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Grace Flores Napolitano

Representative Grace Flores Napolitano's Issue Positions (Political Courage Test)

Grace Napolitano
Full Name: Grace Flores Napolitano
Office: U.S. House (CA) - District 32, Democratic
First Elected: 11/03/1998
Last Elected: 11/06/2012
Next Election: 2014
Gender: Female
Family: Husband: Frank; 5 Children
Birth Date: 12/04/1936
Birth Place: Brownsville, TX
Home City: Norwalk, CA
Religion: Roman Catholic
Project Vote Smart does not permit the use of its name or programs in any campaign activity, including advertising, debates, and speeches.
Grace Napolitano refused to tell citizens where she stands on any of the issues addressed in the 2012 Political Courage Test, despite repeated requests from Vote Smart, national media, and prominent political leaders.

What is the Political Courage Test?

Issue Positions

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

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

Vote Smart's Research

  • Grace Napolitano. HR 3. 112th Congress. Prohibiting Taxpayer Funding of Abortion. Grace Napolitano voted Nay on 05/04/2011. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. H Amdt 156. 106th Congress. Overseas Military Abortion Amendment. Grace Napolitano voted Yea on 06/09/1999. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 748. 109th Congress. Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act. Grace Napolitano voted Nay on 04/27/2005. (votesmart.org)
  • Planned Parenthood. 04/18/2012. "Grace Napolitano supported the interests of Planned Parenthood 100 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. H Amdt 722. 106th Congress. Oversea Military Abortions Amendment. Grace Napolitano voted Yea on 05/18/2000. (votesmart.org)
  • Family Research Council. 04/18/2012. "Grace Napolitano supported the interests of the Family Research Council 0 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 6099. 110th Congress. Abortion Pain Bill. Grace Napolitano voted Nay on 12/06/2006. (votesmart.org)
  • National Right to Life Committee. 04/18/2012. "Grace Napolitano supported the interests of the National Right to Life Committee 0 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • NARAL Pro-Choice America. 04/18/2012. "Grace Napolitano supported the interests of the NARAL Pro-Choice America 100 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. H Amdt 882. 106th Congress. Prison Abortion Funding Amendment. Grace Napolitano voted Yea on 06/22/2000. (votesmart.org)
  • Planned Parenthood. Project Vote Smart: Interest Group Endorsements. 04/18/2012. Planned Parenthood endorsed Grace Napolitano in the 2010 general election. (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 Grace Napolitano a rating of 100 percent." (votesmart.org)
  • National Women's Political Caucus. Project Vote Smart: Interest Group Endorsements. 04/18/2012. National Women's Political Caucus endorsed Grace Napolitano in the 2010 general election. (votesmart.org)
  • National Women's Political Caucus. Project Vote Smart: Interest Group Endorsements. 04/18/2012. National Women's Political Caucus endorsed Grace Napolitano in the 2006 general election. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 3660. 106th Congress. Ban on Partial-Birth/Late Term Abortion. Grace Napolitano voted Nay on 04/05/2000. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. H AMDT 209. 109th Congress. Overseas Military Facilities Abortion Amendment. Grace Napolitano voted Yea on 05/25/2005. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. H Amdt 1017. 106th Congress. Abortion Funding Amendment. Grace Napolitano voted Yea on 07/20/2000. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. S 403. 110th Congress. Child Interstate Abortion Notification Act. Grace Napolitano voted Nay on 09/26/2006. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. H Amdt 509. 111th Congress. Prohibiting Federally Funded Abortion Services. Grace Napolitano voted Nay on 11/07/2009. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. H Amdt 95. 112th Congress. Prohibiting Use of Federal Funds For Planned Parenthood. Grace Napolitano voted Nay on 02/18/2011. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. House Democrats Release Historic Catholic Statement of Principles. 28 February 2006. "We envision a world in which every child belongs to a loving family and agree with the Catholic Church about the value of human life and the undesirability of abortion-we do not celebrate its practice. Each of us is committed to reducing the number of unwanted pregnancies and creating an environment with policies that encourage pregnancies to be carried to term. We believe this includes promoting alternatives to abortion, such as adoption, and improving access to children's healthcare and child care, as well as policies that encourage paternal and maternal responsibility. In all these issues, we seek the Church's guidance and assistance but believe also in the primacy of conscience. In recognizing the Church's role in providing moral leadership, we acknowledge and accept the tension that comes with being in disagreement with the Church in some areas. Yet we believe we can speak to the fundamental issues that unite us as Catholics and lend our voices to changing the political debate -- a debate that often fails to reflect and encompass the depth and complexity of these issues. As legislators, we are charged with preserving the Constitution, which guarantees religious freedom for all Americans. In doing so, we guarantee our right to live our own lives as Catholics, but also foster an America with a rich diversity of faiths. We believe the separation of church and state allows for our faith to inform our public duties." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Slaughter and Solis Declare Alito to Pose "Direct Threat to Rights of Women in America". 10 January 2006. "As women Members of Congress who work hard to enact legislation and promote policies that protect women and ensure equality within our society, we fear our work, and the contributions of our colleagues who served before us, will be dismantled with the confirmation of Judge Samuel Alito to the U.S. Supreme Court. We believe that Judge Alito poses a direct threat to the rights of women in America. As the attached memorandum details, Judge Alito has a long record of extreme views on women's reproductive health, sexual and workplace discrimination, the Family Medical Leave Act and civil rights. He has worked to thwart established precedent and has affiliated himself with radical organizations that have actively sought to keep women and minorities from advancing educationally and economically." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Rep. Lofgren & CA Democratic Women Members Respond to Susan G. Komen Planned Parenthood Decision. 1 February 2012. "As the largest number of women legislators in Congress, we have come together to express our concern and displeasure over Susan G. Komen's decision. Caving to a Congressional right-wing witch hunt won't just hurt Planned Parenthood, it sets back women's health. [¦] For the sake of women's health we sincerely hope that Komen will reconsider their decision, and until then, we do not plan to work with the national foundation." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. Project Vote Smart: 2002 California Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) Abortions should always be illegal."
  • Grace Napolitano. Project Vote Smart: 2002 California Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "b) Abortions should always be legally available."
  • Grace Napolitano. Project Vote Smart: 2002 California Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "f) Eliminate public funding for abortions and public funding of organizations that advocate or perform abortions."
  • National Women's Political Caucus. Project Vote Smart: Interest Group Endorsements. 04/18/2012. National Women's Political Caucus endorsed Grace Napolitano in the 2002 general election. (votesmart.org)
  • Planned Parenthood. Project Vote Smart: Interest Group Endorsements. 04/18/2012. Planned Parenthood endorsed Grace Napolitano in the 2012 general election. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Letter to President Obama. 3 November 2011. "U.S. support of UNFPA is critical to the program's continued success. Yet, this support is under threat in Congress due to a systematic and baseless campaign of misinformation directed against UNFPA. It is time for the allegations and falsehoods to come to an end, and we want the record to clearly reflect that UNFPA does not support coercion in family planning, coercive abortions or forced sterilizations anywhere. Further, UNFPA rejects "one-child" policies and has vigorously advocated against them. And, since voluntary family planning helps prevent unplanned pregnancies, it also helps prevent abortions. [¦] The U.S. has long been a leader in ensuring safe and secure access for women around the world to contraceptives and other family planning services. From the Global Health Initiative to a strong U.S. commitment to reaching the Millennium Development Goals, we thank you for your unwavering efforts to foster the health and dignity of women worldwide. We remain your partners in ensuring the health and well-being of mothers and children across the globe." (votesmart.org)
No Inferred Answer Afghanistan: Do you support United States' combat operations in Afghanistan? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Letter to The Honorable Barack Obama, President of The United States of America. 27 June 2011. "We write to you with serious concerns about the pace of withdrawal of our American troops from Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. We applaud your announcement Wednesday of an initial withdrawal of 10,000 troops this year, but believe withdrawal should be dramatically accelerated. Like all Americans, we are deeply proud of the hard work and incredible sacrifice of our brave men and women in uniform, and we know they are carrying out the mission in Afghanistan with dedication and extraordinary competence. Throughout this nearly ten-year military campaign, they have done all we have asked of them, and represented our nation's very best values and ideals. But now, especially considering the recent death of Osama bin Laden, we believe the time has come to dramatically accelerate the reduction of our military presence in Afghanistan. We respectfully request that you accelerate your Administration's withdrawal plan so that the so-called "surge troops" who were deployed in 2009 be redeployed by the end of this calendar year; with the additional goal of developing a plan to bring all of our remaining troops home safely and honorably by the end of next year." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Rep. Napolitano's Statement on Afghanistan Troop Withdrawal. 22 June 2011. "This troop withdrawal means we can finally begin welcoming our soldiers home to their families. We must be ready to support our fighting men and women and ensure they have the services, job training, and medical care they need to return to civilian life. It is critical for our economy and our country that we continue to bring our troops home. The funds being sent abroad are needed here in the U.S. to invest in job creation and pay down the debt." (votesmart.org)
  • Peace Action. 04/18/2012. "Grace Napolitano supported the interests of the Peace Action 88 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. H Con Res 28. 112th Congress. Removing Troops from Afghanistan. Grace Napolitano voted Yea on 03/17/2011. (votesmart.org)
  • Peace Action West. 04/18/2012. "Grace Napolitano supported the interests of Peace Action West 88 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Napolitano's Statement On President Obama's Announcement Of Afghanistan Troop Increase. 1 December 2009. "We need to bring our soldiers home to their families. As in Iraq, and now in Afghanistan, we are pumping money halfway across the world while our own economy remains in a deep recession. Our local communities are trying to stabilize their housing markets, get loans to small businesses, and create opportunities for those looking for work, and funding that could be supporting their efforts is going overseas. We can help the Afghanis stand on their own, but we do not need to send more troops and we do not need to spend billions more dollars when we have our own problems here at home." (votesmart.org)
Yes Inferred Answer Budget: In order to balance the budget, do you support reducing defense spending? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Letter to The Honorable Barack Obama, President of The United States of America. 27 June 2011. "The American people have grown rightfully concerned about the cost and the wisdom of sustaining this mission, which reportedly costs U.S. taxpayers nearly $8 billion a month. Many of us have traveled to Afghanistan and have learned how American taxpayers are supporting the construction of schools, roads, and bridges, and the training of police and military forces. Rather than spending billions per month constructing schools, bridges, roads and hospitals in Afghanistan, we believe the United States must make any such critical investments in our country first, and begin to close our own domestic budget gap. Moreover, as a recent Senate Foreign Relations Committee report reveals, the effectiveness of this generous assistance package, both for development and stabilization purposes, is very much in doubt. The American people know that we can no longer afford to spend billions of dollars each month to try to build the nation of Afghanistan and to defeat a regenerating insurgency, which does not directly threaten the United States. We firmly believe that it is ultimately the responsibility of the Afghan people to build, operate, and maintain their own civilian and military operations. The long-term security interests of the United States, and stability in that region of the world, will only be advanced when the people of Afghanistan assume these responsibilities. The United States cannot maintain a presence there indefinitely. We need to focus our resources on rebuilding our own country; both addressing the urgent needs of our own people and beginning to close the federal deficit. On behalf of our constituents who have resoundingly expressed their opposition to our continued involvement in Afghanistan, we respectfully request that you give serious consideration to our sentiments on this issue." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 4986. 110th Congress. Defense Authorizations Bill. Grace Napolitano voted Yea on 01/16/2008. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 5631. 110th Congress. Department Defense Appropriations Act, FY 2007. Grace Napolitano voted Yea on 09/26/2006. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 1363. 112th Congress. 2011 Department of Defense Budget and Additional Continuing Appropriations. Grace Napolitano voted Nay on 04/07/2011. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 4939. 110th Congress. Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2006. Grace Napolitano voted Yea on 06/13/2006. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 2561. 106th Congress. Defense Department Appropriations bill, FY2000. Grace Napolitano voted Yea on 07/22/1999. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 2642. 110th Congress. Funding for Operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Grace Napolitano voted Nay on 06/19/2008. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. H Amdt 13. 112th Congress. Reducing Navy and Air Force Aircraft Procurement. Grace Napolitano voted Nay on 02/15/2011. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 5010. 108th Congress. Department of Defense Appropriations, Fiscal Year 2003. Grace Napolitano voted Yea on 10/10/2002. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Iraq War Resolution. 15 February 2007. "Mr. Speaker, I join my colleagues in total opposition to the President's plan, a plan that escalates the number of our young men and women, American troops, being sent to Iraq. But what are we talking about? What are the words in this resolution? It says, Resolved by the House of Representatives that, one, Congress and the American people will continue to support and protect the members of the United States Armed Forces who are serving or who have served bravely and honorably in Iraq; and, secondly, Congress disapproves of the decision of President George W. Bush announced on January 10, 2007, to deploy more than 20,000 additional United States combat troops to Iraq. That is what we speak to. [¦] The Nation's economic consequences of the escalation are profound. Point one: every portion of our budget has been cut and continues to be cut except for defense spending. The worst budget cuts are taking funding away from our veterans, the very men and women who put their lives on the line in Iraq and in other wars. We regularly receive letters and phone calls, e-mails, from constituents who ask me to fund vital, successful, necessary programs for their communities; but we cannot support our communities with the funds they truly need as they are instead being diverted to a war we did not seek. Vital social services, critical to the well-being of the people of my district and certainly of all other districts, are again being cut." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Letter to President Obama. 15 December 2011. "With a growing chorus of Republicans calling for a rollback of defense sequester cuts scheduled to take effect in early 2013, Rep. Peter Welch (D-Vt.) is leading a group of over 80 House Democrats in support of President Obama's threatened veto of any such legislation. Welch and his colleagues oppose unraveling the deal struck in August to raise the debt ceiling -- which included the possibility of a sequester -- outside of a balanced budget compromise. 'We write in full support of your view that the sequester scheduled to take effect on January 2, 2013 should not be repealed absent an agreement to reduce deficits exceeding the amount to be sequestered," Welch and his colleagues write. "The failure of Congress to act must have consequences. We stand ready to work with you over the next year to put America back on a firm financial footing and will vote to sustain your veto of any effort to repeal all or part of the scheduled sequester.'" (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 5631. 110th Congress. Defense Department FY2007 Appropriations Bill. Grace Napolitano voted Did Not Vote on 06/20/2006. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 4200. 108th Congress. Defense Department FY2005 Authorization Bill. Grace Napolitano voted Yea on 05/20/2004. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 3222. 110th Congress. Department of Defense Appropriations, Fiscal Year 2008. Grace Napolitano voted Yea on 08/05/2007. (votesmart.org)
Yes Inferred Answer Budget: In order to balance the budget, do you support an income tax increase on any tax bracket? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Rep. Napolitano Votes against High-Income Tax Cuts. 17 December 2010. "Last night, Rep. Grace F. Napolitano voted against H.R. 4853, the Middle Class Tax Relief Act of 2010, which passed the House of Representatives and would extend the Bush tax cuts for another two years, including the wealthiest income bracket. 'We should be assisting working families during this recession, not wealthy people who need help the least,' Napolitano said. 'The high-income tax cuts in this bill would borrow billions to help people who are already doing well. Millions of men and women are still struggling with lost jobs, cut services, and falling home prices, and this money should have gone to helping them instead.' On December 2, Napolitano voted in favor of an earlier version of H.R. 4853, which extended the Bush tax cuts for all Americans except the highest income bracket." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Rep. Napolitano's Statement on Republican Tea Party Tax Increase. 19 December 2011. "Here we are back in Washington, once again rehashing whether millionaires and billionaires will again get a pass on doing their fair share. Millions of Americans are losing their homes and losing their jobs. The economy is inching along, worldwide markets are confronting economic troubles -- and we are debating whether or not we should extend a simple payroll tax cut for working families." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. Project Vote Smart: 2002 California Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "Slightly Increase" for: "Using the key below, indicate what levels you support concerning taxes, deductions, and tax credits in the following categories. Select one number per tax. b) $25,000 - $75,000"
  • National Taxpayers Union. 04/18/2012. "Grace Napolitano supported reasonable tax and spending policies as defined by the National Taxpayers Union 6 percent of the time in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Americans for Tax Reform. 04/18/2012. "Grace Napolitano supported the interests of the Americans for Tax Reform 0 percent in 2007." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 1836. 107th Congress. Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act, 2001. Grace Napolitano voted Nay on 05/16/2001. (votesmart.org)
  • Citizens for Tax Justice. 04/18/2012. "Grace Napolitano supported the interests of the Citizens for Tax Justice 100 percent in 2006." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Rep. Napolitano Votes Against Deep Cuts to Unemployment Insurance. 13 December 2011. "Today, Rep. Grace F. Napolitano voted against H.R. 3630, a Republican bill which would cut federal unemployment insurance for more than a million out-of-work Americans. [¦] The bill was a Republican response to Democratic efforts to extend unemployment insurance and increase the middle-class payroll tax cut through 2012, funded with higher taxes on Americans making more than one million dollars a year. The Republican-backed H.R. 3630 rejects any tax increases on millionaires, instead offering a number of unrelated "poison pill" amendments that would cost jobs and hurt working families." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Letter to Democratic Leader Pelosi. 25 July 2011. "Our Republican colleagues should be embarrassed by their insistence that unless Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefits are cut, the nation will default on its debts. Middle-class families have sacrificed enough, and a deal that pushes the American Dream further out of reach, in order to pay for extending tax breaks for the rich and corporations, is simply unacceptable." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. Project Vote Smart: 2002 California Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "Greatly Increase" for: "Using the key below, indicate what levels you support concerning taxes, deductions, and tax credits in the following categories. Select one number per tax. a) Less than $25,000"
Yes Inferred Answer Economy: Do you support federal spending as a means of promoting economic growth? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Grace Napolitano. HR 1424. 110th Congress. Financial Asset Purchase Authority and Tax Law Amendments. Grace Napolitano voted Nay on 10/03/2008. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 5297. 112th Congress. Small Business Lending Fund and Tax Law Amendments. Grace Napolitano voted Yea on 09/23/2010. (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 Grace Napolitano a rating of 0 percent." (votesmart.org)
  • Americans for Prosperity. 04/18/2012. "Grace Napolitano supported the interests of the Americans for Prosperity 0 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Letter to Speaker Boehner, Leader Pelosi, Leader Cantor, and Whip Hoyer. 7 December 2011. "We write to urge extension of the highly successful grant program for specified energy property in lieu of tax credits (the "1603 Treasury Grant Program") before it expires on December 31, 2011. Since enactment, this program has leveraged more than $22.8 billion in private sector investment for 22,000 projects across the clean energy industry, including solar, wind, biomass, fuel cells, combined heat-and-power, and hydro, in all 50 states. Extension of this successful and effective program will create jobs, spur economic growth, and promote private sector development of clean energy technologies. [¦] Congress enacted the 1603 Treasury Grant Program to restore the availability of financing for renewable energy projects and to create domestic jobs in a hard hit sector of the economy. Under the program, developers receive a federal grant in lieu of the tax credit--changing the timing of when the energy incentive can be claimed. This change in timing, however, provides the liquidity and funding needed to develop domestic energy projects. As a result, the program underpinned strong growth in the renewable energy sector during the current economic downturn." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Napolitano Supports New Bill to Keep Infrastructure Spending in U.S. 1 December 2011. "Today, Rep. Grace F. Napolitano joined her fellow Democrats on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure in unveiling the Invest in American Jobs Act of 2011 (H.R. 3533), a bill which would create U.S. jobs by requiring all materials used in federal transportation and infrastructure projects to be made in America. 'It is time we brought manufacturing jobs back to America,' Napolitano said. 'For too long, U.S. firms have taken advantage of tax breaks and loopholes to outsource work to other countries, while working American families have been left behind. The Invest in American Jobs Act will ensure that all of our bridges, roads, and railcars will be built here in America, and that all of the funding for these critical infrastructure projects will be used to create and sustain American jobs.'" (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Rep. Napolitano Re-Appointed as Chairwoman of the Water & Power Subcommittee. 28 January 2009. "The Water & Power Subcommittee has jurisdiction over crucial areas of water policy, including irrigation and water recycling for seventeen Western states and the hydropower grid for the entire United States. As Chair, Rep. Napolitano pledged to continue to a strong federal investment in our long term water infrastructure, especially in the critical areas of conservation and recycling, while providing a stimulus for job development and creation. 'Water conservation and recycling projects are vital to the long term economic future of our communities - businesses cannot prosper without a secure supply of water,' said the Congresswoman. 'It is also the key to avoiding costly customer rate increases.'" (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Rep. Napolitano Votes for Stimulus Package, Investment in Water Infrastructure. 26 September 2008. "Rep. Grace F. Napolitano (D-CA) voted to approve HR 7110, the Job Creation and Unemployment Relief Act of 2008, a $60.8 billion economic stimulus package that makes important investments in our nation's water infrastructure, including $126 million for critical water recycling projects to help California and other Western states that have been severely affected by drought. The funds will be administered through the Bureau of Reclamation's water reclamation and recycling program, known as Title XVI, to assist communities in securing their long term water supply." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Science, State, Justice, Commerce, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2007. 28 June 2006. "This is, in fact, funding that would come from the Small Business Administration account for construction of the $25 million trade center that is going to be located at the Pomona State Fairgrounds, which, by the way, is also a proposed staging area for the Los Angeles County emergency staging for terrorism. And this is vital to the city of Pomona and the whole surrounding community not only east of the Los Angeles area but the Inland Empire, as was mentioned by my colleague, Congressman Dreier. This would create jobs and assist businesses in an economically depressed as well as disadvantaged community and, of course, as many of us already know, the number one crime city in the State of California. The unemployment rates are exceedingly high. Now, this new addition to the fairgrounds, the Trade and Conference Center, will generate 1,700 full-time jobs, provide a large economic stimulus in the community where now a lot of people are out of work; businesses are moving partly because of NAFTA and others, let me tell you. But 90 small businesses are already signed and registered to work at this new facility or to be able to be exposed there. The Fairplex is a very well respected, nonprofit event center hosting yearly over 300 activities, including the Los Angeles County Fair, and attracts hundreds of thousands of people. It is used for Federal events and, as you just recently heard, for the Iraqi elections. And last but not least, it is also used for naturalization ceremonies." (votesmart.org)
Yes Inferred Answer Economy: Do you support providing tax incentives to businesses for the purpose of job creation? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Grace Flores. Letter to Speaker Boehner, Leader Pelosi, Leader Cantor, and Whip Hoyer. 7 December 2011. "Prior to the 2008 financial crisis, clean energy project developers primarily relied on tax equity partnerships with investors to utilize clean energy tax incentives. Since 2008, however, the availability of tax equity declined dramatically. According to a report issued by the Bipartisan Policy Center in March 2011, the number of tax equity investors shrunk by nearly half, with associated tax equity financing tumbling over 80 percent from $6.1 billion in 2007 to $1.2 billion in 2009. This decline severely limited the financing available for energy projects .Congress enacted the 1603 Treasury Grant Program to restore the availability of financing for renewable energy projects and to create domestic jobs in a hard hit sector of the economy. Under the program, developers receive a federal grant in lieu of the tax credit--changing the timing of when the energy incentive can be claimed." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Rep. Napolitano Urges Constituents To Take Advantage Of New Tax Cuts On Tax Day. 14 April 2010. "Today, Rep. Grace Napolitano urged Californians to take advantage of the 25 different tax cuts in the Recovery Act, part of the more than $800 billion in tax cuts for working families and small businesses that Congress passed since last year. The Recovery Act included tax cuts for 95% percent of Americans, the largest individual piece of the act and one of the largest tax cuts in history. The act passed in February of 2009, but most of the cuts will only go into effect on tax day tomorrow. 'These are the right kind of tax cuts, where the money goes where it is needed most,' Napolitano said. 'With working families and small businesses able to take home more on tax day, there will be more money available to deal with hard times and encourage businesses to start hiring again.'" (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Letter to the Honorable Sander Levin, Chairman Committee on Ways and Means. 25 May 2010. "We write today as members of the Congressional Steel Caucus to urge you to include provisions in renewable energy tax legislation to ensure the full utilization of American components, including iron, steel, and manufactured goods. There is a vast potential for American manufacturing to revitalize our economy through renewable energy tax credits. For example, there are 204 tons of steel in a single wind turbine, and tax incentives for wind energy can immediately start up our idling American steel factories. [¦] As you continue to draft renewable energy tax legislation, we urge you to take all efforts to ensure that the tax credits create American jobs and put American manufacturing back to work." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 2488. 106th Congress. Financial Freedom Act of 1999. Grace Napolitano voted Nay on 08/05/1999. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 2. 108th Congress. Jobs and Economic Growth bill. Grace Napolitano voted Nay on 05/23/2003. (votesmart.org)
Unknown Position Unknown Answer Education: Do you support requiring states to implement education reforms in order to be eligible for competitive federal grants? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Issue Position: Education. 1 January 2012. "Congresswoman Grace F. Napolitano is extremely concerned that the President's proposed cuts in educational programs will have a detrimental effect on student achievement, safety, and the ability of poorer students to continue their educational advancement. She will oppose these cuts and work to secure adequate funding for education priorities, including "No Child Left Behind" which has been under-funded by $9.4 billion." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. Project Vote Smart: 2002 California Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "i) Eliminate restrictions on federal education funding, giving educators or local school districts more flexibility to design and implement their programs."
  • Grace Napolitano. Project Vote Smart: 2002 California Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) Support national standards and testing of public school students."
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 2300. 106th Congress. Academic Achievement for All Act. Grace Napolitano voted Nay on 10/21/1999. (votesmart.org)
No Inferred Answer Energy: Do you support reducing restrictions on offshore energy production? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Grace Flores Napolitano. House Votes to Reduce Transit Fares. 27 June 2008. "'Despite what this administration says, offshore drilling is not a long-term recipe for energy independence and lower gas prices - it is a recipe for oil company profits,' she added. 'The only responsible route to real energy independence is investment in alternative energy and fuels and in our public transportation infrastructure.'" (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. House Republicans Block 'Use It or Lose It'. 27 June 2008. "The Republicans blocked passed of H.R. 6251 yesterday by a vote of 223-195. The measure required a 2/3 vote to pass. Oil and gas companies hold leases on 68 million acres of federal land that they are not developing. This bill would have forced them to either begin producing or give up their leases. It also would have prevented them from obtaining new leases unless they can show that they are either producing or diligently developing the leases they already hold. Coal companies are required to show that they are diligently developing their leases, but oil and gas companies are not held to the same standards and have been allowed to stockpile leases, without producing any oil or gas. 'On Tuesday, we tried to pass H.R. 6346 to prevent some forms of price gouging by oil companies,' said Rep. Grace F. Napolitano. 'But by sitting on leases that could produce 4.8 million barrels a day while simultaneously demanding states open our coasts to more drilling, the oil companies and the Bush administration are just engaging in another kind of gouging.'" (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Rep. Napolitano Votes for Legislation to Reduce Our Dependence on Foreign Oil. 17 September 2008. "Rep. Grace F. Napolitano (D-Norwalk) voted to approve HR 6899, the Comprehensive American Energy Security and Consumer Protection Act, a measure that will play a role to lower energy costs to families and taxpayers, invest in renewable energy sources to create good paying jobs in Southern California, as well as across the country and makes important investments in conservation and energy efficiency. [¦] 'This compromise legislation begins to make our country less dependent on foreign oil, making it an important, first step towards energy independence,' said Rep. Grace F. Napolitano. 'HR 6899 lets our state choose whether or not to allow coastal drilling after 50 to100 miles out from our beaches, giving California the right to allow coastal drilling.'" (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Napolitano Responds to State of the Union. 31 January 2006. "Democrats tried to introduce a plan to curb price gouging by oil companies and repeal billions of dollars in tax breaks and subsidies for profit-rich oil and gas companies to help Americans who are suffering from soaring prices at the pump and skyrocketing heating bills. Exxon just announced record profits for 2005 -$36.3 billion dollars - $10.8 billion in the last quarter of 2005 alone. Yet, the Republican-led Congress continues to allow the gasoline price gouging and pushes for more drilling in places like ANWR." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Letter to The Honorable Ken Salazar, Secretary, United States Department Of The Interior. 27 May 2009. "With Interior Secretary Ken Salazar expected to make important decisions concerning oil and gas development in environmentally sensitive parts off the coast of Alaska, Congressman Maurice Hinchey (D-NY) today led a group of 20 House members in urging the secretary to break from the policies of the previous administration and safeguard precious Arctic acres from drilling. Salazar will soon determine whether to defend in court the Bush administration's efforts to open up the Beaufort and Chukchi Seas and Bristol Bay off the coast of Alaska for drilling. 'We respectfully suggest that you take full advantage of the opportunity which has been provided to break from the Bush administration's rush to commit these sensitive, rapidly changing regions to oil and gas development and to demonstrate to the American people that the new administration at the Department of the Interior is indeed doing business differently,' Hinchey and his 19 House colleagues wrote in a letter sent today to Salazar. 'You and the Department have a rare opportunity to change direction, to follow the principles you have so admirably and publicly embraced, and to establish clearly that the old ways of doing business are gone. We hope you will keep your options open by not defending decisions made by the Bush administration, so that we can finally change course in the Arctic.'" (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. Project Vote Smart: 2002 California Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "c) Support opening a select portion of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for oil exploration."
  • Grace Napolitano. H Amdt 773. 112th Congress. Ending Moratorium on Deepwater Drilling Rigs that Meet Certain Safety Standards. Grace Napolitano voted Nay on 07/30/2010. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 1230. 112th Congress. Offshore Leasing Act. Grace Napolitano voted Nay on 05/05/2011. (votesmart.org)
  • Environment America. 04/18/2012. "Grace Napolitano supported the interests of Environment America 93 percent in 2009." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 3534. 112th Congress. Offshore Drilling Regulations and Other Energy Law Amendments. Grace Napolitano voted Yea on 07/30/2010. (votesmart.org)
Yes Inferred Answer Environment: Do you support the federal regulation of greenhouse gas emissions? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Letter to Colleague. 26 July 2011. "Dear Colleague: We are writing to urge you to oppose H.R. 2584, the FY 2012 Interior and Environment Appropriations Bill. This bill would severely curtail the ability of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to protect the public health of the American people and would disproportionately impact those living in the communities we represent. In addition to draconian funding cuts, the bill also includes numerous anti-environment riders that would permit polluters to continue harming the public health. We strongly urge you to oppose this bill to ensure that the EPA is able to protect the public from harmful pollutants like mercury and arsenic." (votesmart.org)
  • Sierra Club. Project Vote Smart: Interest Group Endorsements. 04/18/2012. Sierra Club endorsed Grace Napolitano in the 2002 general election. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 2454. 111th Congress. Energy and Environmental Law Amendments ("Cap and Trade"). Grace Napolitano voted Yea on 06/26/2009. (votesmart.org)
  • Sierra Club. Project Vote Smart: Interest Group Endorsements. 04/18/2012. Sierra Club endorsed Grace Napolitano in the 2012 general election. (votesmart.org)
  • Environment America. 04/18/2012. "Grace Napolitano supported the interests of Environment America 93 percent in 2009." (votesmart.org)
  • Sierra Club. Project Vote Smart: Interest Group Endorsements. 04/18/2012. Sierra Club endorsed Grace Napolitano in the 2004 general election. (votesmart.org)
  • Sierra Club. Project Vote Smart: Interest Group Endorsements. 04/18/2012. Sierra Club endorsed Grace Napolitano in the 2006 general election. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 910. 112th Congress. Energy Tax Prevention Act. Grace Napolitano voted Nay on 04/07/2011. (votesmart.org)
  • Sierra Club. Project Vote Smart: Interest Group Endorsements. 04/18/2012. Sierra Club endorsed Grace Napolitano in the 2010 general election. (votesmart.org)
  • League of Conservation Voters. 04/18/2012. "Grace Napolitano supported the interests of the League of Conservation Voters 90 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. Project Vote Smart: 2002 California Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "d) Support the U.S. re-entering the current Kyoto treaty process to limit global warming."
  • Grace Napolitano. Project Vote Smart: 2002 California Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "g) Strengthen emission controls on all gasoline or diesel-powered engines, including cars, trucks, and sport utility vehicles."
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. New Effort Launched to Highlight Clean, Renewable Energy. 24 July 2008. "* Promoting hydropower as a clean, renewable, emissions-free and relatively low-cost electricity generation resource, especially in the context of energy supply, electric reliability and global climate change legislation and research;" (votesmart.org)
Yes Inferred Answer Guns: Do you support restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Grace Napolitano. S 397. 109th Congress. Firearms Manufacturers Protection Bill. Grace Napolitano voted Nay on 10/20/2005. (votesmart.org)
  • Gun Owners of America. 04/18/2012. "In 2010 Gun Owners of America gave Grace Napolitano a grade of 18." (votesmart.org)
  • Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence. 04/18/2012. "Grace Napolitano supported the interests of the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence 100 percent from 1988-2003 (Senate) or 1991-2003 (House)." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. H AMDT 1156. 110th Congress. Trigger Lock Amendment. Grace Napolitano voted Nay on 06/28/2006. (votesmart.org)
  • Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence. Project Vote Smart: Interest Group Endorsements. 04/18/2012. Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence endorsed Grace Napolitano in the 2008 general election. (votesmart.org)
  • Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence. Project Vote Smart: Interest Group Endorsements. 04/18/2012. Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence endorsed Grace Napolitano in the 2010 general election. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 2122. 106th Congress. Mandatory Gun Show Background Check Act. Grace Napolitano voted Nay on 06/18/1999. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 6842. 110th Congress. Repealing Portions of the D.C. Firearm Ban. Grace Napolitano voted Nay on 09/17/2008. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. Project Vote Smart: 2002 California Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "i) Raise the minimum age for ownership of handguns from 18 to 21."
  • Grace Napolitano. Project Vote Smart: 2002 California Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "c) Ease federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns."
  • Grace Napolitano. Project Vote Smart: 2002 California Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "h) Require a license for gun possession."
  • Grace Napolitano. Project Vote Smart: 2002 California Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "a) Ban the sale or transfer of semi-automatic guns, except those used for hunting."
  • Grace Napolitano. Project Vote Smart: 2002 California Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "b) Maintain and strengthen the enforcement of existing federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns."
  • Grace Napolitano. Project Vote Smart: 2002 California Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "g) Require background checks on gun sales between private citizens at gun shows."
  • Grace Napolitano. Project Vote Smart: 2002 California Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "e) Allow citizens to carry concealed guns."
  • Grace Napolitano. Project Vote Smart: 2002 California Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "d) Repeal federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns."
No Inferred Answer Health Care: Do you support repealing the 2010 Affordable Care Act? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Rep. Napolitano Supports Health Care Reform Bill. 7 November 2009. "'This is the health care reform bill Americans elected us to pass,' Napolitano said. 'It has taken years of research and deliberation, consideration of ideas from both sides, and the efforts of seven presidents, but we are finally addressing this country's health care problem. Once this bill is passed and signed into law, families will no longer have to live in fear of bankruptcy caused by an illness or accident, businesses will not have to bear the burden of rising health care costs, and the most vulnerable in our communities will finally be given some measure of protection. Health care reform must not be put off any longer, and it is critical that this bill pass the Senate and be signed into law.'" (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Rep. Napolitano Votes against Repealing Health Care Reform. 19 January 2011. "The provisions of health care reform have already proven to be critical for working families across my district. Coverage for pre-existing conditions, tax credits for small businesses, better prescription drug coverage for seniors, and allowing parents to keep their children on their insurance until age 26 are all benefits we cannot afford to lose. Instead of undermining much-needed health care, our focus should be on creating jobs and economic growth." (votesmart.org)
  • American Public Health Association. 04/18/2012. "Grace Napolitano supported the interests of the American Public Health Association 100 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 2. 112th Congress. Repealing the Health Care Bill. Grace Napolitano voted Nay on 01/19/2011. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. Project Vote Smart: 2002 California Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "b) Implement a universal health care program to guarantee coverage to all Americans regardless of income." Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding health issues. Other or expanded principles: "i) for research only"
  • Grace Napolitano. Project Vote Smart: 2002 California Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) Providing health care is not a responsibility of the federal government."
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Rep. Napolitano Supports Passage Of Health Care Reform. 21 March 2010. "'American families and small businesses have suffered from few choices and little control over their health care for far too long,' Napolitano said. 'We have seen the efforts of seven presidents, decades of small gains, months of debate and we have finally passed health care reform. This historic bill, while not perfect, will reduce the cost of health care and force health insurance companies to deal fairly with the American people. [¦] Our country's health care system has been out of control for decades,' Napolitano said. 'The problem has always been pushed aside to deal with later -- well, 'later' has finally arrived. We must act now, and this bill helps create a more fair and cost-effective health care system that will benefit all Americans for years to come.'" (votesmart.org)
No Inferred Answer Immigration: Do you support requiring illegal immigrants to return to their country of origin before they are eligible for citizenship? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Grijalva Joined By Broad Cross-Section of Members of Congress In Praising Yesterday's First Ever Senate Hearing on The DREAM Act. 29 June 2011. "The students considered by the DREAM Act have excelled through hard work, have been educated in America, and should be allowed to contribute to our country. For most of them, America is their only home. It would not be fair to punish them for the actions of their parents after years of working hard and playing by the rules. These youth are the boldest and the brightest, and our nation will be stronger, safer, and more prosperous if we allow them to fully contribute to our society." (votesmart.org)
  • National Latino Congreso/William C. Velásquez Institute. 04/18/2012. "Grace Napolitano supported the interests of National Latino Congreso/William C. Velásquez Institute 100 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 4437. 109th Congress. Border Security Bill. Grace Napolitano voted Did Not Vote on 12/16/2005. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 5281. 112th Congress. DREAM Act. Grace Napolitano voted Yea on 12/08/2010. (votesmart.org)
  • Federation for American Immigration Reform. 04/18/2012. "Grace Napolitano supported the interests of the Federation for American Immigration Reform 0 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. Project Vote Smart: 2002 California Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "g) Allow legalization for certain illegal immigrants working in the U.S."
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Issue Position: Immigration. 20 February 2012. "Congresswoman Napolitano supports a comprehensive overhaul of the whole immigration system, which on one hand severely reduces the processing time for immigration applications, allows currently undocumented aliens to obtain time-limited working visas with the possibility of eventually becoming permanent residents or citizens, and at the same time applies more effective enforcement at our borders. [¦] Congresswoman Napolitano does not support blanket amnesty to illegal or undocumented immigrants who are currently in the country, but does support measures which would enable these immigrants to adjust their status to a time-limited working visa, with options to become permanent residents. The vast majorities are outstanding, hardworking individuals who have jobs and families and own homes and businesses in the United States, and are assets to their communities. Working visas would furthermore ensure that these millions of people can lead normal lives out of the shadows of society, and that their children can attend school, receive health care, and that they can contribute to their community by paying taxes. Proposals to locate and deport 11 million people should only be seen as partisan politics, not a serious policy statement." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Letter to President Obama. 23 November 2011. "Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) joined many of her House colleagues in a letter to President Barack Obama asking that he end the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Secure Communities initiative, a tool used by federal officials to track undocumented immigrants. DHS has limited the ability of local law enforcement jurisdictions, including the District of Columbia, to opt out of the program. 'In addition to the impact on law enforcement, this program of wholesale removals hurts our communities by funneling immigrants into an unjust deportation system that fails to offer due process protections. When detained, individuals are not afforded a right to counsel and are often transferred to remote locations for detention, which severely limits their access to resources to help them fight their cases. This patently unfair system needs to be seriously reformed, not expanded through fatally-flawed programs like Secure Communities. Immigrants are an integral part of the communities we represent. They go to our schools, work in our businesses, pay taxes, serve as the primary breadwinners in their families, and help to give our communities their unique character. Our communities continue to be damaged by this growing collaboration between police and immigration enforcement. We urge you to immediately stop Secure Communities. We cannot make our communities safer by tearing them apart.'" (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Rep. Napolitano Supports DREAM Act. 8 December 2010. "Today, Rep. Grace F. Napolitano voted in favor of H.R. 6497, the DREAM (Development, Recovery, and Education of Alien Minors) Act, which would give young undocumented students who were brought to the United States as children an opportunity to work their way towards citizenship after graduating from college or serving in the U.S. Military. The DREAM Act passed by a vote of 216 to 198 with bipartisan support. 'These students have excelled through hard work, have been educated in America, and should be allowed to contribute to our country,' Napolitano said. 'For most of them America is their only home. It would not be fair to punish them for the actions of their parents after years of working hard and playing by the rules. These youth are the boldest and the brightest, and our nation will be stronger, safer, and more prosperous if we allow them to fully contribute to our society. I urge the Senate to quickly pass this common-sense reform.'" (votesmart.org)
Yes Inferred Answer Marriage: Do you support same-sex marriage? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Grace Napolitano. H J Res 88. 110th Congress. Same-Sex Marriage Resolution. Grace Napolitano voted Nay on 07/18/2006. (votesmart.org)
  • American Family Association. 04/18/2012. "Grace Napolitano supported the interests of the American Family Association 5 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • Human Rights Campaign. 04/18/2012. "Grace Napolitano supported the interests of the Human Rights Campaign 100 percent in 2010." (votesmart.org)
  • American Civil Liberties Union. 04/18/2012. "Grace Napolitano supported the interests of the American Civil Liberties Union 100 percent in 2006." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 3685. 110th Congress. Sexual Orientation Employment Nondiscrimination Act (ENDA). Grace Napolitano voted Yea on 11/07/2007. (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. HR 2965. 112th Congress. Don't Ask, Don't Tell Repeal Act. Grace Napolitano voted Yea on 12/15/2010. (votesmart.org)
  • Traditional Values Coalition. 04/18/2012. "Grace Napolitano supported the interests of the Traditional Values Coalition 14 percent in 2006" (votesmart.org)
  • Family Research Council. 04/18/2012. "Grace Napolitano supported the interests of the Family Research Council 0 percent in 2006." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Pelosi, 132 House Members File Amicus Brief in Landmark Court Challenge to DOMA. 2 November 2011. "The brief makes it clear that the House is not united on this issue, that the BLAG lawyers do not speak for the entire institution, and that there is no legitimate federal interest in denying married gay and lesbian couples the legal security, rights and responsibilities that federal law provides to couples who are married under state law. Section 3 does not affect married heterosexual couples and their children, who are recognized regardless of DOMA. And this law affirmatively harms married gay and lesbian couples and their children." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Letter To The Honorable Barack H. Obama, President Of The United States. 22 June 2009. "Today, Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-Miramar) and 76 Members of Congress sent the following letter to President Barack Obama urging him to suspend the investigation and discharge of service members in the Armed Forces because of their sexual orientation. Under the discriminatory law known as 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell,' openly gay and lesbian service members and those suspected of 'homosexual conduct' may not serve in the military. By taking leadership of the important issue of Don't Ask, Don't Tell, President Obama would allow openly gay and lesbian service members to continue serving their country and send a clear signal to Congress to initiate the legislative repeal process. A bilateral approach would demonstrate the United States' lasting commitment to justice and equality for all. This letter comes at a time when a majority of Americans favor allowing gay and lesbian service members to serve openly." (votesmart.org)
Unknown Position Unknown Answer National Security: Do you support targeting suspected terrorists outside of official theaters of conflict? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Rep. Napolitano Responds to the Death of Osama Bin Laden. 2 May 2011. "This is a great day for America and the free world. Justice has been done for those who lost loved ones on 9/11 and for the millions of Americans who saw our country viciously attacked that day. The death of Osama Bin Laden is the most significant achievement to date in our battle against Al Queda, but it is not the end. We must continue to be vigilant and protect our country against the threat of terrorism." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Letter to The Honorable Barack Obama, President of The United States of America. 27 July 2011. "But now, especially considering the recent death of Osama bin Laden, we believe the time has come to dramatically accelerate the reduction of our military presence in Afghanistan. We respectfully request that you accelerate your Administration's withdrawal plan so that the so-called "surge troops" who were deployed in 2009 be redeployed by the end of this calendar year; with the additional goal of developing a plan to bring all of our remaining troops home safely and honorably by the end of next yearm [¦] We remain convinced that an ongoing U.S. presence will do little to advance U.S. national security while continuing to take the lives of our brave military personnel. While the military has made gains in isolated areas, they are not sustainable given the nature of the Afghan government and the insurgency's sanctuary in Pakistan." (votesmart.org)
No Inferred Answer Social Security: Do you support allowing individuals to divert a portion of their Social Security taxes into personal retirement accounts? View Citations

Vote Smart's Research

  • Alliance for Retired Americans. 04/18/2012. "Grace Napolitano supported the interests of the Alliance for Retired Americans 100 percent in 2008." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Napolitano. Project Vote Smart: 2002 California 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."
  • Grace Napolitano. Project Vote Smart: 2002 California 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."
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Letter To The Honorable Barack Obama, President, The United States of America. 15 October 2010. "We write today to express our strong support for Social Security and our view that it should be strengthened. We oppose any cuts to Social Security benefits, including raising the retirement age. We also oppose any effort to privatize Social Security, in whole or in part." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Napolitano Responds to State of the Union. 31 January 2006. "The Bush Administration tried and failed to privatize Social Security after seniors raised their voices. Now, they intend to try the same tactic with health care." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Issue Position: Social Security. 20 February 2012. "Congresswoman Grace F. Napolitano understands that our nation's senior citizens are depending on Social Security to fulfill its promise, and that our nation's workers are depending on Social Security to be strong and stable when they retire. There has been a good deal of talk among President Bush and congressional Republicans about privatizing Social Security — putting taxpayer money in risky investments and hoping for the best. Napolitano believes it is unconscionable to play Russian roulette with taxpayer money and retirees economic security." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Rep. Napolitano Highlights 46th Anniversary of Medicare. 30 July 2011. "House Republicans have repeatedly threatened to cut Medicare in recent months. They voted to replace Medicare with a voucher system earlier this year, which would increase costs for seniors and put them at the mercy of the private insurance market, and cuts to Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security have been proposed in recent debt talks as a way to balance the budget -- even as unnecessary loopholes and tax breaks for oil companies and the wealthy have been protected." (votesmart.org)
  • Grace Flores Napolitano. Rep. Napolitano Vows to Protect Medicare from Budget Cuts. 27 July 2011. "Today, in advance of Medicare's 46th anniversary on Saturday, Rep. Grace F. Napolitano (D-CA) joined Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), Reps. Doris Matsui (D-CA) and Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), and other Democratic members of Congress in maintaining their efforts to protect Medicare from potential budget cuts. 'Medicare has been a critical source of healthcare and support for seniors for the last 46 years,' Napolitano said. 'Republicans have threatened to place Medicare on the budget-cut chopping block this Congress time and time again. It is outrageous to threaten to cut critical healthcare services for seniors, many of whom are totally dependent on them for survival, while at the same time preserving unnecessary tax breaks and loopholes for millionaires and billionaires. Our seniors did not create this budget mess, and they should not be asked to sacrifice the peace and dignity of their later years in order to clean it up. Remember that not too long ago, we were asked to have faith and put our Social Security into Wall Street's hands. Lesson learned -- private insurance companies are no different, and they cannot be trusted with Medicare to do the right thing. I join my Democratic colleagues in this battle to protect Medicare for seniors and for future generations.' In April, House Republicans passed Rep. Paul Ryan's budget plan for 2012, which would change Medicare from a guaranteed care program to a voucher program, raising healthcare costs for seniors by at least $6,000 and placing them at the mercy of the private insurance market in their later years. Last week, House Republicans again attacked Medicare in their 'Cut, Cap, and Balance' bill, which reaffirmed the GOP budget and would require the government to reduce expenditures to levels last seen in 1966, the year seniors first began to enter Medicare. This week, the House of Representatives will vote on Speaker John Boehner's latest Republican bill, which is expected to repeat the same priorities. In 2005, then-President George W. Bush pushed to have Social Security funds invested in the stock market, a move towards privatization that would have proved disastrous during the financial meltdown of 2008." (votesmart.org)

Key

Candidate Answer

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

Inferred Answer

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

Unknown Answer

Unknown Position: Candidate refused to address this issue.

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

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

Congressional Election 2002 National Political Awareness Test

This candidate has responded to a Political Courage Test in a previous election. As a continued effort to provide the American public with factual information on candidates running for public office, these archived responses are made available here.

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

Abortion Issues

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

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

Budgetary Priorities
Using the key below, indicate what levels of federal funding you support for the following general categories. Select one number per category.
a) Agricultural
b) Arts
c) Defense
d) Education
e) Environmental
f) International Aid
g) Law Enforcement
h) Medical Research
i) National Aeronautical Space Administration (NASA)
j) National Parks
k) Public Health Services
l) Scientific Research
m) Terrorism Prevention
n) Transportation and Highway Infrastructure
o) Welfare
p) Other or expanded categories

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

Defense Spending
Using the key below, indicate what levels of federal funding you support for the following categories. Select one number per category.
a) Armed Forces personnel training
b) Covert intelligence operations
c) Military hardware
d) Pay for active duty personnel
e) National Missile Defense Program
f) Programs to improve military retention rates
g) Research and development of new weapons
h) Troop and equipment readiness
i) Other or expanded categories

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

Taxes
Using the key below, indicate what levels you support concerning taxes, deductions, and tax credits in the following categories. Select one number per tax.
Income Taxes - Family Income
Greatly Increasea) Less than $25,000
Slightly Increaseb) $25,000 - $75,000
Slightly Decreasec) $75,000 - $150,000
Greatly Decreased) Over $150,000
e) Other or expanded categories
Income Taxes - Retiree Income
Maintain Statusf) Over $40, 000
g) Other or expanded categories
Other Taxes
a) Alcohol taxes
b) Capital gains taxes
c) Cigarette taxes
d) Corporate taxes
e) Gasoline taxes
f) Inheritance taxes
g) Other or expanded categories
Deductions/Credits
a) Charitable deductions
b) Medical expense deductions
c) Mortgage deductions
d) Child tax credit
e) Earned income tax credit
f) Student loan tax credit
g) Other or expanded categories

Budgetary, Spending and Tax Issues, Part 4: Taxes (B)

Taxes
Yes2) Should a married couple filing jointly pay the same taxes as if they were an unmarried couple filing separately?
No3) Would you use Social Security surpluses to balance the budget?
4) Other or expanded principles

Campaign Finance and Governmental Reform Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding campaign finance and governmental reform issues.
Xa) Support public taxpayer funding for congressional 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.
Xd) Provide free or low-cost television advertising to candidates who agree to voluntary campaign spending limits.
e) Ban unregulated soft money campaign contributions to political parties or committees.
f) Prohibit non-U.S. citizens from making soft money contributions to national parties or party committees.
Xg) Require full disclosure of funding sources of issue advocacy commercials which appear within 60 days of an election.
h) Remove all contribution limits to federal candidates and parties.
i) Require congressional candidates to raise over half of their campaign money from their home state.
j) Require that unions give members the option of not having membership dues used for political purposes.
Yesk) Support the federal government mandate that creates national voting system standards.
Yesl) Do you support amending the Constitution to limit the number of terms that members of Congress can serve?
Yesm) Do you support voting on-line?
n) Other or expanded principles

Crime Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) to address crime.
a) Eliminate the use of the death penalty for federal crimes.
b) Increase spending to build more federal prisons.
Xc) Impose "truth in sentencing" for violent criminals so they serve full sentences with no chance of parole.
Xd) Support programs to provide prison inmates with vocational and job-related skills and job-placement assistance when released.
Xe) Support programs to provide prison inmates with drug and alcohol addiction treatment.
Xf) Increase funding for community policing programs.
Xg) Implement penalties other than incarceration for certain non-violent offenders.
Xh) Require that crimes based on gender, sexual orientation, and disability be prosecuted as federal hate crimes.
i) Enforcement of civil rights should primarily be the responsibility of the federal government.
Xj) Minors accused of a violent crime should be prosecuted as adults.
Xk) Support programs that provide job training and placement services for at-risk youth.
l) Other or expanded principles

Drug Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) concerning illegal drugs.
Xa) Increase penalties for selling illegal drugs.
Xb) Support mandatory jail sentences for selling illegal drugs.
Xc) Expand federally sponsored drug education and drug treatment programs.
d) Decriminalize the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes.
e) Increase border security to stop the flow of illegal drugs into the U.S.
f) Eliminate federal funding for programs associated with the "war on drugs."
g) Other or expanded principles

Educational Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) concerning education.
a) Support national standards and testing of public school students.
b) Allow parents to use vouchers (equal opportunity scholarships) to send their children to any publicly-funded school.
c) Allow parents to use vouchers (equal opportunity scholarships) to send their children to any participating school: public, private or religious.
d) Support charter schools where teachers and professionals receive authorization and funding to establish new schools.
Xe) Increase funding for block grants to states to help them hire additional teachers.
Xf) Support teacher testing and reward teachers with merit pay.
Xg) Increase funding for computers and computer training in public schools.
Xh) Increase funding for school capital improvements (e.g. buildings and infrastructure).
i) Eliminate restrictions on federal education funding, giving educators or local school districts more flexibility to design and implement their programs.
Xj) Increase funding of programs such as Pell grants and Stafford loans to help students pay for college.
Xk) Support federal tax incentives to help families save for college.
l) Other or expanded principles

Employment and Affirmative Action Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding employment and affirmative action.
Xa) Increase funding for national job-training programs that re-train displaced workers or teach skills needed in today's job market.
Xb) Reduce government regulation of the private sector in order to encourage investment and economic expansion.
Xc) Establish empowerment zones in areas with large numbers of unemployed people.
Xd) Provide tax credits for businesses that provide child care for their employees.
Xe) Encourage employers to offer flex-time scheduling, comp-time, and unpaid leave for family emergencies.
f) Eliminate any federal programs designed to reduce unemployment.
Xg) Increase the federal minimum wage.
Xh) Considering race and gender in government contracting decisions is appropriate for the federal government.
Xi) Include sexual orientation in federal anti-discrimination laws.
Xj) Continue federal affirmative action programs.
k) Discontinue federal affirmative action programs.
l) Other or expanded principles

Environmental and Energy Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding America's environment and natural resources.
Xa) Strengthen the regulation and enforcement of the Clean Water Act.
Xb) Strengthen the regulation and enforcement of the Clean Air Act.
c) Support opening a select portion of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for oil exploration.
Xd) Support the U.S. re-entering the current Kyoto treaty process to limit global warming.
Xe) Require states to fully compensate citizens when environmental regulations limit uses of privately owned land.
Xf) Promote increased use of alternative fuel technology.
Xg) Strengthen emission controls on all gasoline or diesel-powered engines, including cars, trucks, and sport utility vehicles.
Xh) Provide tax credits for state and local bonds to preserve open spaces, build parks, improve water quality and redevelop brownfields.
Xi) Support the National Forest Protection and Restoration Act prohibiting commercial logging in our national forests.
Xj) Provide states and local communities with more flexibility to address their respective environmental problems.
k) Other or expanded principles

Gun Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) concerning gun issues.
Xa) Ban the sale or transfer of semi-automatic guns, except those used for hunting.
Xb) Maintain and strengthen the 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.
Xf) Require manufacturers to provide child-safety locks on guns.
Xg) Require background checks on gun sales between private citizens at gun shows.
Xh) Require a license for gun possession.
Xi) Raise the minimum age for ownership of handguns from 18 to 21.
j) Other or expanded principles

Health Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding health issues.
a) Providing health care is not a responsibility of the federal government.
Xb) Implement a universal health care program to guarantee coverage to all Americans regardless of income.
Xc) Support a Patient's Bill of Rights to define and enforce the rights of insured patients, including greater access to specialists and emergency rooms, wider choice of health care providers, and appeal mechanisms when claims are denied.
Xd) Support a Patient's Bill of Rights which includes the right to sue when claims are denied.
Xe) Support a Patient's Bill of Rights which includes the right to appeal to an administrative board of specialists when services are denied.
Xf) Support legislation to provide prescription drug coverage under Medicare.
Xg) Increase research funding of the human genome to find cures for diseases such as cancer, AIDS/HIV, Alzheimer's, and heart disease.
Xh) Increase federal funding for training health workers to recognize and respond to the release of biological agents.
i) Prohibit the procedure of cloning human embryos.
Xj) Other or expanded principles

i) for research only

Immigration Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding immigration.
a) Decrease the number of legal immigrants allowed into the country.
Xb) Provide extra federal aid to states with higher numbers of immigrants for necessary medical and social services.
Xc) Prohibit states from passing laws that deny human services (medical care, education) to illegal immigrants or their children.
d) Increase the immigration quota for computer scientists and other information technology workers.
e) Establish English as the official U.S. language.
Xf) Collect fingerprint data from all U.S. visa applicants which would be accessible to all federal immigration-related agencies.
Xg) Allow legalization for certain illegal immigrants working in the U.S.
h) Other or expanded principles

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

International Aid
Indicate which principles (if any) you support regarding U. S. economic assistance.
Xa) Aid should be granted to countries when extraordinary circumstances cause disaster and threaten civilian lives.
Xb) Aid should be granted to countries when it is in the security interests of the U. S.
Xc) Aid should be granted to countries that are close allies of the U. S. and in need of financial/military assistance.
Xd) Aid should be eliminated for any nation with documented human rights abuses.
e) Aid programs should be scaled back and eventually eliminated except for extraordinary circumstances.
f) Other or expanded principles

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

International Policy
Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding the Middle East.
Xa) The U.S. should take military action against Iraq only as part of an international effort.
b) The U.S. should end the economic embargo against Iraq.
Xc) The U.S. should not continue to play a prominent leadership role in the peace process between Israel and the Palestine Authority.
Xd) The U.S. should support the formation of a Palestinian state.
e) Other or expanded principles
Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding the United States-United Nations relationship.
a) The U.S. should participate in United Nations peacekeeping missions only when vital U.S. interests are involved.
b) The U.S. should not commit military troops to United Nations peacekeeping missions.
c) The U.S. should withdraw completely from the United Nations.
Xd) Other or expanded principles

US should adhere to UN principles
Yes3) Should the U.S. have full diplomatic relations with Cuba?
Yes4) Should the U.S. recognize and extend full diplomatic relations to Taiwan?
Undecided5) Should the U.S. increase its financial support to Colombia for the "war on drugs?"
Yes6) Do you support the cooperative threat reduction programs with Russia to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons? ___ Yes ___ No ___ Undecided
No7) Do you support the recent withdrawal of the U.S. from the 1972 Anti-Ballistic Missile (ABM) treaty in order to deploy a national missile defense system?
Yes8) Should the U.S. hold nations accountable for terrorists who operate from their country?
9) Other or expanded principles

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

International Trade
No1) Do you support the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)?
No2) Do you support the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT)?
Yes3) Do you support continued U.S. membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO)?
Yes4) Do you support China becoming a member of the World Trade Organization?
5) Should a nation's human rights record affect its normal trade relations (most favored nation) trading status with the United States? ___ Yes ___ No ___ Undecided
No6) Should the President have "fast-track" authority to negotiate trade agreements?
No7) Do you support the trade embargo against Cuba?
8) Other or expanded principles

National Security Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding national security.
Yes1. Do you support the President using military tribunals to try terrorist suspects when the President deems ordinary civil courts to be inappropriate or impractical?
Yes2. Should the U.S. adopt higher qualification rules for student visa applications from nations known to sponsor terrorism?
Undecided3. Should law enforcement agencies be granted greater discretion to read mail and email, tap phones, and conduct random searches to prevent future terrorist attacks?
No4. Should federal law enforcement agencies share intelligence data with local law enforcement agencies?
Yes5. Should the federal government provide states with funding for homeland security?
6. Other or expanded principles

Social Security Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding Social Security.
a) Allow workers to invest a portion of their payroll tax in private accounts which they manage themselves.
b) Allow workers to invest a portion of their payroll tax in private accounts managed by private firms contracted by the government.
c) The federal government should invest a portion of Social Security's assets collectively in stocks and bonds instead of U.S. Treasury securities.
d) Increase the payroll tax to better finance Social Security in its current form.
e) Lower Social Security's annual cost-of-living increases.
Xf) Support a "lock box" measure, limiting Congress's ability to spend Social Security and Medicare surpluses on any other federal programs except Social Security and Medicare, until each program's long-term solvency is guaranteed.
g) Other or expanded principles

Technology Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding technology.
a) Continue the moratorium on Internet sales taxes.
b) Implement regulation of Internet content by the federal government.
Xc) Regulation of the Internet should not be controlled by the federal government.
Xd) Support government mandates to curtail violent and sexual content on television.
e) Other or expanded principles

Welfare and Poverty Issues

Indicate which principles you support (if any) regarding poverty and the welfare system.
Xa) Support housing assistance for welfare recipients.
Xb) Provide homeless families with apartment vouchers they can use to defray the cost of an apartment.
Xc) Continue to give states and local governments responsibility for welfare programs through TANF block grants.
d) Maintain current welfare-to-work requirements in order for states to qualify for block grants.
Xe) Restore food stamp programs to legal immigrants.
Xf) Transfer homeless housing programs to states through block grants.
Xg) Provide continued Medicaid benefits for those welfare recipients who have moved from welfare to work.
Xh) Require states to return any unused welfare block grant funding to the federal government.
i) Direct federal poverty aid through religious, community-based, or other non-profit organizations.
Xj) Provide states with additional funding for Medicaid programs to alleviate increasing state budget deficits.
k) Other or expanded principles

Legislative Priorities

In a total of seventy-five (75) words or less, please explain what your top two or three priorities will be if elected. Please explain how you would obtain any additional funding needed to implement these priorities.

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