Issues

ONLINE STATE CHECKBOOK – Transparent Government Spending

We live in unusual times. Many states, along with corporations which have created record deficits, are lining up to be bailed out from the results of their poor decisions and out of control spending. However, Arkansas is unique: here we are blessed to have a Constitutional requirement forcing lawmakers to balance the budget. Although that helps restrain legislative spending, we taxpaying citizens don't always know where our hard-earned money is being spent, and we have a right to. We need checks and balances in our government. We must hold accountable the current "Good Ol' Boy" system that has run this state for decades. As Lt. Governor, I will not only hold my office accountable for its spending but will be a leader toward responsible spending in our entire state government. When spending information is readily available to the public through the Online State Checkbook, Arkansans will see who is receiving our money and exactly how much they're getting.

LOWER TAXES

Over the last several years, we have seen small tax cuts which have been negated by tax increases in other areas. Now, in the face of potentially decreasing revenues, our state government is meeting to consider raising taxes again. Instead, I believe government needs to eliminate wasteful spending. This money is your money. Raising taxes should be the last option to consider, not the first. When we see surpluses again, which I am sure we will in the future, your money should be returned to you. As Lt. Governor, I will seek to make our government smaller, less expensive, rather than larger.

FAMILY VALUES - Uphold Traditional Marriage & Protect Unborn Babies

This is an issue on which many people straddle the fence. Some say they oppose same sex marriages but support same sex unions. Others say they are against same sex marriage but are in favor of allowing same sex couples to adopt. And some say they are against abortion but support a woman's right to choose. We cannot remain silent and do not need to be ashamed to voice our conservative beliefs. The current liberal leaders of this state continue to introduce and vote for laws stemming from beliefs that we, traditionally, do not share. As Lt. Governor, I will always fight for traditional family values and for the rights of unborn children.

PRO SMALL BUSINESS & PRO NEW JOBS

I have been a small business owner now for several years. I have personally dealt with pay-cuts when business weakens and have endured the sacrifices required to make payroll. I know what it is like to pay taxes each month. As Lt. Governor, I will always fight for the small business owner and for their rights. Small business owners are the backbone of our state's economy. They need our support instead of the punishment of more taxes. In doing so, we will encourage others with an entrepreneurial spirit to start new businesses which will create more jobs. Small business owners need to know they have a conservative and supportive voice in the State Capitol. As Lt. Governor, I'll oppose legislation that gives more power to unions and special interests at the expense of benefits to business owners. I will not only fight for these principles here at home, but I will lobby our elected officials in Washington to remember them as well.