Taking a Closer Look at Our Struggling Economy

Statement

Growing up in Van Meter, I learned the value of a dollar as a young boy, waking up early to deliver newspapers to the folks in our community. After moving to Johnston as a teenager, I spent my summers in the hot sun working at the Iowa State Fair or as a decontamination aide at a hospital. In college in Des Moines, I waited tables at a restaurant. My parents and grandparents instilled in me a strong Iowa work ethic - I worked hard - while knowing that anyone who puts in the time, the effort and the energy can achieve endless opportunity in this great country.

Unfortunately, today's economy points to a different outcome for many. In a constituent survey I recently conducted, I asked Iowans if they felt their economic situation was better, worse, or remained the same since the start of the recession. Over 60 percent of those who responded told me their situation remained unchanged or has gotten worse. Wages are stagnant and the opportunities just aren't there for the folks who need them.

This sentiment extends beyond our state. A Gallup poll conducted this month highlighted that most Americans' number one concern is the state of our economy. I'm not surprised. The economy is on the forefront of people's minds, and I hear that while meeting and listening to folks in the 16 counties of our Third Congressional District each week. The one common message I hear is that people are frustrated. I don't blame them - the economy is tough. Most middle class Iowans have not seen a pay raise in decades - they are not sure how they are going to be able to afford retirement or send their kids to college.

So what can we do? I have been working to promote and fight for meaningful solutions that strengthen the economic security of hardworking Iowans and their families. We must embrace policies that encourage and restore economic security and opportunity. There is a pervasive and very real perception out there that more often than not Washington is working against the folks here at home - through harmful, out of touch regulations and ever-expanding federal deficits and debt.

Americans saw a recent example of how tone deaf Washington can be with the president's call for higher taxes on hardworking Americans. In his annual budget request he recently proposed a new $10.00 per barrel of oil tax. This tax would add another 25 cents to the cost of every gallon of gasoline in this country. Folks at home do not deserve - and cannot afford - this costly and unnecessary hit to their bottom line.

While we have accomplished some good things in the past year, my priorities remain constant. Over a year ago, I made a simple, yet important pledge to the people of Iowa - and I stand by it - to support a budget that balances, doesn't raise taxes, holds the line on spending, and makes government more efficient, effective, transparent, and accountable for all Iowans.

As part of this effort, it is critical we update our outdated and loophole-ridden tax code with something that works for the people - those we represent. We need to tackle the rules and regulations strangling our rural economy in Iowa, and cut the red tape that hurts our hardworking Americans. Ultimately, we need to fix our economy head on - and ensure we no longer kick the can down the road for future generations.

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