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David Trone's Issue Positions (Political Courage Test)

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Key

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.
Additional Information: Click on this icon to reveal more information about this candidate's position, from their answers or Vote Smart's research.
Other or Expanded Principles & Legislative Priorities are entered exactly as candidates submit them. Vote Smart does not edit for misspelled words, punctuation or grammar.

David Trone has failed to provide voters with positions on key issues covered by the 2024 Political Courage Test, despite repeated requests from Vote Smart and voters like you.

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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 2024.

  • "We are deeply concerned by the Supreme Court's decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, which overturned Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey. In the wake of this decision, we appreciate Secretary Blinken's stated commitment to "helping provide access to reproductive health services and advancing reproductive rights around the world." We write to you today because we believe the Dobbs decision is not only harmful to individuals in the United States who seek safe, legal access to abortions, but it also impacts the U.S. commitment to international human rights." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "Today is a dark day in American history. This morning, the Supreme Court announced that it has overturned Roe v. Wade, the law that has protected the rights of women for nearly 50 years. For millions of women in states across the country, today's decision effectively strips away their right to make their own decisions about their healthcare and their own futures. Instead, the Supreme Court has decided that state politicians and judges are better positioned to make these decisions for women -- often without any information about the circumstances a woman is facing. I reject the implication that women can't be trusted to make their own decisions, and I certainly reject the suggestion that state governments should make decisions for them. I am incensed by the Court's ruling." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "Our older adults in Maryland have worked hard all their lives. It's our duty to ensure they can continue to access Social Security and Medicare. These are the rights and benefits we’ve promised – let’s ensure that stays true." (twitter.com)
  • "Strengthening Medicare and Social Security is essential for Maryland's aging population. In the Senate, I will work tirelessly to ensure these programs meet their needs now and in the future." (twitter.com)
  • Rated 100% by National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare (NCPSM) (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Despite exhaustive research, Vote Smart was unable to find information about this candidate's position.
  • Despite exhaustive research, Vote Smart was unable to find information about this candidate's position.
  • Rated 100% by Common Cause. (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "For decades, we've seen how our democracy has marginalized the voices of everyday people -- from partisan gerrymandering that has silenced voters across the country, to powerful special interest groups that put corporations above our communities, to restrictions on the voting rights of formerly incarcerated individuals. I came to Congress to be a voice for the voiceless and to bring back compassion, civility, and competence to our government. Passing H.R. 1 will help get us one step closer to restoring integrity, rooting out corruption, and guaranteeing that our government is truly one for the people." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Do you support the regulation of indirect campaign contributions from corporations and unions? "Yes" (votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor of HR 1 "For the People Act of 2021." (votesmart.org)
  • Despite exhaustive research, Vote Smart was unable to find information about this candidate's position.
  • Despite exhaustive research, Vote Smart was unable to find information about this candidate's position.
  • Voted in favor of HR 2 "Moving Forward Act" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "Do you support federal spending as a means of promoting economic growth? Yes" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "I support getting our economy working for the middle class and small businesses. I support incentives that lower taxes on which middle class so they can reinvest it in the economy. We need to invest in infrastructure as a long term investment; it will create jobs and help put our crumbling transportation system back on track. I also support tax incentives for small local businesses, which are the lifeblood of the American economy." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor of HR 3684 "Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Voted for HR 8294 "Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2023" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "The American Dream is unattainable for far too many folks who wish to own a home. That's why I'm proud to cosponsor the Community Housing Act to invest $500 billion in affordable housing, renter protections, down payment assistance, and new construction. Let's get it done." (twitter.com)
  • Voted for HR 7301 "Emergency Housing Protections and Relief Act of 2020" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "Housing is a basic human right, yet too many American families struggle to find homes they can afford in the short and long term. While I’m glad to see some progress on this issue with the inclusion of the expanded Low-Income Housing Tax Credit in the new tax agreement, I also know that housing affordability is an issue we must address urgently and deliberately on the local, state, and federal levels," said Congressman David Trone. "One in four people spend more than half of their income on rent, hindering their ability to save for emergencies or the future – that’s unacceptable. We must continue pushing to address our inadequate housing supply, as well as our exclusionary zone and land use laws, if we hope to once again make the American dream an attainable one." (trone.house.gov)
  • Voted in favor of HR 5376 "Inflation Reduction Act of 2022" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "Happy #EarthDay! Today, I reaffirm my commitment to protecting our planet for future generations. I'm proud to have voted for historic climate bills like the Inflation Reduction Act, but we still must do more. We can't let our children inherit a world that's beyond repair." (twitter.com)
  • Voted for HR 347 "Reduce Exacerbated Inflation Negatively Impacting the Nation Act" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "Despite record economic growth, inflation continues to hurt Americans’ wallets at the grocery store and the pump. I didn’t come to Congress to sit pretty; I came to Congress to bring people together and get the job done. That’s what this job is all about," said Congressman Trone. "This plan identifies concrete solutions to provide Americans with relief in the short-term and keep inflation down in the long-term. I’ll continue doing everything in my power to lower prices and create a strong, steady, stable economy for Americans today and for future generations." (trone.house.gov)
  • Rated 100% by National Education Association (NEA) (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "Excited to see @JoeBiden continue to keep his promises and deliver for folks across the nation by canceling student loans for 153,000 people – adding to nearly $138 Billion of debt canceled since taking office." (twitter.com)
  • "Today, @POTUS announced new measures to ease student debt of borrowers making less than $125,000/year. Eligible borrowers will receive up to $20,000 in debt cancellation, & @usedgov will make paying off the remainder of loans more manageable" (twitter.com)
  • Voted in favor of HR 2547 "Comprehensive Debt Collection Improvement Act" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Voted in favor of HR 4 "John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2021" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "Every Election Day, I’m reminded of a true hero and voting rights champion I had the honor of serving with — Congressman John Lewis. I’m a proud cosponsor of the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, and I won’t stop fighting for it until it’s passed." (twitter.com)
  • Voted in favor of HR 5746 "Freedom to Vote: John R. Lewis Act" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "A big win coming out of the Supreme Court today. Black voters in Alabama — and all minority voters across the U.S. — have an inalienable right to an equal and representative vote. Feels like a great day to restore the full Voting Rights Act, doesn't it?" (twitter.com)
  • "Embracing renewable energy is crucial for Maryland's future. In the Senate, I will continue advocating for policies encouraging sustainable energy practices, reducing our carbon footprint, and leading the way in the green innovation space." (twitter.com)
  • Voted for HR 4447 "Expanding Access to Sustainable Energy Act of 2019" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "The science is clear: human activity is driving climate change. It's time for bold action that transitions us to a sustainable, green economy. Alongside organized labor, we can build a new economy that benefits all and beats special interests." (twitter.com)
  • "Happy #EarthDay! Today, I reaffirm my commitment to protecting our planet for future generations. I'm proud to have voted for historic climate bills like the Inflation Reduction Act, but we still must do more. We can't let our children inherit a world that's beyond repair." (twitter.com)
  • Voted for HR 8 "Bipartisan Background Checks Act of 2021" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Rated 0% by National Rifle Association (NRA) (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Voted for HR 1808 "Assault Weapons Ban of 2022" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "The truth is clear as day: gun violence is out of control in this country and our fellow Americans are calling on us to pass common-sense gun safety laws," said Congressman David Trone, Member of the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force. "As a lifelong gun owner myself, I proudly voted for the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act to strengthen mental health resources and ensure firearms remain in safe hands. Now signed into law, this successful effort goes to show what we can do as a country, and as a Congress when we work together in the best interest of our communities." (trone.house.gov)
  • "I’m grateful to have the support of the @NorthBaltCoDems in our race for U.S. Senate. Their endorsement reflects our shared commitment to fighting for quality education, accessible healthcare, and justice reform. Together, we're moving Maryland forward." (twitter.com)
  • "Healthcare is a fundamental human right. It’s on our leaders to protect it." (davidtrone.com)
  • "In Congress, David has fought to give every family affordable health care, and he’ll do the same in the Senate." (davidtrone.com)
  • "The Affordable Care Act was a good start towards the goal of universal health coverage for all Americans. But we need to be expanding it, not sabotaging it. Let’s work together to make sure that more Americans are ensured – not less." (twitter.com)
  • "We must provide strong protections for caregivers. I've championed paid family leave and affordable childcare because no one should have to choose between their job and their family." (twitter.com)
  • "I spoke with Maryland labor leaders this morning about how the #COVID19 pandemic is impacting our workers. Each industry is being hit hard by this crisis, and I'm working with our federal, state, and local partners to ensure our workers get the PPE and paid leave they deserve." (twitter.com)
  • "No person should have to choose between staying home if they’re sick & paying their mortgage or putting food on the table. That’s why I’m voting for the bipartisan #FamiliesFirst Act, which ensures everyone gets 14 days of paid sick leave & has access to testing for #COVID19." (twitter.com)
  • Voted in favor of HR 6201 "Families First Coronavirus Response Act" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "No one should have to choose between life-saving medicine and buying groceries. That's why I voted for the Inflation Reduction Act to allow Medicare to negotiate prices and lower health care costs for all Marylanders." (twitter.com)
  • "David knows that healthcare is more than just a visit with your doctor. It’s access to life saving treatments for everything from cancer to mental health, reproductive care, and treatment for substance use disorder." (davidtrone.com)
  • "I appreciated the chance to join Ms. Chamblee at the Jericho Residences Tenants Association meeting in Landover last night. From protecting earned benefits to capping insulin costs for folks on Medicare, I will always fight for Maryland’s older adults." (twitter.com)
  • Voted in favor of HR 6833 "The Affordable Insulin Now Act" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Voted against HR 5525 "Continuing Appropriations and Border Security Enhancement Act, 2024" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Voted against H Res 1065 "Denouncing the Biden administration's immigration policies." (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "I’m increasingly concerned by extreme Republicans’ attacks on migrants seeking asylum in our country. This is the greatest nation in the world – we do not look down on immigrants seeking a better life for themselves and their families – we lift them up to become part of the fabric of our democracy. Working together, we have the ability to improve our immigration system and secure our border against harmful trafficking. It’s up to us to put politics aside and uphold our nation’s foundational values." (trone.house.gov)
  • Voted for HR 5692 "Ukraine Security Assistance and Oversight Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Voted against HR 6126 "Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • "I urge House Republicans to pass a clean, bipartisan package – as supported by both the President and the Senate – to deliver both military support and humanitarian aid to our allies. When it comes to helping our neighbors, defending democracy, and saving innocent lives, we cannot and will not negotiate." (trone.house.gov)
  • "Amid the death and destruction caused by Hamas across Israel and Gaza, we must step up – as we have throughout history – without partisanship or strings attached to defend our allies under attack and help innocent Israeli, Palestinian, and Ukrainian civilians." (trone.house.gov)
  • "Americans and our allies must immediately provide vital military and humanitarian aid to allow Ukraine to successfully fight Russia's invasion, protect its citizens, and defend its democracy." (twitter.com)
  • Voted for HR 5692 "Ukraine Security Assistance and Oversight Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Voted for HR 6833 "Continuing Appropriations and Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2023" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
  • Despite exhaustive research, Vote Smart was unable to find information about this candidate's position.
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.
Pro-choice Do you generally support pro-choice or pro-life legislation?
I'm 100% pro-choice. I'll fight to protect and expand the right to choose. I'ts personal for me, politicians and judges have no right to make decisions for my three daughters or any woman in this district or this county.
Yes In order to balance the budget, do you support an income tax increase on any tax bracket?
Unknown Position In order to balance the budget, do you support reducing defense spending?
I support increasing taxes on the wealthy. There's no reason someone like me who has been fortunate in life shouldn't pay more. I support Hillary Clinton's tax plan so that everyone is paying their fair share.
Yes Do you support the regulation of indirect campaign contributions from corporations and unions?
I'm self-funding so that I can be independent of all of the money that influences our political system. But we need new strict campaign finance laws so that the other 434 members of Congress can be free from that influence as well.
No Do you support capital punishment for certain crimes?
Yes Do you support alternatives to incarceration for certain non-violent offenders such as mandatory counseling or substance abuse treatment?
No Do you support mandatory minimum sentences for non-violent drug offenders?
I'm a passionate supporter of criminal justice reform and I've been a supporter of the ACLU my entire adult life. I support a comprehensive approach to criminal justice reform that includes keeping people out of prison for minor offenses, rehabilitating inmates, and creating opportunities for those who are re-entering society. In my business we've "banned the box" on employment forms and I will support legislation to do it nationwide.
Yes Do you support federal spending as a means of promoting economic growth?
Yes Do you support lowering taxes as a means of promoting economic growth?
Yes Do you support providing tax incentives to businesses for the purpose of job creation?
I support getting our economy working for the middle class and small businesses. I support incentives that lower taxes on which middle class so they can reinvest it in the economy. We need to invest in infrastructure as a long term investment; it will create jobs and help put our crumbling transportation system back on track. I also support tax incentives for small local businesses, which are the lifeblood of the American economy.
Yes Do you support requiring states to implement education reforms in order to be eligible for competitive federal grants?
Yes Do you support funding for the development of renewable energy (e.g. solar, wind, thermal)?
Yes Do you support increased regulations on the hydraulic fracturing ("fracking") industry?
Unknown Position Do you support building the Keystone XL pipeline?
Yes Do you believe that human activity is contributing to climate change?
Yes Do you support the federal regulation of greenhouse gas emissions?
Yes Do you generally support gun-control legislation?
I support comprehensive gun control reform that limits access to assault weapons and expands safety regulations. If we are going to prevent violence, we need a multifaceted approach to gun control. We need to bring back the Federal Assault Weapons Ban, expand background checks to at least one week, tighten regulation of the gun dealers, require safe firearm storage in homes, and implement smart gun technology. We need to close loopholes from private sales, including gun shows. There is also no reason why we can not have a national gun and ammunition registry.
No Do you support repealing the 2010 Affordable Care Act ("Obamacare")?
The Affordable Care Act was a good first step, but we have more to do. We need to control premiums and out of pocket costs and close the Medicaid coverage gap.
No Do you support requiring illegal immigrants to return to their country of origin before they are eligible for citizenship?
I support a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants. Requiring them to return to their home country would be a costly and counterproductive step, and it sounds like something out of Donald Trump's "policy" playbook.
Yes Do you support same-sex marriage?
I absolutely support same-sex marriage, and my company has provided same-sex partner benefits since 2002. I also support the Full Equality Act. It's time to end discrimination against LGBT people once and for all.
Yes Do you support targeting suspected terrorists outside of official theaters of conflict?
Should the U.S use military force in order to prevent governments hostile to the United States from possessing a nuclear weapon?
No Do you support allowing individuals to divert a portion of their Social Security taxes into personal retirement accounts?
I believe we need to protect and strengthen Social Security. I support raising payroll taxes on the wealthiest Americans to ensure the system stays solvent for the next generation.

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

a) Agriculture
Greatly Increase b) Arts
c) Defense
Greatly Increase d) Education
e) Environment
f) Homeland Security
g) International aid
Greatly Increase h) Medical Research
Greatly Increase i) Scientific Research
j) Space exploration
Greatly Decrease k) United Nations
l) Welfare
a) Capital gains taxes
b) Corporate taxes
c) Small business taxes
Greatly Increase d) Excise taxes (alcohol)
Greatly Increase e) Excise taxes (cigarettes)
f) Excise taxes (transportation fuel)
g) Income taxes (low-income families)
h) Income taxes (middle-income families)
i) Income taxes (high-income families)
j) Inheritance taxes
k) Payroll taxes
I strongly support increased funding for the arts. The arts foster creativity that is the lynchpin of entrepreneurship. I think we should decrease funding for the United Nations until they hold Israel to the same standards as they do every other country.
I propose we reform our budgeting system so that we start thinking long term instead of short term. Honest budgeting can help Members of Congress and America as a whole plan for the future rather than the next election cycle.
I support doubling the budget of the NIH and overall medical and scientific research. I also support offering a debt free college option for graduates who complete five years of national service. We also need a national commission on gerrymandering to stop hyper partisanship in Congress.

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