JOUR-PAC is pleased to announce our official endorsement of ten Illinois JOUR-PAC Reformers running for re-election in 2018. These ten Illinois state legislators have served their districts, state, and country honorably and have worked hard to promote Justice, Opportunity, and United Reform. We are pleased to endorse them for re-election.
Note: JOUR-PAC is focused mainly on federal Congressional races, so we do not endorse in all state legislature races, and we do not follow the bills/actions in the state legislatures as closely as we do the ones in Congress. Additionally, our support for state legislators is based on their leadership of some issue(s) that is/are important to JOUR-PAC. As always, our endorsement and reformer induction does not represent a 100% agreement with all of their views, but instead, it represents our appreciation of their leadership on important issues. State Senator Michael Connelly (R-IL SD 21): Criminal Justice Reform: "llinois takes another step toward reducing recidivism with the governor's signing today of Senate Bill 1607, which makes corrections to the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Act (Public Act 99-0938). Among the provisions of Senate Bill 1607 are: enhancing judges' capacity to ensure sentencing compliance supports rehabilitation by allowing court services-approved treatment to count toward community service hours; requiring individualized case planning for the IDOC's reentry programming, with a focus on the final year before release; establishing coordinated reentry programming with local, state and community partners; and ensuring programming provides skills and materials necessary for departing inmates' successful return to communities. The bill further addresses best practices for parolee supervision; establishes within the Illinois Housing Development Authority the Frequent Users System Engagement initiative to target chronic homelessness among those exiting the prison system; and strengthens the state's violence prevention services. The latter includes a requirement that the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority submit a four-year strategic plan specifically addressing victim and trauma recovery. "This bill further supports the bipartisan effort that has been taking place in this state to fix our criminal justice system," said state Sen. Michael Connelly, R-Naperville, a Senate sponsor of the legislation. "Criminal justice reform and reducing the state's prison population is something the Rauner Administration has taken very seriously, and it's a topic that continues to have support from both sides of the aisle." State Senator Tom Rooney (R-IL SD 27): Justice for Victims of Sexual Assault #1: "To everybody who’s asking in a conspiracy-suspecting tone “why are these allegations coming forward now?”: I have two words for you — Harvey Weinstein. Or these two words — #MeToo. It’s neither a mystery nor a conspiracy." Justice for Victims of Sexual Assault #2: "Apparently Roy Moore’s disastrous selfishness is still in gear." Follow him on Twitter: https://twitter.com/sentomrooney State Senator Karen McConnaughay (R-IL SD 33): Criminal Justice Reform: Governor Bruce Rauner today, joined by Secretary of State Jesse White, Sen. Kwame Raoul (D-Chicago), Sen. Karen McConnaughay (R-St. Charles), Rep. La Shawn K. Ford (D-Chicago), and other elected officials at A Safe Haven in Chicago, signed Senate Bill 3368, legislation to ensure that any person being released from the Department of Corrections (DOC) or Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) has a valid state identification card upon release. "Offenders who have done their time deserve a fair shot once leaving Illinois' correctional facilities. The simple act of providing low-level offenders with identification will help them to secure employment, housing, and establish financial stability," said Sen. McConnaughay, a member of the Illinois State Commission on Criminal Justice and Sentencing Reform. "I want to thank Governor Rauner for his leadership in the ongoing effort to reform Illinois' criminal justice system. Offering men and women an easier transition upon release will boost their opportunity for personal success. Moreover, the state as a whole will benefit from these types of commonsense reforms, which reduce recidivism and shrink the state's prison population." Follow her on Twitter: https://twitter.com/kmcconnaughay33 State Senator Sue Rezin (R-IL SD 38): Leading in Promoting Respect & Compassion: "Sen. Rezin is pleased to announce the Parental Rights for the Blind Act is now law in Illinois (effective Jan. 2018). This picture is from earlier this year when Sen. Rezin presented this legislation in a Senate Committee with Bill Reif, from the National Federation of the blind of Illinois. Under this new law, a person’s blindness could never be the basis of a denial of parenting time or responsibilities, denial of being able to adopt a child, or denial of foster care or guardianship. Sen. Rezin wants to thank Julietta Meyer, a friend of Sen. Rezin's, and her daughter, Emma, who is blind, for bringing this important issue forward." Follow her on Twitter: https://twitter.com/SenatorRezin State Representative Grant Wehrli (R-IL HD 41): Leading in Promoting Respect & Compassion: "One of the benefits of being the greatest country in the world is having the ability to help those from underdeveloped countries. Helping those less fortunate is what makes us... Americans." Leading in Promoting Respect & Compassion #2: "The Republican Party I believe in is welcoming to all. We all must take a stand against racism in all its forms and wherever we find it." Campaign Website: http://grant4illinois.com/ State Representative Sheri Jesiel (R-IL HD 61): Fighting Human Trafficking: "Governor Bruce Rauner today signed a bill to take action in combatting human trafficking. This bill protects victims who often have language barriers, emotional challenges or economic hardships by creating a Task Force to look at how the State of Illinois can partner with agencies across the state to counter these egregious offenses of human exploitation. "Human trafficking is all too pervasive, even in Illinois, but it largely goes unnoticed despite the severe impact of the crime," said Representative Sheri Jesiel (R-Winthrop Harbor). "I am proud of this legislation that will help bring this difficult issue of human trafficking to light so we can fight it and effectively support those impacted, ultimately rescuing many more victims from exploitation." Campaign Website: https://sherijesielforrep.com/ State Representative Tony McCombie (R-IL HD 71): Leading in Promoting Respect & Compassion: "As the Mayor of Savanna, Illinois Tony McCombie has a proven, nonpartisan record of finding ways to work together to improve efficiencies and solve problems that have promoted growth and morale throughout Savanna and Carroll County. Tony is running for state representative to work for all of the district and to end the culture of corruption and complacency in Springfield. She understands the need to work in a bipartisan way to develop and deliver common sense reform to Illinois." Campaign Website: https://mccombieforillinois.com/ State Representative Tim Butler (R-IL HD 87): Criminal Justice Reform: "Gov. Bruce Rauner is building on his efforts to improve outcomes for individuals who are incarcerated in Illinois. He toured Logan Correctional Center, the female inmate facility in Lincoln, just before signing House Bill 1479 and solidifying the creation of a new women's division within the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC). House Bill 1479 comes on the heels of passage of House Bill 3904, the Women's Correctional Services Act. These historic pieces of legislation require the IDOC to appoint a chief administrator for the women's division, incorporate gender-responsive programming, and address the specific challenges that female offenders face. "The creation of a women's division within the Department of Corrections is a major step forward for our state," said Rep. Tim Butler, R-Springfield. "This division will focus resources to address the specific needs of women who are incarcerated and will make Illinois a leader on trauma-informed services specific to the female population in our correctional system. I applaud my colleagues who championed this legislation and Gov. Rauner for his commitment to reforming our criminal justice system." Follow him on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RepTimButler State Representative Tom Demmer (R-IL HD 90): Civil Asset Forfeiture Reform: "Gov. Bruce Rauner today signed HB303, bipartisan legislation aimed at reforming Illinois' asset forfeiture system. The reforms will increase transparency and shift burdens of proof to protect innocent citizens while maintaining the proper use of asset forfeiture as a tool for law enforcement. Gov. Rauner was joined by Illinois State Police (ISP) officials, ACLU members, legislators, and advocate organizations. "Illinois residents should be protected from the unfair seizure of their private property," Gov. Rauner said. "This legislation will enact needed reforms to prevent abuse of the civil asset forfeiture process, while maintaining its importance as a critical tool for law enforcement to make our communities safer." HB 303 also shifts the burden of proving guilt to the government, and increases the burden of proof to mirror that of the federal government in forfeiture cases from probable cause to a preponderance of the evidence, a fair and equitable standard. It also makes a number of other changes such as eliminating restrictive bonding requirements and adjusting the threshold amounts of money subject to forfeiture as well as the levels of cannabis and controlled substance possession that can lead to forfeiture proceedings as a way to thoughtfully limit the use of this system to its intended purposes. "Civil asset forfeiture reform is an important step to ensure the Constitutional rights of Illinoisans are being protected," said state Rep. Tom Demmer (R-Rochelle). "This law protects property rights, reduces the chance for abuses of power, and defends the rights of the individual. I'm proud to support this bipartisan initiative." Campaign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/teamdemmer State Representative Avery Bourne (R-IL HD 95): Justice for Child Victims of Sexual Assault: "Legislation that removes the statute of limitations for prosecution of felony sex crimes against minors has been signed into law by Governor Bruce Rauner. The bill’s Co-Sponsor, Representative Avery Bourne (R-Raymond), hailed the signing of Senate Bill 189 as a significant victory in the fight for child victims’ rights. Rep. Bourne stated, “This legislation was a bipartisan bill that was unanimously approved in the House and Senate.” She added, “With this change in state law there are no limitations on when an abuser can be charged after the crime occurs. Survivors of child sexual assault will hopefully be encouraged to come forward and seek justice in their own time.” Senate Bill 189, signed into law as Public Act 100-0080, provides that when the victim is under 18 years of age at the time of the offense, a prosecution for criminal sexual assault, aggravated criminal sexual assault, predatory criminal sexual assault of a child, aggravated criminal sexual abuse, or criminal sexual abuse may be initiated at any time. Under previous laws, many cases held a 10-year or 20-year statute of limitation for prosecution." Campaign Website: https://averybourne.com/ See all of our 2018 Endorsements here: JOUR-PAC 2018 Endorsements!
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JOUR-PAC is pleased to announce our official endorsement of thirteen Texas JOUR-PAC Reformers running for re-election in 2018. These ten Texas state legislators have served their districts, state, and country honorably and have worked hard to promote Justice, Opportunity, and United Reform. We are pleased to endorse them for re-election.
Note: JOUR-PAC is focused mainly on federal Congressional races, so we do not endorse in all state legislature races, and we do not follow the bills/actions in the state legislatures as closely as we do the ones in Congress. Additionally, our support for state legislators is based on their leadership of some issue(s) that is/are important to JOUR-PAC. As always, our endorsement and reformer induction does not represent a 100% agreement with all of their views, but instead, it represents our appreciation of their leadership on important issues. State Senator Charles Schwertner (R-TX SD 05): Protecting Children from Abuse and Trafficking: "Today, Senator Charles Schwertner, MD (R-Georgetown) filed SB 1208, new legislation to improve outdated licensing standards for foster homes and other related child care settings and provide new, specialized care options for child abuse victims. "All too often, our state child care facilities have failed to meet the unique needs of children victimized by sexual abuse or other severe traumas," said Schwertner. "By creating a more focused structure for child care licensing, SB 1208 will provide the opportunity to serve the children of Texas more effectively, and in the most appropriate care setting for their individual needs." “The Governor’s office is working with public and private partners to meet the unique needs of child sex trafficking victims, added Andrea Sparks, Director of Governor Abbot's Sex Trafficking Team. "The new licensing options proposed by Senator Schwertner would provide the flexibility that we need to develop and sustain the specialized placements these survivors need to heal and thrive.” Campaign Website: http://www.drschwertner.com/ State Senator Konni Burtion (R-TX SD 10): Criminal Justice Reform: "Criminal Justice reform is an issue I’ve been proud to lead on. With bipartisan support Texas has begun to lead the way in smart reforms to the criminal justice system that are improving our society. What separates great nations from others is the rule of law. I believe that public safety and the promotion of law and order is a cornerstone of a safe, democratic society. However, government systems possess numerous inefficiencies and flaws, and when our system of criminal justice has the power to deprive citizens of their liberty, property, and even life, we must be extremely cautious and critical. I will continue to support and author reforms for non-violent offenses so our system does not over-criminalize and does not create onerous barriers to employment for those who have paid their debt to society." Campaign Website: http://konniburton.com/ State Senator Don Huffines (R-TX SD 16): Promoting Opportunity & Reforming Justice System: "Today in Austin, Senator Don Huffines (R-Dallas) joined the Senate Finance Committee as Chairwoman Jane Nelson and other Senators discussed the financial aspects of ending the "driver responsibility program" (DRP). First instituted in 2003, the DRP imposes points on drivers licenses for moving violations, adding an additional costly surcharge that Texans must pay (above and beyond the initial fines and charges for the moving violation itself). Those Texans who cannot afford to pay their DRP surcharge eventually lose their license, which leads to other negative ramifications for those individuals and their families. The following statement is attributable to Senator Huffines: "The DRP is state government at its worst. By causing over 1.2 million Texans to lose their drivers licenses, the program ruins lives and erects a barrier between honest, hardworking Texans and their livelihoods. Without a means to get to work, too many Texans are losing their jobs thanks to state government's hunger for money. While getting the state's finances right is important, I'm most concerned with the financial situation this program forces on my constituents and millions of other Texans who the state is entrapping in debtors' prison." Campaign Website: http://www.donhuffines.com/ State Senator Joan Huffman (R-TX SD 17): Ending Human Trafficking: "Prior to the 83rd session, I served on the Joint Interim Committee to Study Human Trafficking. At hearings around the state, heart-wrenching stories were heard of enslavement from trafficking survivors, many of whom were forced into prostitution when they were still children. Testimony from experts was instrumental in identifying issues relating to how we detect the crime, how to help and protect human trafficking victims, and how to more effectively prosecute the traffickers. Much of the human trafficking legislation passed during the last session came about as a direct result of recommendations made by our committee. I authored Senate Bill 12, which gives prosecutors powerful legal tools to use in cases where minors under the age of 18 are being trafficked for sex. House Bill 8, authored by State Representative Senfronia Thompson- the companion to another bill I co-authored in the Senate- increases prison time for traffickers and also provides important victim protections. Other legislation I supported helps victims by providing them with the ability to recover actual damages and court costs from online prostitution and human traffickers. Those victims that seek shelter are now assured that the location of the shelter must be kept private, and they are now eligible for reimbursement for relocation under the Crime Victims Compensation Act." Campaign Website: http://www.joanhuffman.com/ State Senator Donna Campbell (R-TX SD 25): Mental Health Support for Veterans: "The Veteran Affairs committees emphasized mental health care this session with the goal of preventing suicide attempts and other health issues that too often negatively impact veterans and their families,” Sen. Campbell said. “Texas has always looked after our veterans, and the Help for Texas Heroes Act strengthens our commitment to those who have answered the call to serve this great nation.” The latest figures from the Veterans Administration suggest that approximately 20 veterans tragically lose their lives to suicide every day. The Help for Texas Heroes Act takes steps to reduce that figure by addressing the shortage of field clinicians, particularly in rural areas. “This bill had overwhelming bipartisan support from day one,” said Senator Campbell. “I am especially thankful to Representative Blanco for carrying it in the House, to Lieutenant Governor Patrick for giving it a low bill number, and to Governor Abbott for enthusiastically signing it into law.” Campaign Website: http://www.donnacampbell.com/ State Representative James White (R-TX HD 19): (A U.S. Army Veteran) Juvenile Justice Reform: "During the 84th Legislative Session, State Representative James White served as a member of the Juvenile Justice and Family Issues Committee. That session, Rep. White authored legislation that promoted legislation that supported Texas children, strengthened families, and provided for statewide truancy reform. As part of 85th session, Rep. White continued his work to pass meaningful reforms in the juvenile justice and foster care systems. His legislation allows for stronger communication and transparency between agencies that provide services to Texas children (House Bills 1521 & 2904) and creates a process for foster children to receive proper identification and receive assistance in applying to institutions of higher learning (HB 3338 & 928)." Campaign Website: http://www.votejameswhite.com/ State Representative Matt Shaheen (R-TX HD 66): Criminal Justice Reform: "During his tenure as Commissioner, Matt served on the Conference of Urban Counties Policy Committee, the Texas Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee and the Council of Governments Criminal Justice Committee. The Representative also leads a bible study for inmates in the county jail." Campaign Website: http://mattshaheen.com/index.html State Representative Jeff Leach (R-TX HD 67): Protecting Victims of Sex Offenders: "Our neighborhoods must be safe and I am proud to support and advocate for tough laws that keep dangerous criminals off of our streets. Specifically, during the 84th Legislative Session I passed landmark legislation cracking down on sexual offenders in our communities. As I have always done, I will continue to advocate for smart and strong criminal justice policies in Texas." Campaign Website: http://jeffleach.com/ State Representative Brooks Landgraf (R-TX HD 81): Protecting Victims of Domestic Violence: "“Monica's Law,” filed as House Bill 2315, is awaiting a vote after being presented in a Texas House committee. State Representative Brooks Landgraf (R-Odessa) filed the legislation to prevent domestic violence by increasing accessibility to information about individuals with a history of domestic violence. The bill aims to create a publicly searchable database listing protective orders issued by Texas courts. “I filed this legislation after working closely with Monica’s family and I'm proud of them for coming to the Texas Capitol to share their story,” Landgraf said. “By providing gripping testimony, they are helping turn tragedy into triumph by helping prevent others from becoming victims of domestic violence.” "There is nothing we can do to bring Monica back, but maybe this could save somebody else," Jon Nielsen, Monica’s father and a retired Odessa police officer, stated in front of the committee. Monica Deming, the namesake behind the proposed law, was murdered by an abusive ex-boyfriend. He shot and killed the 32 year-old mother in her Odessa home on November 29, 2015, several weeks after she broke off the relationship. At least two protective orders for domestic violence had previously been issued against him, but he was easily able to keep them secret by gaming the current system." Campaign Website: http://www.brookslandgraf.com/ State Representative Stephanie Klick (R-TX HD 91): Compassionate Use & Cannabidiol (CBD) Oil: "This afternoon the Texas Compassionate Use Act, filed by Senator Kevin Eltife and Representative Stephanie Klick, was passed on third and final reading in the Texas House of Representatives on a 108-38 vote. It had previously passed the Texas Senate on a 26-5 vote. This legislation, Senate Bill 339, will now head to Governor Greg Abbott’s desk for his consideration. Senate Bill 339 will allow patients with intractable epilepsy access to cannabidiol (CBD) oil. Intractable epilepsy afflicts an estimated 149,000 people in Texas. Patients with intractable epilepsy can suffer hundreds of severe seizures each week. These individuals are at a higher risk for a shortened life span, excessive bodily injury, neurophyscological and mental health impairment, and social disability. Representative Klick stated, “I am excited for the families of those patients who will be affected by the passage of this bill. Intractable epilepsy is a difficult disease to live with and I am excited that there is another treatment option for those who suffer from it. I am grateful for Senator Eltife’s leadership in the Senate, the support of my fellow colleagues in the House, and the tireless advocacy of these families. This bill is a big win for Texas families.” Campaign Website: http://www.stephanieklick.com/ State Representative Jonathan Stickland (R-TX HD 92): Protecting Civil Liberties & 4th Amendment: "With government growing all around us, it is important that we never give up any liberty in the name of “public safety”. Our founding fathers warned us that, in doing so, things would end badly. The 4th Amendment should protect our right to privacy, but it is under constant threat. That is why we need representatives who not only vote the right way, but champion and fight for individual liberty. -Authored House Bill 2268 in the 83rd, which was tacked on as an amendment, to include strongest email privacy act in the nation -Authored House Bill 142 in the 84th, which sought to end red light cameras in Texas -Joint Authored House Bill 912 banning drone surveillance of private property during the 83rd Legislative Session." Campaign Website: http://jonathanstickland.com/ State Representative Matt Krause (R-TX HD 93): Protecting Victims of Sex Offenders: "Today the Texas House of Representatives passed H.B. 3387, which gives the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles the statutory authority to prescribe sex offender treatment as a condition of an offender’s parole. “The Board of Pardons and Paroles has been operating under the authority of case law since 2005,” said Rep. Matt Krause. “H.B. 3387 amends the law so that the Board has authority, concurrent with the court’s opinions, to impose a sex offender treatment program as a condition of parole for certain offenders.” “The goal of H.B. 3387 and the ‘Coleman’ Process is to ensure that the Board of Pardons and Paroles has the statutory authority they need in order to protect the integrity of the parole process,” said Rep. Matt Krause. “We have an obligation to the public and to the offenders in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice to provide a treatment program for those offenders being paroled while preserving the right of due process of law.” Campaign Website: https://www.mattkrause.org/ State Representative Angie Chen Button (R-TX HD 112): Promoting Reforms: "She promotes job creation and free markets by chairing the Economic and Small Business Development Committee. During the 84th legislative session, Angie authored HB 26 reforming economic development incentive programs to provide oversight and performance metrics. She also served on the Ways and Means Committee which provided nearly $3.9B in tax reductions. Now Angie serves on the Higher Education Committee to better prepare young Texans for the future." Campaign Website: http://www.angiebutton.com/ See all of our 2018 Endorsements here: JOUR-PAC 2018 Endorsements! JOUR-PAC is pleased to announce our official endorsement of a JOUR-PAC Reformer running for re-election in 2018. This U.S. Representative from West Virginia has served his district, state, and country honorably and has worked hard to promote Justice, Opportunity, and United Reform. We are pleased to endorse him for re-election.
Rep. Alex Mooney (R-WV 02): JOUR-PAC Highlights: --Original Co-Sponsor of S.581/H.R.1554: Jessie's Law, a bi-partisan bill that requires the Department of Health and Human Services to develop and disseminate standards for hospitals and physicians regarding displaying the history of opioid addiction in the medical records of patients who have provided information about their addiction to a health care provider. --Helped Sponsor Bi-Partisan USA RIGHTS Act amendment to FISA Section 702 Reauthorization, to protect Americans’ Fourth Amendment rights. --Joined Bi-Partisan Coalition to oppose 6-year reauthorization of FISA Section 702 and fought to defend civil liberties and the 4th Amendment. Campaign Website: https://www.mooneyforcongress.com/ See all of our 2018 Endorsements here: JOUR-PAC 2018 Endorsements! JOUR-PAC is pleased to announce our official endorsement of three JOUR-PAC Reformers running for re-election in 2018. These three U.S. Representatives from Illinois have served their districts, state, and country honorably and have worked hard to promote Justice, Opportunity, and United Reform. We are pleased to endorse them for re-election.
Rep. Peter Roskam (R-IL 06): JOUR-PAC Highlights: --Bill Became Law: Original Co-Sponsor of H.R. 321: Inspiring the Next Space Pioneers, Innovators, Researchers, and Explorers (INSPIRE) Women Act, a bi-partisan law to direct NASA to encourage women and girls to study science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). --Bill Became Law: Original Co-Sponsor of H.R. 1: Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, a law that provides for tax reform and cuts for many Americans throughout our nation. --Lead Sponsor of S. 824/H.R. 1843: Clyde-Hirsch-Sowers RESPECT Act, a bi-partisan bill to reform the civil asset forfeiture system and protect civil liberties. Campaign Website: https://www.roskamforcongress.com/ Rep. Rodney Davis (R-IL 13): JOUR-PAC Highlights: --Bill Became Law: Original Co-Sponsor of H.R. 510: Rapid DNA Act of 2017, a bi-partisan law to help resolve DNA cases backlog and provide justice for victims. --Bill Became Law: Original Co-Sponsor of H.R. 321: Inspiring the Next Space Pioneers, Innovators, Researchers, and Explorers (INSPIRE) Women Act, a bi-partisan law to direct NASA to encourage women and girls to study science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). --Lead Sponsor of H.R. 795: Employer Participation in Student Loan Assistance Act, a bi-partisan bill to encourage employers to assist students in paying off their student loans by providing tax incentives to the employers. Campaign Website: https://electrodney.com/ Rep. Randy Hultgren (R-IL 14): Re-Election Statement: "I have tried my best to represent you well and I hope that you are proud of the way I have served you in Washington. This year, I am running because I want to continue fighting for opportunity for the people of the 14th District. It has been my goal to represent the great people of Illinois’ 14th district, and I believe I have done well with a consistent record of stopping government abuse, restraining a runaway federal government, and allowing the American economy to grow and prosper. As our campaign progresses, I look forward to discussing these pressing issues with the people of the 14th congressional district, and hopefully finding common ground with Republicans and Democrats, alike. Serving the 14th district in Congress has been the privilege of a lifetime. I am constantly humbled by your support and the trust you’ve placed with me. With your backing, I hope to continue to represent the great people of the 14th district." JOUR-PAC Highlights: --Bill Became Law: Original Co-Sponsor of H.R. 321: Inspiring the Next Space Pioneers, Innovators, Researchers, and Explorers (INSPIRE) Women Act, a bi-partisan law to direct NASA to encourage women and girls to study science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). --Lead Sponsor of H.R. 466: Sex Trafficking Demand Reduction Act, a bi-partisan bill to help fight international sex trafficking and hold other countries accountable for sex trafficking. --Lead Sponsor of S.749/H.R.1283: Transparency in Student Lending Act, a bi-partisan bill to expand disclosure requirements for an institution of higher education (IHE) that participates in the Direct Loan program and helps students receiving financial aid and student loans. Campaign Website: http://www.hultgrenforcongress.com/ See all of our 2018 Endorsements here: JOUR-PAC 2018 Endorsements! JOUR-PAC is pleased to announce our official endorsement of six Texas JOUR-PAC Reformers running for re-election in 2018. These six U.S. Representatives from Texas have served their districts, state, and country honorably and have worked hard to promote Justice, Opportunity, and United Reform. We are pleased to endorse them for re-election.
Rep. John Ratcliffe (R-TX 04): JOUR-PAC Highlights: --Bill Became Law: Original Co-Sponsor of H.R. 510: Rapid DNA Act of 2017, a bi-partisan law to help resolve DNA cases backlog and provide justice for victims. --Original Co-Sponsor of S.2345/H.R.4854: Justice Served Act of 2018, a bi-partisan bill to help victims of sexual assault. --Original Co-Sponsor of H.R. 2617: Renew Act of 2017, a bi-partisan criminal justice reform bill to help non-violent criminals transition back to society. Campaign Website: http://www.ratcliffeforcongress.com/ Rep. Randy Weber (R-TX 14): JOUR-PAC Highlights: --Bill Became Law: Original Co-Sponsor of H.R.534: U.S. Wants to Compete for a World Expo Act, a bi-partisan law to have the United States to rejoin the Bureau of International Expositions (BIE) to promote global branding, domestic job creation, and U.S. tourism. --Original Co-Sponsor of S.2293/H.R.4777: Visa Transparency Anti-Trafficking Act of 2018, a bi-partisan bill to prevent human trafficking by bringing more openness to the foreign temporary worker visa process. --Joined Bi-Partisan Coalition to oppose 6-year reauthorization of FISA Section 702 and fought to defend civil liberties and the 4th Amendment. Campaign Website: http://www.randyweber.org/ Rep. Will Hurd (R-TX 23): JOUR-PAC Highlights: --Bill Became Law: Original Co-Sponsor of H.R.274: Modernizing Government Travel Act, a bi-partisan law to provide for the reimbursement of federal employees traveling on official business for the use of a transportation network company (e.g., Uber or Lyft) or innovative mobility technology. --Lead Sponsor of H.R.4796: Uniting and Securing America Act of 2018, a bi-partisan bill to reform our immigration system by providing for border security and a resolution for DACA recipients. --Original Co-Sponsor of S. 1654/H.R. 387: E-mail Privacy Act, a bi-partisan bill to protect our rights to privacy and 4th/5th Amendments protections for our e-mails. Campaign Website: http://www.hurdforcongress.com/ Rep. Kenny Marchant (R-TX 24): Re-Election Statement: As a former small business owner, Councilmember, Mayor, State Representative, and someone who has grown up in 24th Congressional District of Texas, we share the same concerns about education, healthcare, and the economy. From the time I entered public office, I have never wavered in my core beliefs of economic responsibility, limited government, and transparency. I believe these principles make Texas great and they are the key to job creation and to restoring fiscal sanity to the halls of Washington. I remain focused on continuing to reduce spending, cutting taxes, limiting the size and scope of government, while preserving our individual liberties and freedoms. With your help and support I will continue to fight for you each day and be the conservative voice for the 24th District.” JOUR-PAC Highlights: --Bill Became Law: Original Co-Sponsor of H.R. 1: Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, a law that provides for tax reform and cuts for many Americans throughout our nation. --Bill Became Law: Original Co-Sponsor of H.J. Res. 42: Disapproving the rule submitted by the Department of Labor relating to drug testing of unemployment compensation applicants. --Original Co-Sponsor of S. 824/H.R. 1843: Clyde-Hirsch-Sowers RESPECT Act, a bi-partisan bill to reform the civil asset forfeiture system and protect civil liberties. Campaign Website: http://www.kennymarchant.com/ Rep. Roger Williams (R-TX 25): JOUR-PAC Highlights: --Opposed $1.1 Trillion Omnibus Bill during Fiscal Year 2017 Spending Bill. --Joined Bi-Partisan Coalition to oppose 6-year reauthorization of FISA Section 702 and fought to defend civil liberties and the 4th Amendment. --Strong Supporter of pro-economic growth policies including free trade and tax reform. Campaign Website: http://www.rogerforcongress.com/ Rep. Michael Burgess (R-TX 26): JOUR-PAC Highlights: --Bill Became Law: Original Co-Sponsor of H.R. 2430: FDA Reauthorization Act of 2017, a bi-partisan bill to reauthorize FDA programs to help produce drugs at lower prices and find cures. --Lead Co-Sponsor of bi-partisan amendment during NDAA debate to Audit the Pentagon and hold the Department of Defense accountable for its spending. --Joined Bi-Partisan Coalition to oppose 6-year reauthorization of FISA Section 702 and fought to defend civil liberties and the 4th Amendment. Campaign Website: http://burgessforcongress.org/ See all of our 2018 Endorsements here: JOUR-PAC 2018 Endorsements! "My experience as a combat veteran in Iraq, combined with my conservative values and commitment to fighting for conservative principles and my time in business, makes me the conservative outsider we need in Washington." ---John James
JOUR-PAC is proud to endorse John James for Michigan's Senate seat. This senate seat is currently held by Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), who is running for re-election. We are supporting John James to defeat Senator Stabenow in 2018. John James is a combat veteran and a businessman who stands strong on conservative principles and reforms. He is a young, smart, and impressive leader who will make the people of Michigan proud. The following is some of Mr. James' background: "John James is a husband, father, combat veteran and businessman. He is a pro-life, pro-Second Amendment, pro-business conservative who has demonstrated energetic leadership, clarity of vision and a passion for service from the battlefield to the boardroom. John James is a proven servant-leader who will represent all Michiganders and help unify Washington. At 17, John made the decision to serve his country. After graduating from West Point in 2004, he became a Ranger-qualified aviation officer. John went on to serve with distinction in Operation Iraqi Freedom where he earned a Combat Action Badge (CAB) and two Air Medals, among other awards, while logging 753.8 flight hours in theater leading two Apache platoons. After eight years of service to the nation, John James was honorably discharged and returned to Michigan to work in the family business: James Group International. Currently its President, James has led the company from $35 million to $137 million in revenue while creating 100 additional jobs in Michigan and around the country since 2012." He was featured in a Washington Examiner opinion piece, which noted that he is a strong example of the type of future the Republican Party, and more importantly, this country needs: "James is young, accomplished, black, determined, devout, and the kind of new conservative that the Grand Old Party needs in order to shake up next year's midterm election cycle. He is at once full of energy, grace, command, and passion. When he tells you he is running on conviction, everything about this young man tells you he is not a poser. "I am called to a life of service. I want to serve my country and my community and my state. When I would come back from Iraq on leave during the great recession, the economic and societal devastation I saw here in my own state floored me," he said. "My father was born in 1941 in Starkville, Mississippi, and lived directly across from Mississippi State University, and couldn't go there because he was black. As a result of the effort he put in, he went and served his country in Vietnam and then he went through and started a business. And because of the help that he received and the effort that he put in he was able to realize the American Dream," he said. His father's determination has inspired him all of his life, "My father surely shouldn't be special. I am running because I don't want his story to be special in this country. Everyone should have an opportunity to get the American Dream. Their parents should have choice so their kids can have access to the American Dream. And that's what I want to fight for. I want to fight for working class, middle class, and for these children to have a much brighter future than the one they're looking at right now," he said." Several prominent leaders have stated the following about John James: Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) endorsed John James stating: "John’s family, like mine, instilled in him the importance of hard work and strong family values in order to achieve the American Dream. John’s ‘service before self’ mantra is exactly what we need in the Senate. I am proud to endorse John James, a true patriot, for United States Senate. John is pro-life, supports the Second Amendment and as a husband and father of two boys—shares the values we hold dearly as Americans." Rep. Paul Mitchell (R-MI 11) stated in his endorsement: "When I decided to run for office, I believed Washington needed less career politicians and more political outsiders who had real-world experience solving problems. John James knows what it’s like to sign the front and back of a paycheck, and how to create jobs. I am proud to support John James for the United States Senate. John is a battle-tested conservative who puts country above self. He is an outsider that will shake up Washington and bring common sense solutions." American Hero Robert O'Neill, a former Navy SEAL and a member of the elite military team responsible for the killing of Osama Bin Laden, stated in his endorsement: "I am proud to endorse John James for Senate. John James represents the epitome of what we should all strive to be as citizens of this great nation. Whether it was defending freedom over Baghdad or creating jobs in Michigan, John has demonstrated a passion for service and commitment to excellence that makes him the best choice for Senate. John’s status as a conservative outsider is exactly what the American people have been clamoring for. His combat experience puts him in a unique position of knowing what it takes to keep America safe and his track record at the family business of increasing revenue and growing jobs is an indication that John also understands business and what it will take to bring jobs back to Michigan." John James is challenging Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI). Senator Stabenow has an extremely poor voting record with JOUR-PAC. She has opposed various exceptional nominees for the executive and judicial branches; many judicial nominees she opposed have been rated well-qualified by the American Bar Association and are supported by conservatives and liberals alike. She has supported trillion dollar, thousand page spending packages, opposed attempts to cut spending and balance the budget, and voted to keep onerous Obamacare taxes such as the "Cadillac Tax", a tax which stifles economic growth and whose repeal has bipartisan support. Senator Stabenow has also opposed bipartisan attempts to improve our nation's foreign policy, such as opposing bipartisan attempts to bring a new authorization for the use of military force. While none of these votes alone are reasons to remove Senator Stabenow, put together, a picture is painted that shows Senator Stabenow's record as being clearly out of touch with the hard-working people of Michigan. It is time to bring Senator Stabenow home to Michigan. John James has the experience as a combat veteran and a businessman to be an excellent senator for the people of Michigan in the United States Senate. He is a just, compassionate, results-driven candidate who will pursue justice, opportunity, and reform in Congress. Therefore, JOUR-PAC officially endorses John James for Michigan's Senate seat! We urge the voters in Michigan to support John James for Senate. Visit his campaign web page here: https://johnjamesforsenate.com/ Montanans are fed up with politicians who say one thing back home but vote another way in Washington, D.C. The people of Montana deserve a senator who will defend our way of life, get the federal government out of the way, and return power to the hardworking people who make this country great. It’s time to get down to business and let Montanans run their lives the way they want. ---Matt Rosendale
JOUR-PAC is proud to endorse Matt Rosendale for Montana's Senate seat. This senate seat is currently represented by Senator Jon Tester (D-MT), who is running for re-election. We are supporting Matt Rosendale to defeat Senator Tester in 2018. Matt Rosendale is the current state auditor and a former member of the Montana state house and senate, all of which provides him with a proven record of being a conservative reformer. He served as the Majority Leader of the Montana State Senate during the 2015-2016 session. The following is his statement on some important issues: "Veterans tell me that our V.A. healthcare is abysmal and it’s a direct result of a lack of leadership and a lack of accountability. I’ll fight the D.C. status quo in the Senate and work to unwind the red tape at the V.A. I don’t have to explain it to Montana farmers, who’ve told me that dying should not be a taxable event. We must repeal the death tax. I’m ready to get to work implementing free market healthcare reforms that expand access and increases options for quality, affordable healthcare to meet an individual’s unique needs, budgets and personal choices." Several prominent conservatives and conservative groups have stated the following about Matt Rosendale: Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) endorsed Matt Rosendale: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJL8O7kpAY4 Rep. Daniel Zolnikov, a leading advocate for privacy and civil liberties in the Montana State House (from Facebook): There are a few things you should know about Matt Rosendale, who just announced this week that he's running for the U.S. Senate. When Matt says he's going to do something, he does it, and he tells people the truth even when it’s not popular. He's one of the most energetic people I've ever met, and he focuses on the positives and how to bring the right people together to achieve results. Matt is a strong voice for liberty and protecting our rights, and is absolutely the right choice in the 2018 Senate election. The Club for Growth, a fiscally conservative organization that advocates for free market principles, stated: Matt Rosendale is the kind of economic conservative we need in Washington today, and the Club for Growth PAC is proud to endorse him for U.S. Senate. Matt understands the importance of limited government and advances pro-growth economic policies. His record in Montana of supporting lower taxes and opposing Medicaid expansion demonstrates his commitment to economic freedom, and Club for Growth PAC looks forward to Matt bringing conservative principles to Washington as the next senator from the great state of Montana. Senate Conservatives Fund, another conservative organization that focuses on electing principled leaders stated, Matt is a rancher, a businessman, and a proven leader. He led the fight against Medicaid expansion in Montana, he fought to stop pork-barrel projects in the state, and he stood up to his own party to protect private property rights from eminent domain. Matt Rosendale is challenging Senator Jon Tester (D-MT). Senator Tester has an extremely poor voting record with JOUR-PAC. He has opposed various qualified nominees, such as voting against a bill to allow General Mattis to serve as Secretary of Defense. He has supported trillion dollar, thousand page spending packages, opposed attempts to cut spending and balance the budget, and voted to keep onerous Obamacare taxes such as the "Cadillac Tax", a tax which stifles economic growth and whose repeal has bipartisan support. Senator Tester has also opposed attempts to lower drug prices by opposing an amendment to allow for the importation of lower cost medications. While none of these votes alone are reasons to remove Senator Tester, put together, a picture is painted that shows Senator Tester's record as being clearly out of touch with the hard-working people of Montana. Matt Rosendale has the experience as a businessman, the state's auditor, and a former state senator and representative to be an excellent senator for the people of Montana in the United States Senate. He is a just, compassionate, results-driven candidate who will pursue justice, opportunity, and reform in Congress. Therefore, JOUR-PAC officially endorses Matt Rosendale for Montana's Senate seat! We urge the voters in Montana to support Matt Rosendale for Senate. Visit his campaign web page here: http://www.mattformontana.com/ JOUR-PAC is proud to endorse Josh Hawley for Missouri's Senate seat. This senate seat is currently held by Senator Claire McCaskill (D-MO), who is running for re-election. We are supporting Josh Hawley to defeat Senator McCaskill in 2018.
Josh Hawley is the current Attorney General of Missouri with a proven record of being a conservative reformer. The following are his statements on some important issues: Leading the Fight Against Human Trafficking as Attorney General: "AG Josh Hawley issues innovative new regulations to fight human trafficking. Attorney General Josh Hawley has issued innovative new regulations, the first of their kind in the country, that target human trafficking under Missouri’s consumer-protection laws. Among other things, the regulations would prohibit the use of “front” businesses in trafficking, prohibit “debt bondage” arrangements used to coerce victims into trafficking, and impose stiff new civil and criminal penalties for human trafficking. AG Josh Hawley creates new unit to combat human trafficking. Attorney General Josh Hawley has created a new Anti-Trafficking Enforcement Unit within the Attorney General’s Office. The new unit includes experienced prosecutors and investigators and will focus exclusively on fighting human trafficking and exploitation. The creation of this unit represents the first time that Missouri’s Attorney General has taken direct action against human trafficking. AG Josh Hawley announces standing task force to coordinate statewide anti-trafficking efforts. Attorney General Josh Hawley announced the creation of a permanent, statewide Human Trafficking Task Force that includes law enforcement officials, local prosecutors, social-service providers, victims’ advocates, and individual human-trafficking survivors. The Task Force will coordinate law enforcement efforts and services for victims." Fighting Against Drug Companies that Abuse the System: "Attorney General Josh Hawley announced that Missouri will receive over $3.1 million as part of a $465 million settlement against Mylan Inc. This settlement resolves allegations that Mylan knowingly underpaid rebates owed to Missouri’s Medicaid program for the sales of EpiPen and EpiPen Jr. There is no place for Medicaid Fraud in Missouri. We will not tolerate the misuse of taxpayer money. I am grateful to the agencies that worked on this case and I am pleased that this money will be returned.” Taking Care of Taxpayer Dollars and Being Transparent: "My commitment to Missouri taxpayers will never waiver. Ensuring transparency of how those tax dollars are spent will always be one of my top priorities. My office is now shining a light on the expenditures so that taxpayers know how and where their money is being spent by publicizing reports detailing these expenditures. On my watch, taxpayer money will not be spent in secret." On Judicial Nomination of Neil Gorsuch: "I applaud the Senate for confirming Neil Gorsuch to the US Supreme Court. As a constitutional lawyer, I know the vital importance of judges who interpret the Constitution the way We the People wrote it, not how judges want it to be. Justice Gorsuch will be faithful to the Constitution the people wrote and ratified. I look forward to his many years of service." Several prominent conservative reformers and conservative groups have stated the following about Josh Hawley: A group of conservative leaders in Missouri, including former Senator Jack Danforth, former state Senator Jane Cunningham, and other sent a letter to Attorney General Hawley stating: "You are off to an impressive start as Missouri’s Attorney General, and you have made clear your commitment to excellent service in that important office. Ordinarily we would not suggest that you take any other course. But these are not ordinary times. The federal government is clearly broken and the Senate is the place to begin fixing it." The Club for Growth, a fiscally conservative organization that advocates for free market principles, stated: "Club for Growth PAC is absolutely thrilled to announce our support for Missouri Attorney General Josh Hawley in his bid to unseat Senator Claire McCaskill. Josh is an ideal candidate who possesses conservative credentials and a commitment to pro-market economic principles few can match. From his time clerking at the Supreme Court to serving as the Show Me state’s attorney general, Josh has demonstrated a keen knowledge of federal policy and is devoted to defending the Constitution against government overreach." Josh Hawley is challenging Senator Claire McCaskill (D-MT). Senator McCaskill has an extremely poor voting record with JOUR-PAC. She has opposed various exceptional nominees, such as voting against allowing General H.R. McMaster to keep his position as a general while serving as National Security Advisor. She has supported trillion dollar, thousand page spending packages, opposed attempts to cut spending and balance the budget, and voted to keep onerous Obamacare taxes such as the "Cadillac Tax", a tax which stifles economic growth and whose repeal has bipartisan support. Senator McCaskill has also opposed bipartisan attempts to improve our nation's foreign policy, such as supporting the exportation of weapons to countries with poor human rights records like Saudi Arabia or opposing attempts to bring a new authorization for the use of military force. While none of these votes alone are reasons to remove Senator McCaskill, put together, a picture is painted that shows Senator McCaskill's record as being clearly out of touch with the hard-working people of Missouri. Even worst is Senator McCaskill's blatant hypocrisy when it comes to government spending and transparency. Back in 2011, she was caught receiving government reimbursements for a private plane that she owned. The New York Times reported, At issue is her use of a plane she owns with her husband. Ms. McCaskill, who is among the wealthiest members of Congress, received nearly $90,000 in federal reimbursement for flights on the plane — including one to a political event, in apparent violation of ethics rules. She also failed to pay nearly $300,000 in local taxes on the aircraft she now describes as “the damn plane.” Just this year, it was reported by USA Today that Senator McCaskill took an expensive vacation with prominent Democrat senators, including Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY). The Missouri Democrat invited Sens. Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., and Jon Tester, D-Mont., and their respective spouses on the four-day trip to Mexico — paying for their airfare, hotel rooms and food, according to disclosure forms filed earlier this month by Schumer and Tester. Senator McCaskill's voting record, government reimbursements, and associations with some of the most liberal senators in Washington clearly show that she is no longer in touch with the people of Missouri. After two terms, it is time to bring Senator McCaskill home to Missouri. Josh Hawley has the experience as the state's attorney general to be an excellent senator for the people of Missouri in the United States Senate. He is a just, compassionate, results-driven candidate who will pursue justice, opportunity, and reform in Congress. Therefore, JOUR-PAC officially endorses Josh Hawley for Missouri's Senate seat! We urge the voters in Missouri to vote Josh Hawley for Senate. Visit his campaign web page here: https://joshhawley.com/ "Elected office isn’t just about passing legislation, or having 1 out of 435 votes, it is about leadership. It is about using your power and influence for the good of the people in Houston." ---Dan Crenshaw
JOUR-PAC is proud to endorse Dan Crenshaw for Texas' 2nd Congressional District. This district is currently represented by Rep. Ted Poe (R-TX 05), who is retiring. Dan Crenshaw is a hero, a Navy Seal, and a veteran who would be a strong conservative reformer in Congress. The following is some of his background and his amazing story: "Lieutenant Commander Dan Crenshaw (retired) is originally from Houston, Texas, and a proud 6th generation Texan. His father’s career in the Texas oil and gas industry moved his family all over the world, including Ecuador and Colombia. As a result, Dan is fluent in Spanish. From an early age, Dan knew that he wanted to serve his country with the most elite fighting force in history: the U.S. Navy SEALs. Dan graduated from Tufts University in 2006, where he earned his Naval officer commission through Navy ROTC. He immediately reported to SEAL training in Coronado, CA, where he met his future wife, Tara, just a few months later. After graduating SEAL training, Dan deployed to Fallujah, Iraq to join SEAL Team Three, his first of five deployments overseas. On Dan’s third deployment in 2012, his life changed forever. After six months of combat operations, Dan was hit by an IED blast during a mission in Helmand province, Afghanistan. He was evacuated and awoke from his medically induced coma learning that his right eye had been destroyed in the blast and his left eye was still present, but badly damaged. Dan was completely blind and the doctors did not believe he would ever see again. Tara stood by him every day and night, keeping faith and praying he would see again. After several difficult surgeries, he eventually regained sight in his left eye, a miracle according to the head surgeon. Dan refused to quit and went on to deploy twice more, first back to the Middle East in 2014 and then South Korea in 2016. Dan was medically retired in September of 2016, after ten years in the SEAL Teams. He left service with two Bronze Stars (one with Valor), the Purple Heart, and the Navy Commendation Medal with Valor, among many other recognitions. Soon after, Dan completed his Master in Public Administration at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government. In September of this year, he was back in Houston, volunteering for days on end in areas of Katy devastated by Hurricane Harvey. He saw first-hand the unthinkable losses that his neighbors suffered, but he also saw Texan grit and resilience. He wanted to do more, and this November Dan and Tara decided that the best way to serve the people of Texas would be in elected office. Dan is now running for the U.S. House of Representatives in Texas’ 2nd district, where Dan grew up and where his family lives now. He believes in service before self, and understands that there is no higher calling than service to the American people. His wife Tara is no stranger to service either: she comes from a career Navy family, and is an active fundraiser for families of fallen service members and suicide prevention. Dan is a staunch Republican and knows the importance of carrying the conservative movement through to the next generation. Dan can no longer fight on the battlefield, but he can bring the integrity, leadership, vision, and tenacity learned in the SEAL teams to fight in Congress for common sense policies that ensure our nation’s prosperity and security, represent our Judeo-Christian values, and again give Texans a reason to be proud of their leaders." The following are some of his positions on important issues (we were extremely impressed with how in-depth his thoughts and positions were. The type of explanations that he provides is exactly what JOUR-PAC looks for from candidates!): "North Korea cannot be tolerated as a belligerent rogue regime for much longer. We must stand behind the president as he builds a coalition against North Korea. However, we should be exceptionally wary of pre-emptive action against North Korea. The consequences could be catastrophic for both American service-members and the South Koreans. No one knows the costs of war better than I do. Fundamental tax reform is long overdue. As the debate in Congress rages on and Democrats make false accusations about Republican ideas, we must stick to free-market principles. We must lower the corporate rate while also removing unnecessary special-interest deductions. We have to give corporations the incentives to repatriate their profits so we can grow our tax base, and encourage investments in THIS country. Corporations are not evil, they create jobs, employ Americans, and grow our economy. We must simplify the individual income tax, and remove deductions that distort our economy and reduce revenue unnecessarily. We must stand for pro-growth policies, because we cannot lift the poor out of poverty or raise middle class wages without a strong and growing economy. This is common sense economics, and we must show leadership to make it happen. We must embrace free trade, and seek to give our businesses advantages by reducing regulatory burdens and lowering corporate tax rates. Small businesses are the primary driver of growth in this country and we need to ensure their success. It should be easy for entrepreneurs to start up their business and contribute to our strong economy. We have to protect the business owners that cannot afford to pay teams of lawyers to comply with tax law and regulations. Our national debt has doubled in the past ten years. We cannot keep borrowing from our children. We can’t just cut discretionary spending, we have to attack the hard stuff: mandatory spending to include Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. If our debt continues to increase, we face increased interest rates that will reduce investment and become a drag on economic growth. We will be less flexible if we need to inject a trillion tax dollars into the economy, as we did during the financial crisis of 2008. Our credit will eventually suffer, and foreign investors will be less likely to buy up our debt, causing the U.S. dollar to collapse. It’s time we started making common sense decisions about spending before it is too late. Furthermore, border security leads to better legal immigration laws. When we finally secure the border – a proposal that used to be bipartisan – we can then talk about next steps for immigration reform. America is still the shining city on the hill and we need good, legal immigrants with skills, a hard work ethic, and conservative values to come into this country. But they should do it legally, and we should welcome them. It is time for Congress to take on out-of-control drug prices, and beat back the pharmaceutical lobby. We must change the incentives for hospitals, doctors, and pharmaceutical companies so that free market forces can effectively reduce drug prices. We need more transparency in research and development costs, and we need the FDA to assess the effectiveness of new drugs compared to existing drugs, so that consumers are not tricked into buying more expensive, but less effective medicine. We need to allow Medicare to negotiate drug prices and establish common formularies, much like the VA does. This encourages free market forces to drive down costs. One of the most promising areas of medical innovation is the expansion of telemedicine, where medical professionals treat patients across great distances using electronic communications. A significant barrier to telemedicine is the requirement that physicians obtain licenses from each state in which their current or potential patients are, or may be, located. We must fix this. It is easy to do, and it is common-sense policy." Perhaps the section that most impressed JOUR-PAC was about the type of role-model and leader he would be for the community of Texas' 2nd Congressional District: "Elected office isn’t just about passing legislation, or having 1 out of 435 votes, it is about leadership. It is about using your power and influence for the good of the people in Houston. If elected, I will immediately begin two outreach programs for our children and teenagers. The first will be focused on children’s nutrition and physical fitness, the second will be focused on teens who may be susceptible to gang activity. I am uniquely qualified to do both, so please allow me to explain: Children’s Health: Growing up in Katy, my mother was a nutritionist for the local school district. As a kid, I thought it was so exciting when she would come sit with me during lunch in the cafeteria. It made me feel special, and I knew she not only cared about me, but all the kids and what they were eating. She knew the importance of a good diet for growing bodies. She passed away when I was only 10 years old, after fighting breast cancer for 5 years. It was devastating. Before she died, she told me that she knew I would soar to great heights. For me, that meant I needed to help other people, the way she did. As a SEAL, I was constantly taught the value of physical fitness and good nutrition. Keeping our bodies fit and healthy is the building block for our success. If our health suffers, we cannot do the basic things necessary to be successful. We must teach our kids these lessons at an early age. I will not only be an advocate for healthier school lunches, but I will be on the ground working with kids on their physical fitness. I will encourage my fellow Navy SEALs to travel to Texas and do the same. We will show kids what is possible when you start building a strong foundation early on in life. Gang Violence: Houston continues to have a serious gang problem. It is absolutely poisonous to our young teens, resulting in criminal records, school drop-outs, and even deaths. Leading a successful life after being in a gang is extremely difficult. We need people who can relate to the choices teens are facing with respect to gang membership, and we need someone who can show them a better path. But we can’t just scare kids into making the right choices, we also have to show them a different path. I want to be able to show them what it really means to be part of a team, have camaraderie, and be truly tough. We will show them what life is like in the greatest and most elite team there is: the U.S. Navy SEALs. We must show teens that their choices now affect them forever; that they are capable of amazing things if they start on the right path now. There is no time to waste. We must reach them now." Dan Crenshaw has the experience as a veteran and a hero to serve with honor and integrity as a strong representative for the people of Texas' 2nd Congressional District. He is a just, compassionate, results-driven candidate who will pursue justice, opportunity, and reform in Congress. Therefore, JOUR-PAC officially endorses Dan Crenshaw for Texas' 2nd Congressional District! We urge the citizens of Texas' 2nd Congressional District to support Dan Crenshaw for Congress. Visit his campaign webpage here: https://www.crenshawforcongress.com/ "As a small businesswoman I know how to balance budgets, meet payroll, build effective teams, and work with the people across this district to get real results." ---Bunni Pounds
JOUR-PAC is proud to endorse Bunni Pounds for Texas' 5th Congressional District. This district is currently represented by Rep. Jeb Hensarling (R-TX 05), who is retiring. Bunni Pounds is an entrepreneur and small business owner who also worked as Rep. Hensarling's campaign manager, all of which provides her with a strong record of being a conservative reformer: "Bunni Pounds is an entrepreneur who has managed two successful small businesses with her husband Tim as well as launching Bunni Pounds & Associates, a consulting and fundraising company she founded to advance conservative candidates and officeholders. In just over two years, she grew the company into a half million dollar business with nine associates serving 31 clients at the federal, state, and county level. In all, Bunni has 13 years of experience managing three small businesses and has orchestrated corporate business meetings, concerts, and large Christian ministry events from the planning stage to the end. At the age of 29, Bunni enrolled in an American government class at Dallas Baptist University. After three and a half years of night school she graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and was immediately hired to serve as Congressman Hensarling’s campaign manager. In that capacity, she traveled the district for over eight years, and served the constituents who reside in the seven counties." The following are some of her views: "We must elect someone who will not waver on the fight to protect the unborn, defend traditional marriage for future generations, and protect our families from government encroachment that is clamping down on our rights to worship, petition, assemble, and bear arms. We must elect someone who understands the effects of Obamacare, high taxes, and government overreach upon our families, small businesses, and communities. We must elect someone who stands up to protect our families by fortifying our borders, strengthening our military, and ensuring that we remain safe and free. I believe I am that person, and that is why, with the backing of grassroots leaders from across East Texas who share these same conservative values, I am announcing my candidacy to serve the great people of the 5th Congressional District. As I begin this campaign, I am deeply humbled to have the support of Jeb Hensarling, a man I have long admired for his principled leadership and integrity." Rep. Jeb Hensarling (R-TX 05) endorsed her stating, "For over a decade, Bunni Pounds has served as one of my most able and trusted confidantes in serving the people of the 5th Congressional District so I know her well. She is committed to the conservative cause like few others I have ever met and her integrity is unmatched. I trust her not only with my liberty but the liberty of our great nation as well. I am excited she has chosen to run for the Congressional seat I hold and I proudly endorse her candidacy." Bunni Pounds has the experience as a small business owner and the former campaign manger for Rep. Hensarling to serve with honor and integrity as a strong representative for the people of Texas' 5th Congressional District. She is a just, compassionate, results-driven candidate who will pursue justice, opportunity, and reform in Congress. Therefore, JOUR-PAC officially endorses Bunni Pounds for Texas' 5th Congressional District! We urge the citizens of Texas' 5th Congressional District to support Bunni Pounds for Congress. Visit his campaign web page here: http://bunnipounds.com/ |
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March 2018
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