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Tim Ryan's Issue Positions (Political Courage Test)

Key

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What else does Ryan say?

Tim Ryan did not provide voters with positions on key issues covered by the 2022 Political Courage Test, despite repeated requests from Vote Smart and voters like you.

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.

Yes

Budget: Do you support expanding federal funding to support social safety net programs such as Social Security and Medicare?

Yes

"Our seniors built the United States into the greatest country in the world. They have been there for us throughout our lives, now it is time for us to be there for them. This pandemic has hit them especially hard, and that is why I supported this important funding going to help our seniors," said Congressman Ryan. "I am proud of my record of support for retired Americans. The issues that are important to our seniors are the issues that are important to me." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
Rated 100% by Alliance for Retired Americans. (justfacts.votesmart.org)
"Retired Americans have paid into these earned benefits their whole working lives, and Tim believes we owe it to them to protect that promise and preserve Social Security and Medicare for future generations." (votesmart.org)
Voted in favor of S 610 "Protecting Medicare and American Farmers from Sequester Cuts Act." (votesmart.org)

Yes

Campaign Finance: Do you support the regulation of indirect campaign contributions from corporations,unions, and individuals?

Yes

"Hes cosponsored and repeatedly voted for legislation that would roll back the Citizens United decision, require dark money groups to disclose their donors, and end the influence of corporate special interests on our elections." (timforoh.com)
Rated 100% by Common Cause. (justfacts.votesmart.org)
"This isn't a partisan issue. Eliminating barriers to the right to vote, guaranteeing clean and fair elections, taking money out of politics, and ending government corruption are critical to any functioning democracy." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
Voted in favor of HR 1 "For the People Act of 2021." (votesmart.org)

Crime: Do you support the protection of government officials, including law enforcement officers, from personal liability in civil lawsuits concerning alleged misconduct?

"Bans chokeholds & no-knock warrants Requires officers to de-escalate & only use deadly force as a last resort Makes it easier to investigate & prosecute police misconduct Reinvests in our communities Makes lynching a federal crime". (twitter.com)
Voted in favor of HR 1280 "George Floyd Justice in Policing Act of 2021." (votesmart.org)
"We can't solve a 400-year legacy of systemic racism with one bill. But the #JusticeInPolicing Act takes concrete steps to hold police accountable and make our communities safer right now." (twitter.com)

Yes

Defense: Do you support increasing defense spending?

Yes

"As the Co-Chair of the National Guard and Reserve Caucus, I am extremely pleased to see the full House include so many pieces of my legislation in the National Defense Authorization Act," said Congressman Tim Ryan. "The provisions of these bills will have a real-world impact on the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Guardians of our Armed Forces, especially for our Air Force Reservists at the Youngstown Air Reserve Station. These bills will also improve readiness, retention, provide additional opportunities to serve, protect servicemembers' right to vote, and ensure our troops have the resources needed to beat China. I look forward to seeing this bill signed into law." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
"I am proud to use my position on the Defense Appropriations Committee to craft this important legislation that gives our Armed Forces the resources and funding they need to serve and protect the United States of America and positively impacts our community -- including potential opportunities for the Youngstown Air Reserve Station, Youngstown State University and America Makes. This legislation provides a well-deserved and hard-earned 2.1 percent pay increase for our men and women in uniform. Further, I am pleased we are fully funding the European Reassurance Initiative where the Ohio National Guard has deployed," said Congressman Ryan." (votesmart.org)
Voted in favor of S 1605 "National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022." (votesmart.org)

Yes

Economy: Do you support federal spending as a means of promoting economic growth?

Yes

"Our Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is delivering historic investments in cleaner, more convenient transportation options for the people of Ohio and my Congressional District," said Congressman Ryan. "This funding will lower costs for working families, combat harmful carbon pollution, and support good-paying, union jobs. I'm proud to have voted to provide this federal investment, and I will continue partnering with our state and local leaders to put these game-changing investments to work." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
"These landmark bills are about putting money in the pockets of the American people and providing the resources we need to compete against China. I am proud that these bills cut taxes for working families, provides universal pre-school, cap child-care costs, ensure seniors don't have to pay out of pocket for hearing aids, rebuild our roads and bridges, grow our domestic electric vehicle industry, remove dangerous lead pipes, create strong Buy America provisions, and so much more. We have to have the guts to take on China, lead the economies of the future, and put our families and our workers first. These bills do just that," said Congressman Tim Ryan." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
Voted in favor of HR 3684 "Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act." (votesmart.org)
Voted in favor of HR 5376 "Build Back Better Act." (votesmart.org)

Yes

Economy: Do you support providing financial relief to businesses AND/OR corporations negatively impacted by the state of national emergency for COVID-19?

Yes

"As long as working-class Americans are continuing to struggle, our number one priority has to be getting them the help they need. I'm proud to have secured another round of cash payments so Americans can receive some much needed relief, as well as vital funding for our state and local governments so they can keep our police and fire, healthcare workers, and teachers employed during this difficult time," (justfacts.votesmart.org)
"That's why I'm fighting to provide student loan relief, increase unemployment benefits, expand support for small businesses, and give every American $2,000/month until this crisis is over. Now is the time to double-down. #COVID19". (twitter.com)
Voted in favor of HR 266 - Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act. (votesmart.org)
Voted in favor of HR 6074 - Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act. (votesmart.org)

Yes

Economy: Do you support the federal government taking action, beyond those of the Federal Reserve, to alleviate inflation?

Yes

"Hardworking Ohioans are getting crushed by inflation & record gas prices. Suspending the gas tax is a good step to get families relief, but its not enough. We can't let another week go by without a tax cut to get money in the pockets of the workers who keep our country moving." (twitter.com)
"I'm calling on Congress to pass legislation that will bring some relief to working people who should not be left to bear the brunt of inflation, including permanently restoring our Child Tax Credit, suspending the gas tax, and delivering a break for our small business owners who were already struggling before this pandemic. Though they refused to come to the table one year ago to pass the American Rescue Plan, I hope my Republican colleagues in Congress heed the call this time around for working people." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
Voted in favor of HR 5376 "Inflation Reduction Act of 2022" (votesmart.org)
Voted in favor of HR 7688 "Consumer Fuel Price Gouging Prevention Act" (votesmart.org)

Yes

Education: Do you support the forgiveness of federal student loan debt?

Yes

"Tim believes we must do more to make higher education accessible to all students. Students at the university, community college, and trade school level face skyrocketing tuition costs, even as access to post-high-school education becomes more and more essential to the jobs of tomorrow. That's why Tim voted to cut and cap federal student loan rates, and cosponsored legislation to help borrowers refinance their student debt at a lower rate. Tim has also been a fierce defender of Pell Grants for low-income students and has fought to block GOP cuts to student financial aid." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
"Tim supports expanding access to tuition-free college in exchange for public service, allowing student-borrowers to refinance their loans, and expanding loan forgiveness so that crushing debt isnt holding Ohioans back from serving their community or pursuing the career thats right for them." (timforoh.com)
Voted in favor of HR 2547 "Comprehensive Debt Collection Improvement Act" (votesmart.org)
"While this is a welcome fix for the teachers, first responders, and others who stepped up to serve our communities, we still have a lot of work to do. It's time to expand loan forgiveness, make it easier to refinance, and bring down costs for students." (twitter.com)

Elections: Do you support requiring a government-issued identification in order to vote at the polls?

"In Ohio, we have personally seen the effects of discriminatory voting laws. In recent years, the State of Ohio has made several attempts, and had some success, in purging millions of voters from the registration rolls. In 2017, data revealed a troubling trend occurring throughout the Cleveland, Columbus and Cincinnati metropolitan areas where voters from specific communities were disproportionately removed from the voting rolls at a rate of 2 to 1 when compared to the voting community at large. Among those voters targeted were African Americans and other minority groups, and predominately low-income, and working-class communities. Voting in elections is one of our country's most sacred freedoms, and we should do everything in our power to make it easier, not more difficult." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
"There was no widespread election fraud last year but the GOP isn't living in reality. They want to suppress the vote because when Ohioans turn out, we win. We must end the filibuster & McConnell's obstruction to protect voting rights at the federal level." (twitter.com)
Voted in favor of HR 5746 "Freedom to Vote: John R. Lewis Act" (votesmart.org)

Yes

Energy and Environment: Do you support government funding for the development of renewable energy (e.g. solar, wind, geo-thermal)?

Yes

"A national commitment to clean energy not only reduces our carbon footprint but also creates opportunities for new, good-paying jobs in communities across the country." (votesmart.org)
Rated 91% by League of Conservation Voters. (justfacts.votesmart.org)
Voted in favor of HR 4447 "Expanding Access to Sustainable Energy Act of 2019." (votesmart.org)
Voted in favor of HR 9 "Climate Action Now Act." (votesmart.org)

Yes

Energy and Environment: Do you support the federal regulation of greenhouse gas emissions?

Yes

"Our Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is delivering historic investments in cleaner, more convenient transportation options for the people of Ohio and my Congressional District," said Congressman Ryan. "This funding will lower costs for working families, combat harmful carbon pollution, and support good-paying, union jobs. I'm proud to have voted to provide this federal investment, and I will continue partnering with our state and local leaders to put these game-changing investments to work." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
"Tim is focused on making sure that efforts to combat climate change and protect the health of every Ohioan translate into investments into our people and our communities, creating good-paying jobs and opportunities for Ohio workers to once again lead the country and the worldall while ensuring that we enjoy the benefits for generations to come." (timforoh.com)
Voted against HR 1119 "SENSE Act." (votesmart.org)
Voted in favor of HR 2467 "PFAS Action Act of 2021." (votesmart.org)

Yes

Guns: Do you generally support gun-control legislation?

Yes

Rated 100% by Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence. (justfacts.votesmart.org)
"This is what action looks like. #HR8 passed with bipartisan support. It's time we #EndGunViolence with common sense solutions." (votesmart.org)
Voted in favor of S 2938 "Bipartisan Safer Communities Act" (votesmart.org)
"We've got to keep the heat on Trump and McConnell to pass comprehensive gun reform. We can't back down. The House passed #HR8 and #HR1112 back in February. It's time for the Senate to do the same." (votesmart.org)

Unknown Position

Health Care: Do you support a government-run (single-payer) healthcare program, such as Medicare-for-All?

Unknown Position

Voted in favor of HR 1425 "Patient Protection and Affordable Care Enhancement Act" (votesmart.org)

Yes

Health Care: Do you support expanding paid family AND/OR medical leave opportunities?

Yes

"Tim cosponsored the the Federal Employees Paid Parental Leave Act, which requires federal employees to receive paid leave for 6 to 12 weeks." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
Voted in favor of HR 6201 "Families First Coronavirus Response Act" (votesmart.org)
"We have a chance to make the most significant investments in working people in a generation and we cant get out of our own damn way. No more excuses or apologies. We need paid leave. We need expanded Medicare. And we need a Senate majority that will actually get the job done." (twitter.com)
"When Congress passed the Family & Medical Leave Act in 1993, it was monumental. But it's not enough. Too many of us still have to choose between earning a paycheck and taking off for a sick day or to care for a loved one. It's time to expand paid leave. #FMLA29" (twitter.com)

Yes

Health Care: Do you support lowering the cost of prescription drugs?

Yes

"Drug prices are out of control. Just to afford life-saving medication, hard-working families across the country are forced to ration their prescriptions, skip doses, or forgo paying their bills. Some drugs have become so out of reach that patients have stopped taking their medication all together. Big Pharma's greed and price gouging tactics have left millions of Americans sick and struggling to survive," said Congressman Ryan. "Not only is the passage of H.R. 3 historic, but it honors our former colleague -- a giant in Congress -- who fought injustices in our country every single day. I'm proud to vote for the Elijah E. Cummings Lower Drugs Costs Now Act and bring relief to American families from skyrocketing drug prices. This legislation is long-overdue and a much-needed first step to fix our broken drug pricing system." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
"Our seniors are getting hammered by high Rx pricesmy mom included. The Inflation Reduction Act caps the costs and (finally) lets Medicare negotiate down drug prices to put more money in your pocket and keep this program going strong." (twitter.com)
Voted in favor of HR 3 "Lower Drug Costs Now Act of 2019" (votesmart.org)
Voted in favor of HR 6833 "The Affordable Insulin Now Act" (votesmart.org)

Unknown Position

Immigration: Do you support increasing security along the southern US border?

Unknown Position

Rated 9% by NumbersUSA. (justfacts.votesmart.org)
"Well, you use technology. Trump is using the old line tariffs, old economy, old approach for globalization. He's using the wall, is his technique for border security. You need more dogs. You need -- on the ports of entry, more Border Patrol. There are all kinds of technology we can use to make sure this happens. You have to have a better relationship with Mexico. And, quite frankly, you need to have -- you need to get established in Central America, these countries that are unsecure, insecure. People are coming to the United States." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
"We've got to be smart about border security, and a wall isn't the answer. We should be investing in technology, bolstering security at ports of entry, and fixing existing structures. #SOTU" (justfacts.votesmart.org)

Immigration: Do you support requiring immigrants who are unlawfully present to return to their country of origin before they are eligible for citizenship?

"Proud to join my colleagues in passing the American Dream and Promise Act. This would provide DREAMers & TPS/DED recipients with a pathway to citizenship. They have built lives here: getting an education, raising families, contributing to our economy & enriching our communities." (votesmart.org)
Signed a letter stating: "We respectfully request that you continue Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and engage in a vigorous legal defense of DACA in light of the renewed threat of litigation." (votesmart.org)
Voted in favor of HR 1333 "NO BAN Act." (votesmart.org)
Voted in favor of HR 6 "American Dream and Promise Act of 2021." (votesmart.org)

Yes

National Security: Do you support economic intervention as a means of resolving international conflicts?

Yes

Voted in favor of HR 4695 "Protect Against Conflict by Turkey (PACT) Act" (votesmart.org)
Voted in favor of HR 6968 "Suspending Energy Imports from Russia Act" (votesmart.org)
"By cutting off the import of Russian oil and gas--Russia's main export--the United States is dealing a massive blow to Putin where it hurts. This move reinforces that America stands with Ukraine and will always stand for freedom," said Congressman Tim Ryan. "As Putin's war continues to squeeze working people at the pump in Ohio and across this country, we need to immediately pass a working-class tax cut that will help absorb some of these costs and get money directly into people's pockets." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
"Turkey's invasion of northern-Syria is forcing tens of thousands of Syrian Kurds to flee their homes, tearing apart families, and killing countless of innocent lives. These are horrific consequences greenlit by President Trump's tragic decision to pull out American troops and to betray our Kurdish allies. We cannot sit idly by and allow this international and humanitarian crisis to continue," said Congressman Ryan. "The President may think it's ok to abandon our allies and give power to authoritarian leaders, but Congress doesn't. I'm joining my Democratic and Republican colleagues to hold Turkey accountable for this assault, protect Syrian Kurdish families, and defend our national security." (justfacts.votesmart.org)

Yes

National Security: Do you support the U.S. providing increased offensive military aid to Ukraine?

Yes

"As Russia escalates its brutal attacks against innocent Ukrainian citizens, we must work quickly with our allies to provide additional emergency funding to ensure that Ukraine not only wins this war, but drives Russia completely out," said Congressman Tim Ryan. "We cannot let Vladimir Putin retain one inch of soil in Ukraine, and this legislation is a critical step forward to achieving this goal and protecting democracy worldwide." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
"That is why I am calling on President Biden to negotiate a deal with NATO allies to have those nations provide the Ukrainian Air Force with the fighter jets they need to compete with Russia in the air. Putin does not get to dictate the size of Ukraine's Air Force while his forces bomb kindergartens and maternity hospitals. The United States cannot stand idly by and watch that happen. We must also help Ukraine acquire more advanced air defense systems to provide protection from the Russian Air Force's bombings." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
Voted in favor of S 3522 "Ukraine Democracy Defense Lend-Lease Act of 2022" (votesmart.org)

Taxes: Do you support raising taxes, on any income or on any entity, to promote economic growth?

"I am proud to vote today to advance both the bipartisan infrastructure bill and the Build Back Better Act. These two historic bills are a tremendous opportunity to not only rebuild our nation's roads and bridges, but to truly meet the needs of American working families. Together, these bills will rebuild our crumbling infrastructure, create more jobs, cut taxes, and lower the cost of medicine, childcare, and health care," (justfacts.votesmart.org)
"I have said previously that Republicans and Democrats have an opportunity to work together to make our tax code simpler, fairer, and more competitive. Instead of taking advantage of this opportunity for bipartisanship, Republicans have created a tax bill that benefits themselves, their wealthy donors, and--not surprisingly--President Trump himself. These tax breaks for millionaires and billionaires will blow a massive hole in our deficit and will mean drastic cuts to important programs that give a much-needed hand up to hardworking families and students who want a fair shot at the American Dream. This tax plan will not make America great. It will make America worse for everybody who is not already rich. I proudly voted against this bill that would benefit a few wealthy Americans at the expense of many hardworking men and women. I hope the Senate is able to defeat this bill," (justfacts.votesmart.org)
Rated 0% by FreedomWorks. (justfacts.votesmart.org)
Voted against HR 1 "Tax Cuts and Jobs Act" (votesmart.org)

Yes

Trade: Do you generally support removing barriers to international trade (for example: tariffs, quotas, etc.)?

Yes

"I'm tired of our farmers getting the short end of the Trump stick. We don't need more Tariffs--we need an agricultural agenda that helps our farmers compete in the 21st century." (twitter.com)
"Pleased to see this news today. As I said from the beginning, these tariffs should have been targeting bad actors, like China and Russia, rather than our key allies. In March 5, 2018, I wrote to the President urging him for these exemptions --> " (bit.ly)
"Trade wars definitely =\= boon for hard working Americans." (twitter.com)
Voted in favor of HR 5430 "United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement Implementation Act." (votesmart.org)

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.

Ohio Congressional Election 2012 Political Courage Test

Abortion

Pro-choice		Do you generally support pro-choice or pro-life legislation?
Family Research Council. 04/18/2012. "Tim Ryan supported the interests of the Family Research Council 6 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org) Tim Ryan. Project Vote Smart: 2002 Ohio Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "f) Eliminate public funding for abortions and public funding of organizations that advocate or perform abortions." Indicate which principles you support (if any) concerning abortion. Other or expanded principles: "Parental Notification" Tim Ryan. HR 748. 109th Congress. Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act. Tim Ryan voted Yea on 04/27/2005. (votesmart.org) Tim Ryan. Reps. Ryan And Delauro Bridge The Abortion Divide With New Bill. 23 July 2009. "With this legislation, we have found common ground on one of the most divisive debates in America. It's my belief that if we are really serious about reducing the need for abortions in this country, then we need to promote prevention in order to achieve that goal. People may and likely willÂcontinue to have disagreements over this issue, but we must still work together in the instances where we agree." (votesmart.org) Tim Ryan. Democrats in Congress Pass Abortion Reduction Initiative. 19 July 2007. "It is our moral obligation to address those issues with which all sides agree. Whether you are pro-life like me or pro-choice like my friend Congresswoman DeLauro, the common ground we must build upon is our serious desire to reduce the rate of abortions." (votesmart.org) Tim Ryan. HR 3. 112th Congress. Prohibiting Taxpayer Funding of Abortion. Tim Ryan voted Nay on 05/04/2011. (votesmart.org) Tim Ryan. HR 6099. 110th Congress. Abortion Pain Bill. Tim Ryan voted Yea on 12/06/2006. (votesmart.org) Tim Ryan. H Amdt 95. 112th Congress. Prohibiting Use of Federal Funds For Planned Parenthood. Tim Ryan voted Nay on 02/18/2011. (votesmart.org) NARAL Pro-Choice America. 04/18/2012. "Tim Ryan supported the interests of the NARAL Pro-Choice America 100 percent in 2010." (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 Tim Ryan a rating of 100 percent." (votesmart.org) Tim Ryan. H AMDT 209. 109th Congress. Overseas Military Facilities Abortion Amendment. Tim Ryan voted Nay on 05/25/2005. (votesmart.org) National Right to Life Committee. 04/18/2012. "Tim Ryan supported the interests of the National Right to Life Committee 16 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org) Tim Ryan. S 403. 110th Congress. Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act. Tim Ryan voted Yea on 09/26/2006. (votesmart.org) Planned Parenthood. 04/18/2012. "Tim Ryan supported the interests of Planned Parenthood 57 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org) Tim Ryan. H Amdt 509. 111th Congress. Prohibiting Federally Funded Abortion Services. Tim Ryan voted Yea on 11/07/2009. (votesmart.org) Tim Ryan. MSNBC "Hardball With Chris Matthews" Transcript. 18 May 2009. "The debate has always consisted of pro- choice/pro-life. One side doesn't want anything to change and the other side wants to put doctors and women in prison. And I think the transformational effect of our legislation that Rosa and I have put together over the past three or four years, the speech that Barack Obama gave yesterday, puts us into a new realm. And the discussion now is going to be, 'Are you for reducing the number of abortions or are you for having the same bitter fight that we had over the last 35 years?'" (votesmart.org) "Tim believes that there are people of good conscience on both sides of the abortion issue, but that ultimately we must trust women, their families, and their doctors." https://votesmart.org/public-statement/1243463/issue-position-reproductive-health#.XU2jqXU3kfI (votesmart.org) "The Hyde Amendment is a tax on millions of Americans seeking abortion. Itâs wrong and should be repealed. Access to abortion care shouldnât be limited by your zip code, income, or health care provider. It is a RIGHT" https://votesmart.org/public-statement/1365843/tweet-the-hyde-amendment-is-a-tax-on-millions-of-americans-seeking-abortion-its-wrong-and-should-be-repealed-access-to-abortion-care-shouldnt-be-limited-by-your-zip-code-income-or-health-care-provider-it-is-a-right (votesmart.org) Tim Ryan. Issue Position: Preventing the Need for Abortions. 8 February 2012. "It's not the traditional pro-life stance, and it's not the traditional pro-choice stance. The aim is to prevent the need for females to even have an abortion." (votesmart.org) “Women deserve to be able to make decisions about their own lives, bodies and futures, and today's SCOTUS decision undercuts that sacred right,"” https://votesmart.org/public-statement/1263226/congressman-tim-ryan-statement-on-supreme-court-decision-in-favor-of-anti-abortion-pregnancy-centers#.XU2kJHU3kfI (votesmart.org) “Tim believes that there are people of good conscience on both sides of the abortion issue, but that ultimately we must trust women, their families, and their doctors.” https://votesmart.org/public-statement/1243463/issue-position-reproductive-health#.XU2jqXU3kfI (votesmart.org) “The Hyde Amendment is a tax on millions of Americans seeking abortion. It’s wrong and should be repealed. Access to abortion care shouldn’t be limited by your zip code, income, or health care provider. It is a RIGHT” https://votesmart.org/public-statement/1365843/tweet-the-hyde-amendment-is-a-tax-on-millions-of-americans-seeking-abortion-its-wrong-and-should-be-repealed-access-to-abortion-care-shouldnt-be-limited-by-your-zip-code-income-or-health-care-provider-it-is-a-right/?search=hyde%20amendment#.XVxAzHU3kfI (votesmart.org) "Women have the right to choose, and I do not support efforts to overturn the Roe V. Wade Supreme Court decision. I believe in measures that will reduce the number of abortions and support women while they are pregnant." https://votesmart.org/candidate/political-courage-test/45638/tim-ryan/#.WsJQXWe3wfI (votesmart.org) "Women have the right to choose, and I do not support efforts to overturn the Roe V. Wade Supreme Court decision. I believe in measures that will reduce the number of abortions and support women while they are pregnant." https://votesmart.org/candidate/political-courage-test/45638/tim-ryan/#.WsJQXWe3wfI (votesmart.org) “We must trust women and families—not politicians—to make the best decision for their lives as it relates to reproductive rights & abortion.” http://www.timryanforcongress.com/issues (www.timryanforcongress.com) “This bill is dangerous in its implications and completely ignores the risks posed to women who carry pregnancies with severe and possibly fatal problems that may be discovered after twenty weeks. House Republicans are trying to remove these complex decisions with medical, spiritual, financial and emotional implications, from women and hand it to politicians where it certainly does not belong.” http://votesmart.org/public-statement/792795/congressman-tim-ryan-votes-to-oppose-20-week-abortion-ban#.VcI30XUVhHw (votesmart.org) Rated 100% by Planned Parenthood http://votesmart.org/candidate/evaluations/45638/tim-ryan (votesmart.org) "This bill is dangerous in its implications and completely ignores the risks posed to women who carry pregnancies with severe and possibly fatal problems that may be discovered after twenty weeks. House Republicans are trying to remove these complex decisions with medical, spiritual, financial and emotional implications, from women and hand it to politicians where it certainly does not belong." http://votesmart.org/public-statement/792795/congressman-tim-ryan-votes-to-oppose-20-week-abortion-ban#.VcI30XUVhHw (votesmart.org) Rated 0% by National Right to Life Committee http://votesmart.org/interest-group/252/rating/7227 (votesmart.org) Rated 100% by NARAL Pro-Choice America http://votesmart.org/interest-group/1016/rating/7720 (votesmart.org) Tim Ryan. US News: Rep. Tim Ryan: My Plan for Common Ground on Abortion. 24 August 2009. "I am a pro-life member of Congress. I have voted in favor of parental notification laws, for the Unborn Child Pain Awareness Act, against abortion in federally funded military medical facilities, for the Unborn Victims of Violence Act, against partial-birth abortion, and against human cloning. I stand by all those votes and, in addition, I have explained to Speaker Pelosi my position that healthcare reform should prohibit public funds from paying for abortions (a provision which the House Energy and Commerce Committee added to the bill)." (www.usnews.com) Tim Ryan. Congressman Tim Ryan's Statement on Recent Attacks in Ohio Against Women's Health Care. 6 December 2011. "The Ohio Senate has also insisted on pushing an abortion ban that is so expansive, even the Ohio Right to Life opposes it. The 'Heartbeat' bill is one more step in a radical direction that would prohibit women who are victims of rape or incest from making decisions about their own health care. This is wrong." (votesmart.org) "Women deserve to be able to make decisions about their own lives, bodies and futures, and today's SCOTUS decision undercuts that sacred right," https://votesmart.org/public-statement/1263226/congressman-tim-ryan-statement-on-supreme-court-decision-in-favor-of-anti-abortion-pregnancy-centers#.XU2kJHU3kfI (votesmart.org) Voted in favor of HR 8296 "Women's Health Protection Act of 2022" https://votesmart.org/bill/32975/86812/45638/womens-health-protection-act-of-2022#86812 (votesmart.org) Rated 100% by Planned Parenthood Action Fund. https://justfacts.votesmart.org/candidate/evaluations/45638/tim-ryan (justfacts.votesmart.org) "The Hyde Amendment is a tax on millions of Americans seeking abortion. It's wrong and should be repealed. Access to abortion care shouldn't be limited by your zip code, income, or health care provider. It is a RIGHT" https://votesmart.org/public-statement/1365843/tweet-the-hyde-amendment-is-a-tax-on-millions-of-americans-seeking-abortion-its-wrong-and-should-be-repealed-access-to-abortion-care-shouldnt-be-limited-by-your-zip-code-income-or-health-care-provider-it-is-a-right (votesmart.org) "Women deserve to be able to make decisions about their own lives, bodies and futures, and todayâs SCOTUS decision undercuts that sacred right,"" https://votesmart.org/public-statement/1263226/congressman-tim-ryan-statement-on-supreme-court-decision-in-favor-of-anti-abortion-pregnancy-centers#.XU2kJHU3kfI (votesmart.org) Tim Ryan. Project Vote Smart: 2002 Ohio Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "b) Abortions should always be legally available." Tim Ryan. Project Vote Smart: 2002 Ohio Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) Abortions should always be illegal."
Women have the right to choose, and I do not support efforts to overturn the Roe V. Wade Supreme Court decision. I believe in measures that will reduce the number of abortions and support women while they are pregnant.

Afghanistan

Yes		Do you support United States' combat operations in Afghanistan?
Yes		Do you support a timetable for withdrawal from Afghanistan?
I support combat operations in Afghanistan and President Obama's timetable for withdrawal.

Budget

Indicate which proposals you support (if any) for balancing the federal budget.In order to balance the budget,

Yes		do you support reducing defense spending?
No		do you support an income tax increase on any tax bracket?
No		do you support reducing Medicaid spending?
No		do you support reducing Medicare spending?
Yes		Is balancing the budget a legislative priority?
I support measures that require all Americans to pay a fair share. I will not cut social spending while giving tax breaks to the super-rich and funding wars abroad. Balancing the budget must be a long-term priority.

Campaign Finance

Yes

Do you support the regulation of indirect campaign contributions from corporations and unions?

Capital Punishment

		Do you support capital punishment for certain crimes?
Our legal system needs major reform that reduces repeat offenders and rehabilitates offenders while protecting citizens.

Economy

Yes		Do you support federal spending as a means of promoting economic growth?
Yes		Do you support providing tax incentives to businesses for the purpose of job creation?
Yes		Do you support spending on infrastructure projects for the purpose of job creation?
Yes		Do you support the temporary extension of unemployment benefits?
Yes		Do you support the 2010 temporary extension of tax relief?

Education

Yes

Do you support requiring states to implement education reforms in order to be eligible for competitive federal grants?

Energy

Yes

Do you support reducing restrictions on offshore energy production?

Environment

Yes		Do you believe that human activity is contributing to climate change?
Yes		Do you support the federal regulation of greenhouse gas emissions?

Guns

Unknown Position		Do you support restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns?
Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence. 04/18/2012. "Tim Ryan supported the interests of the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence 0 percent from 1988-2003 (Senate) or 1991-2003 (House)." (votesmart.org) Tim Ryan. Project Vote Smart: 2002 Ohio Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "h) Require a license for gun possession." Tim Ryan. Project Vote Smart: 2002 Ohio Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "g) Require background checks on gun sales between private citizens at gun shows." Tim Ryan. Project Vote Smart: 2002 Ohio Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "b) Maintain and strengthen the enforcement of existing federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns." Tim Ryan. Project Vote Smart: 2002 Ohio Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "e) Allow citizens to carry concealed guns." Tim Ryan. Project Vote Smart: 2002 Ohio Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "i) Raise the minimum age for ownership of handguns from 18 to 21." Tim Ryan. Project Vote Smart: 2002 Ohio Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "c) Ease federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns." Tim Ryan. Project Vote Smart: 2002 Ohio Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "d) Repeal federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns." Tim Ryan. Project Vote Smart: 2002 Ohio Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) Ban the sale or transfer of semi-automatic guns, except those used for hunting." Tim Ryan. HR 6842. 110th Congress. Repealing Portions of the D.C. Firearm Ban. Tim Ryan voted Yea on 09/17/2008. (votesmart.org) Tim Ryan. H AMDT 1156. 110th Congress. Trigger Lock Amendment. Tim Ryan voted Yea on 06/28/2006. (votesmart.org) Tim Ryan. S 397. 109th Congress. Firearms Manufacturers Protection Bill. Tim Ryan voted Yea on 10/20/2005. (votesmart.org) National Rifle Association. Project Vote Smart: Interest Group Endorsements. 04/18/2012. National Rifle Association endorsed Tim Ryan in the 2010 general election. (votesmart.org) Gun Owners of America. 04/18/2012. "In 2010 Gun Owners of America gave Tim Ryan a grade of 36." (votesmart.org)
I support the 2nd amendment right to bear arms and responsible gun ownership. With that right comes a responsibility to make sure we keep guns out of the hands of criminals.

Health Care

No		Do you support repealing the 2010 Affordable Care Act?
Yes		Should individuals be required to purchase health insurance, as mandated in the 2010 Affordable Care Act?

Immigration

Yes		Do you support allowing illegal immigrants, who were brought to the United States as minors, to pursue citizenship without returning to their country of origin?
Yes		Do you support the enforcement of federal immigration law by state and local police?
No		Do you support requiring illegal immigrants to return to their country of origin before they are eligible for citizenship?
Tim Ryan. Project Vote Smart: 2002 Ohio Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "g) Allow legalization for certain illegal immigrants working in the U.S." Tim Ryan. HR 5281. 112th Congress. DREAM Act. Tim Ryan voted Yea on 12/08/2010. (votesmart.org) Tim Ryan. HR 4437. 109th Congress. Border Security Bill. Tim Ryan voted Nay on 12/16/2005. (votesmart.org) National Latino Congreso/William C. Velásquez Institute. 04/18/2012. "Tim Ryan supported the interests of National Latino Congreso/William C. Velásquez Institute 57 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org) Federation for American Immigration Reform. 04/18/2012. "Tim Ryan supported the interests of the Federation for American Immigration Reform 0 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org) "There is no doubt that we would all prefer to fix our immigration system through the legislative process, and the time to act is now. President Obama's executive action on immigration is measured and will help level the playing field for all American workers - not just for those who are undocumented - by putting an end to employers hiring undocumented workers in an effort to pay lower wages and avoid providing benefits." http://votesmart.org/public-statement/939722/congressman-tim-ryan-issues-statement-on-president-obamas-immigration-announcement#.VcI_7HUVhHw (votesmart.org) Voted in favor H.R. 5281 "DREAM Act" http://votesmart.org/bill/votes/32955#.VaPzYvlViko (votesmart.org) “There is no doubt that we would all prefer to fix our immigration system through the legislative process, and the time to act is now. President Obama's executive action on immigration is measured and will help level the playing field for all American workers – not just for those who are undocumented – by putting an end to employers hiring undocumented workers in an effort to pay lower wages and avoid providing benefits.” http://votesmart.org/public-statement/939722/congressman-tim-ryan-issues-statement-on-president-obamas-immigration-announcement#.VcI_7HUVhHw (votesmart.org) Voted in favor H.R. 5281 "DREAM Act" http://votesmart.org/bill/votes/32955#.VaPzYvlViko (votesmart.org)

Marriage

Yes

Do you support same-sex marriage?

National Security

Yes		Do you support targeting suspected terrorists outside of official theaters of conflict?
Yes		Should the U.S use military force in order to prevent Iran from possessing a nuclear weapon?

Social Security

Do you support allowing individuals to divert a portion of their Social Security taxes into personal retirement accounts?

Spending and Taxes

SpendingIndicate what federal spending levels (#1-6) you support for the following general categories. Select one number per category; you can use a number more than once.TaxesIndicate what federal tax levels (#1-6) you support for the following general categories. Select one number per category; you can use a number more than once.

Maintain Status		a) Agriculture
Maintain Status		b) Arts
Slightly Decrease		c) Defense
Greatly Increase		d) Education
Slightly Increase		e) Environment
Maintain Status		f) Homeland Security
Maintain Status		g) International aid
Greatly Increase		h) Medical Research
Greatly Increase		i) Scientific Research
Maintain Status		j) Space exploration
Maintain Status		k) United Nations
Maintain Status		l) Welfare
		m) Other or expanded categories
Greatly Increase		a) Capital gains taxes
Slightly Decrease		b) Corporate taxes
Maintain Status		c) Excise taxes (alcohol)
Maintain Status		d) Excise taxes (cigarettes)
Maintain Status		e) Excise taxes (transportation fuel)
Slightly Decrease		f) Income taxes (low-income families)
Slightly Decrease		g) Income taxes (middle-income families)
Greatly Increase		h) Income taxes (high-income families)
		i) Inheritance taxes
		j) Payroll taxes
		k) Other or expanded categories

Administrative Priorities

Please explain in a total of 100 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.

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What else does Ryan say?

Tim Ryan's Issue Positions (Political Courage Test)

Key

Issue Positions

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.

Abortion

Afghanistan

Budget

Campaign Finance

Capital Punishment

Economy

Education

Energy

Environment

Guns

Health Care

Immigration

Marriage

National Security

Social Security

Spending and Taxes

Administrative Priorities

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