Weekly Update from Senator John Ensign

Press Release

Weekly Update from Senator John Ensign

9/11 Bill Puts Politics Ahead of SecurityEnsign meets with members of the Nevada League of Cities.

Even though an amendment I offered was included in the final bill, I voted against the Democrats' 9/11 legislation because it contained too many items that would weaken our national security. One example was providing the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) with collective bargaining rights, a measure that was not recommended by the bipartisan 9/11 Commission.

TSA helps to keep our airports secure and its ability to adapt to changing security threats is being compromised because the Democrats put big labor ahead of our safety. Our security has to be our top priority, which is why I added the Law Enforcement Assistance Force Act to the bill. This creates a team of retired law enforcement officers and first responders ready to help in the event of a natural disaster. With this program, individuals are ready and easily coordinated to help local communities when they need it the most. The team would be coordinated and registered through the Department of Homeland Security.

Tax Hikes Among Democrats' Top Priorities In Budget

As the Senate prepares to debate the new federal budget, the Democrats have proposed increases in spending without a plan to pay for the increases. The reality of their tax-and-spend mentality is the cost it places on the American taxpayer. Some estimates suggest that the Democrats' budget proposal will raise taxes by $900 billion in just five years which is the largest tax increase in American history. Current and future generations will be forced to pay for these increases if the Democrats are not stopped. The President wants to balance the budget by 2012; I believe we can balance it before then if we restore fiscal responsibility in Congress.

Ensign Recognized for Promoting Economic Freedom

The Club for Growth released its ratings of congressional members, and I received a 94%; only five other senators had higher percentages. The ratings are based on each senator's commitment to pro-growth policies and low taxes so that we can keep our economy strong. Reducing the tax burden on working families stimulates the economy and encourages job creation, and I am proud to have my efforts in these areas recognized. I will continue to fight for these principles - returning to fiscal responsibility, lowering your taxes, and strengthening our economy.

Sincerely,

John Ensign
United States Senator

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