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Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.

Representative Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.'s Issue Positions (Political Courage Test)

Sanford Bishop, Jr.
Full Name: Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.
Office: U.S. House (GA) - District 2, Democratic
First Elected: 11/03/1992
Last Elected: 11/06/2012
Next Election: 2014
Gender: Male
Family: Wife: Vivian; 1 Stepchild: Aayesha
Birth Date: 02/04/1947
Birth Place: Mobile, AL
Home City: Albany, GA
Religion: Baptist
Project Vote Smart does not permit the use of its name or programs in any campaign activity, including advertising, debates, and speeches.
Sanford Bishop, Jr. refused to tell citizens where he stands on any of the issues addressed in the 2012 Political Courage Test, despite repeated requests from Vote Smart, national media, and prominent political leaders.

What is the Political Courage Test?

Issue Positions

In response to the increasing unwillingness of candidates to answer issue questions, Project Vote Smart has researched Presidential and Congressional candidates' public ecords to determine candidates' likely responses on certain key issues. These issue positions, from the year 2012, are provided below as a courtesy to voters.

Unknown Position Unknown Answer Abortion: Do you generally support pro-choice or pro-life legislation? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • NARAL Pro-Choice America. 04/18/2012. "Sanford Bishop supported the interests of the NARAL Pro-Choice America 100 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • National Right to Life Committee. 04/18/2012. "Sanford Bishop supported the interests of the National Right to Life Committee 33 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 748. 109th Congress. Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 04/27/2005. (votesmart.org)
  • National Organization for Women. 04/18/2012. "On the votes used to calculate its ratings, the National Organization for Women attaches more value to those votes it considers more important. For 2008, the National Organization for Women gave Sanford Bishop a rating of 100 percent." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. H AMDT 209. 109th Congress. Overseas Military Facilities Abortion Amendment. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 05/25/2005. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. H Amdt 95. 112th Congress. Prohibiting Use of Federal Funds For Planned Parenthood. Sanford Bishop voted Nay on 02/18/2011. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. H Amdt 185. 103th Congress. Hyde Amendment. Sanford Bishop voted Nay on 06/30/1993. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 3682. 106th Congress. Child Custody Protection Act. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 07/15/1998. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 6099. 110th Congress. Abortion Pain Bill. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 12/06/2006. (votesmart.org)
  • Family Research Council. 04/18/2012. "Sanford Bishop supported the interests of the Family Research Council 18 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Planned Parenthood. 04/18/2012. "Sanford Bishop supported the interests of Planned Parenthood 71 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 3. 112th Congress. Prohibiting Taxpayer Funding of Abortion. Sanford Bishop voted Nay on 05/04/2011. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. H Amdt 187. 105th Congress. Overseas Military Facilities Abortion Amendment. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 06/19/1997. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. H Amdt 882. 106th Congress. Prison Abortion Funding Amendment. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 06/22/2000. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. H Amdt 1017. 106th Congress. Abortion Funding Amendment. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 07/20/2000. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. H Amdt 156. 106th Congress. Overseas Military Abortion Amendment. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 06/09/1999. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. H Amdt 436. 104th Congress. Overseas Military Abortion Amendment. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 06/15/1995. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. H Amdt 643. 106th Congress. Abortion Private Funding Restoration Amendment. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 05/20/1998. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. H Amdt 722. 106th Congress. Oversea Military Abortions Amendment. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 05/18/2000. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 670. 103th Congress. Abortion Counseling Bill. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 03/25/1993. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. H Amdt 509. 111th Congress. Prohibiting Federally Funded Abortion Services. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 11/07/2009. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "h) Prohibit the dilation and extraction procedure, also known as "partial birth" abortion."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "i) Prohibit public funding of abortions and public funding of organizations that advocate or perform abortions."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "e) Abortions should always be illegal."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "f) Abortions should always be illegal."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2006 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) Abortions should always be illegal."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) Abortions should always be illegal."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) Abortions should always be legally available."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) Abortions should always be legally available."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "h) Prohibit public funding of abortions and public funding of organizations that advocate or perform abortions."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2006 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "f) Prohibit public funding of abortions and to organizations that advocate or perform abortions."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2006 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "b) Abortions should always be legal."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "b) Abortions should be illegal when the fetus is viable, with or without life support."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "c) Abortions should always be legally available."
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 3660. 106th Congress. Ban on Partial-Birth/Late Term Abortion. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 04/05/2000. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. S 403. 110th Congress. Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 09/26/2006. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Issue Position: Family Values. 12 July 2011. "I support the pro-family values of the Second Congressional District through my votes in favor of a constitutional amendment allowing school prayer and outlawing same-sex marriage. I have also voted to ensure that federal funds will not be used to fund abortions as part of health care reform (Stupak Amendment)." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Bishop Votes To Support Health Care Reform. 7 November 2009. "Finally, the House health care bill prohibits the use of federal funds for abortions. It also requires verification of citizenship or lawful presence for undocumented immigrants to receive coverage. "I look forward to further improvements as the bill is considered by the Senate and the Conference Committee, where differences between the House and Senate bills will be resolved," Bishop said. "But this evening's vote is a significant step towards affordable, quality health care for all." (votesmart.org)
Yes Inferred Answer Afghanistan: Do you support United States' combat operations in Afghanistan? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Sanford Bishop. Issue Position: Foreign Affairs. 12 July 2011. "As a member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, I have led efforts to ensure that the United States successfully completes its mission in Afghanistan and Iraq. I have also been a strong supporter of Israel, stopping the genocide in Darfur, and restoring America's reputation across the globe." (votesmart.org)
  • Peace Action West. 04/18/2012. "Sanford Bishop supported the interests of Peace Action West 29 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Peace Action. 04/18/2012. "Sanford Bishop supported the interests of the Peace Action 29 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. H Con Res 28. 112th Congress. Removing Troops from Afghanistan. Sanford Bishop voted Nay on 03/17/2011. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Ranking Member Bishop Statement after Subcommittee Hearing with CENTCOM Commander. 2 March 2011. "I was pleased to have General Mattis before our subcommittee this afternoon and hear directly from him about what CENTCOM needs to finish winding down operations in Iraq, and start to transition responsibilities to the Afghan people. After hearing from General Mattis, it is clear that while our drawdown from Iraq is proceeding on schedule, we still have serious challenges in Afghanistan, and other parts of the Middle East remain unstable. The issues before CENTCOM are difficult, but our committee must do all it can to help General Mattis deal with these obstacles efficiently and effectively. As Ranking Member, I am committed to working with Chairman Culberson and my colleagues on the subcommittee to help them get the job done." (votesmart.org)
No Inferred Answer Budget: In order to balance the budget, do you support reducing defense spending? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Sanford Bishop. Bishop Statement on the Continuing Resolution. 8 December 2010. "It is unfortunate that we have to operate the Federal Government under a continuing resolution, but given the inability to reach a bipartisan agreement on a budget and twelve appropriations bills, a continuing resolution is necessary. However, I am pleased that the continuing resolution will provide adequate funding and flexibility for the Department of Defense and that it also fully funds our operations in Afghanistan and Iraq and provides a pay increase for our military personnel." (votesmart.org)
  • Jeff Ofgana. 13WMAZ.com: Rep. Bishop: Steep Budget Cuts Would Be 'Destructive'. 21 August 2012. "At a joint appearance at Middle Georgia Technical College in Warner Robins, 2nd District Rep. Sanford Bishop (D) of Albany said defense cuts under the so-called "sequestration" would have a destructive impact on Robins Air Force Base. He said the cuts could eliminate one million jobs from the U.S. economy by 2014." (www.13wmaz.com)
  • Sanford Bishop. Meet Sanford Bishop. 23 August 2012. "The middle and southwest Georgia legislator defines his goal in public life as 'seeking a higher, better quality of life for all citizens by promoting jobs and a stronger, more diversified economy, a better educated population, safe and secure communities free of crime and drugs, a clean environment, affordable and accessible health care, a safe food supply, energy independence, and a strong national defense -- all within the context of a balanced budget.'" (www.sanfordbishop.com)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 5010. 108th Congress. Department of Defense Appropriations, Fiscal Year 2003. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 10/10/2002. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 4939. 110th Congress. Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2006. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 06/13/2006. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. H Amdt 13. 112th Congress. Reducing Navy and Air Force Aircraft Procurement. Sanford Bishop voted Nay on 02/15/2011. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 4986. 110th Congress. Defense Authorizations Bill. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 01/16/2008. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 3222. 110th Congress. Department of Defense Appropriations, Fiscal Year 2008. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 08/05/2007. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 1363. 112th Congress. 2011 Department of Defense Budget and Additional Continuing Appropriations. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 04/07/2011. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 5631. 110th Congress. Department Defense Appropriations Act, FY 2007. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 09/26/2006. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 2561. 106th Congress. Defense Department Appropriations bill, FY2000. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 07/22/1999. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 5631. 110th Congress. Defense Department FY2007 Appropriations Bill. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 06/20/2006. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 4200. 108th Congress. Defense Department FY2005 Authorization Bill. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 05/20/2004. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 2642. 110th Congress. Funding for Operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 06/19/2008. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. The Federal Budget And The Economy. 3 February 2010. "Some things, though, in which jobs are our responsibility, we also have put a stifling influence just on the decisions we make. This budget is $3.8 trillion. That's a whole lot of money. It's $1.6 trillion more than we have. That's a whole lot of money that's going to go there. And in every one of the budgets that takes place it's about choices. In our own families we do the same thing. We have certain things we want and certain things we need. My problem with this budget right now, specifically in the areas that I am deeply concerned, is that we have a lot of stuff in here that we want that's being funded and a lot of things that we need that is not being funded. One of the few constitutional responsibilities we have in this country is defense. Last year, you and I were down here with others very frequently talking about missile defense. It is essential for this country. We cut missile defense. Once again, it was about prioritization. I think and I believe you thought we put our priorities in the wrong place. And you don't build a missile without people. When we cut our missile defense program, we took jobs away." (votesmart.org)
  • Lynn Westmoreland. Rooney, Larson, Westmoreland, Pingree, Griffin Urge Congress to Strike Funding for Wasteful Extra Engine Program. 15 February 2011. "U.S. Reps. Tom Rooney (R-FL), John Larson (D-CT), Lynn Westmoreland (R-GA), Chellie Pingree (D-ME) and Tim Griffin (R-AR) today urged their colleagues in the House to support an amendment to strike funding for the wasteful extra engine program for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. The amendment, which they will offer on the floor this week, would save taxpayers $450 million in the remaining seven months of fiscal year 2011. The Pentagon projects that to complete the extra engine project would cost approximately $3 billion. [...] Rep. Westmoreland said: "This program is an extravagance we can't afford, pure and simple. Of the 28 aircrafts currently in operation, the F-16 is the only one with a dual source engine. At a time when our country is drowning in more than $14 trillion in debt, every penny we can save the American taxpayers counts. I made a promise to my constituents that I was going to come to Washington and end the out-of-control spending that has plagued our country for the last two years, driving us to the brink of bankruptcy. And I can see no better place to start than with this duplicative and unnecessary program President Bush opposed, President Obama opposes, and Secretary Gates has referred to as "waste.'" (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Department of Defense and Full-Year Continuing Appropriations Act, 2011. 14 April 2011. "If this spending package becomes law, Congress will have made the largest cut to discretionary spending in the history of this body, cutting nearly $40 billion from the FY10 budget. The CR provides $73.1 billion for Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, which is $3.4 billion below the FY10 enacted level. [...] Now, Madam Speaker, the American people want to know that Congress can come together, bridge the partisan differences, and get the country's business done. I sincerely hope that as we finally move on to FY 2012, we remember what we learned in this process and apply it to FY 2012 because no Member of this body wants to go through this ordeal again." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Rep. Bishop Statement After Full Committee Markup of the FY 2012 Milcon/VA Appropriations Bill. 25 May 2011. "The House Appropriations Committee has a strong history of working across party lines to provide our military with the tools it needs to defend our country. And we have always provided the resources to care for our service members, their families and our veterans. There was bipartisan consensus on the key elements of this bill, and for the first time in several years, we were able to find real savings without compromising resources for benefits, care and services. "I was pleased that the bill included more than $90 million for construction at Fort Benning, including critical funding to replace McBride Elementary School and a new trainee barracks complex. I was also pleased that the bill restated the subcommittee's support for joint health care facilities between the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and that it directed GAO to assess the benefits and potential savings of joint DoD/VA health care facilities across the country." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2006 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "Greatly Increase" for: "Using the key, indicate what federal funding levels you support for the following general categories. Select one number per category, you can use a number more than once. [?] c) Defense" Budget Priorities Other or expanded principles: "Greatly increase funding: housing."
No Inferred Answer Budget: In order to balance the budget, do you support an income tax increase on any tax bracket? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "Yes" for: "6) Do you support requiring a super-majority vote in both houses of Congress to raise taxes?"
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "Slightly Increase" for: "1) Indicate the changes you support (if any) concerning the tax levels for the following categories. Select one number only. b) Family income less than $25,000"
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "Slightly Increase" for: "1) Indicate the changes you support (if any) concerning the tax levels for the following categories. Select one number only. e) Family income over $150,000"
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "Slightly Increase" for: "1) Indicate the changes you support (if any) concerning the tax levels for the following categories. Select one number only. d) Family income $75-150,000"
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "Slightly Increase" for: "1) Indicate the changes you support (if any) concerning the tax levels for the following categories. Select one number only. c) Family income $25-75,000"
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "Slightly Increase" for: "1) Indicate the changes you support (if any) concerning the tax levels for the following categories. Select one number only. a) Retiree income over $40,000"
  • Sanford Bishop. Taxes. 16 August 2012. "Tax relief is vital to encouraging economic growth. Congressman Bishop believes that tax relief is a bi-partisan issue and has routinely crossed the aisle to do what is best for American families. For example, he strongly supported the extension of the 2001 and 2003 tax cuts, which lowered tax rates across the board for all Americans and propelled the economic growth we experienced through most of the last decade." (www.sanfordbishop.com)
  • Sanford Bishop. Statement of Representative Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. on the Tax Cut Compromise. 7 December 2010. " I applaud the bipartisan agreement on much-needed tax relief for all Americans. Now is not the time to raise taxes on any segment of the population while the economy remains so fragile. Raising taxes would stifle investment, impede job creation, and put severe financial strain on businesses and individuals." (bishop.house.gov)
  • Sanford Bishop. Small Business Paperwork Mandate Elimination Act Of 2011. 8 March 2011. "the House Majority has decided to poison the legislation at hand with an offset containing a severe tax increase aimed squarely at middle income Americans. It would raise taxes on middle-income families who simply get a new job, work extra shifts, or receive a bonus for good performance. It is insensitive and even more onerous due to the fact it would place a greater burden on working families trying to purchase health care." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Bishop Supports Additional Tax Relief for American Families. 22 September 2010. "A number of tax cuts enacted in the past decade are due to expire at the end of this year. Our fiscal policy should be one that maximizes economic growth and private sector job creation. That is why we strongly believe that Congress should extend the current tax rates for dividend and long-term capital gains taxes. By keeping dividends and capital gains tax rates linked and low for everyone, we can help the private sector create jobs and allow seniors and middle class households to save and invest more." (sanfordbishop.ngphost.com)
  • Sanford Bishop. Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010. 16 December 2010. "The unemployment rate stands at 9.8 percent, and over eight million Americans are subsisting on unemployment insurance benefits while they search for work. In Georgia alone, the unemployment rate is over 10 percent. 67,000 additional Georgians filed for unemployment insurance last month. Despite these sobering numbers, our nation is on a dangerous path toward the largest tax increase in over a decade if we do not approve this vital legislation before us today. We must not let this happen. We must change course. Our nation's workers, retirees, businesses, and job-seekers simply cannot afford the crushing burden of new taxes in today's economy. Raising taxes in this economic environment would stifle investment, slow down job creation, and put severe financial strain on businesses and individuals.This bipartisan legislation confronts this reality. It temporarily continues the Bush Tax Cuts for the benefit of all Americans. It provides a desperately needed extension of unemployment insurance benefits. It reduces the crushing burden of the estate tax on our nation's family farms and businesses. And it puts money back into the paychecks of America's workers. I urge my colleagues to take action and vote to send this legislation to the President's desk. Now is the time to act. We owe it to our constituents and to our nation not to let their taxes go up on New Year's Day." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Statement of Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. on the Extensimon of Middle Income Tax Cuts. 2 December 2010. "I agree that the extension of middle income tax cuts is vital to the economic health of our nation, and I proudly support providing this much needed relief. Over 75% of American workers are living paycheck-to-paycheck, and they simply cannot afford the burden of new taxes [¦] We must extend the 2001 and 2003 tax cuts, at least temporarily, for all Americans, as well as provide substantial estate tax relief for the benefit of our family-owned farms and businesses." (bishop.house.gov)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 1836. 107th Congress. Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act, 2001. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 05/16/2001. (votesmart.org)
  • National Taxpayers Union. 04/18/2012. "Sanford Bishop supported reasonable tax and spending policies as defined by the National Taxpayers Union 9 percent of the time in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Americans for Tax Reform. 04/18/2012. "Sanford Bishop supported the interests of the Americans for Tax Reform 5 percent in 2007." (votesmart.org)
  • Citizens for Tax Justice. 04/18/2012. "Sanford Bishop supported the interests of the Citizens for Tax Justice 50 percent in 2006." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Concurrent Resolution on the Budget for Fiscal Year 2006. 17 March 2005. "Mr. Chairman, I believe in fiscal responsibility. I believe that in times of national and fiscal crisis, sacrifices need to be made. But, I also believe that they need to be made by all Americans. It is unfair to scale back government programs that benefit hard working families in order to fund tax cuts that most benefit the wealthiest of Americans. We all need to make sacrifices, but we must also keep our priorities straight." (votesmart.org)
Yes Inferred Answer Economy: Do you support federal spending as a means of promoting economic growth? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Sanford Bishop. Bishop focuses on stimulus bill. 15 March 2009. "We have a big problem and there is no guarantee it (the stimulus package) will fix the system. There is a reason for optimism this act is designed to make an investment in our future as a country and to bring us back into the world market as a leader." (bishop.house.gov)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 5297. 112th Congress. Small Business Lending Fund and Tax Law Amendments. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 09/23/2010. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 1424. 110th Congress. Financial Asset Purchase Authority and Tax Law Amendments. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 10/03/2008. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2012. 15 June 2011. "Let me just say this: Georgia is the second-largest cotton-producing State. It accounts for approximately 10 percent of the U.S. cotton production. In 2011, Georgia farmers intend to plant almost 1.5 million acres of cotton. The average farm-gate value is more than $600 million. There are approximately 2,800 businesses directly involved in the production, processing, and distribution of cotton. Accounting for the broader economic effects, the Georgia cotton industry supports more than 46,000 jobs, and it generates economic activity of approximately $11 billion. [...] The amendments target cotton farmers in an effort to reduce government spending. The 2008 farm bill, including the cotton provisions, was fully paid for, offset, and did not add one single dime to the deficit. They cite the years in which the government's support for cotton was historically high, but they ignore the years when the support actually is at historic lows. We need to maintain the safety net so that it's there when it's needed but not utilized, as it hasn't been recently, when it's not needed." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Bishop Statement on March Jobs Report. 1 April 2011. "The March jobs report is another indication that our economy is moving in the right direction. The addition of 230,000 private sector jobs -- the 13th consecutive month of private sector job growth -- and a drop in the national unemployment rate for the fourth straight month is a direct result of the steps Democrats took to reduce taxes on small businesses and increase incentives for business investment. "While it's clear our economy has made some progress, the unemployment rate nationally, and in Georgia, is still too high. We have a long way to go before our economy fully recovers, and Democrats and Republicans must come together and find ways to reduce spending without sacrificing critical investments in education, infrastructure, and agriculture research that we know create jobs and grow our economy." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Issue Position: Agriculture. 13 July 2011. "Accomplishments: -Original co-sponsor of H.R.875, the Food Safety Modernization Act, which will fix systemic problems in our food safety system and establish a separate Food Safety Administration which will be solely focused on protecting the public through better regulation of the food supply. (Legislation Pending) -Voted for and passed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), which provided $7.2 billion -- one of the largest single investments of its kind -- for extending broadband and wireless services to underserved communities across the country. The Departments of Agriculture and Commerce are currently working to distribute these funds to worthy projects around the county, including in southwest Georgia." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Issue Position: Jobs and the Economy. 13 July 2011. "I am focused on creating jobs in the Second Congressional District and revitalizing the economy for the future. I supported the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act which, according to a January, 2010 report by the White House's Council of Economic Advisors, created or saved up to 2 million jobs and added between 1.5 and 3 percentage points to the growth in gross domestic product in the final quarter of 2009. I also fought for extending unemployment benefits for workers who have exhausted their benefits, providing vital tax relief to 25 million middle-class families by protecting them from the Alternative Minimum Tax, putting people to work rebuilding our crumbling roads and bridges, as well as strengthening our nation's small businesses and farms." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Recovery Funds Increase During First Quarter. 7 May 2010. "The impact of the Recovery Act continues to be felt in every corner of Southwest Georgia," said Congressman Bishop. "With these funds, we are creating new jobs and saving existing ones. We also are improving drinking water, constructing new roads, bolstering our rural health care infrastructure, strengthening our schools, and improving the quality of life for all of the residents of the Second Congressional District. [...] Congress passed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 on February 13, 2009 in direct response to the economic crisis. The legislation was signed into law on February 17, 2009. The Recovery Act has three immediate goals: to create new jobs and maintain existing ones; promote economic activity and invest in long-term growth; and encourage unprecedented levels of accountability and transparency in government spending." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Rep. Bishop Statement on Misguided Republican Budget. 15 April 2011. "The nation's budget is a statement about our priorities and our values. With the country at a crossroad, we have to make very difficult choices about how we reduce our deficit and bring down our debt. I voted against the Republican budget because it makes the wrong choices, and fails to sufficiently reduce the deficit, grow the economy or create jobs. [...] "If we are going to solve our fiscal challenges, we must get past the rigid ideological differences that have prevented us from finding effective bipartisan solutions that grow our economy and reduce government spending. I am committed to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to find ways to strengthen our economy, invest in our future, and responsibly reduce our debt." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. WALB - Bishop Speaks on Economy, Oil Spill. 13 July 2010. "Congressman Sanford Bishop says he believes South Georgia's economy is rebounding, and he credits the stimulus plan with helping spur that recovery. He says spending, Job creation, and construction are showing slight signs of improvement. Bishop says the huge government spending increase associated with the stimulus plan was a bitter pill for taxpayers to swallow, but it was necessary because the U. S. economy was on life support. "Here in Southwest Georgia we've had many, many challenges, but I have to say but for the efforts that we have put in place over the last 18 months, our experiences would be much, much, much worse." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Current Resolution on the Budget for Fiscal Year 2010. 2 April 2009. "Madam Chair, I want to say a few words in support of the Fiscal Year 2010 House Budget Resolution. This important legislation builds on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to create jobs and strengthen the American economy for the long-term. It also restores honesty and transparency to the congressional budget process and puts our nation on a clear path to recovery." (votesmart.org)
  • Americans for Prosperity. 04/18/2012. "Sanford Bishop supported the interests of the Americans for Prosperity 100 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • The Club for Growth. 04/18/2012. "On the votes used to calculate its ratings, The Club for Growth attaches more value to those votes it considers more important. For 2010, The Club for Growth gave Sanford Bishop a rating of 8 percent." (votesmart.org)
Yes Inferred Answer Economy: Do you support providing tax incentives to businesses for the purpose of job creation? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Sanford Bishop. HR 2488. 106th Congress. Financial Freedom Act of 1999. Sanford Bishop voted Nay on 08/05/1999. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 2. 108th Congress. Jobs and Economic Growth bill. Sanford Bishop voted Nay on 05/23/2003. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "a) Provide tax credits for companies that move job-creating industries into areas with high unemployment."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "a) Provide tax credits for companies that move job-creating industries into areas with high unemployment."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "a) Provide tax credits for companies that move job-creating industries into areas with high unemployment."
  • Sanford Bishop. Middle Class Tax Relief Act of 2010. 2 December 2010. "Unfortunately, this measure does not go far enough. Given the current state of our fragile economic recovery, now is not the time to raise taxes on any American. Businesses large and small are still having difficulty creating new jobs, training their workers, and growing for the future. I remain deeply concerned that raising taxes on those businesses would further impede job creation and punish success at a time when we should be encouraging the entrepreneurial spirit." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Issue Position: Small Businesses. 12 July 2011. "Small businesses are the engine of job creation and economic growth in America, having created two-thirds of the new jobs over the last decade and a half. Helping Southwest Georgia's small businesses to grow and succeed is a top priority of mine. In Congress, I have voted again and again for legislation that ensures small business owners have the opportunity to compete for contracts from the federal government. I have also supported tax relief for small businesses, voting for legislation that helps them grow by providing tax credits and incentives for expanding and purchasing new equipment." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Issue Position: Energy Independence. 13 July 2011. "I have long been a supporter of increased energy exploration in the Outer Continental Shelf and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to reduce gasoline prices and reduce our dependence on foreign energy sources. I also worked to promote the production and use of biofuels, provide tax incentives for renewable energy, and support the creation of hundreds of thousands of green jobs." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Bishop to Pelosi: Extend Tax Cuts Now!. 29 September 2010. "I strongly believe that Congress should have acted before going into recess until the election. The expiration of the Bush tax cuts will have a dramatic effect on Georgia citizens across the socio-economic spectrum. Continuing to put this problem off until after the November elections as Speaker Pelosi has done is the wrong way to proceed. The bottom line is this -- Georgia needs action now so that tax relief can boost the economy and create jobs." (votesmart.org)
Unknown Position Unknown Answer Education: Do you support requiring states to implement education reforms in order to be eligible for competitive federal grants? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Sanford Bishop. Bishop Votes to Save Teacher Jobs & To Help States Balance Budgets. 10 August 2010. "Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) today announced his support for H.R. 1586, the Education Jobs and Medicaid Assistance Act, which passed the House today by a vote of 247 to 161. The bill, which is fully offset by closing tax loopholes and cutting spending, provides $10 billion for aid to local school districts to prevent layoffs in elementary and secondary schools, saving an estimated 161,000 education jobs nation-wide, and 5,700 jobs in the State of Georgia. According to the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP), the State of Georgia is estimated to receive under this legislation $322 million in additional education support. 'The education of our nation's youth goes hand-in-hand with America's economic recovery,' said Congressman Bishop. 'In Georgia this week, most of the school districts are opening. The sooner this bill becomes law, the sooner our school districts will be able to rehire teachers, stop planned layoffs, and prepare our children for future success.'" (sanfordbishop.ngphost.com)
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2006 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "a) Support national standards for and testing of public school students."
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 1804. 104th Congress. Goals 2000: Educate America Act. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 03/23/1994. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 2300. 106th Congress. Academic Achievement for All Act. Sanford Bishop voted Nay on 10/21/1999. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "a) Support national standards and testing of public school students."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "e) Eliminate the Department of Education, thereby giving state and local government greater control over educational issues."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "g) Give all federal education funding to states in the form of block grants and allow them to spend it as they see fit."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "Local" for: "Indicate which level of government that should have primary responsibility for the following services. Select one level only. c) Education"
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "Greatly Increase" for: "1) Indicate what levels of federal funding you support for the following categories. Select one number (level) only. c) Education (K-12)" 1) Indicate what levels of federal funding you support for the following categories. Select one number (level) only. Other or expanded principles: "Veterans programs -- Greatly Increase"
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "l) Eliminate restrictions on federal education funding, giving educators or local school districts more flexibility to design and implement their programs."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "Greatly Increase" for: "1) Indicate what changes you support (if any) concerning levels of federal funding for the following categories. Select one number only. c) Education (K-12)" 1) Indicate what changes you support (if any) concerning levels of federal funding for the following categories. Select one number only. Other or expanded principles: "Veterans Programs "
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "Greatly Increase" for: "1) Indicate what levels of federal funding you support for the following categories. Select one number (level) only. c) Education (K-12)" 1) Indicate what levels of federal funding you support for the following categories. Select one number (level) only. Other or expanded principles: "Rural dev'l -- Greatly Increase"
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2006 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "Greatly Increase" for: "Using the key, indicate what federal funding levels you support for the following general categories. Select one number per category, you can use a number more than once. [?] d) Education" Budget Priorities Other or expanded principles: "Greatly increase funding: housing."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "Greatly Increase" for: "1) Indicate what changes you support (if any) concerning levels of federal funding for the following categories. Select one number only. c) Education (K-12)" 1) Indicate what changes you support (if any) concerning levels of federal funding for the following categories. Select one number only. Other or expanded principles: "Rural Development "
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "g) Promote education flexibility by giving federal funds, in the form of block grants, to the states to spend it as they see fit."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "Greatly Increase" for: "1) Indicate what levels of federal funding you support for the following categories. Select one number (level) only. c) Education (K-12)" 1) Indicate what levels of federal funding you support for the following categories. Select one number (level) only. Other or expanded principles: "Ag Research -- Greatly Increase"
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "Greatly Increase" for: "1) Indicate what changes you support (if any) concerning levels of federal funding for the following categories. Select one number only. c) Education (K-12)"
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "No" for: "2) Do you support the use of block grants given to states, rather than federal spending, in the following areas? b) Education"
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "Local" for: "Indicate which level of government should have primary responsibility for the following services. Select one level only. 3) Education"
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "a) Support national standards and testing in reading and math." 1) Indicate which principles you support (if any) concerning education. Other or expanded principles: "Provide more funds for school modernization and renovation and higring more teachers."
  • Sanford Bishop. Bill Underfunds Education, Health Care. 1 July 2003. "Among the programs funded in the bill is the landmark "No Child Left Behind Act," which established financial assistance and procedures to help schools throughout the country strengthen their academic performance, the Congressman pointed out. However, he said, the bill provides billions of dollars less than the Act authorizes [¦] We can, and must, do better." (bishop.house.gov)
  • Sanford Bishop. Concurrent Resolution on the Budget for Fiscal Year 2007. 17 May 2006. " I rise today in strong support of the American people, and the Congressional Black Caucus' Alternative U.S. Budget (CBC Budget) [¦] The CBC Budget adds $32 billion in Education, Training, Employment and Social Services, $1 billion in Natural Resources and Environment; and $5.4 billion in Health programs. It increases security and critical investments for our homeland, for our troops, for rail and port security grants, cargo and air cargo screening equipment, first responders, federal air marshals, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It funds juvenile justice and local law enforcement programs, while restoring cuts in veterans' health care, enhances benefits to our veterans in survivor benefits, medical and prosthetic research, long-term care, and mental health care. It provides $80 billion more for education and job training programs than the Republic budget over 5 years, including funding for No Child Left Behind and school construction." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Issue Position: Education. 16 August 2012. "Congressman Bishop has a track record of innovation and dedication when it comes to education in the Second Congressional District. Partnering with members on both sides of the aisle, Congressman Bishop voted for the historic No Child Left Behind initiative; however since its passage he has continued the fight to fully fund the bill and help teachers and educators meet its promise. Drawing on private sector innovation, Congressman Bishop recently secured funding to install and operate a high-tech communications network for parents and teachers in the Dougherty County School System, which if successful, he hopes to expand throughout southwest Georgia. As an ardent supporter of programs such as Head Start, Even Start and TRIO, Congressman Bishop continues to take on efforts to eliminate their funding as he searches for additional sources of revenue for education in his district." (votesmart.org)
Yes Inferred Answer Energy: Do you support reducing restrictions on offshore energy production? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Environment America. 04/18/2012. "Sanford Bishop supported the interests of Environment America 93 percent in 2009." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Letter to President Barack Obama (D): Support Offshore Drilling. 27 April 2010. "Off shore, in shore it does not matter, drilling for oil on our own lands in our own territories is our right, duty and responsiblity to keep Amercia free from having to purchase and support countries that are not friendly to us. Common sense must rule and mandates that require drillers to take the proper precautions and have the proper clean up equipment on hand if not already in place should be done and then oil companies should be told to go explore and drill." (ssl.congress.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2006 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "i) Support opening a portion of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for oil exploration."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2006 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "g) Support increased development of traditional energy resources (e.g. coal, natural gas, oil)."
  • Sanford Bishop. Bishop Votes to Expand Domestic Drilling, Alleviate Energy Crisis. 17 September 2009. "Congressman Sanford Bishop last night voted to address our nation's energy crisis, reduce gas prices, protect taxpayers, and lessen America's need for foreign oil by supporting the Comprehensive American Energy Security and Consumer Protection Act. The legislation, which includes provisions to expand domestic drilling both off-shore and on land, passed the House by a vote of 236 to 189. "More production of oil and natural gas is needed, but it will not get us to energy independence alone. This legislation will provide us with a supply of domestic energy and give us the tools we will need to wean ourselves off foreign oil over the long term." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Issue Position: Energy Independence. 13 July 2011. "I have long been a supporter of increased energy exploration in the Outer Continental Shelf and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to reduce gasoline prices and reduce our dependence on foreign energy sources. I also worked to promote the production and use of biofuels, provide tax incentives for renewable energy, and support the creation of hundreds of thousands of green jobs." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 1230. 112th Congress. Offshore Leasing Act. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 05/05/2011. (votesmart.org)
  • Southern Alliance for Clean Energy Action Fund. 04/18/2012. "Sanford Bishop supported the interests of the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy Action Fund 100 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. H Amdt 773. 112th Congress. Ending Moratorium on Deepwater Drilling Rigs that Meet Certain Safety Standards. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 07/30/2010. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 3534. 112th Congress. Offshore Drilling Regulations and Other Energy Law Amendments. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 07/30/2010. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Bishop Speaks on Economy, Oil Spill. 13 July 2012. "Bishop says legislators will have to set up stronger regulation over oil exploration and drilling to make sure another Gulf Oil Crisis never happens again. A Mobile, Alabama native, Congressman Bishop said it appears that government regulators who were supposed to be overseeing oil drilling in the Gulf were "too cozy" with oil companies. Bishop said the oil spill has had a devastating impact on the Gulf's environment and economy, and that more needs to be done to help the region." (bishop.house.gov)
Yes Inferred Answer Environment: Do you support the federal regulation of greenhouse gas emissions? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Environment America. 04/18/2012. "Sanford Bishop supported the interests of Environment America 93 percent in 2009." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 2454. 111th Congress. Energy and Environmental Law Amendments ("Cap and Trade"). Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 06/26/2009. (votesmart.org)
  • Southern Alliance for Clean Energy Action Fund. 04/18/2012. "Sanford Bishop supported the interests of the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy Action Fund 100 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Sierra Club. Project Vote Smart: Interest Group Endorsements. 04/18/2012. Sierra Club endorsed Sanford Bishop in the 2010 general election. (votesmart.org)
  • League of Conservation Voters. 04/18/2012. "Sanford Bishop supported the interests of the League of Conservation Voters 90 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 910. 112th Congress. Energy Tax Prevention Act. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 04/07/2011. (votesmart.org)
  • Southern Alliance for Clean Energy Action Fund. Project Vote Smart: Interest Group Endorsements. 04/18/2012. Southern Alliance for Clean Energy Action Fund endorsed Sanford Bishop in the 2008 general election. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Bishop On House Passage Of Climate Change Legislation. 26 June 2009. "All credible science confirms that the earth's climate is warming," Bishop continued. "In fact, the global temperature is quickly approaching a level wholly unknown to human beings throughout the course of recorded history," stated Bishop. "Protecting the health and the survival of the planet is not only a moral concern, but a religious issue as well. My faith tells me that we must act as responsible stewards of God's creation. We must do everything we can to ensure that the Earth and all of God's creatures are preserved for generations to come." Among the most important provisions in H.R. 2454 is a requirement that electric utilities meet 20% of their electricity demand through renewable energy and become energy efficient by 2020. H.R. 2454 also provides over $190 billion for clean energy technologies such as biomass, biogas, and other renewable sources that can bring new economic opportunities to rural America. The bill includes a requirement for new energy savings standards for buildings and industry. In addition, the bill mandates that major U.S. contributors to greenhouse gases reduce their 2005 output of carbon emissions by 17% by 2020 and over 80% by 2050." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Macon - Georgia Farmers, Lawmakers Feel EPA Pesticide Regulations "Burdensome". 10 May 2011. "Over the last few years, the EPA has slowly but surely stepped up its regulation of our agriculture sector, but this action by Congress should help restore some balance in the regulatory process," Bishop said after the House bill's passage. "Our farmers cannot afford to meet these burdensome requirements that would raise costs and further strain state budgets trying to comply with the requirement." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Letter to Lisa Jackson, Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. 16 June 2010. "We are writing to express our deep disappointment and concern over the EPA's decision in its final PSD Tailoring Rule to depart from the government's consistent past practice of excluding biomass combustion emissions in calculating GHG emissions. This decision contradicts federal precedent regarding the carbon neutrality of biomass combustion and will discourage the responsible development and utilization of renewable biomass that could and should play a more significant role in our nation's energy policy. [...] The decision also contradicts long-standing federal and international precedents. Emissions from the combustion of biomass are not included in the Department of Energy's voluntary greenhouse gas emissions reporting programs, the EPA's greenhouse gas reporting rule, or calculations of international bodies including the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and the European Union." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "i) Promote the selling of pollution credits between nations to encourage industries to decrease pollution levels."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "d) Eliminate government regulations of the private sector in order to encourage investment and economic expansion."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "i) Strengthen emission controls on all gasoline or diesel powered engines, including cars and trucks."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "g) Strengthen emission controls on all gasoline or diesel-powered engines, including cars, trucks, and sport utility vehicles."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "g) Strengthen emission controls on all gasoline or diesel powered engines, including cars and trucks."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "j) Reduce current federal regulations on the environment."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "j) Impose stricter national air quality standards."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2006 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "l) Allow energy producers to trade pollution credits."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2006 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "c) Support Clear Skies Act to reduce power plant emissions by setting a national cap on pollutants."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "k) Adhere to the United Nations treaty regarding global climate change."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "c) Reduce government regulation of the private sector in order to encourage investment and economic expansion."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2006 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "m) Support the Kyoto Protocol to limit global warming."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "b) Strengthen the regulation and enforcement of the Clean Air Act."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "l) Promote the selling of pollution credits to encourage industries to decrease amount of pollution."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "h) Promote the selling of pollution credits between nations to encourage industries to decrease pollution levels."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2006 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "h) Strengthen emission controls and fuel efficiency standards on all gasoline and diesel-powered engines, including cars, trucks, and sport utility vehicles."
No Inferred Answer Guns: Do you support restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Sanford Bishop. H AMDT 1156. 110th Congress. Trigger Lock Amendment. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 06/28/2006. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 125. 104th Congress. Gun Ban Repeal Act of 1995. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 03/22/1996. (votesmart.org)
  • Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence. 04/18/2012. "Sanford Bishop supported the interests of the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence 26 percent from 1988-2003 (Senate) or 1991-2003 (House)." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 2122. 106th Congress. Mandatory Gun Show Background Check Act. Sanford Bishop voted Nay on 06/18/1999. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. S 397. 109th Congress. Firearms Manufacturers Protection Bill. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 10/20/2005. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 6842. 110th Congress. Repealing Portions of the D.C. Firearm Ban. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 09/17/2008. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 4296. 104th Congress. Regulation of Semi-Automatic Assault Weapons. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 05/05/1994. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. H Amdt 390. 103th Congress. Instant Background Checks for Gun Purchase Amendment. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 11/10/1993. (votesmart.org)
  • Gun Owners of America. 04/18/2012. "In 2010 Gun Owners of America gave Sanford Bishop a grade of 18." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 1025. 103th Congress. Brady Handgun Bill. Sanford Bishop voted Nay on 11/10/1993. (votesmart.org)
  • National Rifle Association. Project Vote Smart: Interest Group Endorsements. 04/18/2012. National Rifle Association endorsed Sanford Bishop in the 2010 general election. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "i) Raise the minimum age for ownership of handguns from 18 to 21."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "c) Maintain federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of firearms."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "e) Allow citizens to carry concealed guns."
  • Sanford Bishop. Issue Position: Second Amendment. 12 July 2011. "I am a strong proponent of Second Amendment rights under the U.S. Constitution, so that law-abiding adults can exercise their Constitutional right to purchase and own firearms for the protection of their homes and families, collecting, target shooting, and hunting. In the 110th Congress (2007-2008), I received an "A+" grade from the National Rifle Association for my support of Second Amendment rights." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. District of Columbia Personal Protection Act. 29 September 2004. "Mr. Speaker, all Americans know that gun control continues to be a serious subject of debate, right here in the District of Columbia, in the State of Georgia, which I represent, and across this Nation. It's an issue of personal safety and of constitutional rights embedded in the fabric of our Nation. I agree with those who want to restrict criminal access to guns. However, this must be done without compromising the constitutional rights of our law-abiding citizens. I strongly support the right of law-abiding adults to purchase and own firearms for the protection of their homes and families, collecting, target shooting, and hunting. That's why I have and will continue to oppose any proposal that threatens this basic second amendment right." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "c) Maintain all federal registration procedures and restrictions on possessing firearms."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2006 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "b) Maintain and strengthen the current level of enforcement of existing federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "e) Repeal federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of firearms by law-abiding citizens."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "j) Require background checks of gun buyers at gun shows."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "d) Ease procedures on the purchase and registration of firearms."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "b) Maintain and strengthen the enforcement of existing federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2006 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "d) Repeal federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "f) Require manufacturers to provide child-safety locks on guns."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "d) Implement tighter restrictions on firearm sales in an effort to hinder terrorist groups from stockpiling weapon arsenals."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "b) Increase federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of firearms."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "f) Favor allowing citizens to carry concealed firearms."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) Ban the sale or transfer of semi-automatic guns, except those used for hunting."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2006 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "e) Allow citizens to carry concealed guns."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "d) Repeal federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "c) Ease federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2006 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) Reauthorize the ban on the sale or transfer of semi-automatic guns, except those used for hunting."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "d) Ease federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of firearms."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "b) Increase restrictions on the purchase and possession of firearms."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2006 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "g) Require a license for gun possession."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "k) Require a license for gun possession."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2006 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "f) Require background checks on gun sales between private citizens at gun shows."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2006 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "c) Ease federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) Expand the nationwide ban on the sale or transfer of assault weapons to include all forms of semi-automatic weapons."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) Ban the sale or transfer of all forms of semi-automatic weapons."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "e) Repeal all bans and measures that restrict law-abiding citizens from owning legally-obtained firearms."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "f) Allow law-abiding citizens to carry concealed firearms that are legally owned and registered."
No Inferred Answer Health Care: Do you support repealing the 2010 Affordable Care Act? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Sanford Bishop. Facebook: Wall. 2 February 2012. "The Affordable Care Act saved 102,366 Medicare beneficiaries in Georgia an average of $573 on prescription drugs in 2011." (www.facebook.com)
  • Sanford Bishop. Twitter: SanfordBishop. 28 June 2012. "SCOTUS decision today on #healthcare law is a victory for Georgia & I'm thankful my constituents continue to benefit." (twitter.com)
  • Sanford Bishop. Twitter: SanfordBishop. 30 July 2012. "Under the health care law, many insurers are required to cover certain preventive services at no cost to you." (twitter.com)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 2. 112th Congress. Repealing the Health Care Bill. Sanford Bishop voted Nay on 01/19/2011. (votesmart.org)
  • American Public Health Association. 04/18/2012. "Sanford Bishop supported the interests of the American Public Health Association 100 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Bishop Statement after House Passage of 1099 Reform Bill. 3 March 2011. "Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed legislation to repeal a burdensome provision of the Affordable Care Act by a vote of 314 to 112. H.R. 4, the Comprehensive 1099 Taxpayer Protection and Repayment of Exchange Subsidy Overpayments Act of 2011, would rescind the 1099 reporting requirement that forces small businesses to file a 1099 form with the IRS for payments of more than $600 that they make to any vendor during a tax year, beginning in 2012. [...] "I voted to move this legislation forward to prevent this requirement from going into effect. I am confident that the House, the Senate, and the Administration can come together and find an alternative solution that does not hurt middle-income Americans." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) The federal government has no responsibility in providing health care."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "i) The federal government has no responsibility in providing health care."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "a) Implement a universal health care program to guarantee coverage to all Americans regardless of income."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) Providing health care is not a responsibility of the federal government."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "b) Implement a universal health care program to guarantee coverage to all Americans regardless of income."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2006 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) Providing health care is not a responsibility of the federal government."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2006 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "b) Implement a universal health care program to guarantee coverage to all Americans regardless of income."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "b) Implement a universal health care program to guarantee coverage to all Americans regardless of income."
  • Sanford Bishop. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution - Georgians in Congress follow party lines in health vote. 20 January 2011. "Democratic Rep. Sanford Bishop of Albany nearly got defeated in November, in part because of conservatives' angst over his support of the health care legislation. Wednesday, Bishop didn't waver. He voted against the repeal. "There are too many good things in the health care law that would [¦] benefit the people of the second district for me to vote against," Bishop said." (votesmart.org)
No Inferred Answer Immigration: Do you support requiring illegal immigrants to return to their country of origin before they are eligible for citizenship? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Federation for American Immigration Reform. 04/18/2012. "Sanford Bishop supported the interests of the Federation for American Immigration Reform 33 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 4437. 109th Congress. Border Security Bill. Sanford Bishop voted Nay on 12/16/2005. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 5281. 112th Congress. DREAM Act. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 12/08/2010. (votesmart.org)
  • National Latino Congreso/William C. Velásquez Institute. 04/18/2012. "Sanford Bishop supported the interests of National Latino Congreso/William C. Velásquez Institute 67 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Bishop Statement on House Passage of the Dream Act. 12 January 2011. "I support the DREAM Act as amended because it creates a process, albeit a difficult ten-year process, for a limited group of young people who were brought the United States years ago as children through no fault of their own, to resolve their immigration status thereby allowing America to receive the full benefit of their talents." "I do not believe that it is right to unfairly punish children who did not make the decision to come into the country illegally for the sins of their parents. These children know no other home, and they should be given the opportunity to complete their education, serve in the military if they so choose, and contribute to the economy. This bill has bipartisan support and is endorsed by the U.S. military." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Issue Position: Immigration. 12 July 2011. "I support securing our borders from would-be terrorists. I am a sponsor of the Secure America Through Verification and Enforcement Act of 2009 (SAVE Act), which strengthens border security by increasing manpower and utilizing new technology and fencing. It also expands programs to verify work authorization before hiring and provides the tools, resources, and infrastructure necessary to enforce existing immigration laws and punish offenders." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "c) Ease citizenship requirements in order to make it easier for immigrants to become United States citizens."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "f) Children of illegal immigrants, born in the United States, should not automatically receive U.S. citizenship."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "e) Prohibit states from passing laws that deny human services (medical care, education) to illegal immigrants or their children." Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding immigration. Other or expanded principles: "Reform the H-2A farm guestworker program to address agricultural labor shortage"
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2006 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "e) Support amnesty for illegal immigrants already working in the United States."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "g) Children of illegal immigrants, born in the United States, should not automatically receive US citizenship."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "f) Grant U.S. citizenship to children born in the US only if their parents immigrated legally."
No Inferred Answer Marriage: Do you support same-sex marriage? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Sanford Bishop. Issue Position: Family Values. 12 July 2011. "I support the pro-family values of the Second Congressional District through my votes in favor of a constitutional amendment allowing school prayer and outlawing same-sex marriage. I have also voted to ensure that federal funds will not be used to fund abortions as part of health care reform (Stupak Amendment)." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Marriage Protection Amendment. 30 September 2004. "Mr. Speaker, I am glad that Congress has moved this important legislation to the floor of the House for a vote today. My office has received literally thousands of letters and e-mails, personal visits and phone calls from constituents urging me to support the institution of traditional marriage. And I want them to know today that I have heard them. I realize that reasonable men can differ on whether to allow nontraditional marriages in the United States. But I am clear on this issue because the values I share with the people of the Second Congressional District of Georgia are deeply held for God, country, work, and family. Moreover, these families' values are those of the traditional family based in our Judeo-Christian principles. That is why I have cosponsored and will vote for this important constitutional amendment, H.J. Res. 106, in order to protect the institution of marriage by defining marriage in the United States as the union between a man and a woman. I also voted for the Defense of Marriage Act in 1996, which prohibits federal recognition of same-sex marriages and allows individual States to refuse to recognize such marriages." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. H J Res 88. 110th Congress. Same-Sex Marriage Resolution. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 07/18/2006. (votesmart.org)
  • American Civil Liberties Union. 04/18/2012. "Sanford Bishop supported the interests of the American Civil Liberties Union 71 percent in 2006." (votesmart.org)
  • Traditional Values Coalition. 04/18/2012. "Sanford Bishop supported the interests of the Traditional Values Coalition 28 percent in 2006" (votesmart.org)
  • Human Rights Campaign. 04/18/2012. "Sanford Bishop supported the interests of the Human Rights Campaign 60 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 2965. 112th Congress. Don't Ask, Don't Tell Repeal Act. Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 12/15/2010. (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. HR 3685. 110th Congress. Sexual Orientation Employment Nondiscrimination Act (ENDA). Sanford Bishop voted Yea on 11/07/2007. (votesmart.org)
  • Family Research Council. 04/18/2012. "Sanford Bishop supported the interests of the Family Research Council 57 percent in 2006." (votesmart.org)
  • American Family Association. 04/18/2012. "Sanford Bishop supported the interests of the American Family Association 16 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2006 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "Yes" for: "i) Do you support a constitutional amendment that would define marriage as a union between a man and woman?"
Unknown Position Unknown Answer National Security: Do you support targeting suspected terrorists outside of official theaters of conflict? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Sanford Bishop. Rep. Bishop Statement on Death of Osama Bin Laden. 2 May 2011. "We all remember where we were on September 11th when Al Qaeda attacked our country, but today we have finally brought the mastermind of those terrorist attacks to justice. I congratulate President Obama, our military and the intelligence community for conducting a successful mission to kill Osama Bin Laden in Pakistan. While this is a great moment in the war on terror, the threat from those who wish to harm our country will continue, and we must remain vigilant." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Facebook: Wall. 1 May 2011. "I congratulate President Obama and our military for conducting a successful mission to kill Osama Bin Laden. This is a great moment in the war on terror, but the threat from those who wish to harm us will continue, and we must remain vigilant." (www.facebook.com)
No Inferred Answer Social Security: Do you support allowing individuals to divert a portion of their Social Security taxes into personal retirement accounts? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Alliance for Retired Americans. 04/18/2012. "Sanford Bishop supported the interests of the Alliance for Retired Americans 100 percent in 2008." (votesmart.org)
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2006 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) Allow workers to invest a portion of their payroll tax in private accounts which they manage themselves."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "b) Allow workers to invest a portion of their payroll tax in private accounts managed by private firms contracted by the government."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "b) Allow workers to invest a portion of their payroll tax in private accounts which are managed by the government."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2006 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "b) Allow workers to invest a portion of their payroll tax in private accounts managed by private firms contracted by the government."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) Allow workers to invest a portion of their payroll tax in private accounts which they manage themselves."
  • Sanford Bishop. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Georgia Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) Allow workers to invest a portion of their payroll tax in private accounts which they manage."
  • Sanford Bishop. Bishop Rallies to Protect Social Security. 1 April 2005. "Social Security has been one of the most revolutionary and successful programs in the history of government, and while we all agree that steps need to be taken to ensure that future generations receive the benefits that they work for"we must not dismantle this program. My colleagues and I do not oppose privatization because it is a Republican idea or even because it is the President's idea, our nation's retirement security"as well as the safety net that provides for Americans living with disabilities and surviving children and spouses"is too important to politicize. Rather we oppose privatization because it is a bad plan. We oppose privatization because it would cut Social Security benefits, because it would add trillions of dollars to our national debt and because it would put the future of millions of Americans at risk." (bishop.house.gov)
  • Sanford Bishop. Rep. Sanford Bishop holds forum on Social Security and Medicare. 7 October 2010. "Far too often, Social Security and Medicare are threatened with cuts or the risk of privatization at the hands of the Republican Party [¦] We can keep Social Security sustainable and viable without risking millions of Georgian's retirement and disability benefits. Privatization would only jeopardize Georgian's promised benefits, and reward Wall Street. I am committed to working with Congress, and organizations such as the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare to protect Social Security and ensure Americans have access to their benefits." (bishop.ehclients.com)

Key

Candidate Answer

Official Position: Candidate had the Political Courage to address this issue directly.

Inferred Answer

Inferred Position: Candidate refused to address this issue directly, but Project Vote Smart inferred this issue position based on the candidate's public statements, voting record, and evaluations from special interest groups.

Unknown Answer

Unknown Position: Candidate refused to address this issue.

Project Vote Smart's Research: Click on this icon to reveal more information about this candidate's position.

Other or Expanded Principles & Legislative Priorities are entered exactly as the candidate has submitted it. Project Vote Smart does not edit for misspelled words, punctuation or grammar.

Congressional Election 2006 National Political Awareness Test

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.

The Political Courage Test asks candidates which items they will support if elected. It does not ask them to indicate which items they will oppose. Through extensive research of public polling data, we discovered that voters are more concerned with what candidates would support when elected to office, not what they oppose. If a candidate does not select a response to any part or all of any question, it does not necessarily indicate that the candidate is opposed to that particular item.
(+) Expand All (–) Collapse All

Abortion Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding abortion.
a) Abortions should always be illegal.
b) Abortions should always be legal.
Xc) Abortions should be legal only within the first trimester of pregnancy.
Xd) Abortions should be legal when the pregnancy resulted from incest or rape.
Xe) Abortions should be legal when the life of the woman is endangered.
f) Prohibit public funding of abortions and to organizations that advocate or perform abortions.
g) Other or expanded principles

Budgetary, Spending, and Tax Issues, Part 1: Budget Priorities

Using the key, indicate what federal funding levels you support for the following general categories. Select one number per category, you can use a number more than once.
Budget Priorities
Greatly Increasea) Agriculture
Maintain Statusb) Arts
Greatly Increasec) Defense
Greatly Increased) Education
Maintain Statuse) Environment
Greatly Increasef) Homeland security
Maintain Statusg) International aid
Slightly Increaseh) Law enforcement
Greatly Increasei) Medical research
Maintain Statusj) National parks
Greatly Increasek) Public health services
Greatly Increasel) Scientific research
Slightly Decreasem) Space exploration programs
Greatly Increasen) Transportation and highway infrastructure
Slightly Increaseo) Welfare
Greatly Increasep) Emergency preparedness
q) Other or expanded categories

Greatly increase funding: housing.

Budgetary, Spending, and Tax Issues, Part 2: Defense Spending

Defense Spending
Greatly Increasea) Armed forces personnel training
Greatly Increaseb) Intelligence operations
Greatly Increasec) Military hardware
Greatly Increased) Modernization of weaponry and equipment
Maintain Statuse) National missile defense
Greatly Increasef) Pay for active duty personnel
Slightly Increaseg) Programs to improve troop retention rates
Greatly Increaseh) Research and development of new weapons
Greatly Increasei) Troop and equipment readiness
j) Other or expanded categories

Greatly increase funding: family and dependent support and welfare

Budgetary, Spending, and Tax Issues, Part 3: Taxes (A)

Using the key above, indicate what federal tax levels you support for the following general categories. Select one number per category.
Taxes
Income Taxes:
Family Income
Eliminatea) Less than $25,000
Greatly Decreaseb) $25,000-$75,000
Greatly Decreasec) $75,000-$150,000
Greatly Decreased) Over $150,000
e) Other or expanded categories
Retiree Income
Greatly Decreasef) Over $40,000
g) Other or expanded categories
Other Taxes:
Slightly Decreasea) Alcohol taxes
Slightly Decreaseb) Capital gains taxes
Slightly Increasec) Cigarette taxes
Slightly Decreased) Corporate taxes
Slightly Decreasee) Gasoline taxes
Eliminatef) Inheritance taxes
g) Other or expanded categories

marriage
Deductions/Credits:
Maintain Statusa) Charitable contributions
Slightly Increaseb) Child tax credit
Slightly Increasec) Earned income tax credit
Greatly Increased) Medical expense deduction
Maintain Statuse) Mortgage deduction
Greatly Increasef) Student loan credit
g) Other or expanded categories

Greatly increase: economic development tax credits e.g. empowerment zones etc.

Budgetary, Spending, and Taxes, Part 3: Taxes (B)

Yes4) Do you support the permanent repeal of the federal estate tax?
Undecided5) Do you support making President Bush's tax cuts permanent?
6) Discuss your proposals for balancing the federal budget. (75 words or less. Please use an attached page if the space below is not adequate.)

Implement strict spending accountability measures, budget enforcement, PAYGO rules, revenue raisers, and elimination of waste, fraud & abuse. Balanced budget Constitutional Amendment
7) Other or expanded principles

Campaign Finance and Government Reform Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding campaign finance and government reform.
a) Support public taxpayer funding for federal candidates who comply with campaign spending limits.
b) Increase the amount individuals are permitted to contribute to federal campaigns.
c) Prohibit Political Action Committee (PAC) contributions to candidates for federal office.
d) Allow unregulated soft money campaign contributions to political parties or committees.
e) Remove all contribution limits on federal campaigns and parties.
f) Require Section 527 organizations to register with the Federal Election Commission as Political Action Committees.
Undecidedg) Do you support instant run-off voting?
Yesh) Should Election Day be a national holiday?
Yesi) Do you support a constitutional amendment that would define marriage as a union between a man and woman?
j) Other or expanded principles

Crime Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding crime.
Xa) Support the use of the death penalty for federal crimes.
b) Eliminate the use of the death penalty for federal crimes.
Xc) Support programs to provide prison inmates with educational, vocational and job-related skills and job-placement assistance when released.
Xd) Support programs to provide prison inmates with drug and alcohol addiction treatment.
e) Reduce prison sentences for those who commit non-violent crimes.
Xf) Require that crimes based on gender, sexual orientation, and disability be prosecuted as federal hate crimes.
Xg) Impose stricter penalties for those convicted of corporate crimes.
h) Minors accused of a violent crime should be prosecuted as adults.
i) Other or expanded principles

Drug Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding drugs.
Xa) Support mandatory jail sentences for selling illegal drugs.
Xb) Expand federally sponsored drug education and drug treatment programs.
c) Decriminalize the possession of small amounts of marijuana.
Xd) Allow doctors to recommend marijuana to their patients for medicinal purposes.
Xe) Increase border security to stop the flow of illegal drugs into the United States.
f) Eliminate federal funding for programs associated with the "war on drugs."
g) Support a federal law to standardize testing and penalties for steroid use in professional sports.
h) Other or expanded principles

Education Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding education.
Xa) Support national standards for and testing of public school students.
Xb) Allow parents to use vouchers, (equal opportunity scholarships) to send their children to any public school.
c) Allow parents to use vouchers, (equal opportunity scholarships) to send their children to any private or religious school.
Xd) Allow teachers and professionals to receive authorization and funding to establish charter schools.
Xe) Reward teachers with merit pay for working in low-income schools.
Xf) Increase funding for school capital improvements (e.g. buildings, infrastructure, technology).
Xg) Support affirmative action in public college admissions.
Xh) Increase funding of programs such as Pell grants and Stafford loans to help students pay for college.
Xi) Support federal tax incentives to help families save for college.
j) Other or expanded principles

Employment and Affirmative Action Issues

1) Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding employment.
Xa) Increase funding for national job-training programs that re-train displaced workers or teach skills needed in today's job market.
Xb) Reduce government regulation of the private sector in order to encourage investment and economic expansion.
Xc) Provide tax credits or grants to businesses that offer child care services to employees.
Xd) Encourage employers to offer flex-time scheduling, comp-time, and unpaid leave for family emergencies.
e) Eliminate all federal programs designed to reduce unemployment.
Xf) Increase the federal minimum wage.
Xg) Support the right of workers to strike without fear of being permanently replaced.
h) Include sexual orientation in federal anti-discrimination laws.
i) Other or expanded principles
2) Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding affirmative action.
Xa) The federal government should consider race and gender in government contracting decisions.
b) The federal government should discontinue affirmative action programs.
Xc) The federal government should continue affirmative action programs.
d) Other or expanded principles

Environment and Energy Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding the environment and energy.
a) Strengthen the regulation and enforcement of the Clean Water Act.
b) Strengthen the regulation and enforcement of the Clean Air Act.
c) Support Clear Skies Act to reduce power plant emissions by setting a national cap on pollutants.
Xd) Require states to compensate citizens when environmental regulations limit uses of privately-owned land.
Xe) Relax logging restrictions on federal lands.
Xf) Relax standards on federal lands to allow increased recreational usage.
Xg) Support increased development of traditional energy resources (e.g. coal, natural gas, oil).
h) Strengthen emission controls and fuel efficiency standards on all gasoline and diesel-powered engines, including cars, trucks, and sport utility vehicles.
Xi) Support opening a portion of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for oil exploration.
Xj) Encourage further development and use of alternative fuels to reduce pollution.
Xk) Support the use of ethanol as an alternative fuel.
l) Allow energy producers to trade pollution credits.
Xm) Support the Kyoto Protocol to limit global warming.
n) Other or expanded principles

Gun Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding guns.
a) Reauthorize the ban on the sale or transfer of semi-automatic guns, except those used for hunting.
b) Maintain and strengthen the current level of enforcement of existing federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns.
Xc) Ease federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns.
d) Repeal federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns.
Xe) Allow citizens to carry concealed guns.
f) Require background checks on gun sales between private citizens at gun shows.
g) Require a license for gun possession.
h) Other or expanded principles

Health Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding health care.
a) Providing health care is not a responsibility of the federal government.
Xb) Implement a universal health care program to guarantee coverage to all Americans regardless of income.
Xc) Expand eligibility for tax-free medical savings accounts.
d) Establish limits on the amount of punitive damages awarded in medical malpractice lawsuits.
Xe) Support expanding prescription drug coverage under Medicare.
Xf) Offer tax credits to individuals and small businesses to offset the cost of insurance coverage.
Xg) Support automatic enrollment of children in federal health care programs such as CHIP and Medicaid.
Xh) Support stem cell research on existing lines of stem cells.
Xi) Allow laboratories to create new lines of stem cells for additional research.
j) Other or expanded principles

Immigration Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding immigration.
a) Decrease the number of legal immigrants allowed into the country.
b) Establish English as the official national language.
Xc) Support a temporary worker program that would enable illegal immigrants to work in the United States legally.
d) Relax restrictions barring legal immigrants from using government funded social programs (e.g. public housing, food stamps).
e) Support amnesty for illegal immigrants already working in the United States.
f) Other or expanded principles

Reform H-2A guest worker program to address agricultural labor shortage.

International Aid, International Policy, and Trade Issues, Part 1: International Aid

International Aid
Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding United States economic assistance.
Xa) Aid should be granted to countries when extraordinary circumstances cause disaster and threaten civilian lives.
Xb) Aid should be granted to countries when it is in the security interests of the United States.
c) Aid should be eliminated for any nation with documented human rights abuses.
d) International Aid programs should be scaled back and eventually eliminated.
e) Other or expanded principles

International Aid, International Policy, and Trade Issues, Part 2: International Policy

International Policy
1) Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding the Middle East.
Yesa) Should the United States continue to provide leadership in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process?
Undecidedb) Should the United States support the creation of a Palestinian state?
Noc) Should the United States withdraw its troops from Iraq?
Undecidedd) Should the United States send more troops to Iraq?
e) Discuss your proposals for an exit strategy in Iraq. (75 words or less. Please use an attached page if the space below is not adequate.)

support a gradual withdrawal of troops tied to an increase in self defense by the Iraqui government and other middle eastern nations.
f) Other or expanded principles
2) Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding Central and East Asia.
Yesa) Should the United States use diplomatic and economic pressure to encourage North Korea to abandon its nuclear weapons program?
Undecidedb) Should the United States use military force to dismantle the North Korean nuclear weapons program?
Undecidedc) Should the United States remove the North Korean government from power?
Nod) Should the United States increase financial support to Afghanistan?
Noe) Should the United States increase military support to Afghanistan?
f) Other or expanded principles
3) Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding the United Nations.
Yesa) Should the United States maintain its financial support of the United Nations?
Nob) Should the United States decrease its financial support of the United Nations?
Yesc) Should the United States commit troops to United Nations peacekeeping missions?
d) Other or expanded principles
Yes4) Should the United States lift the travel ban to Cuba?
No5) Should the United States increase its financial support to Colombia to combat "the war on drugs?"
Yes6) Should aid to African nations for AIDS prevention programs fund distribution of contraceptives?
Yes7) Should aid to African nations for AIDS prevention programs fund abstinence education?
8) Other or expanded principles

International Aid, International Policy, and Trade Issues, Part 3: International Trade

International Trade
Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding international trade.
No1) Do you support the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)?
No2) Do you support the Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA)?
Undecided3) Do you support the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT)?
Undecided4) Do you support continued U.S. membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO)?
Yes5) Should a nation's human rights record affect its normal trade relations (most favored nation) status with the United States?
No6) Do you support the trade embargo against Cuba?
Yes7) Should trade agreements include provisions to address environmental concerns and to protect workers' rights?
8) Other or expanded principles

National Security Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding national security.
Yesa) Do you support using military tribunals to try suspected terrorists when ordinary civilian courts are deemed inappropriate or impractical?
Nob) Should the United States grant law enforcement agencies greater discretion to read mail and email, tap phones, and conduct random searches to prevent future terrorist attacks?
Yesc) Should the United States hold foreign states accountable for terrorists who operate in their country?
Yesd) Should the federal government increase funding to states and cities for homeland security?
Yese) Do you support the prohibition of torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment of prisoners in U.S. custody?
Undecidedf) Do you support a policy of pre-emptive military strikes against countries deemed to be a threat to U.S. national security?
g) Other or expanded principles

Social Security Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding Social Security.
a) Allow workers to invest a portion of their payroll tax in private accounts which they manage themselves.
b) Allow workers to invest a portion of their payroll tax in private accounts managed by private firms contracted by the government.
Xc) Invest a portion of Social Security assets collectively in stocks and bonds instead of United States Treasury securities.
d) Increase the payroll tax to better finance Social Security in its current form.
e) Lower the annual cost-of-living increases.
f) Raise the retirement age for individual eligibility to receive full Social Security benefits.
g) Other of expanded principles

Technology and Communication Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding technology and communication.
a) Collect taxes on commercial Internet transactions.
Xb) Continue the moratorium on Internet taxation.
c) Implement government regulation of Internet content.
Xd) Support government mandates to curtail violent and sexual content on television.
Xe) Support strict penalties for Internet crimes (e.g. hacking, identity theft, worms/viruses).
Xf) Support legislation to detail how personal information can be collected and used on the Internet.
g) Regulating the Internet is not a responsibility of the federal government.
h) Other or expanded principles

Welfare and Poverty Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding welfare and poverty.
Xa) Require welfare recipients to spend at least 40 hours a week in a combination of work and training programs.
Xb) Increase funding for child care programs.
Xc) Continue to give states and local governments flexibility in and responsibility for welfare programs through federal block grants.
Xd) Direct federal poverty aid through religious, community-based, or other non-profit organizations.
e) Abolish all federal welfare programs.
Xf) Support housing assistance for welfare recipients.
g) Other or expanded principles

Legislative Priorities

On an attached page, disk, or via email, please explain in a total of 75 words or less, your top two or three priorities if elected. If they require additional funding for implementation, please explain how you would obtain this funding.

...to improve the quality of life through jobs and a stronger, more diversified economy; a better educated population; safe and secure communities that are free from crime & drugs; a clean environment; affordable & accessible health care and a strong national defense -- all within the context of a balanced budget.

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