 💊 Prescription drugs" (x.com)
  • Voted in favor of H.R. 6833 "The Affordable Insulin Now Act" (votesmart.org)
  • "Innocent children are being neglected and deprived of basic human rights. Today, @HouseDemocrats will vote to address this crisis with: $2.9 billion ➡️ Refugee and entrant assistance $1.49 billion ➡️ Border protection $170 million ➡️ Immigration logistics" (x.com)
  • "If the President means what he says about protecting America, then undermining our border security and law enforcement personnel is the wrong way to do it." (x.com)
  • Voted against HR 2 - "Secure the Border Act of 2023" (votesmart.org)
  • "Madeleine supports a strong legal immigration system and humane treatment for anyone seeking citizenship We must take steps to strengthen our legal immigration system. This includes a path to citizenship for people who want to be part of our country, reinstating DACA to allow the Dreamers to be able to stay in our country without fear, and fighting against border policies that treat people in-humanely. Like the rest of us, they should be able to live the American Dream without fear of retribution." (mad4pa.com)
  • "Asylum is a human right. I implore the administration to offer extraordinary relief for the Haitians at our border and stop deportations. We know what they are escaping — we must show our values and respond with compassion." (x.com)
  • "ICE attempted to deport three families from the Berks County Residential Center just days after @RepMGS and I met with them - a troubling sequence of events. Thank you @LEBenshoff for covering this story." (x.com)
  • Voted against HR 2 - "Secure the Border Act of 2023" (votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor of H.R. 6968 "Suspending Energy Imports from Russia Act" (votesmart.org)
  • "Madeleine supports tariff negotiations that build strong relationships with trusted trading partners and hold countries that exploit or abuse international trade relations, like China, accountable. In Congress, Madeleine has cosponsored H.R. 4863, the United States Export Finance Agency Act which seeks to promote the competitiveness of the United States and to reform and reauthorize the U.S. Export Finance Agency." (mad4pa.com)
  • "Putin's decision to begin invasion attempts makes it clear it is time to enact crippling economic sanctions until Putin abides by international law, withdraws, and recognizes Ukraine’s sovereignty." (x.com)
  • Voted in favor of H.R. 7691 "Making emergency supplemental appropriations for assistance for the situation in Ukraine for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2022, and for other purposes." (votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor of S. 3522 "Ukraine Democracy Defense Lend-Lease Act of 2022" (votesmart.org)
  • "Congress has delivered $13.6 billion in aid to Ukraine — and we are working on more. Yesterday, the House passed the Ukraine Democracy Defense Lend-Lease Act to help the US send weapons and supplies to Ukraine more efficiently. Congress stands united with the people of Ukraine." (x.com)
  • "We are all watching Mr. Putin’s horrific attacks on the independent nation of Ukraine. This is a humanitarian crisis — and as we discuss next steps, one thing should be clear: the world must send aid and prepare to take in refugees." (x.com)
  • Voted in favor of H.R. 7691 "Making emergency supplemental appropriations for assistance for the situation in Ukraine for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2022, and for other purposes." (votesmart.org)
  • Despite exhaustive research, Vote Smart was unable to find information about this candidate's position.
This candidate has responded to a Political Courage Test in a previous election. As a continued effort to provide the American public with factual information on candidates running for public office, these archived responses are made available here.
Pro-choice Do you generally support pro-choice or pro-life legislation?
Healthcare, including women's healthcare is a right that should be guaranteed to all Americans. As a member of the Pennsylvania State House Women?s Health Caucus, we are the front line against the all-too-often attacks on woman's constitutional right to choose.
Yes In order to balance the budget, do you support an income tax increase on any tax bracket?
Yes Do you support expanding federal funding to support entitlement programs such as Social Security and Medicare?
I oppose any tax reform proposal that cut taxes for profitable corporations and the wealthy. I support the fairness in Taxation Act.
Yes Do you support the regulation of indirect campaign contributions from corporations and unions?
We must work to end Citizens United.
No Do you support the protection of government officials, including law enforcement officers, from personal liability in civil lawsuits concerning alleged misconduct?
Yes Do you support increasing defense spending?
We support smart investments in military needs to face new threats, especially in terms of cyber terrorism, and decreasing funds for functions that are overfunded or rendered obsolete.
Yes Do you support federal spending as a means of promoting economic growth?
No Do you support lowering corporate taxes as a means of promoting economic growth?
Yes Do you support providing financial relief to businesses AND/OR corporations negatively impacted by the state of national emergency for COVID-19?
Rep. Dean is focused on ensuring that businesses have access to the capital and resources they need to succeed and remain competitive in a global economy. In the 116th Congress, Rep. Dean voted for H.R. 3311, the Small Business Reorganization Act, which helps to facilitate the financial reorganization of small businesses.
Yes Do you support requiring states to adopt federal education standards?
Rep. Dean understands that curricula reflect our educational priorities. For this reason, she has cosponsored a series of bills to expand and deepen students' exposure to important areas of study. H.R. 943, the Never Again Education Act, gives schools and teachers the resources and training they need to teach our children the important lessons of the Holocaust and the consequences of intolerance and hate.
Yes Do you support government funding for the development of renewable energy (e.g. solar, wind, geo-thermal)?
Yes Do you support the federal regulation of greenhouse gas emissions?
Rep. Dean believes that the protection of our planet and environmental stewardship are some of government's core responsibilities. She values our natural spaces and supports efforts to preserve vulnerable species. She also recognizes that environmental considerations are deeply entwined in other areas of policy--including public health, the economy, and our national defense.
Yes Do you generally support gun-control legislation?
Basic gun safety legislation is not a radical idea. In fact, background checks are supported by more than 90 percent of the American people and 83 percent of gun owners. These measures are compatible with the Second Amendment and they save lives.
No Do you support repealing the 2010 Affordable Care Act ("Obamacare")?
Yes Do you support requiring businesses to provide paid medical leave during public health crises, such as COVID-19?
We must work towards a public option within the ACA.
No Do you support the construction of a wall along the Mexican border?
No Do you support requiring immigrants who are unlawfully present to return to their country of origin before they are eligible for citizenship?
We must provide a path to citizenship and expand worker visas.
Yes Should the United States use military force to prevent governments hostile to the U.S. from possessing a weapon of mass destruction (for example: nuclear, biological, chemical)?
Yes Do you support reducing military intervention in Middle East conflicts?
Military force should only be used as a last result after all diplomatic options have been exhausted.
Yes Do you generally support removing barriers to international trade (for example: tariffs, quotas, etc.)?
Yes, but removing is not the right word--crafting international trade policies that are smart for our economy, allies, and American Businesses.
In Congress, Madeleine remains focused on decency and the common good. That means working hard to address issues that affect Americans deeply - including stopping gun violence and guaranteeing health care for all. In Madeleine's view, building a more compassionate society means making smart, humane policy choices. It also means working to ensure that government functions smoothly and delivers the services constituents need.

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