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Adam Smith's Issue Positions (Political Courage Test)

Office:

U.S. House (WA) - District 9, Democratic

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.

Is Smith voting like he said he would?

Adam Smith did not provide voters with positions on key issues covered by the 2024 Political Courage Test, despite repeated requests from Vote Smart and voters like you.

What is the Political Courage Test?

Issue Positions

For Presidential and Congressional candidates who refuse to provide voters with their positions, Vote Smart has researched their public records to determine their likely responses. These issue positions are from 2024.

Abortion and Reproductive Health: Do you support the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade?

"The gravity of the Supreme Courtâs decision to overturn Roe v. Wade cannot be overstated: reproductive freedom is hanging on by a thread. Today, House Democrats took action and passed two bills to safeguard abortion access," (x.com)
"The health and wellbeing of our democracy depends on an equal balance of power across the three branches of government. But in this moment in history, the Supreme Court has radically overstepped its bounds by reversing a number of precedents, including Roe." (x.com)
"The overturning of Roe v. Wade has left millions of Americans without access to essential reproductive health care. That's why I'm co-sponsoring the Women's Health Protection Act: to protect abortion access nationwide." (x.com)
"Today marks 50 years since Roe v. Wade was decided. No one should be denied an abortion because of their zip code or income. I am committed to #AbortionJustice and advancing legislation that ensures reproductive health care is affordable and accessible for all." (x.com)

Yes

Budget, Spending, and Taxes: Do you support expanding federal funding to support social safety net programs such as Social Security and Medicare?

Yes

"I am a strong supporter of Social Security and Medicare and will stand firm against attempts to cut these programs." (x.com)
"Social Security is an economic necessity for millions of people: The median household nearing retirement has only $10,000 in retirement savingsâand nearly half of families have none at all. We must protect and expand social security." (x.com)
"Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid are programs that strengthen families' financial security and give folks the freedom to access the care they need. I'll fight to protect and strengthen these programs for this generation and the next." (x.com)
Rated 100% by the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare (NCPSM) (justfacts.votesmart.org)

Unknown Position

Budget, Spending, and Taxes: Do you support a decrease in income taxes in order to balance the budget?

Unknown Position

Despite exhaustive research, Vote Smart was unable to find information about this candidate's position.

Yes

Budget, Spending, and Taxes: Do you support a wealth tax in order to pay for public programs?

Yes

"Itâs past time to tax billionaires and giant corporations, so we can invest in the care economy. These investments would go towards programs like child care and aging and disability care to support our working families." (x.com)
"Letâs protect social security and make billionaires pay their fair share." (x.com)
"The 0.01% should pay their fair share. We need a fairer tax code that closes loopholes for billionaires and corporations." (x.com)

Yes

Campaign Finance: Do you support the regulation of indirect campaign contributions from corporations, unions, and individuals?

Yes

"I strongly support the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act and the #FreedomToVoteAct. Together, these bills will ensure access to voting for all people across the United States and protect our election system from gerrymandering, dark money, and corporate influence." (x.com)
"Itâs been 10 years since the disastrous #CitizensUnited decision. I am continuing to fight corruption, fix the broken political system, and create a democracy that works better for my constituents in #WA09. Proud to have earned an A rating from #EndCitizensUnited." (x.com)
"Today, I was proud to answer the call from the American people to restore our democracy by voting for #HR1 â a package of reforms to take on campaign finance regulations, expand voting rights, and combat corruption with improved transparency and ethics in the federal government." (x.com)
Rated 92% by End Citizens United (justfacts.votesmart.org)

Unknown Position

Crime & Public Safety: Do you support protecting government officials, including law enforcement officers, from personal liability in civil lawsuits concerning alleged misconduct?

Unknown Position

"The #GeorgeFloyd #JusticeinPolicing Act would fundamentally transform the culture of policing by addressing the crisis of racial profiling, increasing law enforcement accountability & ending qualified immunity. I stand with @TheBlackCaucus to push for these much-needed reforms." (x.com)
Voted in favor of HR 1280 "George Floyd Justice in Policing Act of 2021" (justfacts.votesmart.org)

Defense: Do you support increasing defense spending?

"Let me be clear: I oppose the effort to raise the defense budget topline by $23.9 billion. I stand by President Biden's initial proposal. An extra $23.9 billion will not make us any safer." (x.com)
"The Department of Defense doesn't need more money than it asked for â it needs discipline. I look forward to making that argument in today's #FY23NDAA markup hearing." (x.com)

Yes

Economy: Do you support federal spending as a means of promoting economic growth (e.g. grants, tax incentives)?

Yes

"Since the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law two years ago, the highway, street, and bridge construction industry has added over 37,000 jobs. When our working class is strong, our economy is strong." (x.com)
"This year, I requested $30+ MILLION to support community projects across the 9th District. This funding would support affordable housing, workforce development, public safety, infrastructure, and more." (x.com)
"We can build a stronger economy by investing in job training programs, rebuilding infrastructure, strengthening domestic manufacturing, lowering the costs of healthcare, and fighting for benefits for working families like paid leave and child care." (x.com)
Voted in favor of HR 3684 "Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act" (justfacts.votesmart.org)

Yes

Economy: Do you support the federal government increasing funding for affordable housing programs?

Yes

"Building more affordable housing is essential, but itâs also crucial that we take care of the affordable housing that currently exists. I'm requesting $1.4M to help support the renovation of two local apartment buildings to ensure they remain safe homes for residents." (x.com)
"Huge investment from the Biden-Harris administration for affordable housing, which is desperately needed in my district and across the country." (x.com)
"We need more job opportunities that prepare us for the future. Growing the climate resiliency workforce is an investment in a new generation of workers and a greener, more sustainable future." (x.com)
Voted in favor of HR 7301 "Emergency Housing Protections and Relief Act of 2020" (justfacts.votesmart.org)

Yes

Economy: Do you support the federal government taking action, beyond those of the Federal Reserve, to alleviate inflation?

Yes

"Job creation is breaking records, unemployment is low, wages are rising, and inflation is falling. #BidenBoom" (x.com)
"We're growing the economy from the bottom up and middle out, with more than 15 million jobs created, the lowest unemployment in decades, rising wages, and inflation falling. More people than ever before have health insurance and we cut health care costs for millions of Americans." (x.com)
Voted in favor of HR 5376 "Inflation Reduction Act of 2022" (justfacts.votesmart.org)

Yes

Education: Do you support the forgiveness of federal student loan debt?

Yes

"Today @POTUS announced that he will cancel up to $20,000 of federal student loan debt for people making less than $125,000/year. This action will help ease financial barriers and promote economic opportunity for millions of Americans." (x.com)
Rated 100% by the National Education Association (NEA) (justfacts.votesmart.org)
Voted in favor of HR 2547 "Comprehensive Debt Collection Improvement Act" (justfacts.votesmart.org)

Unknown Position

Elections: Do you support requiring a government-issued identification in order to vote at the polls?

Unknown Position

Voted in favor of HR 5746 "Freedom to Vote: John R. Lewis Act" (justfacts.votesmart.org)

Yes

Energy & Environment: Do you support government funding for the development of renewable energy (e.g. solar, wind, geo-thermal)?

Yes

"Did you know that 40% of Americaâs electricity comes from clean energy? Thatâs more than ever before. We can build a clean energy economy that creates good-paying jobs and protects the planet for future generations, thanks to investments from @HouseDemocrats" (x.com)
"Last week, the Biden-Harris administration announced a HUGE investment in the clean energy economy, right here in the PNW. This investment was made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law." (x.com)
Rated 94% by the League of Conservation Voters (justfacts.votesmart.org)
Voted in favor of HR 9 "Climate Action Now Act" (justfacts.votesmart.org)

Energy & Environment: Do you support the federal government allowing permits for drilling on public lands?

"The outgoing Trump admin is rushing the process to drill in the pristine Arctic Refuge. Despite widespread opposition, they are still moving forward with a call for nominations. We'll continue to fight to #ProtectTheArctic and defend this irreplaceable land." (x.com)
"Today, I was proud to vote to #KeepItWild and protect: ð1.5 million acres of wilderness ð¶1,000 river miles ðµ and withdraw more than 1.2 million acres of public land from new oil and gas and mining claims." (x.com)
Rated 94% by the League of Conservation Voters (justfacts.votesmart.org)
Voted in favor of HR 823 "Colorado Outdoor Recreation and Economy Act" (justfacts.votesmart.org)

Yes

Guns: Do you generally support gun-control legislation (e.g. red flag laws, boyfriend loopholes)?

Yes

"I remain committed to passing long overdue, comprehensive gun safety legislation. We can make our communities safer by passing an assault weapons ban, red-flag laws, and universal background checks." (x.com)
"We need to pass stronger gun safety legislation. Weapons of war intended for battlefields have no place in our cities, public spaces, or schools. That's why I support the assault weapons ban." (x.com)
Rated 0% by the NRA (justfacts.votesmart.org)
Voted in favor of HR 1808 "Assault Weapons Ban of 2022" (justfacts.votesmart.org)

Yes

Health Care: Do you support a government-run (e.g. single-payer) healthcare program, such as Medicare-for-All?

Yes

"Health care is a right, not a privilege. Far too many people in our country do not have affordable, quality health care, and this must change." (x.com)
"I stand with my colleagues and constituents who support Medicare for All. #MedicareForAll represents an important step forward in improving our health care system by establishing a single-payer, health care for all program." (x.com)
"I'm proud to be a founding member of the Congressional Medicare for All Caucus. We must work towards a healthcare system that works for everyone in this country. Together, our caucus will work to achieve guaranteed healthcare for every person living in the US." (x.com)
"The U.S. health care system is ineffective, inefficient and outrageously expensive. Itâs time for change. Iâm proud to join @RepJayapal and over 100 of our colleagues as a co-sponsor of the #MedicareforAll Act!" (x.com)

Yes

Health Care: Do you support expanding paid family AND/OR medical leave benefits (e.g. maternity leave)?

Yes

"It is crucial that we pass the #BuildBackBetterAct to support families across the U.S. by providing funding for programs like child care and paid family and medical leave. With this bill, we have the chance to advance equal opportunity for children and families." (x.com)
"Only 21% of the workforce has access to paid family leave through their employer. That needs to change. Iâm a cosponsor of the FAMILY Act which would provide all workers with up to 12 weeks of paid leave." (x.com)
"We can build a stronger economy by investing in job training programs, rebuilding infrastructure, strengthening domestic manufacturing, lowering the costs of healthcare, and fighting for benefits for working families like paid leave and child care." (x.com)
Voted in favor of HR 6201 "Families First Coronavirus Response Act" (justfacts.votesmart.org)

Yes

Health Care: Should the government be able to regulate the cost of prescription drugs?

Yes

"Drug manufacturers are coming to the negotiating table thanks to historic health care provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act. This is another major step forward in our fight to lower health care costs for seniors and families." (x.com)
"Thanks to @HouseDemocrats, seniors on Medicare wonât pay more than $35 a month for insulin. I will continue fighting to lower the cost of prescription drugs and make health care more affordable for working families." (x.com)
Voted in favor of HR 3 "Lower Drug Costs Now Act of 2019" (justfacts.votesmart.org)
Voted in favor of HR 6833 "The Affordable Insulin Now Act" (justfacts.votesmart.org)

Immigration: Do you support increasing security along the southern US border?

"It is not our top national security priority to build a wall at our southern border. Taking money from the Department of Defense for this purpose makes us less safe." (x.com)
"The photos and videos capturing the recent treatment of Haitian migrants at the border are horrifying. All those seeking asylum in the United States should be treated with dignity. Period." (x.com)
"We have a responsibility to people entering this country that they will be treated with dignity and respect when they cross the border â but this is sadly counter to the for-profit detention center companies who prioritize profits over anything else." (x.com)
Rated 0% by the Federation for American Immigration Reform (justfacts.votesmart.org)

Immigration: Do you support requiring immigrants to return to their country of origin before they are eligible for citizenship, regardless of their immigration status?

"#RemainInMexico has proven dangerous, and in some cases deadly - this horrendous policy has resulted in only pain and suffering." (x.com)
"DACA recipients have made countless contributions to our country, and it's time we return the favor. The Senate must act now to create a pathway to citizenship and protect Dreamers from being deported from the only country they have ever known." (x.com)
Rated 0% by the Federation for American Immigration Reform (justfacts.votesmart.org)
Voted against HR 2494 "POLICE Act of 2023" (justfacts.votesmart.org)

Unknown Position

National Security: Do you support economic intervention as a means of resolving international conflicts?

Unknown Position

"Banning investments in Russia â alongside our allies and partners â is the right move. Putinâs brutal war will not go unpunished. Harsh economic measures will deepen his challenges at home and make it harder for him to continue his unlawful aggression." (x.com)

Yes

National Security: Do you support the US providing increased offensive military aid to Ukraine?

Yes

"Today, the House finally passed crucially needed aid for our allies abroad, including Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. Passage of this legislation is an investment in democracy and freedom across the globe. The Senate must not delay in sending this funding to the President's desk." (x.com)
Voted in favor of HR 5692 "Ukraine Security Assistance and Oversight Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024" (justfacts.votesmart.org)

Unknown Position

Technology and Communication: Do you generally support increased regulations on social media companies (e.g. Tik Tok, Facebook, etc.)?

Unknown Position

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.

Washington Congressional Election 2012 Political Courage Test

Abortion

Pro-choice

Do you generally support pro-choice or pro-life legislation?

Afghanistan

Yes		Do you support United States' combat operations in Afghanistan?
Yes		Do you support a timetable for withdrawal from Afghanistan?
I coauthored an amendment to the FY2013 National Defense Authorization Act that would have required the President to complete the accelerated transition of U.S. combat operations to the Afghan government by the end of 2013 and require the redeployment of U.S. Armed Forces from Afghanistan by the end of 2014. I have also cosigned several letters with my colleagues calling for an accelerated transition of security responsibility to the Afghan government and security forces and the expedited withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan as quickly as these can be safely and responsibly accomplished.

Budget

Indicate which proposals you support (if any) for balancing the federal budget.In order to balance the budget,

Yes		do you support reducing defense spending?
Yes		do you support an income tax increase on any tax bracket?
No		do you support reducing Medicaid spending?
No		do you support reducing Medicare spending?
Yes		Is balancing the budget a legislative priority?

Campaign Finance

Yes

Do you support the regulation of indirect campaign contributions from corporations and unions?

Capital Punishment

Yes		Do you support capital punishment for certain crimes?
I support maintaining in federal law provisions for capital punishment in extreme cases and also am strongly supportive of DNA testing and other means that enable the demonstration of innocence.

Economy

Yes		Do you support federal spending as a means of promoting economic growth?
Yes		Do you support providing tax incentives to businesses for the purpose of job creation?
Yes		Do you support spending on infrastructure projects for the purpose of job creation?
Yes		Do you support the temporary extension of unemployment benefits?
No		Do you support the 2010 temporary extension of tax relief?

Education

Unknown Position		Do you support requiring states to implement education reforms in order to be eligible for competitive federal grants?
Adam Smith. Outsourcing of Jobs. 29 March 2004. “The real number of degrees that U.S. students are receiving in those three key areas, math, science, and engineering, have gone down every year for the last decade. We are putting out fewer people with the skills that are desperately needed, and there are changes that we can make in our education system from the K-12 system forward that will help us deal with that and compete better. We need to set high standards. We need to place emphasis in the K through 12 level on math and science to get our students interested in it.” (votesmart.org) Adam Smith. No Child Left Behind act gets off to poor start - but needs repairs, not repeal. 25 January 2004. “NCLB contains a number of new or expanded requirements for states and local educational agencies that receive federal assistance. The 2001-2002 school year was the "base year" for the new adequate yearly progress standards -- performance in future years will be compared to this period […] Creating unfunded mandates for school reform is a surefire path to generating grass roots opposition to the law. We must provide states and school systems with the necessary financial resources to implement NCLB if we want to make sure it's effective […] Many people throughout the state have looked at these criticisms and have called for a full repeal of this law. We should strengthen this law, not repeal it.” (votesmart.org) Adam Smith. New Democrat Statement 2nd Anniversary of the No Child Left Behind Act. 8 January 2004. “This week marks the two-year anniversary of the enactment of the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act. New Democrats played an integral role in ensuring that NCLB refocused federal education policy on raising academic achievement for every child, provided public schools with more funding and flexibility, targeted those new dollars to districts with the greatest needs, and demanded accountability for results […] We remain committed to improving the performance and accountability of our schools.” (votesmart.org) Adam Smith. Issue Position: Education. 1 January 2011.“Vigorous standards and holding schools accountable to those standards is imperative in ensuring that our children are ready to face the increasingly complex challenges that the future holds. As part of this accountability, we owe to the next generation of Americans a strong K-12 public education system. I support increased funding for local schools and more efficient methods of sending federal dollars to local classrooms, so that those school districts that need help most, get the extra boost they need from federal funding.” (votesmart.org) Adam Smith. Smith Votes to Keep America Competitive. 2 August 2007. “U.S. Rep. Adam Smith (D-Wash.) today voted for H.R. 2272, the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education and Science Act (COMPETES) Act, part of the House Democrats' Innovation Agenda […] The legislation authorizes $22 billion over fiscal years 2008 - 2010 for research, education and other programs at the NSF; $2.65 billion for the research labs, the Manufacturing Extension Partnership and other activities at the NIST, and $17 billion, over fiscal years 2008 to 2010, for programs at the DOE, including $150 million for K-12 science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) educational programs.” (votesmart.org) Adam Smith. HR 2300. 106th Congress. Academic Achievement for All Act. Adam Smith voted Nay on 10/21/1999. (votesmart.org) Adam Smith. Education. 30 August 2012. “NCLB established the idea that we must measure academic progress and ensure that students are achieving at appropriate levels as they progress through K-12 education. It also guards against schools failing to properly serve minority groups by separately measuring how each group is doing instead of measuring all students together. I strongly support these provisions of the law. When schools are truly failing, NCLB offers parents and communities various options to fix the problem. But as it is currently structured, NCLB makes it virtually impossible for any school to succeed. The requirement that all students must be above Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) by 2014 has led to award-winning schools to be labeled “failing”. Developmentally Disabled and ESL students who face unique challenges in the classroom are forced to take tests that are counted toward a school’s failure. This is demoralizing for teachers, administrators, and students, making it more difficult to identify schools that are truly failing. These problems can and must be fixed. Once we have adequate models for performance criteria that are collectively agreed upon by all stakeholders, we must implement them. However, I do not support a policy of tying teachers’ salaries to test scores.” (adamsmith.house.gov) Adam Smith. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Washington Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "e) Eliminate the Department of Education, thereby giving state and local government greater control over educational issues." Adam Smith. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Washington Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "State" for: "Indicate which level of government should have primary responsibility for the following services. Select one level only. 3) Education" Adam Smith. Project Vote Smart: 2004 Washington Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "j) Providing education is not a responsibility of the federal government." Adam Smith. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Washington Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) Support national standards and testing in reading and math." Adam Smith. Project Vote Smart: 2004 Washington Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "Slightly Increase" for: "Using the key, indicate what federal funding levels you support for the following general categories. Select one number per category. d) Education" Adam Smith. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Washington Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "l) Eliminate restrictions on federal education funding, giving educators or local school districts more flexibility to design and implement their programs." Adam Smith. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Washington Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "a) Support national standards and testing of public school students." Adam Smith. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Washington Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "Yes" for: "2) Do you support the use of block grants given to states, rather than federal spending, in the following areas? b) Education" Adam Smith. Project Vote Smart: 2004 Washington Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "a) Support national standards for and testing of public school students." Adam Smith. Project Vote Smart: 1996 Washington Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "Slightly Increase" for: "1) Indicate what changes you support (if any) concerning levels of federal funding for the following categories. Select one number only. c) Education (K-12)" Adam Smith. Project Vote Smart: 2000 Washington Congressional Political Courage Test. Checked SUPPORT for: "g) Promote education flexibility by giving federal funds, in the form of block grants, to the states to spend it as they see fit." Adam Smith. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Washington Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "Local" for: "Indicate which level of government that should have primary responsibility for the following services. Select one level only. c) Education" Adam Smith. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Washington Congressional Political Courage Test. Did Not Check SUPPORT for: "g) Give all federal education funding to states in the form of block grants and allow them to spend it as they see fit." Adam Smith. Project Vote Smart: 1998 Washington Congressional Political Courage Test. Selected "Slightly Increase" for: "1) Indicate what levels of federal funding you support for the following categories. Select one number (level) only. c) Education (K-12)" Adam Smith. Project Vote Smart: 2012 Political Courage Test. Responded NO ANSWER for “a) Do you support requiring states to implement education reforms in order to be eligible for competitive federal grants?;” b) Other or expanded principles: “It depends greatly on what reforms are being required. For some reforms yes, for others, no.” “This is an overdue critical start for the replacement of two of the five aging schools at JBLM. All students in our community deserve the highest quality education and first-rate facilities. This money will ensure the children at JBLM will receive both.” http://votesmart.org/public-statement/714761/murray-cantwell-dicks-smith-announce-50-million-oea-grant-for-schools-on-jblm#.VYQ8XXUVhHw (votesmart.org) “This is an overdue critical start for the replacement of two of the five aging schools at JBLM. All students in our community deserve the highest quality education and first-rate facilities. This money will ensure the children at JBLM will receive both.” http://votesmart.org/public-statement/714761/murray-cantwell-dicks-smith-announce-50-million-oea-grant-for-schools-on-jblm#.VYQ8XXUVhHw (votesmart.org) “Supported full funding of the No Child Left Behind Act, and changing the "one-size-fits-all" testing plan so that testing accurately reflects learning, and performance indicators other than test scores are included.” http://votesmart.org/public-statement/905750/issue-position-education (votesmart.org) “NCLB established the idea that we must measure academic progress and ensure that students are achieving at appropriate levels as they progress through K-12 education. It also guards against schools failing to properly serve minority groups by separately measuring how each group is doing instead of measuring all students together. I strongly support these provisions of the law.” https://adamsmith.house.gov/issues/education (adamsmith.house.gov) “NCLB established the idea that we must measure academic progress and ensure that students are achieving at appropriate levels as they progress through K-12 education. It also guards against schools failing to properly serve minority groups by separately measuring how each group is doing instead of measuring all students together. I strongly support these provisions of the law.” https://adamsmith.house.gov/issues/education (adamsmith.house.gov) Adam Smith. U.S. Representative Adam Smith Votes Against Flawed Bill Funding Labor, Health, Education Programs. 14 December 2005. “The No Child Left Behind (NCLB) program, an important tool in rehabilitating America's troubled public schools, is cut by more than $700 million. Funding for Title I, which is the core of NCLB's efforts to improve reading and math skills for disadvantaged children, received the smallest increase for Title I in 8 years, which means 3.1 million low-income children will be negatively affected by this cut.” (votesmart.org)
It depends greatly on what reforms are being required. For some reforms yes, for others, no.

Energy

Do you support reducing restrictions on offshore energy production?

Environment

Yes		Do you believe that human activity is contributing to climate change?
Yes		Do you support the federal regulation of greenhouse gas emissions?

Guns

Yes		Do you support restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns?
I support reasonable restrictions that keep firearms out of the hands of children, criminals, and those affected by mental illnesses.

Health Care

No		Do you support repealing the 2010 Affordable Care Act?
Yes		Should individuals be required to purchase health insurance, as mandated in the 2010 Affordable Care Act?
The Affordable Care Act is an important step toward lowering the cost, improving the quality of and expanding access to health care in this country.

Immigration

No		Do you support requiring illegal immigrants to return to their country of origin before they are eligible for citizenship?
Yes		Do you support allowing illegal immigrants, who were brought to the United States as minors, to pursue citizenship without returning to their country of origin?
No		Do you support the enforcement of federal immigration law by state and local police?

Marriage

Yes

Do you support same-sex marriage?

National Security

No		Should the U.S use military force in order to prevent Iran from possessing a nuclear weapon?
Yes		Do you support targeting suspected terrorists outside of official theaters of conflict?
Adam Smith. Project Vote Smart: 2012 Political Courage Test. Selected NO ANSWER for “a)Do you support targeting suspected terrorists outside of official theaters of conflict?;” f) Other or expanded principles: “Regarding the targeting of suspected terrorists, it depends greatly on what one means by 'outside of official theaters of conflict.' I support strikes in places like Yemen and Somalia where Al-Qaeda affiliates directly threaten us. But in almost all other places, no.” Scott Shane, Mark Mazzetti, and Robert F. Worth. New York Times. Secret Assault on Terrorism Widens on Two Continents. 14 August 2010. “Some American officials believe that militants in Yemen could now pose an even greater threat than Al Qaeda’s leadership in Pakistan. The officials said that they have benefited from the Yemeni government’s new resolve to fight Al Qaeda and that the American strikes — carried out with cruise missiles and Harrier fighter jets — had been approved by Yemen’s leaders. The strikes, administration officials say, have killed dozens of militants suspected of plotting future attacks. The Pentagon and the C.I.A. have quietly bulked up the number of their operatives at the embassy in Sana, the Yemeni capital, over the past year. 'Where we want to get is to much more small scale, preferably locally driven operations. For the first time in our history, an entity has declared a covert war against us,' Mr. Smith said, referring to Al Qaeda. 'And we are using similar elements of American power to respond to that covert war.'” (www.nytimes.com) Adam Smith. Providing For Consideration Of H.R. 3081, Department Of State, Foreign Operations, And Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2010. 9 July 2009. “We have seen a major commitment in this bill on the central focus in our efforts right now, which is in Pakistan and Afghanistan. I applaud that effort. But also understand that this bill recognizes that it is broader than just Pakistan and Afghanistan. Throughout the Middle East, throughout Africa, throughout Southeast Asia, failed and failing states are a major contributor to instability and the rise of violent extremist groups. Getting our global development policy right is critical to stopping that effort. This bill makes that commitment.” (votesmart.org) Adam Smith. Smith's Statement On President's Speech On Afghanistan. 1 December 2009. “It is clear that we face an enormous and difficult challenge in Afghanistan and Pakistan. The Taliban, al-Qaeda, and other extremist groups in the region have a complex set of relationships spanning across the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, and these ideologies pose a grave threat to the United States and our allies. If the Taliban were to regain control of substantial portions of Afghanistan, or recapture the government they would provide al-Qaeda a safe haven from which to operate, and we can not allow this to happen […] Ultimately, I believe that we need a strategy to contain the threat in this region.” (votesmart.org) Hearing Of The House Armed Services Committee - Department Of Defense Budget Request For Fiscal Year 2010. 13 May 2009. “It's not just in Iraq and Afghanistan and Pakistan. In North Africa, in the Horn of Africa, Southeast Asia, we are fighting insurgencies at various levels, and we need more equipment there, more ISR capabilities most particular, and more focus from the Special Operations folks, to fight that.” (votesmart.org) “During our trip, we were able to learn more about SOCOM's excellent work in Southeast Asia and get a better sense of the global challenge we face from the spread of a violent, totalitarian ideology. One thing is clear following this trip: the next president faces an enormous challenge in rebalancing our worldwide force distribution to adequately fight terrorism in nations other than Iraq.” https://adamsmith.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/smith-leads-counter-terrorism-delegation-to-pacific-region (adamsmith.house.gov) “Going forward, we must use technology as a tool for securing our nation and fighting the war on terrorism. This means leveraging our national assets – including the National Labs, universities, the private sector, and small business – to develop and bring to bear technologies designed to protect critical infrastructure, identify threats, and prevent potential attacks.” http://votesmart.org/public-statement/369380/issue-position-homeland-security#.VYREyXUVhHw (votesmart.org) “I support a comprehensive foreign policy strategy that will counter the philosophy of religious extremism and anti-American venom that we are currently battling. This means policies that understand and respect other nations and encourages self-determination, democracy, human rights, economic development, and much greater access to education, health care, and jobs.” https://adamsmith.house.gov/issues/international-leadership (adamsmith.house.gov) New York Times “For the first time in our history, an entity has declared a covert war against us. And we are using similar elements of American power to respond to that covert war.” http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/15/world/15shadowwar.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0 (www.nytimes.com) “During our trip, we were able to learn more about SOCOM's excellent work in Southeast Asia and get a better sense of the global challenge we face from the spread of a violent, totalitarian ideology. One thing is clear following this trip: the next president faces an enormous challenge in rebalancing our worldwide force distribution to adequately fight terrorism in nations other than Iraq.” https://adamsmith.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/smith-leads-counter-terrorism-delegation-to-pacific-region (adamsmith.house.gov) “Going forward, we must use technology as a tool for securing our nation and fighting the war on terrorism. This means leveraging our national assets – including the National Labs, universities, the private sector, and small business – to develop and bring to bear technologies designed to protect critical infrastructure, identify threats, and prevent potential attacks.” http://votesmart.org/public-statement/369380/issue-position-homeland-security#.VYREyXUVhHw (votesmart.org) “I support a comprehensive foreign policy strategy that will counter the philosophy of religious extremism and anti-American venom that we are currently battling. This means policies that understand and respect other nations and encourages self-determination, democracy, human rights, economic development, and much greater access to education, health care, and jobs.” https://adamsmith.house.gov/issues/international-leadership (adamsmith.house.gov) New York Times “For the first time in our history, an entity has declared a covert war against us. And we are using similar elements of American power to respond to that covert war.” http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/15/world/15shadowwar.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0 (www.nytimes.com)
Regarding the targeting of suspected terrorists, it depends greatly on what one means by "outside of official theaters of conflict." I support strikes in places like Yemen and Somalia where Al-Qaeda affiliates directly threaten us. But in almost all other places, no.

Social Security

No		Do you support allowing individuals to divert a portion of their Social Security taxes into personal retirement accounts?
I oppose means to unnecessarily subject Social Security's benefits to market risks. Privatizing Social Security would result in large costs to the Federal Government and it would remove the guaranteed benefit on which most individuals depend.

Spending and Taxes

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.

Maintain Status		a) Agriculture
Maintain Status		b) Arts
Slightly Decrease		c) Defense
Slightly Increase		d) Education
Slightly Increase		e) Environment
Maintain Status		f) Homeland Security
Slightly Increase		g) International aid
Slightly Increase		h) Medical Research
Slightly Increase		i) Scientific Research
Maintain Status		j) Space exploration
Slightly Increase		k) United Nations
Maintain Status		l) Welfare
Slightly Increase		m) Other or expanded categories
Slightly Increase		a) Capital gains taxes
Slightly Increase		b) Corporate taxes
Slightly Increase		c) Excise taxes (alcohol)
Slightly Increase		d) Excise taxes (cigarettes)
Slightly Increase		e) Excise taxes (transportation fuel)
Maintain Status		f) Income taxes (low-income families)
Maintain Status		g) Income taxes (middle-income families)
Slightly Increase		h) Income taxes (high-income families)
Slightly Increase		i) Inheritance taxes
Maintain Status		j) Payroll taxes
		k) Other or expanded categories
Infrastructure. Responsible investment in our infrastructure is an important and effective means of creating well paying jobs and supporting economic growth.

Administrative Priorities

1: Broad based economic opportunity. 2: Keeping up with global competition in all sectors by providing workers with training, retraining, and access to continued education that promotes innovation and job growth in Washington State. 3: Fiscal responsibility where increased revenue plays an keystone role in bringing the deficit under control. I oppose balancing our budget by simply gutting government programs that are crucial to the middle class and poor.

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Adam Smith's Issue Positions (Political Courage Test)

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Issue Positions

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.

Abortion

Afghanistan

Budget

Campaign Finance

Capital Punishment

Economy

Education

Energy

Environment

Guns

Health Care

Immigration

Marriage

National Security

Social Security

Spending and Taxes

Administrative Priorities

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