Card image cap

Frank Lucas' Issue Positions (Political Courage Test)

Office:

On The Ballot: Running, Republican for U.S. House (OK) - District 3

Key

Official Position: Candidate addressed this issue directly by taking the Political Courage Test.
Inferred Position: Candidate refused to address this issue, but Vote Smart inferred this issue based on the candidate's public record, including statements, voting record, and special interest group endorsements.
Unknown Position: Candidate refused to address this issue, or we could not infer an answer for this candidate despite exhaustive research of their public record.
Additional Information: Click on this icon to reveal more information about this candidate's position, from their answers or Vote Smart's research.
Other or Expanded Principles & Legislative Priorities are entered exactly as candidates submit them. Vote Smart does not edit for misspelled words, punctuation or grammar.

Candidates who qualify will be invited to take the 2024 Political Courage Test.

What is the Political Courage Test?

Issue Positions

For Presidential and Congressional candidates who refuse to provide voters with their positions, Vote Smart has researched their public records to determine their likely responses. These issue positions are from 2022.

  • ""I am honored to receive an A+ rating from the Susan B. Anthony List for my support for pro-life policies during the 117th Congress," said Congressman Lucas. "Throughout my time in Congress, the safeguarding of the fundamental right to life has and will always be one of my highest priorities. I'm grateful for the tireless work Susan B. Anthony List does to protect the lives of the unborn, and I look forward to continuing to support pro-life legislation, always fighting for life."" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Rated 100% by National Right to Life Committee. (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Signed Letter to Speaker Pelosi: "We write to express our unified opposition to Congressional Democrats' efforts to repeal the Hyde Amendment and other current-law, pro-life appropriations provisions. As part of their pro-abortion crusade, Democrats have taken direct aim at these long-standing, bipartisan protections that generally prevent the federal government from using taxpayer dollars to support abortion procedures. Repealing these pro-life provisions would destroy nearly half a century of bipartisan consensus. Each year since 1976, Congress has included Hyde protections in annually enacted appropriations. No president in American history has ever vetoed an appropriations bill due to its inclusion of the Hyde Amendment." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor of HR 36 "Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act." (votesmart.org)
  • "I am honored to receive an A+ rating from the Susan B. Anthony List for my support for pro-life policies during the 117th Congress," said Congressman Lucas. "Throughout my time in Congress, the safeguarding of the fundamental right to life has and will always be one of my highest priorities. I'm grateful for the tireless work Susan B. Anthony List does to protect the lives of the unborn, and I look forward to continuing to support pro-life legislation, always fighting for life." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • ""An Oklahoman's zip code shouldn't be the determining factor of whether or not they or their family have access to quality, affordable health care. As we've witnessed throughout the coronavirus pandemic, rural hospitals are critical in communities across Oklahoma's Third District and the rest of the country," said Congressman Lucas. "Congressman Kinzinger's and Senator Lankford's bill, the Rural Hospital Closure Relief Act, is an important piece of legislation that not only would help struggling rural facilities but also ensure our communities have access to critical health care services they deserve. I'm proud to cosponsor the Rural Hospital Closure Relief Act and look forward to working with my colleagues in the House and Senate as we continue to be a voice for those who call rural America home."" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Rated 10% by Alliance for Retired Americans. (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Signed Letter to Administrator Verma: "Millions of seniors depend on Medicare Advantage plans to provide comprehensive, affordable health care as they age. In 2020, average premiums are expected to decline by 14 percent to their lowest point in the last 13 years while enrollment is projected to increase to more than 24 million.[2] Further, the average number of plan choices has continued to increase; in 2020, 93 percent of individuals on Medicare have access to a Medicare Advantage plan that includes prescription drug coverage for no additional premium.[3]" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Voted against S 610 "Protecting Medicare and American Farmers from Sequester Cuts Act." (votesmart.org)
  • "An Oklahoman's zip code shouldn't be the determining factor of whether or not they or their family have access to quality, affordable health care. As we've witnessed throughout the coronavirus pandemic, rural hospitals are critical in communities across Oklahoma's Third District and the rest of the country," said Congressman Lucas. "Congressman Kinzinger's and Senator Lankford's bill, the Rural Hospital Closure Relief Act, is an important piece of legislation that not only would help struggling rural facilities but also ensure our communities have access to critical health care services they deserve. I'm proud to cosponsor the Rural Hospital Closure Relief Act and look forward to working with my colleagues in the House and Senate as we continue to be a voice for those who call rural America home." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Rated 0% by Common Cause. (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • ""Last week, the House passed a deeply misguided and costly stimulus bill sold to the American people as desperately needed public health funding- yet Republicans and even a few moderate Democrats alike argued it was unnecessary and poorly targeted. Tonight, House Democrats continued their hasty "my way or the highway approach" and passed yet another misguided piece of legislation, weakening our election security, redirecting hard-earned taxpayer dollars to fund political campaigns, and federalizing state and local elections." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Voted against HR 1 "For the People Act of 2021." (votesmart.org)
  • "Last week, the House passed a deeply misguided and costly stimulus bill sold to the American people as desperately needed public health funding- yet Republicans and even a few moderate Democrats alike argued it was unnecessary and poorly targeted. Tonight, House Democrats continued their hasty "my way or the highway approach" and passed yet another misguided piece of legislation, weakening our election security, redirecting hard-earned taxpayer dollars to fund political campaigns, and federalizing state and local elections." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "Exactly one month ago, we witnessed the horrific, unjustified death of George Floyd. Since then, America and communities across Oklahoma have called for positive police reform. Republicans agree that reforms are needed to increase transparency and strengthen training methods and we stand ready offering bipartisan solutions to address police misconduct and accountability issues" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Voted against HR 1280 "George Floyd Justice in Policing Act of 2021." (votesmart.org)
  • "Oklahoma’s law enforcement officers risk their lives every single day to ensure the freedoms & property of every single individual are protected. I’ll always oppose any attempt to ‘Defund the Police’, & I’ll always stand with the men & women in blue who protect our communities." (twitter.com)
  • "The Nation and our communities are calling for police reform and the #JUSTICEAct provides just that! The #JUSTICEAct offers real solutions to increase transparency, provide accountability, and strengthen training for our law enforcement officers." (twitter.com)
  • "Not only does the bill provide the necessary tools, training, and resources needed to defend our country from threatening global adversaries, but it also ensures we are taking care of our servicemembers and their families. With Russia and China rapidly modernizing their militaries and ISIS and the Taliban reclaiming power in the Middle East, Congress must continue to make strong investments in new capabilities and readiness and this bill enables our warfighters to do just that. I'm proud to support the brave men and women of the United States military and, while I don't support every provision in this bill, I look forward to Congress continuing its work boosting defense spending and preparing our military for tomorrow's conflicts." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Rated 100% by Center for Security Policy. (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "The National Defense Authorization Act not only provides the necessary investments and resources to ensure our troops are best equipped and trained to defend our country; but it also puts our servicemembers and their families first, providing a nearly 3% pay raise for our troops and an expansion of benefits for families. Furthermore, with Russia and China remaining the greatest threats to democracies across the globe and rapidly modernizing their militaries, Congress must continue to make strong investments in new capabilities, emerging technologies, and readiness, and this bill enables our warfighters and the United States Department of Defense to do just that." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor of S 1605 "National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022." (votesmart.org)
  • ""Access to affordable, high-speed internet is essential for families, businesses owners, and communities in today's 21st society. Unfortunately, rural communities often face challenges as broadband infrastructure is measured by the miles between customers compared to urban communities who measure broadband by the customers between miles," said Congressman Lucas. "The Broadband for Rural America Act provides important investments to USDA broadband programs which will in turn provide critical modern infrastructure to countless rural communities. I'm proud to support this important piece of legislation and look forward to continuing to be a supporter and advocate for expanding broadband to rural families and communities across Oklahoma."" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Voted against HR 3684 "Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act." (votesmart.org)
  • "Whether you're a Republican or a Democrat, there's no doubt about it: We must invest in America's infrastructure system. But if we are going to be serious about fixing our roads, bridges, and waterways, we should do so with a bipartisan bill. Instead, Republicans were shut out of the process and the House will send another bill to the Senate that is dead on arrival." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • ""While Congress has worked over the years to advance the modernization and the efficiency of our infrastructure, this is an imperfect bill. As important as infrastructure is to connecting our communities and economies to one another, unfortunately, this unvetted bill remained politically coupled with the Majority's partisan trillion-plus dollar spending and tax bill," said Congressman Lucas. "I'm hopeful Congress can come together through the appropriate committee process to pass a truly bipartisan, bicameral bill, ensuring infrastructure investment reaches every corner and community of America."" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "Access to affordable, high-speed internet is essential for families, businesses owners, and communities in today's 21st society. Unfortunately, rural communities often face challenges as broadband infrastructure is measured by the miles between customers compared to urban communities who measure broadband by the customers between miles," said Congressman Lucas. "The Broadband for Rural America Act provides important investments to USDA broadband programs which will in turn provide critical modern infrastructure to countless rural communities. I'm proud to support this important piece of legislation and look forward to continuing to be a supporter and advocate for expanding broadband to rural families and communities across Oklahoma." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "While Congress has worked over the years to advance the modernization and the efficiency of our infrastructure, this is an imperfect bill. As important as infrastructure is to connecting our communities and economies to one another, unfortunately, this unvetted bill remained politically coupled with the Majority's partisan trillion-plus dollar spending and tax bill," said Congressman Lucas. "I'm hopeful Congress can come together through the appropriate committee process to pass a truly bipartisan, bicameral bill, ensuring infrastructure investment reaches every corner and community of America." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "For those who have lost work, the CARES Act offers direct and immediate assistance. For our nation's small businesses, it offers emergency capital so small businesses can provide stability for their workers during this disruption. For America's agriculture producers, it provides crucial assistance by adequately funding the Commodity Credit Corporation. But most importantly it continues to increase our health care system's resources needed to combat the virus itself." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "Nine months ago, Congress passed the largest rescue package in American history. The bipartisan CARES Act provided more than $2 trillion in relief for American workers and families, resources for healthcare providers and professionals, and emergency lending to lessen the economic impact of the coronavirus. Today, the U.S. House of Representatives renewed its commitment to the American people and passed the Consolidated Appropriations Act, providing critical assistance again to individuals, families, and businesses as well as important funds to aid in the distribution of coronavirus vaccines." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor of HR 266 "Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act" (votesmart.org)
  • "90% of Americans are worried about inflation, but last week House Democrats voted to let Washington borrow and waste trillions more. The Build Back Better Act is the single most irresponsible spending bill in our nation's history." (twitter.com)
  • "Congress cannot tax and spend our way into lower inflation. I strongly oppose the deeply misguided Inflation Reduction Act, a bill that will only further burden Oklahoma's families and economy." (twitter.com)
  • "Today, Congress will vote on Democrats' $1.9T stimulus package. Let's be clear, Democrats aren't looking to deliver bipartisan COVID relief. With MORE THAN $1 TRILLION of unspent funds from previous relief bills still available, Congress is set to fan the flames of inflation." (twitter.com)
  • "Today, President Biden will unveil a $6T spending plan. Across the U.S., inflation is skyrocketing. Across the globe, the dollar is weakening. The Biden Administration is fumbling America's economic recovery and it's hitting Americans where it hurts." (twitter.com)
  • Rated 0% by National Education Association (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "Students should be focused on staying healthy, not worrying about their growing loan balance. The #CARESAct provides much-needed flexibility for the leaders of our higher education institutions and the students who rely on federal student aid to pursue an education." (twitter.com)
  • Voted against H.R. 2547 “Comprehensive Debt Collection Improvement Act” (votesmart.org)
  • "If enacted into law, HR 1 would result in a federal takeover of Oklahoma's safe & secure elections. Additionally, HR 1 ignores @NIST's feedback to Congress to ensure our communities continue to conduct secure and accessible elections. HR 1 is nothing but more partisan politics." (twitter.com)
  • "I just voted against HR 1, the 'For the Politicians Act'. HR 1 steals power from the People, weakens our election security and federalizes state and local elections. Americans deserve common-sense election reform, not a federal takeover." (twitter.com)
  • Voted against H.R. 4 “John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2021” (votesmart.org)
  • Voted against H.R. 5746 “Freedom to Vote: John R. Lewis Act” (votesmart.org)
  • ""Oklahoma, and the United States as a whole, has tremendous potential to utilize its geothermal energy resources -- resources that have the capability to provide efficient and reliable energy for many of our communities. Funding advanced research and development for geothermal technologies was a high priority in the Science Committee's bipartisan Energy Act of 2020, and I'm glad to see DOE supporting the expansion of such transformational technologies," said Lucas. "Oklahoma has a long history of harnessing energy resources and today's award will ensure we are able to effectively leverage our untapped resources, further positioning the state for the opportunities of tomorrow. The University of Oklahoma continues to be a pioneer in geothermal systems, and I'm excited to see their technologies strengthen our country's all-of-the-above energy strategy and provide reliable energy to Oklahoma's communities."" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "There's no question about it, we must address the rise in global greenhouse gas emissions and support America's clean energy future. But the Paris Agreement is not the way to do that. It commits the U.S. to a tremendous financial burden while doing nothing to enforce greenhouse gas reductions by other participants. Worse, it does nothing to actually incentivize the development of the new technologies we need to reduce emissions, like advanced nuclear energy, carbon capture, and greater energy storage capacity. Investing in basic research has proven to reduce emissions, lower energy costs, and produce exportable technologies that other countries can use to meet these same objectives. That's why I've introduced the Securing American Leadership in Science and Technology Act, which will double investment in federal R&D and prioritize the development of breakthrough clean energy technologies. While the Biden Administration is using the stick approach to aggressively push a Green New Deal climate agenda, I hope my colleagues in Congress join me in using the carrot approach to invest in an innovative all-of-the-above energy solution while ensuring consumers have access to cleaner, more affordable, and more accessible energy." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Voted against HR 4447 "Expanding Access to Sustainable Energy Act of 2019." (votesmart.org)
  • "Geothermal energy is a clean & renewable energy that is always "on". The U.S. has significant geothermal energy resources. Through continued investments at @ENERGY, we can continue to pave the way for industry innovation and improve the next generation of geothermal technologies." (twitter.com)
  • "Geothermal energy is a clean & renewable energy that is always “on”. The U.S. has significant geothermal energy resources. Through continued investments at @ENERGY, we can continue to pave the way for industry innovation and improve the next generation of geothermal technologies." (twitter.com)
  • "Oklahoma, and the United States as a whole, has tremendous potential to utilize its geothermal energy resources -- resources that have the capability to provide efficient and reliable energy for many of our communities. Funding advanced research and development for geothermal technologies was a high priority in the Science Committee's bipartisan Energy Act of 2020, and I'm glad to see DOE supporting the expansion of such transformational technologies," said Lucas. "Oklahoma has a long history of harnessing energy resources and today's award will ensure we are able to effectively leverage our untapped resources, further positioning the state for the opportunities of tomorrow. The University of Oklahoma continues to be a pioneer in geothermal systems, and I'm excited to see their technologies strengthen our country's all-of-the-above energy strategy and provide reliable energy to Oklahoma's communities." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "Enacted to evaluate the environmental impacts associated with federal infrastructure and economic development projects, today's NEPA permitting process has become overly complicated and burdensome. In districts throughout the country, including Oklahoma's Third Congressional District, our communities rely on the investments of infrastructure and economic development projects, like building better roads and bridges or laying broadband. Yet sadly, many of these projects are often delayed or restricted hindering the positive impact these critical projects will have", said Congressman Lucas." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Rated 100% by Independent Petroleum Association of America. (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Voted against HR 9 "Climate Action Now Act." (votesmart.org)
  • "While the Biden Administration continues its heavy handed, regulatory approach to combatting climate change, the real-world implications of President Biden's new methane rule are simply a burden on America's smaller domestic producers. From large natural gas producers down to our communities' smallest, producers recognize and support voluntary efforts that reduce methane and other greenhouse gas emissions. Through these efforts, industry has been steadily lowering methane emissions while increasing natural gas and oil production," (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "Adding more bureaucracy and redundant background checks that already occur on all gun sales and undermining the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) already in place, H.R. 8 and H.R. 1446 fail to address the root problems of gun violence. If House Democrats are serious about making our communities safer from gun violence, they should engage in meaningful, bipartisan efforts to curb such atrocities- not infringe upon the rights of law-abiding citizens." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • ""I believe in protecting the fundamental right of law-abiding citizens to bear arms. My fellow Oklahomans' rights shouldn't disappear when they cross the state line, which is why I've cosponsored H.R. 38, the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act, which would provide law-abiding citizens the right to conceal carry and travel between states without worrying about conflicting state laws," said Congressman Lucas. "I'm proud to cosponsor the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act and stand for the law-abiding Oklahomans, and I hope my colleagues and I can pass the bipartisan, common-sense gun legislation this Congress."" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Rated 92% by National Rifle Association (NRA). (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor of HR 1446 "Enhanced Background Checks Act of 2021." (votesmart.org)
  • "I believe in protecting the fundamental right of law-abiding citizens to bear arms. My fellow Oklahomans' rights shouldn't disappear when they cross the state line, which is why I've cosponsored H.R. 38, the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act, which would provide law-abiding citizens the right to conceal carry and travel between states without worrying about conflicting state laws," said Congressman Lucas. "I'm proud to cosponsor the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act and stand for the law-abiding Oklahomans, and I hope my colleagues and I can pass the bipartisan, common-sense gun legislation this Congress." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "Americans deserve a healthcare system that empowers patients & provides access to quality, affordable healthcare options." (twitter.com)
  • Voted in favor of H.R. 1628 “American Health Care Act of 2017” (votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor of H.R. 2192 “McSally Amendment” (votesmart.org)
  • "Congress just passed a measure to ensure free coronavirus testing, emergency paid leave, increased access to telehealth, & flexibility for families and small businesses impacted by the outbreak. I'm proud to have supported this legislation." (twitter.com)
  • Voted in favor of H.R. 6201 “Families First Coronavirus Response Act” (votesmart.org)
  • Voted against H.R. 3 “Lower Drug Costs Now Act of 2019” (votesmart.org)
  • Voted against H.R. 6833 “The Affordable Insulin Now Act” (votesmart.org)
  • "We must lower prescription drug prices, we must increase transparency in prices, & we must end the outrageous practice of surprise medical billing!" (twitter.com)
  • "Yesterday, I met w/ @OKMed, discussing the need for a more transparent & cost-effective healthcare system. Oklahomans deserve a healthcare system that provides access to quality, affordable options & low cost prescription drugs- not one that is burdensome & financially crippling." (twitter.com)
  • "America’s immigration system is broken. While our nation prides itself as being a nation of immigrants, we are also a nation of laws. Frank supports President Trump and believes we must do more to secure the Southern border and provide more resources to our law enforcement and border patrol officials to keep our communities safe." (frankdlucas.com)
  • "Border security is ag security. Border security is national security. We are a Nation of immigrants BUT we must respect the rule of law!" (twitter.com)
  • "Our country deserves an immigration system that ends illegal immigration and protects its borders. The evidence is clear- Congress must address the humanitarian and security crisis at our Southern border." (twitter.com)
  • "Overcrowded facilities, tens of thousands of unaccompanied minors, record breaking number of border apprehensions- the national security and humanitarian crisis at the Southern Border is only worsening. We must secure the border!" (twitter.com)
  • Voted in favor of HR 3004 "Kate's Law." (votesmart.org)
  • "America's immigration system is broken. While our nation prides itself as being a nation of immigrants, we are also a nation of laws. Frank supports President Trump and believes we must do more to secure the Southern border and provide more resources to our law enforcement and border patrol officials to keep our communities safe. Immigration reform also means modernizing America's outdated immigration policies- prioritizing high-skilled entrepreneurs and streamlining agricultural worker programs- helping create a legal workforce that will bolster the American economy" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor of HR 3003 "No Sanctuary for Criminals Act." (votesmart.org)
  • "Our country deserves an immigration system that ends illegal immigration and protects its borders. The evidence is clear- Congress must address the humanitarian and security crisis at our Southern border." (twitter.com)
  • Voted in favor of HR 3003 "No Sanctuary for Criminals Act." (votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor of HR 3004 "Kate's Law." (votesmart.org)
  • "For decades, Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has badgered, bullied, and intimidated neighboring countries in an attempt to rewrite the collapse of the Soviet Union. Pres. Biden and Europe must punish Russia’s reckless actions head-on with severe sanctions." (twitter.com)
  • Voted in favor of H.R. 1698 “Iran Ballistic Missiles and International Sanctions Enforcement Act” (votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor of H.R. 6968 “Suspending Energy Imports from Russia Act” (votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor of H.R. 7691 “Making emergency supplemental appropriations for assistance for the situation in Ukraine for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2022, and for other purposes.” (votesmart.org)
  • Rated 100% by Center for Security Policy (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "This morning I had the honor of attending President @ZelenskyyUa's address to Congress. I commend the bravery and patriotism of the Ukrainian people. Pres. Zelenskyy's message was clear: the world needs stronger American leadership. America must continue to stand with Ukraine." (twitter.com)
  • Voted in favor of H.R. 7691 “Making emergency supplemental appropriations for assistance for the situation in Ukraine for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2022, and for other purposes.” (votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor of S. 3522 “Ukraine Democracy Defense Lend-Lease Act of 2022” (votesmart.org)
  • "From voting for historic tax reform to cutting unnecessary regulatory red tape, Frank supports lowering taxes, reducing burdensome regulations, and increasing free and fair trade- guaranteeing more Oklahomans take home more money at the end of a long-day’s work. He knows what small business owners and family farmers really want is for the government to get out of the way and let them grow their business." (frankdlucas.com)
  • "Oklahoma’s economy is strongest when taxes are low, businesses are able to thrive, and government gets out of the way." (frankdlucas.com)
  • Rated 80% by National Tax Limitation Committee (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor of H.R. 1 “Tax Cuts and Jobs Act” (votesmart.org)
  • "Oklahomans know all too well how important fair-and-free trade with Mexico and Canada is to our economy. In 2018, exports from Oklahoma to our North American neighbors totaled more than $2.4 billion. For Oklahoma's farmers, ranchers, and manufacturers, USMCA will tremendously increase export opportunities while strengthening the thousands of jobs supported by trade. With a promise to increase prosperity throughout Oklahoma, USMCA now stands ready to deliver." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor of HR 5430 "United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement Implementation Act." (votesmart.org)
  • Signed Letter to Ambassador Lighthizer: "Taiwan has already expressed strong interest in negotiating a fair, reciprocal, and high-standard bilateral trade agreement with the United States….As the trade and investment relationship with Taiwan already supports an estimated 373,000 U.S. jobs, working toward the negotiation of a high-standard and comprehensive U.S.-Taiwan bilateral trade agreement would further enhance our shared goal of enhancing the global competitiveness of U.S. industries while spurring American job creation." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Signed Letter to Ambassador Lighthizer: “Taiwan has already expressed strong interest in negotiating a fair, reciprocal, and high-standard bilateral trade agreement with the United States….As the trade and investment relationship with Taiwan already supports an estimated 373,000 U.S. jobs, working toward the negotiation of a high-standard and comprehensive U.S.-Taiwan bilateral trade agreement would further enhance our shared goal of enhancing the global competitiveness of U.S. industries while spurring American job creation.” (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "Thankful for @POTUS' continued commitment to American industries. Lifting steel and aluminum tariffs on our Southern and Northern neighbors brings us one step closer to finalizing #USMCA and bringing North American trade into the 21st century." (twitter.com)
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.

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding abortion.

a) Abortions should always be illegal.
b) Abortions should always be legal.
c) Abortions should be legal only within the first trimester of pregnancy.
X d) Abortions should be legal when the pregnancy resulted from incest or rape.
X e) 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

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

Slightly Increase a) Agriculture
Maintain Status b) Arts
Greatly Increase c) Defense
Slightly Increase d) Education
Maintain Status e) Environment
Greatly Increase f) Homeland security
Greatly Decrease g) International aid
Slightly Increase h) Law enforcement
Slightly Increase i) Medical research
Slightly Increase j) National parks
Maintain Status k) Public health services
Slightly Increase l) Scientific research
Slightly Increase m) Space exploration programs
Slightly Increase n) Transportation and highway infrastructure
Slightly Decrease o) Welfare
Greatly Increase p) Emergency preparedness
q) Other or expanded categories

Defense Spending

Greatly Increase a) Armed forces personnel training
Slightly Increase b) Intelligence operations
Slightly Increase c) Military hardware
Slightly Increase d) Modernization of weaponry and equipment
Slightly Increase e) National missile defense
Greatly Increase f) Pay for active duty personnel
Greatly Increase g) Programs to improve troop retention rates
Slightly Increase h) Research and development of new weapons
Slightly Increase i) Troop and equipment readiness
Greatly increase veterans benefits

Using the key above, indicate what federal tax levels you support for the following general categories. Select one number per category.TaxesIncome Taxes:Family IncomeRetiree IncomeOther Taxes:Deductions/Credits:

Eliminate a) Less than $25,000
Greatly Decrease b) $25,000-$75,000
Slightly Decrease c) $75,000-$150,000
Slightly Decrease d) Over $150,000
e) Other or expanded categories
Slightly Decrease f) Over $40,000
g) Other or expanded categories
Maintain Status a) Alcohol taxes
Eliminate b) Capital gains taxes
Maintain Status c) Cigarette taxes
Slightly Decrease d) Corporate taxes
Maintain Status e) Gasoline taxes
Eliminate f) Inheritance taxes
g) Other or expanded categories
Slightly Increase a) Charitable contributions
Slightly Increase b) Child tax credit
Maintain Status c) Earned income tax credit
Greatly Increase d) Medical expense deduction
Maintain Status e) Mortgage deduction
Slightly Increase f) Student loan credit
g) Other or expanded categories
Yes 4) Do you support the permanent repeal of the federal estate tax?
Yes 5) 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.)
7) Other or expanded principles

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.
X 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.
g) Do you support instant run-off voting?
h) Should Election Day be a national holiday?
Yes i) Do you support a constitutional amendment that would define marriage as a union between a man and woman?
j) Other or expanded principles

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding crime.

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

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding drugs.

X a) Support mandatory jail sentences for selling illegal drugs.
b) Expand federally sponsored drug education and drug treatment programs.
c) Decriminalize the possession of small amounts of marijuana.
d) Allow doctors to recommend marijuana to their patients for medicinal purposes.
X e) 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

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding education.

a) Support national standards for and testing of public school students.
b) 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.
X d) Allow teachers and professionals to receive authorization and funding to establish charter schools.
e) Reward teachers with merit pay for working in low-income schools.
f) Increase funding for school capital improvements (e.g. buildings, infrastructure, technology).
g) Support affirmative action in public college admissions.
X h) Increase funding of programs such as Pell grants and Stafford loans to help students pay for college.
X i) Support federal tax incentives to help families save for college.
j) Other or expanded principles

1) Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding employment.2) Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding affirmative action.

a) Increase funding for national job-training programs that re-train displaced workers or teach skills needed in today's job market.
X b) Reduce government regulation of the private sector in order to encourage investment and economic expansion.
X c) Provide tax credits or grants to businesses that offer child care services to employees.
X d) Encourage employers to offer flex-time scheduling, comp-time, and unpaid leave for family emergencies.
e) Eliminate all federal programs designed to reduce unemployment.
f) Increase the federal minimum wage.
g) 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
a) The federal government should consider race and gender in government contracting decisions.
b) The federal government should discontinue affirmative action programs.
c) The federal government should continue affirmative action programs.
d) Other or expanded principles

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding the environment and energy.

X a) Strengthen the regulation and enforcement of the Clean Water Act.
X 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.
X d) Require states to compensate citizens when environmental regulations limit uses of privately-owned land.
e) Relax logging restrictions on federal lands.
f) Relax standards on federal lands to allow increased recreational usage.
g) 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.
X i) Support opening a portion of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for oil exploration.
X j) Encourage further development and use of alternative fuels to reduce pollution.
X k) Support the use of ethanol as an alternative fuel.
l) Allow energy producers to trade pollution credits.
m) Support the Kyoto Protocol to limit global warming.
n) Other or expanded principles

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.
X c) Ease federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns.
X d) Repeal federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns.
X e) 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

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding health care.

a) Providing health care is not a responsibility of the federal government.
b) Implement a universal health care program to guarantee coverage to all Americans regardless of income.
X c) Expand eligibility for tax-free medical savings accounts.
X d) Establish limits on the amount of punitive damages awarded in medical malpractice lawsuits.
e) Support expanding prescription drug coverage under Medicare.
X f) Offer tax credits to individuals and small businesses to offset the cost of insurance coverage.
g) Support automatic enrollment of children in federal health care programs such as CHIP and Medicaid.
h) Support stem cell research on existing lines of stem cells.
i) Allow laboratories to create new lines of stem cells for additional research.
j) Other or expanded principles

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding immigration.

a) Decrease the number of legal immigrants allowed into the country.
X b) Establish English as the official national language.
c) 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

International AidIndicate which principles you support (if any) regarding United States economic assistance.

a) Aid should be granted to countries when extraordinary circumstances cause disaster and threaten civilian lives.
X b) 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.
X d) International Aid programs should be scaled back and eventually eliminated.
e) Other or expanded principles

International Policy1) Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding the Middle East.2) Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding Central and East Asia.3) Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding the United Nations.

Yes a) Should the United States continue to provide leadership in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process?
Undecided b) Should the United States support the creation of a Palestinian state?
No c) Should the United States withdraw its troops from Iraq?
Undecided d) Should the United States send more troops to Iraq?
f) Other or expanded principles
Yes a) Should the United States use diplomatic and economic pressure to encourage North Korea to abandon its nuclear weapons program?
Undecided b) Should the United States use military force to dismantle the North Korean nuclear weapons program?
Undecided c) Should the United States remove the North Korean government from power?
Undecided d) Should the United States increase financial support to Afghanistan?
Undecided e) Should the United States increase military support to Afghanistan?
f) Other or expanded principles
No a) Should the United States maintain its financial support of the United Nations?
Yes b) Should the United States decrease its financial support of the United Nations?
Yes c) Should the United States commit troops to United Nations peacekeeping missions?
d) Other or expanded principles
No 4) Should the United States lift the travel ban to Cuba?
Yes 5) Should the United States increase its financial support to Colombia to combat "the war on drugs?"
Undecided 6) Should aid to African nations for AIDS prevention programs fund distribution of contraceptives?
Yes 7) Should aid to African nations for AIDS prevention programs fund abstinence education?
8) Other or expanded principles
We need to firmly establish democracy in Iraq before withdrawing our troops

International TradeIndicate which principles you support (if any) regarding international trade.

No 1) Do you support the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)?
Yes 2) Do you support the Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA)?
No 3) Do you support the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT)?
Undecided 4) Do you support continued U.S. membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO)?
Yes 5) Should a nation's human rights record affect its normal trade relations (most favored nation) status with the United States?
Yes 6) Do you support the trade embargo against Cuba?
7) Should trade agreements include provisions to address environmental concerns and to protect workers' rights?
8) Other or expanded principles

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding national security.

Yes a) Do you support using military tribunals to try suspected terrorists when ordinary civilian courts are deemed inappropriate or impractical?
No b) 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?
Yes c) Should the United States hold foreign states accountable for terrorists who operate in their country?
Yes d) Should the federal government increase funding to states and cities for homeland security?
Yes e) Do you support the prohibition of torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment of prisoners in U.S. custody?
f) 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

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding Social Security.

X a) Allow workers to invest a portion of their payroll tax in private accounts which they manage themselves.
X b) Allow workers to invest a portion of their payroll tax in private accounts managed by private firms contracted by the government.
c) 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

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding technology and communication.

a) Collect taxes on commercial Internet transactions.
b) Continue the moratorium on Internet taxation.
c) Implement government regulation of Internet content.
X d) Support government mandates to curtail violent and sexual content on television.
X e) Support strict penalties for Internet crimes (e.g. hacking, identity theft, worms/viruses).
f) 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

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding welfare and poverty.

a) Require welfare recipients to spend at least 40 hours a week in a combination of work and training programs.
b) Increase funding for child care programs.
X c) Continue to give states and local governments flexibility in and responsibility for welfare programs through federal block grants.
d) Direct federal poverty aid through religious, community-based, or other non-profit organizations.
e) Abolish all federal welfare programs.
X f) Support housing assistance for welfare recipients.
g) Other or expanded principles
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.

Vote Smart does not permit the use of its name or programs in any campaign activity, including advertising, debates, and speeches.

arrow_upward