Weekly Columns

The state of our nation’s economy is easily the issue that should concern our leaders, lawmakers and citizens most. Not only does it impact who we are and how we’re perceived today, but it also determines what kind of country our children and grandchildren will get to enjoy in the days and years ahead.

Throughout our great history spanning more than 237 years, the United States has been recognized as a land of opportunity, where success can be achieved regardless of where you’ve come from. This American dream never fails to inspire old and young alike, and it will continue to motivate future generations to pursue big dreams, think creatively and foster new ideas.

This season marks a time of thankfulness, giving and reflecting. We remember rich and bountiful harvests of days past, even before we became a nation, and we collectively embrace that same spirit of gratitude today.

Since its passage and throughout the implementation of the Affordable Care Act, nothing has gone as promised, planned or expected by President Obama. Instead, the entire country has watched him try to dodge or make excuses for every barricade or bump along the road. Each roadblock has led Americans to seriously question the president’s ability to lead and lowered confidence in his promises.

We are a blessed nation indeed. Throughout our more than 237-year history, countless men and women have selflessly answered the call to protect our freedom and preserve liberty by serving in the military. On Veterans Day, we remember these individuals, their bravery and sacrifice. As we commemorate those who have come before to secure and preserve independence, honor those currently serving to keep us safe and as we support military families in our neighborhoods, join me in showing your appreciation.

Even before passage of his healthcare law, President Obama promised numerous times, “If you like your healthcare plan, you can keep it.” But as millions of Americans have realized since the roll-out of Obamacare and its failed website, that is far from the truth. Now we’re watching the president back up and try to find cover for misleading the country and selling something that never existed as it was presented.

Political opinions aside, it is clear that our economy is broken and that our debt is growing at an alarming rate. In fact, the bipartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) recently called our situation “unsustainable indefinitely.” The entire nation was reminded and awakened to this grave reality over the last several weeks—first with the lapse in appropriated funds that caused shutdown and second with the debt ceiling deadline that, without action, would have resulted in default.