Hall Supports GOP Pledge to America

Press Release

Congressman Ralph Hall (R-TX/4) joined House Republicans this week in support of their "Pledge to America," a governing agenda reflecting the top concerns and priorities of the American people. The agenda is based on hundreds of listening sessions that Republicans held in their respective districts throughout the year.

"A majority of citizens in my district and a majority of Americans believe that our country is going in the wrong direction," Hall said. "They are frustrated with a Congress that continues to borrow, tax, and spend rather than work to reduce record-high unemployment, a growing federal debt, out-of-control spending and expansion of government."

"Our agenda seeks solutions to Americans' top concerns: creating jobs, cutting spending, and reforming how Congress conducts the nation's business," Hall noted. "This agenda not only reflects the priorities of American citizens but also the principles and values upon which America was founded. It offers concrete solutions that can be implemented immediately."

"We need to put America back on course for fiscal responsibility by working to balance the budget, cut government spending, and create jobs, and I will continue to work with my colleagues to achieve these goals," Hall pledged.

Highlights of "A Pledge to America" are as follows:

*Roll back government spending to 2008 pre-stimulus, pre-bailout levels, with exceptions for seniors, veterans and troops;

*Freeze tax rates for two years;

*End the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP);

*Repeal and replace the costly government takeover of health care and put in place reforms such as allowing the purchase of health insurance across State lines, expansion of Health Savings Accounts, ensured access for patients with pre-existing conditions, and a permanent prohibition on taxpayer funding of abortion.

*Keep our nation secure at home and abroad by providing for a strong defense, fully funding missile defense, establishing operational control of the border and enforcing current immigration laws;

*Publish bills three days in advance to allow time for Members of Congress and the public to understand the legislation;

*Make it easier to offer amendments to reduce spending and hold weekly votes on spending cuts.

Source