Issue Position:

Issue Position

Our government's first responsibility -- and a fundamental principle outlined in our Constitution -- is to provide for the common defense of our nation. Congress must ensure that the United States has the military capabilities necessary to respond to current and possible future threats from actively or potentially hostile sources. To safeguard the security of Idahoans and our nation, I support:

*Using all available financial tools to disrupt and seize terrorist funding

*Engaging in intensive public diplomacy to show the world the true nature of America and the importance of democracy and human rights

*Using our intelligence agencies effectively and continuing to improve the quality of our intelligence

*Using and developing technology to defend our skies, borders, and citizens

*Working with foreign states to combat hotspots of hatred and promote tolerance

*Working with our allies whenever possible to meet shared security challenges

*Striving to keep confrontations between the terrorists and Americans far from American soil

Idaho is home to the 366th Fighter Wing and some of the Air Force's most impressive assets and capabilities. I am proud of the men and women stationed at Mountain Home Air Force Base as well as those who serve in the Idaho Army National Guard and Idaho Air National Guard. We owe them a debt of gratitude for their unwavering commitment to the defense of our nation.
All our military branches face increasing budget pressures and strain due to our national debt and rapid growth of mandatory spending programs. As the Air Force deals with how to handle budget cuts and manage necessary force structure changes, I will continue to be a strong advocate for Mountain Home Air Force Base and the Idaho National Guard. I will continue to advocate for the A-10 and future flying missions at Gowen Field.
While it's imperative that our government lives within its means, I am committed to ensuring that the benefits for the service members and veterans who have sacrificed so much for our country are safeguarded. We have a responsibility to fulfill the promises we have made to the honorable men and women who have served our nation and protected our freedoms.
Finally, I support and am fighting for the approval of Keystone Pipeline because it will help North America increase its energy security by reducing reliance on foreign resources from volatile countries and regions around the globe.

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