Wilson Unveils 2014 Legislative Agenda
Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02) released the following statement after unveiling his 2014 Legislative Agenda at five press conferences across South Carolina's Second Congressional District.
"In 2013, we witnessed the disastrous impacts of big government," Congressman Joe Wilson said. "From the Administration's failed rollout of Obamacare to the undermining of our national security by sequestration, we know that this type of governance does not bode well for our families, our economy, or our safety.
"Last year, House Republicans passed several bills that would put our economy back on a path to greatness. For years, American families and small business owners have faced uncertainty because the Administration refuses to prioritize job creation. Instead, President Obama focuses on vetoing our legislation and garnering support for his unpopular policies. As our economic recovery remains on an unreliable path, our government must change course to alleviate the struggles imposed upon every American family.
"Washington Democrats must begin to listen to the American people. I am hopeful that 2014 will bring new beginnings accompanied with substantial reforms that are centered on growing the size of our economy, not the size of our government and debt. The first two obvious steps in achieving this goal would be to repeal and replace Obamacare and encourage energy independence through the Keystone XL Pipeline.
"Our national defense must remain at the very top of our priority list. A strong and capable military will keep American families safe while protecting our troops serving overseas in harms way."
The four main priorities of focus for the Second Session of the 113th Congress will be:
Job Creation Through Economic Growth: Cut excessive regulations to help small businesses grow; Work with local chambers, county, regional, and state agencies to bring jobs to South Carolina; Protect South Carolina's "Right to Work" laws; Repeal and Replace the government healthcare takeover bill which destroys jobs
Reduce Washington's Out of Control Spending: Make government more accountable by sponsoring legislation calling for biennial appropriations; Cut taxes to allow families to keep more of their hard-earned paychecks; Support a Balanced Budget Amendment to the Constitution; Support Conservative budgets
Energy Independence and Efficiency: Promote construction of the Keystone XL Pipeline; Continue to advocate for current and future missions at the Savannah River Site; Fight to ensure SRS continues environmental cleanup missions; Promote clean energy across South Carolina via Energy Savings Performance Contracts
Promote Our Military and Veterans: Maintain our military's responsiveness and capabilities to promote peace through strength; Protect TRICARE benefits and sustain the quality of life for military families as Chairman of the HASC Subcommittee on Military Personnel; Find efficiencies within the Department of Defense; Support Guard and Reserve units in their transition to the workforce; Ensure our Veterans receive quality healthcare