My name is Norm Semanko and I am running for Congress in Idaho's First District. I was raised in North Idaho and currently live in Eagle. This makes me the only candidate who has lived in both parts of the district, and it gives me a unique perspective on the issues that face us all.
I am the only candidate who has experience working in Congress. I was an aide to Congressman and now Senator Larry Craig, so I know how to get things done and can hit the ground running.
There are many important issues, including overspending in Congress. They need to understand that it is our money they are spending not theirs. It is important that we pass a balanced budget amendment, because it appears that is the only way to get Congress to balance the budget. Our tax system needs to be changed. I would favor looking at a flat tax or a national sales tax. We must make sure that it is fair to everyone and easy to understand. I will work to cut the size of the federal government and will oppose increasing our taxes.
Another important issue is illegal immigration. I believe that illegal means illegal. People who want to follow our laws are more than welcome to come here and become part of our great nation. My wife followed the rules and waited five years to come here from the old Soviet Union, she is now an American citizen. Those who come here in any other way have broken our laws and must not be rewarded. We must secure our borders and stop the stream of illegals who are pouring across. Congress has ignored this issue for too many years and that is why we have the problems we have today. The bottom line is YES we must secure our borders, NO to any kind of amnesty, and NO to any kind of reward for those who break our laws.
The protection and proper management of our public lands must not be forgotten and multiple use is essential. Public lands must be protected for the people, not from the people. Our water must also be protected and decisions on its use must be made here in Idaho.
I support education choices and opportunities. The decisions on how to educate our children should be made as close to home as possible, by the state, the school districts and by parents. I am committed to working for education savings accounts, tuition tax credits and the deductibility of student loan interest.
I support our troops and will make sure they have the best training and equipment possible. The treatment of our veterans must also be a top priority. They deserve no less for putting their lives on the line for all of us.
I ask for your support and your vote on May 23rd.