Creating An Opportunity Economy

Statement

Dear Friends,

Throughout our history, the United States has been a beacon of freedom, a land of innovation and opportunity. As a political refugee who arrived in this country after fleeing Castro's cruel dictatorship, I know that all can achieve success in our nation regardless of their background or circumstances as long as they are willing to work hard. This American dream has inspired and fostered generations of innovators and has made our nation an economic power. However, the economic downturn, poor fiscal management, and burdensome regulations have created an atmosphere that threatens that American dream for the next generation. I am committed to creating an opportunity economy that restores the American dream for our children and grandchildren.

An opportunity based economy is one that empowers individuals to chart their own paths toward success. There are three pillars that make up this new American opportunity economy; tax reform, strengthening small businesses and increasing access to education. Reforming our broken tax system is an important step in creating an opportunity based economy. Creating a simpler tax code without unfair loopholes will be fairer for everyone, bring jobs home, and help make South Florida's innovators and manufacturers more competitive.

Small businesses are the backbone of our nation. I am proud to represent a community with so many mom and pop shops and family owned businesses. A thriving American economy is dependent on the empowerment of small businesses throughout our community. It is vital to rein in and remove unnecessary government barriers in order to strengthen the ability of American businesses to build, grow, and compete. We must also work to make it easier for our businesses to have access to new markets. Opening new opportunities for American-made goods will help lower prices for consumers, create better, higher-paying jobs for workers, and attract new investments to our communities.

We must also expand the educational opportunities available to young Americans. This can be done by reforming outdated education policies to empower parents with the choice and ability to seek great schools and teachers for their children. We must also work to help better prepare students for tomorrow's job market by increasing access to STEM programs and making college more affordable for our children and grandchildren.

By reducing bureaucratic barriers and encouraging innovation, we can ensure a competitive economy that can meet the demands of our times. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to help create an opportunity economy that helps our children and grandchildren continue to achieve the American dream.

Sincerely,

Ileana Ros-Lehtinen
Member of Congress

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