Beauregard Daily News

Press Release

Beauregard Daily News

Dr. John Fleming met with citizens of DeRidder at a town hall meeting in City Council chambers Wednesday afternoon. Fleming is hoping to clinch the 4th Congressional District seat, being vacated by the retirement of Jim McCrery.

The 29-year practicing family physician and former Navy medical officer told supporters that sending a doctor to Washington would help heal the ailing congress. Fleming was accompanied by his wife, Cindy during the campaign stop. They have four adult children and live in Minden - approximately 30 miles east of Shreveport.

Fleming considers himself to be a Conservative Republican, citing several reasons he falls into that category.

He is pro-life, stating that he supports the Sanctity of Human Life Amendment. He supports marriage to be defined as exclusively between a man and woman. He is also a member of the National Rifle Association and said that he defends the Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms.

When asked by audience members about his views on income taxes, Fleming said that he supports the Fair Tax Plan. That plan, in simple terms, eliminates income tax and places the tax on purchased goods. He was also asked about the price of fuel and what his plans were to help with increasing oil costs. Fleming told voters that while he does support more drilling in the United States, he also believes that alternative forms of fuel should be used. He gave examples of drilling for coal and natural gas.

Fleming also discussed his plan to provide quality medical insurance for small business owners and employees. He said, " We need to reform insurance laws. They were created in the 1940s." He talked about ways to make insurance companies competitive, such as allowing them to work over state borders.

"I know and understand the economics of healthcare because I live it everyday with my patients," Fleming said.

Fleming answered questions concerning border security, overseas manufacturing, and military support. As a military veteran, Fleming said that he understands the needs and concerns of the military and their family members. He said, "Active duty, veterans, and retired vets are a special class of people, particularly those serving in combat. Nothing is too good for them."

He said that he supports increases in college benefits for veterans, along with health benefits and more support for those with combat injuries. Fleming said, "Anything and everything we can do, we should do."

Beauregard Daily News will continue to maintain balanced reporting throughout Election 2008, covering each political candidate who visits Beauregard Parish for town hall meetings.

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