Weekly Columns

Even in a year of severe drought, continued high unemployment, economic struggle, natural disaster, and a negative and divisive election, Americans have much to be thankful for.

Whether your side won or lost, all Americans can still feel pride and appreciation for a peaceful democratic system that remains a model for the world. Although many may have been inconvenienced by long lines or inefficient voting processes, no one had to risk his or her life to vote.

In once again electing a Republican House of Representatives, Democratic Senate and Democratic White House, the American people voted to maintain the status quo in Washington's balance of power. While the composition of the legislative and executive branches may remain the same, a continuation of current economic policies is not an option.

The last unemployment report to be released before the election reiterates how far we have to go to reach pre-recession levels of prosperity. The 7.9 percent unemployment rate recorded for October is up slightly from September's 7.8 percent. Even more discouraging, it is slightly higher than the 7.8 percent recorded when President Obama first took office while the recession was at its peak.

As information continues to emerge about the September 11 terrorist attack in Libya, evidence has grown stronger that the Obama administration's response, both before and after the assault, was inadequate at best.

In a recent speech, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton made the case that energy policy plays a crucial role in both America's national security and our economic security. Speaking at Georgetown University on October 18, Secretary Clinton stated, "Today, energy cuts across the entirety of U.S. foreign policy. It is a matter of national security and global stability. It is at the heart of the global economy." Clinton emphasized that "energy is essential to how we will power our economy and manage our environment in the 21st century."

In less than 90 days, the military will face devastating spending cuts accompanied by massive lay-offs to the defense industry unless President Obama and Senate Democrats work with House Republicans to stop the sequester. Everyone in Washington agrees that the $492 billion in automatic, arbitrary military spending cuts known as sequestration would be disastrous for both our defense capabilities and our economy. It is absolutely unacceptable that the president and Senate have allowed the process to advance this far without offering solutions.

Almost one month after the September 11 attack on the consulate in Benghazi, Libya, that killed four Americans, the Obama administration's constantly evolving explanations raise more questions than answers.

The latest discouraging economic news provides a sobering reminder of exactly what is at stake when Congress reconvenes to address the "fiscal cliff" issues at the end of this year. The most recent economic growth report shows almost no growth to speak of. At a weak 1.3 percent for the quarter, the economic growth rate showed a decline from the previous quarter's 2 percent growth and is well below the 1.7 percent growth that had been projected.