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As we recognize America’s 232nd birthday, it’s hard to feel a true sense of independence when Oregonians are tied to gas that costs more than $4/gallon. To address the growing energy crisis, I am working to make sure we give people more transportation choices, level the playing field for those who choose to drive less, and help the federal government to lead by example.
As much as we all want a simple solution to the complex energy puzzle, there is no silver bullet. We cannot drill our way to energy independence. While we need to invest in long term solutions, but I also understand that Oregonians need relief now. This week I offered a bill that would provide immediate relief to rising energy costs by investing in communities, transportation choices, and affordable location-efficient housing
Read More about my Choices for Gas Price Relief Act of 2008 .
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My Priorities for Oregon and the Nation |
Rebuilding and Renewing America
We are watching America’s highways and bridges crumble, levees breach, and antiquated water systems endanger our environment and our communities' health. The power grid is increasingly outdated and the promise of broadband internet has yet to be delivered to all Americans. I believe America needs a new plan to maintain and invest in the infrastructure that will keep our economy competitive, our environment clean, and our families safe, healthy and economically secure. Read more.
My Iraq Legislation
I have opposed the Iraq war from the beginning, but simply opposing the war is not enough. That is why I introduced the New Direction for Iraq Act, which requires the redeployment of U.S. troops from Iraq, a new diplomatic offensive to stabilize Iraq, aggressive efforts at oversight and accountability, and a new approach towards reconstruction. Read more.
Energy and the Environment
Global warming is an escalating crisis for this generation and the ones to follow. As a longtime advocate for reducing our carbon emissions and protecting the planet, I was honored to be named to the first ever Global Warming Committee. Read more about the committee and my work to stop global warming here. Read more.
Health Care
Health care in United States is reaching a crisis point with 500,000 Oregonians lacking health insurance and over 47 million Americans nationwide struggling to access health coverage. Employer-based health insurance is increasingly unsustainable and we need to move toward a new health care delivery system, which is why I have co-sponsored the Healthy Americans Act. Read more.
Tax Fairness
Under the Bush administration, tax giveaways for the wealthy and unnecessary subsidies have badly tilted the playing field against average taxpayers. As a member of the Ways and Means Committee, which is responsible for taxes and revenue, I am protecting hardworking families from unfair taxes like the AMT and eliminating corporate tax loopholes and giveaways. Read more.
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