I am running for Congress because Idaho needs to elect someone who knows what it means to make ends meet. Someone who can tackle the challenges we face like ballooning federal deficits and debt. Someone who can stand up for Idaho values in the bowels of the Beltway. Someone who has the proven leadership to draw people together to solve these problems.
As a native Idahoan, I understand the values of the First District. I understand the importance of freedom and personal responsibility; care and use of our public lands; a healthy rural economy; fiscal responsibility; and opportunity for those who work hard.
As State Controller in Oklahoma, I experienced the Oklahoma City bombing first-hand. I know what needs to be done during a tragedy like that because I had to do it.
As Deputy Controller in Orange County, California, I was recruited to help bring Orange County out of the largest municipal bankruptcy in American history. It is proven leadership like this that I will bring to Congress to steer our federal government away from out-of-control spending.
As State Controller in Idaho, I sign your tax refund check. But I do much more. I manage billions of tax dollars. I also serve on the Land Board, which manages our state's public lands, and have a solid record of supporting responsible, multiple uses. I will take that to Congress.
It is impossible to know every issue that I will face as your Congressman, but it is fair for Idahoans to know how I will represent them. Idahoans can look at my principles and know that they make me the man I am today. They shape my philosophy and will guide me in Congress.
Let me highlight Five Important Freedoms: Freedom from Financial Bondage; Freedom from Foreign Influence; Freedom from Federal Regulation; Freedom from Attacks on Faith and Family; and Freedom for America's Future.
Each of these freedoms begins with an integral component of the Republican Party philosophy of personal responsibility. I will remind Congress that personal responsibility fosters liberty.
I will work to free Idahoans from financial bondage by emphasizing the desperate need to pay down our debts and spend only what is necessary at the federal level.
I will work to free Idahoans from unwanted foreign influence. Illegal immigration, dependence upon foreign energy and terrorism pose a threat to our long term freedom and our national security.
I will reduce the burden of federal regulation. Too much regulation is unnecessary, wasteful, and misdirected. I will work to return authority to state and local government.
And finally with your vote, I will work to ensure Americans have passed on a legacy of liberty to future generations, protect the Constitution and its principles of individual rights and responsibilities, and protect our faith and our families.