Card image cap

Loretta Sanchez's Issue Positions (Political Courage Test)

Key

Official Position: Candidate addressed this issue directly by taking the Political Courage Test.
Inferred Position: Candidate refused to address this issue, but Vote Smart inferred this issue based on the candidate's public record, including statements, voting record, and special interest group endorsements.
Unknown Position: Candidate refused to address this issue, or we could not infer an answer for this candidate despite exhaustive research of their public record.
Additional Information: Click on this icon to reveal more information about this candidate's position, from their answers or Vote Smart's research.
Other or Expanded Principles & Legislative Priorities are entered exactly as candidates submit them. Vote Smart does not edit for misspelled words, punctuation or grammar.

Loretta Sanchez has refused to provide voters with positions on key issues covered by the 2016 Political Courage Test, despite repeated requests from Vote Smart and voters like you.

What is the Political Courage Test?

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 2016.

  • Rated 100% by NARAL Pro-Choice America (votesmart.org)
  • "As a member of the Pro-Choice Caucus, Congresswoman Sanchez has consistently worked to protect a woman's right to choose." (votesmart.org)
  • "HB2 has jeopardized Texas women's health by drastically limiting their access to safe and legal abortions. Thankfully in today's decision in firmly reversing the 5th Circuit's previous ruling, the Justices saw through Texas' insidious smoke and mirrors attempt to take away a woman's right to make her own health care decisions." (votesmart.org)
  • "My fellow Democrats and I want to keep money in the hands of hardworking Americans by supporting the extension of the payroll tax holiday." (votesmart.org)
  • "We cannot afford to take more risks with the income of 160 million working Americans. In fact, the no-jobs agenda of the Republican Conference has pushed to continue tax cuts for the wealthiest of Americans while not giving breaks to working Americans and the middle class." (votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor of H.R.8 "Job Protection and Recession Prevention Act of 2012" (votesmart.org)
  • "The Congresswoman is a member of the Methamphetamine Caucus, a coalition dedicated to stopping the production and abuse of methamphetamine. She is a strong supporter of the Orange County Drug Court, which helps minor drug offenders turn their lives around and become productive members of society." (votesmart.org)
  • "And the infrastructure plans included in the budget are middle-class job creators, economic drivers and investments that pay dividends into our future." (votesmart.org)
  • "Congresswoman Sanchez has been a longtime advocate for small business interests, fighting for small business loans and against tax increases that hamper economic growth. She strongly supported the economic stimulus package that continues to encourage investment and boost consumer confidence, all while maintaining the fiscal discipline that will keep long-term interest rates in check." (votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor of H.R.22 "Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST) Act" (votesmart.org)
  • "I am particularly encouraged to see the clear effort to increase opportunity for the middle class and those working to join it. Cutting taxes for working Americans through the expansion of the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit and the American Opportunity Tax Credit - all proven tools that reduce poverty and help get people back to work – will be a boon to our economy." (votesmart.org)
  • "Right before the holidays, my Republican colleagues threatened to raise taxes on the middle class because a small but very loud minority in their conference wanted to prove a point. Now we're back at it again. They want to prevent $1,500 from being in the hands of the middle class.My fellow Democrats and I want to keep money in the hands of hardworking Americans by supporting the extension of the payroll tax holiday." (votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor of H.R.3630 "Extends Payroll Tax Cut" (votesmart.org)
  • " Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez also believes it is imperative that Congress continue to invest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education and federal research in the physical sciences and engineering." (lorettasanchez.house.gov)
  • "Mr. Speaker, I am proud to say that this week marks the 50-year anniversary of the Head Start program, a momentous achievement in our Nation's fight to break the cycle of poverty and open the windows of opportunity for low-income families and children." (votesmart.org)
  • Do you support building the Keystone XL pipeline? "No" (votesmart.org)
  • Voted against H.R. 5682 "To Approve the Keystone XL Pipeline" (votesmart.org)
  • "In his State of the Union address tonight, President Obama outlined a broad plan for creating jobs and strengthening our economy. I am pleased that his strategy included smart investments in education and clean energy: two sectors with the potential to create good-paying jobs right here in California." (votesmart.org)
  • "Rep. Sanchez has been and continues to be a strong supporter of conservation efforts both in California and across America. In the last year, the Congresswoman voted for the historic American Clean Energy & Security Act of 2009 that would reduce America's dependence on foreign oil, invest in new clean energy and efficient technologies, and combat the carbon pollution causing climate change." (votesmart.org)
  • "Congresswoman Sanchez will continue to build on her environmental record in the 112th Congress by supporting legislation that will improve emission standards, reduce our dependence on foreign oil, improve water quality, and clean up toxic waste sites." (votesmart.org)
  • "Rep. Sanchez has been and continues to be a strong supporter of conservation efforts both in California and across America. In the last year, the Congresswoman voted for the historic American Clean Energy & Security Act of 2009 that would reduce America's dependence on foreign oil, invest in new clean energy and efficient technologies, and combat the carbon pollution causing climate change." (votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor of H.Amdt.507 "Specifies the Authority of the Secretary of Interior on the Regulation of Methane Emissions" (votesmart.org)
  • Rated 100% by Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence (votesmart.org)
  • "I applaud President Obama's executive actions to strengthen federal enforcement of gun laws and to address the crisis of gun violence across America. I believe these measures are consistent with existing law and essential to effective enforcement, which is the President's responsibility." (votesmart.org)
  • Signed a letter stating "Our nation has suffered at least 74 school shootings since the Sandy Hook massacre. The factors allowing these rampages are no mystery: loopholes in the background check laws, straw purchases, restrictions on law enforcement, and gaps in our mental health system." (votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor for H.R.3590 "Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act" (votesmart.org)
  • "Two years ago this week, I voted in favor of the Affordable Care Act. Since the healthcare law took effect, people across the country have started to see its benefits in their own lives." (votesmart.org)
  • "With today's Supreme Court decision behind us, it's time for Congress to get back to work. The Affordable Care Act is settled law, and this ruling reaffirms that families are in control of their own health care." (votesmart.org)
  • "In response to the obstruction of Republicans in the House of Representatives, President Obama issued executive actions that would have allowed many families to come out of the shadows. For many, this signaled a first step in ensuring families would not be separated." (votesmart.org)
  • Signed a letter stating "We believe it is undeniable that detention in a secure facility is detrimental to mothers and children and is not reflective of our values as a Nation. Children require special protections and should not be laced in jail-like settings." (grijalva.house.gov)
  • Voted in favor of H.R.5281 "DREAM Act" (votesmart.org)
  • "Across the country and in Congress, we're still seeing discriminatory attacks on crucial LGBT protections. And under our current laws, LGBT Americans aren't guaranteed nearly enough vital protections against discrimination.It's time for Congress to pass the Equality Act. Regardless of sexual orientation, all Americans deserve life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." (votesmart.org)
  • Rated 100% by Human Rights Campaign (votesmart.org)
  • "The Supreme Court ruling today, guaranteeing an individual's right to marry who they love, regardless of sex, is an important step forward for our country and a victory for American families." (votesmart.org)
  • "Rep. Loretta Sanchez (D-Garden Grove), chairwoman of the terrorism, unconventional threats and capabilities subcommittee of the House Armed Services Committee, said she is 'in the comfort zone, considering who we've been able to take out' in drone strikes. 'We have a mandate to eliminate these people who are trying to hurt us,' Sanchez said." (votesmart.org)
  • "U.S. Representative Loretta Sanchez (CA-46), senior member of the House Armed Services Committee, today questioned General Martin Dempsey and Secretary Chuck Hagel about the U.S. strategy to degrade and defeat the terrorist group known as the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). […] Rep. Sanchez's questions were not answered directly and she remains skeptical of the current vague strategy." (votesmart.org)
  • "We know that our military intervention will not alone solve the long sectarian and religious conflicts in Iraq. It is essential we avoid mission creep because our men and women in uniform cannot endure another war in Iraq and nor can the American people." (votesmart.org)
  • Rated 94% by Alliance for Retired Americans (votesmart.org)
  • "After a lifetime of work, our seniors deserve economic security, which is why Loretta opposes plans to privatize Social Security." (votesmart.org)
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?
No Do you support United States' combat operations in Afghanistan?
Yes Do you support a timetable for withdrawal from Afghanistan?
As a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee, I have long believed that our current efforts in Afghanistan are ineffective, and that our troops and resources could be more effectively deployed elsewhere. It is time for us to redirect our focus back home, where numerous economic challenges continue to burden families in my district and across the country.

Indicate which proposals you support (if any) for balancing the federal budget.In order to balance the budget,

Yes do you support reducing defense spending?
Yes do you support an income tax increase on any tax bracket?
No do you support reducing Medicaid spending?
No do you support reducing Medicare spending?
Is balancing the budget a legislative priority?
As a member of the fiscally-conservative Blue Dog Coalition, I have long fought for responsible spending, and I will continue to do so. However, while I believe spending must be curtailed, these cuts must be smart and targeted. We have to cut unnecessary and wasteful funding, not important investments that are helping to grow our economy and helping the private sector innovate and create jobs. And our budget must not be balanced on the backs of our seniors and most vulnerable citizens.
Yes Do you support the regulation of indirect campaign contributions from corporations and unions?
I am a strong supporter of the Disclose Act, because it would have dramatically increased transparency and accountability in political spending. Corporations and foreign governments should not be allowed to issue a blank check to influence the outcome of our elections. It is completely inconsistent with our democratic principles.
Do you support capital punishment for certain crimes?
Yes Do you support federal spending as a means of promoting economic growth?
Yes Do you support providing tax incentives to businesses for the purpose of job creation?
Yes Do you support spending on infrastructure projects for the purpose of job creation?
Yes Do you support the temporary extension of unemployment benefits?
Yes Do you support the 2010 temporary extension of tax relief?
I believe that unemployment insurance has proven itself to be one of the most cost-effective and efficient ways to stimulate the economy and ensure those who are looking for work are able to provide for their families during difficult times. Congress worked effectively to reduce unemployment, currently at its lowest rate in two years. I am committed to continuing this trend, ensuring that our economy is strengthened and that all American?s have the opportunity to succeed.
Yes Do you support requiring states to implement education reforms in order to be eligible for competitive federal grants?
Education is the cornerstone to America's future, and in Congress, I will continue to work to direct federal dollars toward supporting quality teaching in our classrooms, cutting federal education regulations, and providing more flexibility to states and local school districts. Efforts are still needed to ensure that every child is afforded an education that will give them the tools to be a competitor in today's world.
No Do you support reducing restrictions on offshore energy production?
I am proud of my environmental record will continue to work to protect the environment and push for sensible energy alternatives that will allow America to reduce our dependence on oil. I have supported efforts to limit offshore drilling, specifically off the coast of California.
Yes Do you believe that human activity is contributing to climate change?
Yes Do you support the federal regulation of greenhouse gas emissions?
California has been blessed with incredible natural resources, and it is our responsibility to preserve our beaches, bays, and national parks for future generations. The long-term health of our country and our planet depends on the investments we make today, and I am proud to support efforts that will help create a cleaner, greener tomorrow.
Yes Do you support restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns?
I support responsible gun ownership and believe background checks and other security measures must be in place, in particular at gun shows.
No Do you support repealing the 2010 Affordable Care Act?
Yes Should individuals be required to purchase health insurance, as mandated in the 2010 Affordable Care Act?
I am a supporter of the Affordable Care Act. Though far from perfect, it is a significant step in the right direction and will bring down the costs of health care for millions of families and small businesses, expand coverage to millions of Americans, and end the worst practices of insurance companies.
No Do you support requiring illegal immigrants to return to their country of origin before they are eligible for citizenship?
Yes Do you support allowing illegal immigrants, who were brought to the United States as minors, to pursue citizenship without returning to their country of origin?
Do you support the enforcement of federal immigration law by state and local police?
I remain firmly committed to the full and effective enforcement of our nation?s immigration laws. As a senior member of the Homeland Security Committee, I am working to triple the number of border control agents, and to increase the technology available to law enforcement officers. However, I believe that border enforcement alone is not enough to address the complexity of this issue. I am a strong proponent of comprehensive immigration reform. In addition to securing our borders, we must recognize the vital economic role immigrants play in our country, and create efficient and cost-effective measures to permit appropriate legal immigration.
Yes Do you support same-sex marriage?
Should the U.S use military force in order to prevent Iran from possessing a nuclear weapon?
Unknown Position Do you support targeting suspected terrorists outside of official theaters of conflict?
No Do you support allowing individuals to divert a portion of their Social Security taxes into personal retirement accounts?
I am working hard with the President and my colleagues in Congress to support our nation?s seniors whose economic stability depends on Social Security. While some changes must be made, I oppose privatizing Social Security because it would expose the program to the insecurities of the stock market. I also oppose raising the retirement age for those who are eligible under Title II of the Social Security Act.

SpendingIndicate what federal spending levels (#1-6) you support for the following general categories. Select one number per category; you can use a number more than once.TaxesIndicate what federal tax levels (#1-6) you support for the following general categories. Select one number per category; you can use a number more than once.

a) Agriculture
b) Arts
c) Defense
d) Education
e) Environment
f) Homeland Security
g) International aid
h) Medical Research
i) Scientific Research
j) Space exploration
k) United Nations
l) Welfare
m) Other or expanded categories
a) Capital gains taxes
b) Corporate taxes
c) Excise taxes (alcohol)
d) Excise taxes (cigarettes)
e) Excise taxes (transportation fuel)
f) Income taxes (low-income families)
g) Income taxes (middle-income families)
h) Income taxes (high-income families)
i) Inheritance taxes
j) Payroll taxes
k) Other or expanded categories
My top priority is rebuilding Orange County?s economy and creating more jobs so that people can get back to work. Through tax breaks for small businesses and improvements to our roads and highways, we?re getting our economy back on track while bettering our community. For the unemployed, I'm working to ensure unemployment benefits are extended, and health care is accessible. For seniors and veterans, I've made sure Social Security and Medicare are well-funded. And I believe keeping our schools open and putting more police on the street are vital to preserving and maintaining our community's quality of life.

Vote Smart does not permit the use of its name or programs in any campaign activity, including advertising, debates, and speeches.

arrow_upward