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Connie Mack IV's Issue Positions (Political Courage Test)

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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.
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Other or Expanded Principles & Legislative Priorities are entered exactly as candidates submit them. Vote Smart does not edit for misspelled words, punctuation or grammar.

Connie Mack IV refused to tell citizens where he stands on any of the issues addressed in the 2012 Political Courage Test, despite repeated requests from Vote Smart, national media, and prominent political leaders.

What is the Political Courage Test?

Issue Positions

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 2012.

  • Connie Mack. Mack Denounces Fannie Mae / Freddie Mac Takeover. 10 September 2008. "I am a solid, committed pro-life Republican." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. HR 6099. 110th Congress. Abortion Pain Bill. Connie Mack voted Yea on 12/06/2006. (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Project Vote Smart: 2004 Florida Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "b) Abortions should always be legal."
  • Connie Mack. HR 3. 112th Congress. Prohibiting Taxpayer Funding of Abortion. Connie Mack voted Yea on 05/04/2011. (votesmart.org)
  • Planned Parenthood. 04/18/2012. "Connie Mack supported the interests of Planned Parenthood 0 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. S 403. 110th Congress. Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act. Connie Mack voted Yea on 09/26/2006. (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. HR 748. 109th Congress. Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act. Connie Mack voted Yea on 04/27/2005. (votesmart.org)
  • National Right to Life Committee. 04/18/2012. "Connie Mack supported the interests of the National Right to Life Committee 100 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. H AMDT 209. 109th Congress. Overseas Military Facilities Abortion Amendment. Connie Mack voted Nay on 05/25/2005. (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. H Amdt 95. 112th Congress. Prohibiting Use of Federal Funds For Planned Parenthood. Connie Mack voted Yea on 02/18/2011. (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. H Amdt 509. 111th Congress. Prohibiting Federally Funded Abortion Services. Connie Mack voted Yea on 11/07/2009. (votesmart.org)
  • NARAL Pro-Choice America. 04/18/2012. "Connie Mack supported the interests of the NARAL Pro-Choice America 0 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 Connie Mack a rating of 13 percent." (votesmart.org)
  • Family Research Council. 04/18/2012. "Connie Mack supported the interests of the Family Research Council 100 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Project Vote Smart: 2004 Florida Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) Abortions should always be illegal."
  • Connie Mack. Project Vote Smart: 2004 Florida Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "g) Prohibit public funding of abortions and of organizations that advocate or perform abortions."
  • Connie Mack. H Con Res 28. 112th Congress. Removing Troops from Afghanistan. Connie Mack voted Nay on 03/17/2011. (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Issue Position: Strong National Defense. 25 October 2011. "As America continues to fight and win the war on terrorism, we must remain vigilant in defending America's freedom, security and prosperity." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack Comments on Obama's Address on Afghanistan. 22 June 2011. "The government of Afghanistan cannot be trusted and has not proven to be an ally. Having spent time and resources in Afghanistan, the American people deserve a thorough plan for the future of Afghanistan based on a dialogue between our military leaders, Administration leaders, and our legislative leaders. Along with the American people, I look forward to hearing about that constructive dialogue this evening from the President." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack: We Must Not Fail in Afghanistan. 2 December 2009. "Last night, Americans and men and women across the world carefully watched and heard what President Obama had to say about U.S. policy in Afghanistan. Let us remember that it was not only our friends who were watching and analyzing every point the President was making, but so were our enemies. The question on everyone's minds is, does President Obama have the resolve to get the job done? Is he willing to do what it takes to win? While there were some questions answered last night, such as the specific troop level President Obama intends on sending to Afghanistan, other questions remain. With many on the left urging a quick withdrawal, our brave men and women in the military need a commander in chief with the determination and resolve to win in Afghanistan. While I am disappointed that the President chose not to provide General McChrystal with his original troop request, I support the President's decision to send 30,000 troops to Afghanistan." (votesmart.org)
  • Peace Action. 04/18/2012. "Connie Mack supported the interests of the Peace Action 25 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack: "The American People Deserve a Dialogue Between Congress and Our Military Leaders on the Future of Afghanistan." 23 June 2011. "The American people deserve better. Any plan for troop withdrawal should include a constructive dialogue with Congress and our military leaders, which is overdue with respect to our ongoing actions in Libya and was not part of the President's plan moving forward in Afghanistan." (votesmart.org)
  • Peace Action West. 04/18/2012. "Connie Mack supported the interests of Peace Action West 25 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. HR 4986. 110th Congress. Defense Authorizations Bill. Connie Mack voted Yea on 01/16/2008. (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. In Pensacola Today, Nelson on Hot Seat on Reckless Endangerment of National Defense. 5 September 2012. "Bill Nelson voted to gut our military readiness, in order to raise the debt ceiling to pay for ObamaCare and wasteful stimulus spending. He has put the brave men and women who dedicate their lives to keep us free and secure in even more danger, not less. Instead of fighting to stop this reckless slash of our military, Bill Nelson will naively suggest that he never intended this to happen, and pen letters to Republicans trying to cover up his actions. But make no mistake, Bill Nelson made this happen, and the rhetoric is far from the record. In an effort to appease his beloved President Obama, Bill Nelson cut the deal at the expense of the military personnel in Florida and across the nation. It's shameful and Bill Nelson must be held accountable by the voters of Florida for his dereliction of duty." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. HR 1363. 112th Congress. 2011 Department of Defense Budget and Additional Continuing Appropriations. Connie Mack voted Yea on 04/07/2011. (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. HR 2642. 110th Congress. Funding for Operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Connie Mack voted Yea on 06/19/2008. (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. HR 4939. 110th Congress. Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2006. Connie Mack voted Yea on 06/13/2006. (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. HR 5631. 110th Congress. Department Defense Appropriations Act, FY 2007. Connie Mack voted Yea on 09/26/2006. (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. HR 5631. 110th Congress. Defense Department FY2007 Appropriations Bill. Connie Mack voted Yea on 06/20/2006. (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. HR 3222. 110th Congress. Department of Defense Appropriations, Fiscal Year 2008. Connie Mack voted Yea on 08/05/2007. (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. H Amdt 13. 112th Congress. Reducing Navy and Air Force Aircraft Procurement. Connie Mack voted Nay on 02/15/2011. (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Conference Report on H. Con. Res. 95, Concurrent Resolution on the Budget for Fiscal Year 2006. 28 March 2005. "It is the first budget since 1997 to include reconciliation instructions so that we can slow the rate of growth in rapidly expanding mandatory programs. It roughly freezes non-defense, non-homeland security discretionary spending. At the same time, it provides ample resources for our defense abroad and security at home." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Issue Position: National Defense. "I will continue to support policies that ensure we have a strong national defense and a secure homeland, and that the nation's brave young men and women who are fighting for freedom have the tools, technology and training they need to get the job done." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack Statement on Passage of Iraq War Funding. 25 May 2007. "I'm pleased that the House has passed the critical funding for our troops without handcuffing their ability to get the job done. And, as I have said before, when it comes to the war in Iraq, we need to see results and we need to see them soon. This plan includes reasonable benchmarks to help us measure those results." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack: Democrats Wrong to Play Politics With Troops. 23 March 2007. "The brave men and women fighting to keep us free deserve the nation's unfettered support. They need the resources to fight and win, and they need them without artificial deadlines and political strings that impose battlefield strategies on commanders that will doom their mission. Sadly, that's exactly what the Democrats have done. I voted no on their irresponsible funding bill because pandering politicians have no business making strategic military decisions. What's more, the Democrats' plan cuts funding for critical tools for our troops in the field - such as electronic jammers to counter improvised explosive devices, helicopters and other needed hardware - while at the same time funding non-emergency war programs, including tens of millions of dollars for spinach growers and peanut farmers. That's wrong." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Issue Position: Tax Relief. 25 October 2011. "The 2001 and 2003 tax cuts created over 8.7 million new jobs; allowed businesses to grow by raising the limits on equipment expenses and providing a research and development tax credit; and encouraged investment by cutting the capital gains and dividend income tax rates. These tax cuts fueled our nation's economic growth over the last seven years. I strongly support making the tax cuts permanent (and am a cosponsor of the Tax Increase Prevention Act, which does so) so that families and businesses in Southwest Florida and the rest of the nation can keep more of their hard-earned money and allow our economic growth to continue." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack: Democrats Push Job-Killing Tax Hike on Small Businesses. 2 December 2010. "Today, the Democratic Leadership in the House stifled our nation's economic recovery by raising taxes on America's hardworking families and job creators. The Democrats' political posturing at a time when our nation is trying to recover from the worst recession since the Great Depression is astounding. It's a simple concept: allow Americans to keep more of their hard-earned money, and they will reinvest it back into their businesses and the economy." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack: House Passed Tax Cut Extensions to Help Millions of Families, Small Business. 8 December 2006. "I'm pleased the House has passed comprehensive tax cut extensions that will help millions of families and small business save and invest in their futures. In particular, extending the sales tax deduction will help reduce the federal tax burden of the millions of Floridians because our state does not tax income." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack: PelosiCare Will Bankrupt Country, Raise Taxes, Lead To Loss Of Freedoms. 7 November 2009. "The American people don't want bigger government and higher taxes." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack To Obama: Free-Market Solutions, Not More Government, Will Restore Economic Prosperity. 20 October 2009. "The Obama Administration has been on a nonstop spending spree since January. From countless bailouts for the financial industry and the auto industry, to a $4 trillion budget, to a stimulus plan that has done nothing to create jobs or revitalize our economy, our country is awash in red ink. And to top it all off, President Obama wants to enact a huge tax burden on American families with his government-run health care proposals and his cap-and-trade policies." (votesmart.org)
  • National Taxpayers Union. 04/18/2012. "Connie Mack supported reasonable tax and spending policies as defined by the National Taxpayers Union 90 percent of the time in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Americans for Tax Reform. 04/18/2012. "Connie Mack supported the interests of the Americans for Tax Reform 95 percent in 2007." (votesmart.org)
  • Citizens for Tax Justice. 04/18/2012. "Connie Mack supported the interests of the Citizens for Tax Justice 0 percent in 2006." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Congressman Connie Mack at CPAC 2009. 27 February 2007. "Many of you “ and I suspect most of you -- don't know me. Let me tell you who I am. I am a strong conservative that believes in less government, less taxes, less spending [...]" (www.youtube.com)
  • Connie Mack. Connie Mack: There's Nothing Stimulating About Obama's Plan. 27 January 2009. "Long-term economic growth depends on job creation by the American people and private businesses, not the federal government. The quickest way to grow our economy and get our country moving again is to slash taxes on the American people and businesses and save our children and grandchildren from inheriting a crushing debt burden." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack To Obama: Free-Market Solutions, Not More Government, Will Restore Economic Prosperity. 20 October 2009. "The Obama Administration's economic policies have failed the people of Southwest Florida. Unemployment across the country is at a 26-year high. And ever since the so-called "stimulus" plan was enacted in February, nearly 3 million private sector jobs have been lost. People are hurting, and the President is ignoring reality." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack: "Obama's Lack of Leadership Puts America in Danger". 26 July 2007. "President Obama's lack of a spending reduction plan and the Senate's various schemes to license more federal spending would drive any credit lender into orbit and has left Speaker Boehner rightfully frustrated." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack: Democrats Continue To Trample On The Free Market. 11 December 2009. "Once again, the Democrats have passed legislation that tramples on the free market and our individual freedoms. From countless bailouts, a failed stimulus plan, and a proposed government takeover of our health care system, the Democrats' policies continue to expand the federal bureaucracy and stall our economic recovery." (mack.house.gov)
  • Connie Mack. Op-Ed: Dems' Health Care Bill A Prescription For National Disaster. 2 September 2009. "Americans are sick and tired of Washington's non-stop spending and bailouts. Now is not the time to burden Americans with higher taxes, more spending, and greater government control." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Balance the Federal Budget? Your Chance to Speak Out on Tuesday's Ballot. 29 October 2010. ""The idea that somehow we need to be spending more right now is crazy," Mack said. "Put money back in the hands of the people who earned it in the first place. They'll invest it, and they'll create jobs."" (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Florida's Senators Split Votes. 1 October 2008. "When you peel away the layers, the Senate bill is still a massive $700 billion bailout," said Rep. Connie Mack IV, a Fort Myers Republican who plans to reject the bill a second time. "It still gives the federal government an unprecedented and inappropriate amount of power. And it still quashes the free market in the name of political expediency." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Issue Position: Economy. 25 October 2011. "It is no secret the federal government is broke and our economy broken. I am fighting to free this country from the crushing impact of deficit spending and debt. Whether it is voting against the wasteful bailout schemes and pork projects that gut our economic freedoms or fighting against the temporary, Band-Aid style budgeting that does nothing to address our exploding deficits and debt, I hear the chorus of Americans across the country who are saying, "Enough is enough," and I am taking action to end Washington's unrestrained spending habits." (mack.house.gov)
  • Connie Mack. Issue Position: Fiscal Discipline. 25 October 2011. "Low taxes and low spending go hand-in-hand. As a member of the Budget Committee Congressman Mack has fought to reduce wasteful spending, balance the federal budget and restore fiscal discipline in Washington." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack Denounces Fannie Mae / Freddie Mac Takeover. 10 September 2008. "I am a solid, committed pro-life Republican. But that's not what makes me a conservative. Rather, what makes me a conservative is my unwavering belief that the size of government should be small; that the powers of government should be limited; and that freedom and free markets matter." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack Explains In A Letter To Colleagues Why Secretary Geithner Should Resign Or Be Fired. 20 March 2009. "Washington is failing the American people. Bailouts, TARPs, and stimulus plans are brand new concepts that are tearing apart our time-tested ideals and values. The Bush Administration started this, and some of us opposed it from the start. Unfortunately, the Obama Administration has not only continued it, but expanded it." (mack.house.gov)
  • Connie Mack. HR 5297. 112th Congress. Small Business Lending Fund and Tax Law Amendments. Connie Mack voted Nay on 09/23/2010. (votesmart.org)
  • Americans for Prosperity. 04/18/2012. "Connie Mack supported the interests of the Americans for Prosperity 100 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • The Club for Growth. 04/18/2012. "On the votes used to calculate its ratings, The Club for Growth attaches more value to those votes it considers more important. For 2010, The Club for Growth gave Connie Mack a rating of 95 percent." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. HR 1424. 110th Congress. Financial Asset Purchase Authority and Tax Law Amendments. Connie Mack voted Nay on 10/03/2008. (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Connie Mack: There's Nothing Stimulating About Obama's Plan. 27 January 2009. "Long-term economic growth depends on job creation by the American people and private businesses, not the federal government. The quickest way to grow our economy and get our country moving again is to slash taxes on the American people and businesses and save our children and grandchildren from inheriting a crushing debt burden." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Congressman Mack Visits Local Business. 18 February 2010. "We need to remember it's small businesses that create jobs, not the government." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Issue Position: Tax Relief. "American families and businesses pay too much in taxes. That's why I support making President Bush's tax cuts permanent, and other measures such as eliminating the Death Tax and preserving the sales tax deduction for Floridians. By keeping taxes low, we will ensure families and businesses can make important spending, saving, and investment decisions for their financial futures." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Letter To President Obama. 9 February 2009. "Turning around our economy and creating good jobs quickly can only be achieved through common sense policies that will provide the private sector with the incentives and confidence it needs to invest and grow." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack: Democrats Push Job-Killing Tax Hike on Small Businesses. 2 December 2010. "Today, the Democratic Leadership in the House stifled our nation's economic recovery by raising taxes on America's hardworking families and job creators. The Democrats' political posturing at a time when our nation is trying to recover from the worst recession since the Great Depression is astounding. It's a simple concept: allow Americans to keep more of their hard-earned money, and they will reinvest it back into their businesses and the economy." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack: House Passed Tax Cut Extensions to Help Millions of Families, Small Business. 8 December 2006. "I'm pleased the House has passed comprehensive tax cut extensions that will help millions of families and small business save and invest in their futures. In particular, extending the sales tax deduction will help reduce the federal tax burden of the millions of Floridians because our state does not tax income." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Op Ed: Freedom Matters, Freedom Works. 22 February 2010. "Our generation's charge, therefore, must be to renew America's commitment to freedom and a limited government; to do so in a way that safeguards both the nation's security and individual rights; and, to forge a new era of economic growth and prosperity based on free-market principles [¦] this alliance of strange bedfellows enacted countless examples of the deliberate confiscation and surrender of freedom [¦] No Child Left Behind, which was the largest expansion of the federal government into education since Jimmy Carter." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Project Vote Smart: 2004 Florida Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "j) Providing education is not a responsibility of the federal government."
  • Connie Mack. Project Vote Smart: 2004 Florida Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) Support national standards for and testing of public school students."
  • Connie Mack. Issue Position: Education. 25 October 2011. "As the father of two young children, I know it's essential for every child to have the highest quality education. I believe our education dollars must be spent where they belong - on our children. That's why I support merit pay for teachers, world-class technology and discipline in every classroom, and reducing the size and cost of the nation's educational bureaucracy." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Project Vote Smart: 2004 Florida Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "f) Support increased development of traditional energy resources (e.g. coal, natural gas, oil)."
  • Connie Mack. Mack: Pleased Offshore Drilling Plan Tabled. 10 November 2005. "I'm pleased that the House has tabled the reckless plan to open Florida's coastline to offshore drilling. This risky scheme would have established a complex process for Florida to try to prevent drilling and it was riddled with loopholes that could have allowed drilling to take place just miles from our shore." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack: Democrats' Energy Bill Fails America's Future. 16 September 2008. "It's disappointing that at a time when America needs to leave no stone unturned in order to increase our domestic energy production today and to create new sources of energy for tomorrow, the Democrats instead have passed a so-called "energy" plan that actually hamstrings the United States from accomplishing both of these critical objectives. The Democrats' legislation imposes vast restrictions on energy drilling in the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS). It fails to allow drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). And it fails to include revenue sharing for coastal states in newly-leased drilling areas - eliminating an important incentive for states to allow expanded drilling off of their shores." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack Statement on Democrats' Cap-and-Trade Bill. 26 June 2009. "We must diversify our energy supply and ensure America remains the leading energy innovator in the world. We should look into developing a wide range of technologies to diversify our energy supply, including nuclear, clean coal, renewable energy, offshore oil and natural gas drilling, wind, solar, and biofuels, among others." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack Statement On President Lifting Executive Ban On Offshore Drilling. 14 July 2008. "As I've said many times before, Florida deserves the right to decide whether or not to allow drilling of its shores. That's why I welcome the President's decision to lift the executive ban on offshore drilling." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack Rebukes New Offshore Drilling Plan Introduced While Hurricane Wilma Was Battering Florida's Gulf Coast. 24 October 2005. "I'm troubled that on the very day that yet another Hurricane has torn through the Gulf of Mexico and Florida's Gulf Coast, Chairman Pombo has again introduced an offshore drilling plan that would open Florida's coastline to the perils of offshore drilling. We all understand that America must find new sources of energy. But drilling off Florida's sensitive coast won't solve the nation's current energy challenges and it won't put us on a path toward achieving energy independence." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Issue Position: Energy"The American Energy Act (H.R. 6566), which I have cosponsored, is a comprehensive bill that would: -- Open our deep water ocean resources, Arctic coastal plain, and Western oil shale resources to oil and natural gas exploration; -- Remove the bureaucratic red tape that hinders the construction of new oil refineries; [¦] In addition to cosponsoring and advocating for the comprehensive American Energy Act, I have taken the following actions in Congress in order to help ensure our nation's energy security: [¦] -- Cosponsor of legislation (H.R. 6107, the American Energy Independence and Price Reduction Act) that would allow for the exploration, development, and production of oil and natural gas resources in the coastal plain of Alaska." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Issue Position: Energy Independence. 25 October 2011. "Solving America's energy crisis is one of the most pressing issues of our generation. Mack is a cosponsor of the American Energy Act (H.R. 6566). This legislation offers a broad-based solution to help unlock the natural resources of our country and diversify our baseline energy sources. Just as importantly, it would unleash the entrepreneurial spirit of America as we endeavor to research, develop, invest in, and commercialize new energy sources that will power America for generations to come." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack Reaction to the President's State of the Union Address. 23 January 2007. "I also applaud President Bush's commitment to improving our country's energy independence. As I have said before, we need to lessen our dependence on foreign and domestic sources of oil and take real steps to increase the supply of alternative fuels to ensure clean air and clean water. Our children and grandchildren deserve nothing less." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. H Amdt 773. 112th Congress. Ending Moratorium on Deepwater Drilling Rigs that Meet Certain Safety Standards. Connie Mack voted Nay on 07/30/2010. (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. HR 3534. 112th Congress. Offshore Drilling Regulations and Other Energy Law Amendments. Connie Mack voted Nay on 07/30/2010. (votesmart.org)
  • Southern Alliance for Clean Energy Action Fund. 04/18/2012. "Connie Mack supported the interests of the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy Action Fund 0 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Environment America. 04/18/2012. "Connie Mack supported the interests of Environment America 7 percent in 2009." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. HR 1230. 112th Congress. Offshore Leasing Act. Connie Mack voted Yea on 05/05/2011. (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Victory for Florida on Offshore Drilling. 3 October 2005. "Last week the House Resources Committee approved reckless legislation that would have allowed drilling just miles off Florida's pristine coast. Twenty-one members of Florida's Congressional delegation joined me in expressing our outrage over this latest legislative ploy in a letter to Committee Chairman Richard Pombo (CA-11). According to a published report in National Journal's Congress Daily, Chairman Pombo has heard our voice and is pulling this dangerous legislation from consideration. I appreciate the Chairman's swift action and understanding of Florida's strong opposition to this plan." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Project Vote Smart: 2004 Florida Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "h) Support opening a select portion of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for oil exploration."
  • Connie Mack. HR 2454. 111th Congress. Energy and Environmental Law Amendments ("Cap and Trade"). Connie Mack voted Nay on 06/26/2009. (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Project Vote Smart: 2004 Florida Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "k) Allow energy producers to trade pollution credits."
  • Connie Mack. Project Vote Smart: 2004 Florida Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "l) Support the U.S. re-entering the Kyoto treaty process to limit global warming."
  • Connie Mack. Project Vote Smart: 2004 Florida Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "g) Strengthen emission controls and fuel efficiency standards on all gasoline and diesel-powered engines, including cars, trucks, and sport utility vehicles."
  • Southern Alliance for Clean Energy Action Fund. 04/18/2012. "Connie Mack supported the interests of the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy Action Fund 0 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Environment America. 04/18/2012. "Connie Mack supported the interests of Environment America 7 percent in 2009." (votesmart.org)
  • League of Conservation Voters. 04/18/2012. "Connie Mack supported the interests of the League of Conservation Voters 20 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. HR 910. 112th Congress. Energy Tax Prevention Act. Connie Mack voted Yea on 04/07/2011. (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Issue Position: Environment. 25 October 2011. "From our pristine beaches to the wonders of the Everglades, Florida is home to some of the greatest natural treasures in the world. And I want our children and grandchildren to grow up with clean air, clean water and a strong appreciation for the world around them. That's why I have been a strong supporter of legislation that protects our fragile environment." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack Statement on Democrats' Cap-and-Trade Bill. 26 June 2009. "Instead of implementing a policy of cap-and-trade, which vastly expands government interference in the private sector, we must be bold and create an environment that uses tax incentives and regulatory reform to ignite a storm of innovation which unleashes the entrepreneurial spirit in America." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack To Obama: Free-Market Solutions, Not More Government, Will Restore Economic Prosperity. 20 October 2009. "The Obama Administration has been on a nonstop spending spree since January. From countless bailouts for the financial industry and the auto industry, to a $4 trillion budget, to a stimulus plan that has done nothing to create jobs or revitalize our economy, our country is awash in red ink. And to top it all off, President Obama wants to enact a huge tax burden on American families with his government-run health care proposals and his cap-and-trade policies." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Project Vote Smart: 2004 Florida Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) Renew the ban on the sale or transfer of semi-automatic guns, except those used for hunting."
  • Connie Mack. Project Vote Smart: 2004 Florida Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "h) Require a license for gun possession."
  • Connie Mack. Project Vote Smart: 2004 Florida Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "c) Ease federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns."
  • Connie Mack. Project Vote Smart: 2004 Florida Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "b) Maintain and strengthen the current level of enforcement of existing federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns."
  • Connie Mack. Project Vote Smart: 2004 Florida Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "e) Allow citizens to carry concealed guns."
  • Connie Mack. Project Vote Smart: 2004 Florida Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "g) Require background checks on gun sales between private citizens at gun shows."
  • Connie Mack. Project Vote Smart: 2004 Florida Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "d) Repeal federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns."
  • Gun Owners of America. 04/18/2012. "In 2010 Gun Owners of America gave Connie Mack a grade of 82." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. H AMDT 1156. 110th Congress. Trigger Lock Amendment. Connie Mack voted Yea on 06/28/2006. (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. S 397. 109th Congress. Firearms Manufacturers Protection Bill. Connie Mack voted Yea on 10/20/2005. (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. HR 6842. 110th Congress. Repealing Portions of the D.C. Firearm Ban. Connie Mack voted Yea on 09/17/2008. (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Video: Congressman Connie Mack at CPAC 2009. 27 February 2007. "I want to end by saying --uh-- this; that the second amendment was written with a driving core principle in mind, and that core principle was freedom." www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vb0JREn3lqc.
  • Connie Mack. Mack Hails Passage of D.C. Gun Rights Bill. 17 September 2008. "This past June in District of Columbia v. Heller, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the constitutional right of Americans to purchase and own a firearm. For too long, the residents of the District of Columbia were denied their Second Amendment rights to keep and bear arms, and I was extremely pleased that the Supreme Court ruled in favor of freedom." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack Stresses Comprehensive Approach with Merida Initiative. 27 May 2010. "During his address to Congress, President Calderón said that the United States needs to enact new, stricter gun control laws. As an ardent supporter of the Second Amendment, I strongly disagree. I think we should enforce the gun laws we have on the books right now. We cannot allow others to use this situation in order to advance their gun ban agenda here in the United States." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack: Democrats Wrong to Obstruct Funding for Merida Initiative. 7 August 2009. "Additionally, some on the Left are all too willing to blame America first and undermine our Second Amendment rights. But as the facts clearly show, instead of pandering to their base and taking away our right to bear arms, Democrats should get down to business, approve this report, and get the resources to the Mexican government in order to resoundingly defeat the cartels." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack: Supreme Court Upholds Freedom in D.C. Gun Ban Ruling. 26 June 2008. "Today's Supreme Court decision in District of Columbia v. Heller is monumental. It is the first time in over 200 years that the Court has ruled on the question of the right of the individual to keep and bear arms. Today's ruling by the Supreme Court strongly reaffirms the Second Amendment: "…the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Project Vote Smart: 2004 Florida Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) Providing health care is not a responsibility of the federal government."
  • Connie Mack. Project Vote Smart: 2004 Florida Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "b) Implement a universal health care program to guarantee coverage to all Americans regardless of income."
  • Connie Mack. Mack Applauds Virginia Court Ruling Striking Down Individual Mandate Under ObamaCare. 13 December 2010. "Today's ruling by U.S. District Court Judge Henry Hudson in Virginia is great news for all those who believe in freedom and the Constitution. Nowhere in the U.S. Constitution does it state that the federal government can force individuals to purchase something, including health insurance. Today's news is a good start, but the fight is far from over. We must continue to stand for freedom from an overreaching government, and advocate for nothing less than a full repeal of this disastrous and unconstitutional law." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack Commends Florida Attorney General for Pursuing Lawsuit Against Unconstitutional ObamaCare. 14 September 2010. "I applaud Attorney General McCollum for leading the legal challenge against ObamaCare, which is unconstitutional and infringes on state sovereignty. Nowhere does the Constitution grant the federal government the authority to force individuals to purchase health insurance or anything else." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. HR 2. 112th Congress. Repealing the Health Care Bill. Connie Mack voted Yea on 01/19/2011. (votesmart.org)
  • American Public Health Association. 04/18/2012. "Connie Mack supported the interests of the American Public Health Association 0 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. A New Hope for Freedom. 19 January 2011. "President Obama and our government cannot and should never mandate that our citizens purchase any product and such unconstitutional measures would undermine the quality of the entire American healthcare system. ObamaCare in and of itself does not solve the healthcare crisis; it doesn't make healthcare more affordable and it doesn't improve quality. ObamaCare is nothing more than a liberal, big government takeover that would harm our democracy and way of life." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Cape Coral Daily Breeze: Local Reaction Mixed On Health Care Reform Bill. 29 March 2010. "The American people have spoken loud and clear, and that's why I introduced this legislation to repeal the health care reform plan," Mack said. "Once we repeal this flawed law, we must enact policies that keep taxes low, spending in check, and our freedoms in place, such as health savings accounts, association health plans, substantial medical malpractice reform and tax incentives." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Federal Appeals Court Ruling on ObamaCare Step Toward Restoring Constitutional Freedom. 12 August 2011. "We are reminded today of the economic burdens the Obama Administration have placed on the American people and a bankrupt federal government. Today's ruling is a victory for freedom and the constitutionally defined role of government. Since a federal judge ruled in January on the case filed by then Florida Attorney General McCollum, Floridians have waited for the U.S. Senate to repeal this burdensome overreach by President Obama and Senator Nelson. With unemployment steadily over 9%, mounting U.S. debt and savings accounts shaky due to unsteady market, Americans have said "enough is enough' to ObamaCare." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Federal Court Ruling on ObamaCare in Florida Means Senate Should Act Now. 31 January 2011. "Today's ruling certifies the reason why the Senate should repeal ObamaCare in its entirety. With a federal judge in our home state ruling that the entirety of ObamaCare is unconstitutional, Floridians are looking to both U.S. Senators Nelson and Rubio to do the right thing for the taxpayers and use all procedural tools to bring the repeal of ObamaCare to the Senate floor and end this overreach by President Obama, the federal government and special interests." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack Applauds Florida Judge's Ruling to Allow Suit Against ObamaCare to Proceed. 14 October 2010. "This is great news for all those who believe in freedom and the Constitution. ObamaCare is unconstitutional at its very core." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Op-Ed: Dems' Health Care Bill A Prescription For National Disaster. 2 September 2009. "While the United States has the best quality of care and the best access to care in the world, our nation's health care system needs drastic reforms. However, the Democrats' plan and ObamaCare are not the answer. Rather than unleashing the power of the free market, President Barack Obama prefers to create a one-size-fits-all solution that puts Washington bureaucrats, rather than doctors, in charge of your health care decisions. The price of universal health care as proposed by President Obama is in the trillions of dollars, but the true cost is ultimately a loss of our freedoms." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Project Vote Smart: 2004 Florida Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "e) Support amnesty for certain illegal immigrants who already reside in the United States."
  • Connie Mack. HR 4437. 109th Congress. Border Security Bill. Connie Mack voted Yea on 12/16/2005. (votesmart.org)
  • Federation for American Immigration Reform. 04/18/2012. "Connie Mack supported the interests of the Federation for American Immigration Reform 100 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. HR 5281. 112th Congress. DREAM Act. Connie Mack voted Nay on 12/08/2010. (votesmart.org)
  • National Latino Congreso/William C. Velásquez Institute. 04/18/2012. "Connie Mack supported the interests of National Latino Congreso/William C. Velásquez Institute 20 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Naples Daily News - Mack: People Want Borders Secured. 23 July 2007. "From day one we have said we will not support amnesty. Amnesty is not the way to go." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack: White House / Senate Immigration Deal is Amnesty. 21 May 2007. "America is a nation of immigrants and a beacon for those seeking freedom. But our nation must ensure that those who come to our shores seeking a better life do so legally, and we must not reward those who are here illegally with special programs, privileges and perks." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack in Bonita, Berates Congress. 4 April 2007. "We need to protect our borders north and south and think realistically about how many people we actually need to do jobs in this country," he said. Mack said he doesn't believe in amnesty for those who are already in the country undocumented but admits the United States has a lot of work ahead." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Issue Position: Immigration. 25 October 2011. "America has always been, and should always be, a beacon for those seeking freedom. At the same time, we are a nation of laws, and those who come to America need to do so legally. That's why I oppose amnesty for illegal immigrants and why I support efforts to reduce and eliminate illegal immigration." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack Votes Against Giving Illegal Immigrants Amnesty. 8 December 2010. "Congress must focus first and foremost on protecting our nation's borders, both north and south. We need to boost interior enforcement by cracking down on employers who hire illegal immigrants. And we need to ensure that law enforcement officials have the tools and resources they need to stem illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and other crimes along our borders. What we shouldn't be doing, however, is passing legislation that gives individuals who are living in this country illegally the same benefits provided to U.S. citizens. The Senate should scrap the DREAM Act and Congress should get to work on improving border security and enforcement." (votesmart.org)
  • Family Research Council. 04/18/2012. "Connie Mack supported the interests of the Family Research Council 71 percent in 2006." (votesmart.org)
  • Human Rights Campaign. 04/18/2012. "Connie Mack supported the interests of the Human Rights Campaign 10 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Traditional Values Coalition. 04/18/2012. "Connie Mack supported the interests of the Traditional Values Coalition 57 percent in 2006" (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. HR 2965. 112th Congress. Don't Ask, Don't Tell Repeal Act. Connie Mack voted Nay on 12/15/2010. (votesmart.org)
  • American Civil Liberties Union. 04/18/2012. "Connie Mack supported the interests of the American Civil Liberties Union 23 percent in 2006." (votesmart.org)
  • American Family Association. 04/18/2012. "Connie Mack supported the interests of the American Family Association 94 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. HR 3685. 110th Congress. Sexual Orientation Employment Nondiscrimination Act (ENDA). Connie Mack voted Nay on 11/07/2007. (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. H J Res 88. 110th Congress. Same-Sex Marriage Resolution. Connie Mack voted Yea on 07/18/2006. (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Connie Mack joins criticism of Obama's Libya handling . 14 September 2012. "With riots in North Africa and in Venezuela it is clear that international-terrorist movements are thumbing their nose at America all over the world. We need a foreign policy that does not leave our allies wondering where we stand. Instead of spending precious time "investigating" the tragedies of Libya as Bill Nelson suggests, we need leaders who will take decisive action to defend our nation and our allies and who will always stand for freedom. It's time for the President to act decisively." (blogs.orlandosentinel.com)
  • Connie Mack. Project Vote Smart: 2004 Florida Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) Allow workers to invest a portion of their payroll tax in private accounts which they manage themselves."
  • Connie Mack. Project Vote Smart: 2004 Florida Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "b) Allow workers to invest a portion of their payroll tax in private accounts managed by private firms contracted by the government."
  • Alliance for Retired Americans. 04/18/2012. "Connie Mack supported the interests of the Alliance for Retired Americans 44 percent in 2008." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Issue Position: Social Security. 25 October 2011. "Workers under 55 would have the option to remain in the current social security system or to have a portion of their Social Security payroll taxes fund their own individual personal savings accounts. Those accounts would enable workers to choose from a variety of closely-monitored investment options which could yield a much greater retirement benefit than currently possible while at the same time offer a government-backed guarantee to provide workers with at least the minimum Social Security benefit." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Mack Ready to 'look Chavez in the eye'. 9 June 2005. ""For those individuals 55 or older, both bills guarantee there will be no changes to their Social Security," he said. "For workers under 55, both plans provide them an option to remain in the current social security system or to have a portion of their Social Security payroll taxes fund their own private savings accounts." (votesmart.org)
  • Connie Mack. Social Security Reform. 5 May 2005. "Mr. MACK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my support for two pieces of legislation that will reform, protect and improve Social Security for generations to come [...] For workers under 55, both plans provide an option for them to remain in the current Social Security system or to have a portion of their Social Security payroll taxes fund their own individual personal savings accounts. At the same time, both plans will yield substantial new savings, new investment and new economic growth, ensuring our children and grandchildren have the freedom, security and prosperity they deserve." (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.
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.
d) Abortions should be legal when the pregnancy resulted from incest or rape.
e) Abortions should be legal when the life of the woman is endangered.
f) Prohibit the dilation and extraction procedure, also known as "partial-birth" abortion.
g) Prohibit public funding of abortions and of organizations that advocate or perform abortions.
X h) Other or expanded principles
How can I look at my children and not be pro-life?

Using the key, indicate what federal funding levels you support for the following general categories. Select one number per category.Budget Priorities

a) Agriculture
b) Arts
c) Defense
d) Education
e) Environment
f) Homeland security
g) International aid
h) Law enforcement
i) Medical research
j) National parks
k) Public health services
l) Scientific research
m) Space exploration programs
n) Transportation and highway infrastructure
o) Welfare
We must make sure we appropriately fund our key priorities while holding the line on spending. We can and must do both.

Defense Spending

a) Armed Forces personnel training
b) Intelligence operations
c) Military hardware
d) Modernization of weaponry and equipment
e) National missile defense
f) Pay for active duty personnel
g) Programs to improve troop retention rates
h) Research and development of new weapons
i) Troop and equipment readiness
We must ensure that America has the necessary resources to protect our freedom, safeguard our security, and fight and win the war on terror.

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:

a) Less than $25,000
b) $25,000-$75,000
c) $75,000-$150,000
d) Over $150,000
f) Over $40,000
a) Alcohol taxes
b) Capital gains taxes
c) Cigarette taxes
d) Corporate taxes
e) Gasoline taxes
f) Inheritance taxes
a) Charitable contributions
b) Child tax credit
c) Earned income tax credit
d) Medical expense deduction
e) Mortgage deduction
f) Student loan credit
See # 7
See #7
Yes 4) Do you support permanent repeal of the federal estate tax?
Yes 5) Do you support eliminating taxes on dividends paid to individual investors?
Yes 6) Should a married couple filing jointly pay the same taxes as if they were an unmarried couple filing separately?
In the Florida State Legislature I created the Freedom Caucus and led the fight to cut taxes and to keep spending in check. In Congress I'll continue to champion these ideals so families and businesses have the confidence and ability to plan, save and invest in their futures.

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding campaign finance and government reform.

a) Support public taxpayer funding for federal candidates who comply with campaign spending limits.
b) Increase the amount individuals are permitted to contribute to federal campaigns.
c) Prohibit Political Action Committee (PAC) contributions to candidates for federal office.
d) Allow unregulated soft money campaign contributions to political parties or committees.
e) Allow ads paid for by soft money that support or attack a candidate for federal office.
f) Allow issue advocacy commercials by corporations, labor unions, and non-profit groups which appear within 60 days of a general election and within 30 days of a primary election.
g) Remove all contribution limits on federal campaigns and parties.
h) Do you support instant run-off voting (IRV)?
i) Should Election Day be a national holiday?
j) Should same-sex couples be allowed to form civil unions?
k) Should marriage be restricted to a union only between a man and a woman?
l) Other or expanded principles

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

a) Support the use of the death penalty for federal crimes.
b) Eliminate the use of the death penalty for federal crimes.
c) Impose "truth in sentencing" for violent criminals so they serve full sentences with no chance of parole.
d) Support programs to provide prison inmates with vocational and job-related skills and job-placement assistance when released.
e) Support programs to provide prison inmates with drug and alcohol addiction treatment.
f) Reduce prison sentences for those who commit non-violent crimes.
g) Support additional criminal penalties if a fetus is killed in the commission of a federal crime against a pregnant woman.
h) Require that crimes based on gender, sexual orientation, and disability be prosecuted as federal hate crimes.
i) Support programs that provide job training and placement services for at-risk youth.
j) Impose stricter penalties for those convicted of white-collar crimes.
k) Enforcement of civil rights should primarily be the responsibility of the federal government.
l) Minors accused of a violent crime should be prosecuted as adults.
X m) Other or expanded principles
In the Florida State Legislature I fought to impose harsher penalties for crimes against the elderly and police officers. I also supported tough sentences for domestic abusers, drug traffickers and gang violence. In Congress I'll continue fighting to keep our citizens safe and secure and to punish those who commit crimes.

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

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 prescribe marijuana to their patients for medicinal purposes.
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."
X g) Other or expanded principles
We must continue to fight the scourge of illegal drugs on our nation and to punish those who sell and traffic these drugs.

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.
d) Allow teachers and professionals to receive authorization and funding to establish charter schools.
e) Increase funding for block grants to states to aid in the hiring of additional teachers.
f) Support teacher testing and reward teachers with merit pay.
g) Increase funding for school capital improvements (e.g. buildings, infrastructure, technology).
h) Support granting states limited control over Head Start programs.
i) Support changing the mission of Head Start to emphasize improving the math and reading skills of disadvantaged children.
j) Providing education is not a responsibility of the federal government.
k) Support affirmative action in public college admissions.
l) Increase funding of programs such as Pell grants and Stafford loans to help students pay for college.
m) Support federal tax incentives to help families save for college.
X n) Other or expanded principles
As a parent, nothing could be more important than ensuring our children receive a world-class education. That's why I support merit pay for teachers and world-class technology and discipline in every classroom. It's why I support vouchers- or as I like to call them Freedom Scholarships - so families can have the freedom to provide their children with more opportunities for success. And why I fought in the Legislature for character education classes in all public schools and for the Pledge of Allegiance to be recited every day.

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.
c) Provide tax credits or grants to businesses that offer child care services to employees.
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) Allow workers to sell company stock and to diversify their company retirement funds into other investment options.
X 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) Include sexual orientation in federal anti-discrimination laws.
X e) Other or expanded principles
Government shouldn't mandate higher costs to businesses that jeopardize hundreds of thousands of jobs. Instead, we need to look for additional ways to reduce taxes, rollback unnecessary regulations, and stabilize the tax system so businesses can invest and grow, and families can keep more of their hard-earned money.
Discrimination is wrong wherever it occurs. No one should be denied any opportunity based on one's race, gender or sexual orientation. The law must not allow this to happen, and we must make certain that opportunity is available to anyone who is qualified.

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

a) Strengthen the regulation and enforcement of the Clean Water Act.
b) Strengthen the regulation and enforcement of the Clean Air Act.
c) Require states to compensate citizens when environmental regulations limit uses of privately-owned land.
d) Relax logging restrictions on federal lands.
e) Relax standards on federal lands to allow increased recreational usage.
f) Support increased development of traditional energy resources (e.g. coal, natural gas, oil).
g) Strengthen emission controls and fuel efficiency standards on all gasoline and diesel-powered engines, including cars, trucks, and sport utility vehicles.
h) Support opening a select portion of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for oil exploration.
i) Encourage further development and use of alternative fuels to reduce pollution.
j) Support the use of ethanol as an alternative fuel.
k) Allow energy producers to trade pollution credits.
l) Support the U.S. re-entering the Kyoto treaty process to limit global warming.
X m) Other or expanded principles
Growing up in Southwest Florida I learned first-hand to treasure our unique and beautiful environment As a parent I want my children, and all our children, to grow up with clean air, clean water and that same appreciation for the marvels of the world around them. At the same time, America's technological advantage and our entrepreneurial system have made energy abundant, accessible and affordable. We must continue to advance policies that lead to energy independence and availability while keeping our environment healthy and our economy strong. The generations to come deserve nothing less.

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

a) Renew 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.
c) Ease federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns.
d) Repeal federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns.
e) Allow citizens to carry concealed guns.
f) Require manufacturers to provide child-safety locks on guns.
g) Require background checks on gun sales between private citizens at gun shows.
h) Require a license for gun possession.
i) Establish a national database of ballistic "fingerprints" to track guns used in criminal activities.
j) Support legislation that would protect manufacturers, distributors, dealers, and importers of firearms from civil lawsuits by crime victims.
X k) Other or expanded principles
I'm a strong supporter of our 2nd Amendment Rights.

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.
c) Support a Patient's Bill of Rights which includes appeal mechanisms when claims are denied.
d) Support a Patient's Bill of Rights which includes the right to sue when claims are denied.
e) Expand eligibility for tax-free medical savings accounts.
f) Establish limits on the amount of punitive damages awarded in medical malpractice lawsuits.
g) Support expanding prescription drug coverage under Medicare.
h) Support expanding prescription drug coverage under private managed care plans.
i) Offer tax credits to individuals and small businesses to offset the cost of insurance coverage.
j) Support automatic enrollment of children in federal health care programs such as CHIP and Medicaid.
k) Allow 55-65 year-olds to buy into Medicare.
l) Support stem cell research on existing lines of stem cells.
m) Allow laboratories to create new lines of stem cells for additional research.
X n) Other or expanded principles
No one should be forced to choose between paying their bills and having healthcare. Unfortunately that's exactly what happens for far too many hard-working families. That's why I believe small businesses should be allowed to pool together to purchase health coverage for workers at lower rates; that medical savings accounts should be expanded to give workers more control over thier health care insurance and costs; that every American should have the right to purchase safe and proven prescription drugs from Canada and other nations; and that we must stop the frivolous and excessive lawsuits against doctors and hospitals that drive up insurance cost for workers and businesses. In addition, like other pro-life conservatives, including Nancy Regan and Senators Bill First and Orrin Hatch, I believe nothing could be more pro-life than supporting promising medical research that stands to prolong and improve the quality of life. I support stem cell research becuase it offers profound opportunities to treat diseases such as Parkinson's disease and Diabetes, spinal cord injuries and other afflictions.

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

a) Decrease the number of legal immigrants allowed into the country.
b) Establish English as the official national language.
c) Increase the number of visas issued for agricultural workers.
d) Relax restrictions barring legal immigrants from using social programs (e.g. public housing, food stamps).
e) Support amnesty for certain illegal immigrants who already reside in the United States.
f) Support the detention of asylum seekers from countries known to sponsor terrorism.
X g) Other or expanded principles
America has always been a beacon for those seeking freedom. We need to continue our support for legal immigration and to welcome those who follow the rules to come to America. At the same time, we cannot tolerate illegal immigration and we must enforce the laws that are in place.

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.
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.
d) Aid programs should be scaled back and eventually eliminated.
X e) Other or expanded principles
We live in a time in which economies and societies are connected across the globe. It's imperative that the United States continues to take a leadership role in promoting freefom, security and prosperity around the world.

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.

a) Should the United States continue to provide leadership in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process?
b) Should the United States support the creation of a Palestinian state?
c) Should the United States withdraw its troops from Iraq?
d) Discuss your proposals for the reconstruction of Iraq. What funding sources would you use to implement these proposals? (75 words or less. Please use an attached page if the space below is not adequate.)
a) Should the United States use diplomatic and economic pressure to encourage North Korea to abandon its nuclear weapons program?
b) Should the United States use military force to destroy the North Korean nuclear weapons program?
c) Should the United States remove the North Korean government from power?
d) Should the United States increase financial support to Afghanistan?
e) Should the United States increase military support to Afghanistan?
a) Should the United States maintain its financial support of the United Nations?
b) Should the United States decrease its financial support of the United Nations?
c) Should the United States commit troops to United Nations peacekeeping missions?
No 4) Should the United States lift the travel ban to Cuba?
5) Should the United States increase its financial support to Colombia to combat "the war on drugs"?
6) Should aid to African nations for AIDS prevention programs fund distribution of contraceptives?
7) Should aid to African nations for AIDS prevention fund abstinence education?
Again, economies and societies are connected across the globe and America must continue to promote freedom, security and prosperity around the world.
The war on terror must be fought and will be won. As part of this war we must keep open our diplomatic and military options to ensure America has every available resource to get the job done quickly and safely.
America should participate in the United Nations but we should never have to seek a permission slip to defend our nation at home or abroad.
Once again, we live in a time in which economies and societies are connected across the globe. It's imperative that the United States continues to take a leadership role in promoting freedom, security, and prosperity around the world.

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

1) Do you support the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)?
2) Do you support the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT)?
3) Do you support continued U.S. membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO)?
4) Should a nation's human rights record affect its normal trade relations (most favored nation) status with the United States?
Yes 5) Do you support the trade embargo against Cuba?
6) Should trade agreements include provisions to address environmental concerns and to protect workers' rights?
Free Trade, Fair Trade

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

a) Do you support using military tribunals to try suspected terrorists when ordinary civilian courts are deemed inappropriate or impractical?
b) Should the United States adopt stricter rules for student visa applications from nations known to sponsor terrorism?
c) 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?
d) Should the United States hold foreign states accountable for terrorists who operate in their country?
e) Should the federal government increase funding to states and cities for homeland security?
f) Do you support a policy of pre-emptive strikes against countries deemed to be a threat to national security?
The war on terror in Iraq, Afghanistan and anywhere the terrorists may be must be fought and will be won. We must not waiver in defense of our freedom and security. In Congress I'll stand with President Bush and make certain that our troops have the tools, technology and training to protect our liberties and to win the war on terrorism.

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

a) Allow workers to invest a portion of their payroll tax in private accounts which they manage themselves.
b) Allow workers to invest a portion of their payroll tax in private accounts managed by private firms contracted by the government.
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 when individuals are eligible to receive full Social Security benefits.
X g) Other of expanded principles
For those who are currently receiving their Social Security benefits or those near retirement, we must keep our promise to ensure they receive the benefits they deserve. At the same time we should allow young workers to invest a portion of their earnings into private accounts to give them greater flexability and opportunity to save more for their retirement.

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 regulation of Internet content.
d) Support government mandates to curtail violent and sexual content on television.
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) Impose regulations on "spam" emails.
X i) Other or expanded principles
New technologies are being developed every day that create new economic opportunities and improve the quality of lives. While It's important to ensure these innovations are being used in appropriate ways, government regulation and taxation stifles innovation and the entrepreneurial spirit of America. We must ensure our tax policies reward innovation and that regulations minimize government interference.

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.
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.
f) Support housing assistance for low-income families.
X g) Other or expanded principles
America is a land of limitless potential. By restoring fiscal responsibility in Washington and keeping taxes low, families will be able to save, businesses will be able to grow. We will then have good jobs, affordable health care, and world-class schools. And we will then be able to provide our children and our grandchildren the opportunity to achieve the American Dream.
The most fundamental right of every American is to be free. We must do everything we can to protect our freedom, security and prosperity at home and abroad. That means ensuring America has every resource to fight and win the war on terror. And it means creating new opportunities for businesses to start and grow; reducing taxes on families to help them keep more of their hard-earned money; reducing wasteful government spending; ensuring our children have a world-class education; and protecting our pristine environment for future generations.

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