Economy

Building a Stronger Economy for American Families 

Across the country, families are struggling with the rising costs of healthcare, food, housing, and energy, while wages have failed to keep pace. Unemployment and job instability continue to affect too many hardworking Americans. As your Representative in Congress, I remain committed to policies that create good-paying jobs, strengthen the middle class, and provide relief to those facing economic hardships. Our top priority must be getting people back to work in safe, sustainable careers while ensuring economic opportunities for all. 

Creating Jobs and Revitalizing American Industry 

For too long, American workers have faced job losses due to factory closures, corporate outsourcing, and automation. We need bold action to revitalize our economy. That means investing in infrastructure, green energy, advanced manufacturing, and emerging technologies that will drive long-term economic growth. We must create policies that incentivize businesses to expand in the U.S. and provide pathways for workers to transition into high-demand industries. By investing in American innovation, we can rebuild our workforce, strengthen the middle class, and ensure our economy works for everyone. 

Expanding Job Training and Workforce Development 

The 21st-century economy demands new skills, yet many workers have been left behind due to shifting industries and outdated training programs. I have worked across party lines to secure millions in funding for workforce development initiatives at Ivy Tech, the John H. Boner Center, and other community organizations. These programs provide hands-on training in advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and technology—helping workers re-enter the job market with the skills needed for today’s careers. We must continue expanding these efforts to prepare our workforce for the jobs of the future. 

Lowering Costs and Cutting Taxes for Working Families 

With inflation straining household budgets, we need immediate relief for working- and middle-class Americans. I support extending tax cuts that put money back into the pockets of families, small business owners, and entrepreneurs. Additionally, we must reduce the financial burden of healthcare, housing, and education to ensure every American has a fair shot at economic stability. By making smart investments in our communities, we can create a more equitable economy where hard work is rewarded. 

Trump's Impact on the Economy 

Under the Trump administration, the economy saw significant changes that shaped both short-term and long-term economic outcomes for many Americans. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, which lowered the corporate tax rate and offered temporary tax cuts for individuals, provided a boost to corporate profits, and many businesses used this additional income to expand and create jobs. However, the long-term impact of the tax cuts is still debated, especially with concerns about increasing national debt and the wealth gap. 

Additionally, while unemployment dropped to historic lows under President Trump’s administration, there were concerns about the sustainability of job growth. Job instability in sectors like retail and manufacturing remained high as automation and outsourcing continued to take a toll on American workers. Trump's "America First" approach led to efforts to bring back jobs through tariffs, particularly targeting China, but this also created trade tensions and increased costs for businesses reliant on global supply chains. 

Despite these efforts, the COVID-19 pandemic dramatically affected the economy, bringing unemployment to a peak. However, relief packages like the CARES Act provided temporary assistance. Moving forward, it is essential to ensure that the policies implemented during Trump's term have a lasting impact on job creation and wage growth, while also addressing concerns about economic inequality and fiscal sustainability. 

Keeping American Jobs at Home 

Over the past decade, America has lost more than 50,000 factories and millions of jobs to outsourcing. It’s time to stop rewarding corporations for moving jobs overseas. I support eliminating tax breaks for companies that offshore jobs and instead providing incentives for businesses that invest in American workers and communities. By prioritizing American-made goods and domestic production, we can rebuild a strong and resilient economy that benefits everyone—not just the wealthiest corporations. 

Strengthening American Manufacturing and Innovation 

The U.S. was once a global leader in manufacturing, and we must reclaim that position. By investing in advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and high-tech industries, we can create new economic opportunities and reduce our reliance on foreign supply chains. I am committed to ensuring federal support reaches businesses that hire American workers, reopen closed factories, and develop cutting-edge technologies that will keep us competitive on the global stage. 

Fighting Unfair Trade Practices 

American businesses and workers deserve a level playing field in the global economy. Yet, countries like China continue to engage in unfair trade practices—manipulating currency, violating intellectual property laws, and flooding markets with underpriced goods. These tactics have cost us hundreds of thousands of jobs. I will continue pushing for strong trade policies that protect American industries, hold foreign competitors accountable, and prevent unfair advantages that hurt our economy. 

Ensuring Fair Trade Agreements That Work for American Workers 

Trade agreements should benefit American workers, not just multinational corporations. That’s why I opposed “Fast Track” legislation, which limits Congress’s ability to negotiate better terms in trade deals. Every trade agreement must be carefully examined to ensure it creates jobs, upholds labor standards, and strengthens the American economy. If a deal does not protect our workers and businesses, I will vote against it. 

A Vision for a Prosperous Future 

A thriving economy depends on strong policies that put people first. By investing in jobs, education, infrastructure, and innovation, we can build a future where all Americans have access to good-paying jobs and economic security. I will continue fighting for policies that strengthen our workforce, support small businesses, and ensure that the American Dream remains within reach for everyone.