Without a doubt, the economic conditions we face now are like no other since the Great Depression.  News reports and expert opinions on the future range from “we’re in a recovery” to “we’re in for a long ride” to economic growth.   At the end of the day, virtually all issues facing District 5 are tied to the economic stability of our district, Alabama, and our nation.  And preserving and creating jobs are at the heart of this issue.

Everything from education, to infrastructure, to ethics are tied to the issue of the economy.

Excessive taxes and government regulation stifle productivity and production.  Businesses have the right to expect that government will be held accountable when spending their tax dollars.  I will oppose any tax that places the burden too heavily on any one sector of Alabama’s economy.  I will work to reduce wasteful government spending and ensure government accountability when spending taxpayer dollars.

Alabama is and should remain a right-to-work state.  I will contest any effort to eliminate the process of secret ballot voting in union elections.

Quality education is essential to adequately prepare the future business leaders of Alabama. It also guarantees businesses will have a qualified pool of potential employees to choose from. In order to ensure excellence in our schools, I will strive to make certain that the money designated for education in Alabama in spent on improving the experience in the classroom.  This includes programs such as distance learning, the Alabama reading initiative, and a quality pre-K program.

Environmental and energy legislation should not be enacted at the expense of Alabama businesses. I support environmental legislation that will still allow for sound economic growth.  I will also oppose a climate change policy that will put Alabama and Southeastern businesses at a disadvantage and ultimately result in higher energy costs for both businesses and private residences.