Talk:Carl Mumpower

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Government – I have more faith in the contributions of a small government that does most things well than a big government that does most things poorly.

Taxes – Our current tax system is stacked against middle class America, easily manipulated by special interests, and designed to take money out of your pocket and put it into others with minimal restraint. I believe the Fair Tax lives up to its name in offering a system of taxation that will best support America’s future.

Iraq – Whether we should have gone to Iraq, and how we have handled events since that time, can be well argued - whether we continue the fight cannot. To leave now would mock the sacrifice of those who have served and take us from a path of hope and uncertain potential to one of surrender and assured chaos. An arrogant rush to war should not be followed by an equally arrogant indifference to outcome. Exit strategies must support our troops and reason - at all levels.

Health Care – The solutions to America's health care crisis are not to be found in socialistic models from other countries. What will work is encouraging competition, a renewal of personal wellness responsibilities, less smothering regulation, and a reemphasis on basic health services over a race toward expensive technology and exotic interventions. Underfunded government promises of unrealistic levels of service are a major factor in health care costs. Tax credits for every American to purchase their own health care policy make more sense than an inefficient national program run by big government.

Earmarks – A fair share of Washington's tax funded handouts seems prudent. Unfortunately, these borrowed monies rest on the futures of our children and grandchildren through a ballooning national debt of almost 10 trillion dollars. Earmarks are about special interests and political interests over our interests. I will not participate in this dishonest Federal community welfare program.

Social Security – Congress continues to sidestep accountability for fixing a safety net full of holes. They add insult to injury by misusing social security funds at the same time they enjoy generous retirement and health care plans not available to average Americans.

The Economy – Unfair trade agreements and practices, tax burdens, excessive regulation, and misguided fiscal policies are impairing America's ability to compete in national markets with our historical enthusiasm and efficiency. It is no coincidence that at a time of unprecedented economic expansion, the average American remains fearful and unconvinced that the house will stand.

Illegal Immigration – Washington continues to treat illegal immigration, like most of their other duties, as a rigged lottery. The rules, marketing and prizes change, but the goal remains the same - dodging responsibility for securing our borders, enforcing the rule of law, and protecting the sanctity of America.

Education – An expensive and micromanaged public education system is losing ground in its mission of propelling our children toward a future of hope. The relationship between teachers, students and their parents has been hijacked by bureaucrats, unions, and special interests that are undermining our ability to compete in a world that is providing increasingly superior education. Education is managed best at the local level.

Leadership – Both primary political parties have betrayed their potential by a surrender to corruptive influences. The Democrats have a long history of being seduced by extremists and the hollow realities of big government. Republicans have been distracted from historical principles toward power and other special interests. Each party spends money we do not have and both merit challenge. I believe that the principles of the Republican Party offer the strongest potentials for the future of America and I will put those principles above all other political considerations.

Abortion – I have a pro-life position on abortion and will consistently vote accordingly. I will never support legislation that in any way includes taxpayer funding of abortions. I further believe that public policy on abortion should be determined by individual states and not by judges legislating from the bench or Congressional powers not found in the Constitution.

Environment – There are no rational arguments against environmental responsibility. Unfortunately, selective use of the facts, extreme views, and unsupported science have captured the dialog on this issue. I will support rational, realistic, and scientifically grounded environmental initiatives with enthusiasm. I will resist irrational, unrealistic, and scientifically manipulated environmental intiatives with the same enthusiasm.

Gun Control – Citizens have the clear constitutional right to bear arms. I do not believe that right is subject to casual interpretation or manipulation by members of government who are uncomfortable with an armed citizenry.

Energy – Congress has dodged a responsible energy policy just like they have stepped around every other major leadership responsibility of the past decade. We need a comprehensive energy policy fostering the independence of America that includes maximized use of our own fossil resources, utilizing France as a model for nuclear energy, and pursuing reasoned alternative energies with enthusiasm. Ultimately the sun will prove to be the best solution to our energy needs. In the interim we must grab hold of our future with creative enthusiasm versus the policy paralysis that is robbing us of mobility, heat, and light.

Gay Marriage – I personally believe that marriage should remain a sanctioned bond between a man and a woman in support of the traditional family unit. I am not in favor of federal laws supporting gay marriage and believe this is a states' rights issue.

The Constitution – The wisdom of our forefathers has been repeatedly demonstrated over our 200+ year history. Attempts to tinker with the Constitution and Bill of Rights have rarely matched the standards of those who first defined America. I consider our Constitution as an inspired document not subject to convenience or special interest interpretations.

My 10 Guiding Public Service Principles

Work harder than the other side. Reach for the deeper truths on all issues. Resist the temptation of transferring todays bills to our children. Support the "American Success Equation" - Liberty, Opportunity, & Responsibility. Never compromise on principles or essential issues. Resist the corruptive influences of politics and a slide toward big government and little people. Always listen and communicate - never pander. Focus on our interests versus special or selfish interests. Concentrate on providing strong service to those you represent - solve problems. Be careful with other peoples money.